nice places to travel with beaches

Discover 20 of the world's best beaches

Jan 30, 2024 • 19 min read

It's easy to see why Punta Paloma is considered one of the most seductive beaches in Spain © iStock / Getty Images Plus

From fabled golden bays to little-known coves,  no shell has been left unturned during our hunt for the world's best beaches.

We have sent our writers everywhere in search of sublime, surf-pounded shorelines and remote pockets of hard-to-reach paradise for Lonely Planet's new book Best Beaches in the World . From Albania to Yemen and everywhere in between, our team has swam, snorkeled, slugged cocktails and hiked through rainforests, to create the definitive beach bible. 

Here's 20 of the 100 that were selected as our pick of the best beaches in the world.

1. The Pass, Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia

When the swell is good, The Pass has a right-hand point break that turns this stretch of pinkish-cream, pillowy-soft sand into a surfer’s paradise. Located at the most easterly point on mainland Australia, Cape Byron , it doesn't matter if you're a pro or a novice with the board, the bay has something for everyone, including lessons for beginners. 

The midden (a pile of shells and bones) next to the boat ramp points to the rich Aboriginal history of the area, while inside the subtropical rainforest that runs around the edge of The Pass are native koalas and brush turkeys. Delta Kay, an Arakwal Bundjalung woman, offers walking tours around the cape and several hiking tracks let you admire The Pass from different angles. The 0.3-mile (0.48 km) Palm Valley Currenbah track is wheelchair accessible and loops through the palm rainforest to some picnic and barbecue facilities. The most scenic track, however, is the 2.3-mile (3.7km) Cape Byron loop, which takes in the stunning homes of Wategos Beach and Little Wategos Beach . Note: if you want to surf The Pass, a 2023 law requires you to use a surfboard leash (leg rope).

Getting there:  The beach has limited paid parking. Either arrive early or walk from central Byron (20 minutes; the foreshore has a wheelchair-accessible path). Alternatively, neighboring Captain Cook and Clarkes beaches also have limited parking.

2. Ipanema Beach, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Renowned for some astonishing sunsets that the locals frequently applaud, Rio 's Ipanema Beach stretches for 1.9 miles (3 km). Local subcultures use its numbered lifeguard chairs as different markers for their area of the beach. For example, Posto 9, located off Rua Vinícius de Moraes, is the go-to spot for the fashionable crowd, attracting both the young and beautiful, alongside artists and hippies. Praia Farme, situated in front of Rua Farme de Amoedo, is where the gay community gathers. Posto 8 is where kids from the favela come together. Between Ipanema and Copacabana , Posto 7 is popular with surfers, and Posto 10 is where you'll find games of volleyball, soccer, and futevôlei (footvolley) going on.

Getting there:  Ipanema Beach is in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. Av Vieira Souto runs alongside the beach and the closest Metrô station is General Osório.

3. Ao Maya, Ko Phi-Phi, Krabi, Thailand

At just 49ft-wide (15m) and 820ft-long (250m), Ao Maya is a slip of a beach hidden by limestone cliffs. Yet it caught the eye of film director Danny Boyle who used its ombré turquoise waters and fine white sand as the setting for The Beach , the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The movie's popularity attracted around 6000 tourists daily to Ao Maya. However, the influx led to a buildup of trash, damage to plants and coral, and disruption of wildlife.

This prompted Thai officials to close the bay in 2018. They initially hoped the beach would recover within a few months, but it remained closed until 2022. It then reopened with better infrastructure and additional protections. New rules now regulate tourist activities: swimming is prohibited (although knee-high wading is allowed); boats cannot anchor in the bay; and only 375 visitors can visit in hourly slots. Still, the trip is worth it to spend time in this incredible paradise and appreciate the natural beauty that was almost lost.

Getting there  From neighboring Ko Phi-Phi Don , take an early morning boat tour here (20 minutes each way) to beat the crowds. Alternatively, it's reachable by speedboat from Phuket and Krabi .

4. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania

After a few action-packed days on safari in mainland Tanzania , Mnemba Island acts as the perfect retreat. Only accessible to guests of the andBeyond resort, which sleeps 23, this gorgeous white-sand beach is like your personal coastal paradise. Indulge in long walks and enjoy some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling around.

Getting there Resort stays include transfers from either Stone Town or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on Unguja Island, Zanzibar. It's then a short boat ride to Mnemba Island.

5. Sarakiniko, Milos Cyclades, Greece

You'll need to bring all your own supplies for Sarakiniko , a set of sun-bleached volcanic rocks that dip into a small deep turquoise stretch of the Aegean. The arresting views and cooling waters make up for having to rough it, though. Centuries of wave-and-wind erosion made the rock formations at the beach dip and arch, creating caves to explore and alabaster cliffs to jump off. Sunbathe on the rocks or use them as your access point to slip into the water for some snorkeling.

Ranked among the best-loved beaches in Greece , Sarakiniko can get packed with tourists. To avoid the crowds, visit in September and October. If you’re here during the high season, arrive in the morning and the only sounds you’ll hear will be the wind and the lapping waves. If you can, check back in at sunset – it’s quite a sight as the alabaster-colored rocks glow against the fiery hues from the setting sun.

Getting there  Sarakiniko is 1.9 miles (3km) north of Adamas port, on Milos ’ northernmost coast. Several daily buses run here from Adamas during summer months and there’s parking for anyone arriving by scooter, car, or ATV. Milos airport has domestic flights to and from Athens, or you can also reach Milos by ferry from Athens ’ Piraeus port (2½ to 6½ hours) as well as other islands such as Santorini (two hours).

6. Chesterman Beach, Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Most people come to Chesterman Beach to surf, but it’s the views that will take your breath away. From misty mornings where the fog comes off the soft sand to the fiery skies in the evening as the sun dips below the cedar trees, you could spend all day here. The beach is also great for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding,  and observing the hundreds of colorful starfish, anemones, urchins and other sea creatures that appear in tide pools.

You can even enjoy the beach as you whale watch, partake in outdoor yoga, or walk across the sandbar at low tide. The calm summer months are perfect for beginner surfers and with several expert-led surf schools based locally. Winter, and its serious swells, draw experienced surfers. It also hosts surf competitions. Make sure you bring your wetsuit – water temperatures don’t get much higher than 57°F (13.8°C). 

Getting there  Chesterman Beach is 3.1 miles (5km) south of Tofino , near the far west end of  Vancouver Island ’s Pacific Rim Highway. You can easily cycle here from Tofino. Regular ferries run between Vancouver city and Nanaimo (on Vancouver Island) in just under two hours. From there, it’s a 125-mile (200 km) drive west to Tofino – around a three-hour drive or a four-hour bus ride.

7. Cabo San Juan del Guía, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Colombia

Ringed by rainforest, the golden sands and coconut palms of Colombia ’s Caribbean coast are picture-perfect – especially Cabo San Juan del Guía. It is located in a national park that stretches along the coast from the Taganga near Santa Marta to the mouth of the Río Piedras, 22 miles (35km) east, and covers some 29,900 acres (12,100 hectares) of land and 7400 acres (3000 hectares) of coral-rich sea.

While it is a bit of a hike (approximately 2 hours) to get to this set of picturesque turquoise bays enclosed by rocky outcrops, it’s well worth it – and many others agree as the beach is popular with locals and tourists alike. If you want to wake up to the incredible view, you can rent a hammock, tent, or one of the very few cabins surrounding the beach. Note: they’re rented on a first come, first served basis so arrive early, especially in the high season (December and January). There’s also a restaurant so you won’t go hungry, but remember to bring your own water or purifying device as you’ll need it here. The park has banned plastic, so make sure you’re not carrying any in. You’ll want to leave this beautiful beach in pristine condition for future generations to enjoy.

Getting there It takes an hour by bus from the Santa Marta Public Market to reach the El Zaino park entrance, 23 miles (37km) to the east, with frequent daily departures. From the park entrance, colectivos (minibuses) run to the beginning of the trail. You can also reach the beach via a two-hour hike or a rough 50-minute boat ride.

8. Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles

With its pristine white sands shaded by coconut palms and shallow turquoise waters that gently lap against granite boulders, Anse Source d’Argent is usually found on lists of the world’s best beaches and rightly so. This is the beach of dreams. It’s an adventure to get here, but a fun one that involves a ferry, a bike ride (or walk) to L’Union Estate , a former vanilla and coconut plantation that charges a small fee to access the beach. Take a moment to tour the estate-turned-museum before you head 0.43 miles (700m) down the road ti get your first glimpse of heaven on Earth. While you enjoy the beach you can also sip on fresh fruit juices and coconuts (with rum, if you wish) from one of the rustic beach bars along the beach. To avoid the inevitable crowds, come in the early morning, but then return in the late afternoon (with your same entrance ticket) to enjoy the gorgeous sunset on a near-empty beach.

Getting there  It takes less than two hours to reach La Digue by ferry from Victoria on the main island of Mahé , and just 15 minutes by ferry from Baie Ste Anne in Praslin.

9. Playa Balandra, La Paz BCS, México

An enclosed cove beach with shallow deep blue waters, Playa Balandra is perfect for kids. Apart from swimming, this is also very much an activity-oriented beach with kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available for rent. Beachgoers can also explore tide pools and hike to neighboring coves. A protected area surrounded by arid, cacti-covered mountains, the beach is part of the azure Balandra Bay, which has glass-clear waters and white sands. Only 450 people are currently allowed on this beach per day (with two time slots from 8am-noon and 1-5pm), so it never feels too crowded, but it’s still best to get there early to secure a timeslot. The first Sunday of every month is exclusively reserved for locals, so make sure you plan your beach day in advance. Note that beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent, but there are no other facilities.

Getting there:  Make the 30-minute drive north from La Paz in a hire car or catch a bus from the La Paz Malecón bus station, with departures roughly every two hours from 9am.

10. Punta Paloma, Tarifa, Cádiz, Spain

With its soft sands, sparkling waters, and wind-carved dunes set against a backdrop of Morocco and the Strait of Gibraltar, it’s easy to see why Punta Paloma is one of the most seductive beaches in Spain . The deep blue Atlantic offers excellent swimming, the dunes offer dazzling views, and the chiringuito (beach restaurant) offers beachgoers tinto con limón (red wine with lemonade). Everyone from first-timers to local residents love this beach.

Walk along the west end of the curving sand will lead you to natural mud baths where you can paint your skin with mineral-rich mud. There are several other walking and horse-riding routes along the surrounding hills, some of which lead you to sights such as the prehistoric Los Algarbes necropolis. If you’d rather stick to the beach, there are several opportunities for kitesurfing rentals and lessons. Or, if you prefer sticking to the sands and watching the waves, you’ll likely also catch a glimpse of dolphins, whales, migratory birds, and maybe even a turtle. 

Ge tting there  Punta Paloma is 6.2 miles (10km) northwest of Tarifa and linked by bus during summer months only. Tarifa is easily reached by car or bus from Málaga , Gibraltar , Jerez , or Seville , all of which have international airports.

11. Punta Rata Beach, Brela, Makarska Riviera, Croatia 

Dreamy Punta Rata extends 1312ft (400m) around a headland protected by a nature reserve in a magical place where the Aleppo pine forests meet the cool, clear Adriatic Sea. One of the Croatian coast’s most exquisite beaches, the fragrant pine groves provide shade, while the deep blue waters offer ideal temperatures above 70°F (20°C) from June to October) for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. This beach is pure bliss. Linger on the nearby promenade to catch the magnificent sunsets, when the sky glows with deep orangey-reds and neon pinks, as the sun dips below the pine-dotted outcrop that rises from the sea.

Getting there  The beach is on the northwest edge of Brela (easily reached by walking or cycling), around 31 miles (50km) southeast of Split on Croatia ’s Dalmatian coast. Split has an international airport and good bus links to Brela (1 hour).

12. West Beach, Berneray, Outer Hebrides, Scotland 

The beaches of the Outer Hebrides look like they belong somewhere tropical rather than the North Atlantic shores of Scotland . West Beach is among the most picturesque – its powdery sands meet both the jewel-like green-blue waters and machair (grazing land). The wilds of this shoreline make it look like an untouched paradise, but these three miles (5km) of coast are a draw for tourists as well as locals. The brave might go for a swim in these chilly waters that rarely get above 55°F (13°C), but it’s a paradise for beachcombers, bird-watchers, and hikers. The grassy elevated dunes offer the perfect perch for pristine views of the beach and the best place to spot cormorants, gannets and more. Come in the spring, when the surrounding landscape is a burst of color thanks to the wildflowers that grow in abundance.

Getting there Stretching along the entire west coast of Berneray, you'll need to catch a ferry from Leverburgh in neighboring Harris (the southern half of the Outer Hebrides’ main island) to get here. There are flights from Edinburgh , Inverness , Glasgow and Southampton to Stornoway Airport in Lewis (the northern half of the principal island), which also has ferry links. You’ll want a car to explore; book the ferry in advance.

13. Rauðasandur, Westfjords, Iceland

Iceland’s Rauðasandur is a wild, 6-mile-long (10km) beauty with breathtaking sea cliffs and a turquoise lagoon that snakes through a sprawl of red, orange and pink sand – colors from crushed scallop shells. Located in the Westfjords, it’ll feel as if you have the beach to yourself, save from the company of grey and harbor seals that sometimes frolic on the shore. Rauðasandur also has some excellent hiking trails. It’s possible to walk to the famous Látrabjarg bird cliffs where thousands of puffins, razorbills, gannets, and terns gather during the warmer months.

Getting there  Rauðasandur sits 19 miles (30km) south of Patreksfjörður in the Westfjords , reachable on a 1-hour flight from Reykjavík . It's a 640-mile (400 km) drive from Reykjavík, or you can catch the Baldur car ferry to Rauðasandur from Stykkishólmur, 106 miles (170 km) north of the capital. The often-unpaved roads in The Westfjords require time, patience, planning and a sturdy 4WD vehicle.

14. Pink Beach, Padar Island, Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Only a handful of beaches in the world have the rosy, cotton-candy sands of Pink Beach, located inside Komodo National Park . Its distinctive hue comes from deep red organ pipe corals that have broken down offshore over centuries and mixed with the fine white sand grains to produce the soft, pink shoreline. With an abundance of coral, the beach is a popular snorkeling spot – schools of tropical fish love the reefs too. Simple beach huts dot the shoreline here, offering drinks and simple meals as well as the only shade on the sun-drenched beach.  Pink Beach is popular with tourists; arrive early or just before sunset for a quieter experience.

Getting there On the northwest shore of Padar Island, around 25 miles (40km) from Labuan Bajo , Pink Beach can only be visited on a day tour from the fishing town or a private day liveaboard cruise.

15. Dueodde, Nexø, Bornholm, Denmark

The wild Baltic Sea surrounds Denmark’s sunniest island, Bornholm . Famed for its crisp natural light, head to Dueodde on the southern tip to see why. The sun's rays kiss the pearl-colored sands and make the soft jade and cerulean waves at this lovely beach shimmer. Wading through the shallow water here feels like stepping into a painting. In the evening, its sunsets turn the sky pink, orange, and yellow. Whilst the campsites and cafes are busy in the summer, don't rule out visiting in the winter when the locals toboggan down the snow-covered sand dunes. For the best views, climb the 196 steps to the top of Dueodde’s blue-and-white 1960s lighthouse.

Getting there  Dueodde’s main patch of beach is 6.2 miles (10 km) south of Nexø, at the southern end of Bornholm, around 125 miles (200 km) east of Copenhagen . There are car parks at nearby Fyrvejen and Skrokkegard. Bornholm Airport has year-round 35-minute flights to and from Copenhagen, as well as seasonal links with Berlin, Aarhus and others. There are also regular ferry services to and from Ystad in Sweden (1¼ hours).

16. Keem Bay Beach, Keel, County Mayo, Ireland

A short 4.9-mile (8km) drive from Keel village, at the western end of County Mayo’s Achill Island , is one of Ireland ’s most glorious, secluded bays: Keem Bay Beach . The verdant green hillsides spill down to a deep-set horseshoe-shaped bay, where a pale-blonde beach sits framed by the Croaghaun Cliffs and the swell of the wild Atlantic. Tucked away beneath the cliffs, the bay offers calm (if cool) waters. Swimmers and snorkelers can both take advantage of the gentle sea here. Launch a kayak from the shore during the warmer summer months for fabulous views of the rural Ireland from the water. You might also catch a glimpse of pods of dolphins, which sometimes swim and feed by the bay.

Getting there  Keem Bay is accessible along western Achill Island’s snaking R319 road. The nearest airport is Ireland West Airport Knock, 59 miles (95km) east of Achill Island, or a 1½-hour drive away, with some international flights.

17. Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington, USA

Two miles (3.2km) south of the Hoh River and bordered by a rainforest, Ruby Beach is a great introduction to the Pacific Northwest. It looks like waters have lashed wildly against the shoreline here until trees have toppled and the sea are stacks found with a swirling froth crashing at their feet. It's great for beachcombers – agates, garnets and sea glass all glitter in the sand – but there is treasure inside its tide pools, too. Anemones, sea urchins, purple starfish and skittering crabs, make it a wonderland for children and adults alike.

Getting there  Ruby Beach is on the southwestern coast of the Olympic Peninsula and borders Hwy 101, which loops around the peninsula and the national park. The beach is 172 miles (277km) west of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

18. Stanhope Beach, Prince Edward Island National Park, PEI, Canada

Stanhope at Prince Edward Island National Park has some of Canada ’s best beaches. Glistening wetlands meet the north coast of the Atlantic, with 25 miles (40km) of beach framed by rolling dunes that provide refuge for the endangered piping plover bird. Boardwalks hover above the red-gold sand, and offer beautiful views of the coast while also connecting the dunes to the shoreline. During summer the water is warm enough for swimming and there’s a popular campsite among the trees just back from Stanhope Main Beach, so you can stay for the beautiful sunset and wake up to the lapping of the waves against the shore.

Getting there  Stanhope Beach is around 12 miles (20km) north of Charlottetown , PEI’s provincial capital, which has flights to Toronto, Montréal, Ottawa and elsewhere in Canada. You can also reach PEI by road from New Brunswick or by ferry from Nova Scotia . The national park is open year-round, but beach facilities are only available from mid-May to early autumn.

19. Radhanagar, Swaraj Dweep, Andaman Islands, India

For a secluded beach where it feels as if time has slowed down, look to Radhanagar . Located on India ’s remote and beautiful Andaman Islands , this dreamy spot with the softest of sand kisses a bright green forest full of ancient species found nowhere else on earth. The region’s natural beauty is the main draw here: come for some of the finest diving and snorkeling in India, look out for an elephant or two strolling along the shoreline, and gather with the locals who spend their evenings chatting as the sun sets casting blazing coral hues across the sky.

Getting there  The isolated Andaman Islands sit almost 870 miles (1400km) east of mainland India, so getting here is part of the adventure. Fly into Port Blair (the small regional capital, on South Andaman), then catch a two-hour ferry to Swaraj Dweep. Radhanagar awaits on the island’s northwest coast, with a couple of eco-luxe resorts hidden among the trees.

20. Pacifico Beach, Siargao, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines

A secret among surfers until fairly recently, Pacifico Beach is a picture-perfect tropical beach with azure-colored lagoon waters, coconut palm-shaded sands and a lovely low-key vibe. When a devastating typhoon flattened the region in 2021, the locals’ resilience won out and the island staged an incredible comeback. Many homes and businesses, including a handful of places to stay and eat in Pacifico, rebuilt and reopened within the year. This is one place where tourism is essential to the island’s ongoing recovery. Whether you’re looking for an idyllic beach to relax or a paddle across the lagoon for a left-hand reef break, Pacifico Beach and the fledgling beach town of Siargao is where you want to be.

Getting there  Pacifico Beach is 13 miles (21km) or a 30-minute drive north of Surigao’s domestic airport, and 31 miles (50km) north of the island’s main tourism hub, General Luna. The drive from the latter, typically undertaken by rental scooter, takes just over an hour, but most visitors make a day of it, lingering at the many viewpoints and other attractions along the way.

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The 34 best beaches in the world

By Lizzie Pook

There’s something about a good beach that enlivens the senses: the briny scent of salt in the air, the calming murmur of waves, the gentle nip of sand whipped up by the soft breeze. A favourite beach is like a favourite poem – individual, important and something that makes our hearts sing, and now more than ever we are dreaming of days spent wriggling our toes in the sand and wallowing in salty water.

Instead of the typical sandy spots dotted with sun umbrellas and gaggles of tourists, we've sought out spaces that you may have to venture a little further for, but that remain incredibly beautiful and very often crowd-free. From the most exquisite beaches in Europe to far-flung stretches in Asia, Africa and more, these are the best beaches in the world.

1. Palm Cove Beach, Australia

The combination of leaning palm trees on powdery sand makes Palm Cove Beach the epitome of a tropical paradise. The town itself, located in the tropical northeast of Australia , near the city of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, is home to only 2,000 people, so the sandy stretch is usually free of crowds. Keep an eye out for wildlife though – dolphins and whales can often be seen from the Palm Cover jetty.

2. Honopu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

The only (legal) way to reach remote Honopu is by water, meaning you have to swim from an offshore boat, or from neighboring Kalalau Beach, a quarter of a mile away (fins are a must). But given that the cayenne-coloured cliffs and smooth sands of this isolated spot provided the backdrop for Raiders of the Lost Ark and King Kong , the schlep is cinematically worth it. Since the valley is so isolated, it is also believed to be spiritual, and served as an ancient burial ground for local chiefs. Sleep over at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, a sunshiny retreat.

3. Breckon, Shetland

Wedged between two vivid emerald slabs of green pasture, Breckon is somewhat sheltered from the south-westerly winds that roll through these lands. That said, you’ll want to manifest pretty balmy temperatures to brave the often icy waters. It’s a beautiful spot with clear waters and perfectly powdery sands, but all is not as it seems on a clear summer’s day. Many boats have met their end along these shores – learn all about the treacherous sea at the local museum in Burravoe, which details harrowing accounts and displays fascinating artefacts that have washed up over the years.

4. Wategos Beach, Australia

The seaside town of Byron Bay may have started as a bohemian enclave but has since grown to become one of Australia’s prime addresses – Matt Damon, Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron all own houses here. And while any stretch of Bryon’s coastline is pretty, the ultimate spot is Wategoes Beach, a sheltered beach lined with screwpine trees and offering up calm swimming conditions. The beach is also home to a popular walk that leads up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, a particularly scenic spot to be at during sunset.

5. Ora Beach, Indonesia

With a higgledy-piggledy 37,000-mile coastline (the world’s second longest), Indonesia has a glut of beautiful beaches. One of its finest is Ora, snuggled away on the north coast of sparsely populated Seram island. The area is known as Indonesia’s Little Maldives due to its agate seas and white-sugar beaches, but the island still retains something of a wild feel. Seram sits amid several tectonic plates, meaning that the surrounding landscape varies cinematically, from lush, bird-speckled tropical rainforest to ogre-like mountains .

6. Mona Vale Beach, Australia

Less than an hour's drive from Sydney , Mona Vale is the unsung hero of the famed northern beaches. It's technically two beaches separated by a large, sculptural rock. The main beach is a one-kilometre stretch of soft sand, perfect for walking, splashing in the rolling waves and watching the horizon for passing pods of dolphins. There's an ocean-fed lap pool with a children's pool next to it. Days on Mona Vale beach start early – joggers are here from 5am to watch the sunrise before breakfast at the Armchair Collective cafe, families start trickling in around 9am and set up umbrellas as a base camp for a day of boogie boarding, beach picnics and exploring the rockpool. The surfers are always the last to leave, forever holding on for one more wave.

7. Dune du Pilat, France

In the warmer months, Europe’s tallest sand dune, just an hour’s drive from Bordeaux , is cloaked in a constant, shimmering heat haze, giving the illusion that this sprawling French beach is scattered with gleaming treasure. The sand here, which forms peaks as high as 300 feet, is as finely milled as fresh flour, perfect for sausage-rolling your way down to the tussocky Atlantic shoreline and standing to gaze back at the pine forests behind the beach. The surrounding Arcachon Bay holds miles of beaches ripe for exploring, and you’ll find a jumble of huts nearby where fishermen set up tables to sell oysters, pâté and prawns. Book a night at Les Sources de Caudalie , an elegant country retreat.

8. Noosa Beach, Australia

Quite possibly the most beloved beach within easy reach of Brisbane, Noosa pairs designer boutiques and buzzing restaurants with a sprawling and serene white sand beach. The southern end of the beach typically offers up calm swimming conditions, as well as a classic surf club, while the northern end runs alongside Noosa National Park, which is home to a eucalypt forest and koalas.

Anna Prendergast

Caitlin Morton

Sarah James

9. Awaroa, South Island, New Zealand

Set deep in the heart of New Zealand’s glorious Abel Tasman National Park, Awaroa is hemmed in by clover-green native bush and seas that sparkle like freshly blown glass. Most visitors come here either by water – swooshing in on kayaks or small boats – or on foot, to ramble around the park’s lush forests. It has an important place in the hearts of the locals, who banded together to crowdfund the purchase of the privately held beachfront when it came up for sale in 2016, thus giving this pretty part of the planet the nickname the ‘People’s Beach’.

10. Die Plaat, Walker Bay Nature Reserve, South Africa

Don’t be surprised to spot the occasional southern right whale wallowing offshore at Die Plaat, a ruggedly beautiful swath of sand fringed by rocky limestone outcrops near Hermanus, South Africa’s whale capital. Chubby seals slouch on the rocky shoreline here, and you’ll find the ground littered with huge, pearlescent abalone shells. There’s history to be courted in these wind-whipped sands as well; the beach is home to Klipgat Cave, a bat-filled cavern where late Middle Stone Age people lived up to 85,000 years ago (keep your eyes peeled – you may even spot ancient tools on the ground). Stay at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a 6,177-acre lodge.

11. Grand Anse, Grenada

You’ll find no shortage of beautiful beaches in Grenada, but tranquil, sheltered Grand Anse is one of the best. Two miles of milky-white sand on the western, leeward side of the island , it’s a short water-taxi ride from the capital of St George’s, and is overlooked by some of Grenada’s finest hotels. You won’t want for anything here, whether it’s goblet-sized G&Ts, market stalls or seahorses that swoosh around snorkellers.

12. Keem Bay, Achill Island, Ireland

It’s a windy road to Keem Bay, but the staggering cliff-top views are worth it. This sheltered inlet, on Achill Island in County Mayo, is almost unknown to visitors, but its clear malachite waters and soft biscuit sand make it a family-friendly spot – that’s also wonderfully crowd-free. Bring binoculars for spotting basking sharks; in warmer months you’ll find herds of ice-cream vans in the car park.

Read more about the best beaches in Ireland

13. Fakarava, French Polynesia

With its collection of easily accessible white and pink sand beaches, Fakarava – one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia – is one of the best snorkelling locations in the world, with consistently warm waters. While the sea is a safe haven for rare fish, fluorescent corals and ‘walls’ of sharks that pass close by the shore, the unblemished beaches have a claim to fame as the inspiration for Matisse’s bleu period. The artist spent three months in nearby Tahiti in 1930, and was enthralled by the lagoons’ infinite blues.

14. Marathonisi, Zakynthos, Greece

Better known as Turtle Island, the spotless white-sand islet of Marathonisi is a vital nesting spot for endangered loggerhead sea turtles, meaning visitors must stay within five metres of the water to avoid disturbing them. Fill your lungs with the pine-scented air before exploring the surrounding sea caves by snorkel or boat but be sure to bring supplies: you’ll find nothing on this Greek Island beach but seals, turtles and forests. Calm, smart design hangout Olea All Suite Hotel reflects Zakynthos's more relaxed side.

15. Praia do Sancho, Brazil

Found on Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago of volcanic islands between Brazil and Africa , Praia do Sancho is consistently voted one of the world’s best beaches. It’s also one of the hardest to access. Flights from mainland Brazil take about an hour, then you must hike, scooch down narrow rock tunnels and descend steep ladder steps to reach the golden palm-fringed sands. You have to pay an environment tax to get in, as the area is a National Park (head to the park’s offices, a 15-minute drive away), but once you’re there, its deserted shoreline, giant lumbering iguanas and fish-flecked shallows are worth the sweat.

16. Chesterman Beach, Vancouver Island, Canada

Another wild beauty, Chesterman’s wide stretch of smooth sand – dotted with huge driftwood logs and fringed by wolf-filled forest – is popular with die-hard surfers and windswept strollers when the tide recedes. It’s overlooked by the fantastic Wickaninnish Inn, an atmospheric place to shelter and keep an eye out for passing sea otters when bloated storm clouds roll in.

17. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

Possibly one of the most photogenic places in the world, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is the original Bounty advert beach, cloaked in pure white sand and strewn with hefty granite boulders. It is not, by any stretch, deserted, but visit in the early morning] and you’ll get there before the daytrippers from Mahé and Praslin. For your own pocket of paradise, walk southwards through the shallows past the first set of boulders. The bay opens up for added breathing space.

18. Seagrass Bay, Laucala Island, Fiji

Covered in a sultry tropical jungle and accessible only via guided walking tours or horseback safaris, the private island hideaway of Laucala is an unfathomably beautiful spot, home to some of Fiji’s rarest birds, hordes of marine life and spellbinding beaches. Seagrass Bay is the quietest and prettiest, but if its real adventure you’re after, head slightly further off-shore to get up close to the magnificent sea-life in a submersible.

19. Hidden Beach, Palawan, Philippines

It’s not quite so hidden any more, but this beach still makes its mark as one of the world’s best. Palawan is filled with pristinely beautiful spots, but Hidden Beach – surrounded by imposing limestone cliffs and with startlingly bone-white sand – is an idyllic spot from which to plunge into the turquoise ocean. Stay at El Nido hotels .

20. Ile aux Cerfs, Mauritius

Named for the cerfs , the stags imported from Java for hunting, Ile aux Cerfs in Mauritius has become something of a victim of its own famous beauty, much of it overrun with obtrusive crowds and pesky beach touts. But you need only hike half a mile down the beach and you’ll be rewarded with some incredible island sands that you can keep all to yourself. This place is popular for a reason.

21. Tortuga Bay, Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos

With ghost-white sand, black lava rock and gaggles of marine iguanas, Tortuga Bay is an almost surreal place. It’s two miles out of the main town of Puerto Ayora, and the hike can be hot and sticky, but once there allow yourself to be distracted by sharks patrolling the shallows, apple-red crabs scuttling across the sands and the swoop of blue-footed boobies coming into land, then cool off with a spot of breaststroke among the mangroves.

22. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, Australia

Launch yourself into the crystalline waters of Turquoise Bay and you’ll be swimming within a few feet of the pristine Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage-listed site that’s home to the largest congregation of whale sharks on the planet. A 40-mile drive from Exmouth on Australia’s Western coast, it’s a beach of blindingly white sands and impeccable snorkelling – you’ll descend to see rainbow corals, peaceful turtles and more than 500 fish species.

23. Pink Sand Beach, Barbuda

This endlessly photogenic, often empty beach is made from crushed corals that have been ground into fine silk-like sand. Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island, is less crowded than most of the Caribbean islands , meaning you may find you have this eight-mile swathe of sand – which glows candy-floss-pink in the sun – entirely to yourself. There are no public facilities per se, but you’ll find a few beachy cafes scattered alongside the surf for a cooling cocktail.

24. Playa Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

This popular family beach borders the wildlife-filled Manuel Antonio National Park, where three-toed sloths and white-faced capuchin monkeys emerge from the coastal rainforest to the delight of tiny beachgoers. It’s a 30-minute hike from the entrance to the park (keep your eyes peeled for howler monkeys crashing through the canopy), but once there you’ll find soft sands, excellent swimming and honey-hued sunsets. Book a room at Arenas del Mar , spread across 11 leafy acres of a nature reserve.

25. Gantheaume Point, Broome, Western Australia

With a backdrop of saffron-coloured cliffs and lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean , this rugged beach is one of the southern hemisphere’s most photogenic. Cast your eye across the robin-egg-blue waters and you might spot the snouts of rare snubfin dolphins breaking the surface, then turn back to the old lighthouse tower to see ospreys nesting in the framework. When the tide is at its lowest, a smattering of 125-million-year-old dinosaur footprints are unveiled, preserved impeccably in the amber-coloured reef rock.

26. Dolfynstrand, Namibia

Set on the edge of the Namib-Naukluft National Park – the oldest desert on the planet – and a 15-minute drive from seaside hub Walvis Bay. The primeval Dolfynstrand is not a soft-waves-and-sand-between-your-toes sort of place – instead there are eerie shipwrecks strewn on the sand and a stinking, snoozing seal colony up the coast. But given its remote location in one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries, any beachcombers are unlikely to have to jostle for space.

27. Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach, North Carolina

More of an unpolished gem than a screensaver beach, the wind-pummelled Ocracoke on the Outer Banks of North Carolina has been described as one of the USA’s wildest. Once the temporary home of Blackbeard the pirate and his fellow buccaneers, it rocks some seriously big surfing waves in the late summer, while more tranquil waters earlier in the year (plus changing facilities and ample parking) are ideal for salt-water-seeking families.

28. Rauðasandur Beach, Iceland

Glowering below the rocks of Iceland’s western fjords is the moody Rauðasandur Beach, distinguished by its copper-red sands, a result of billions of pulverised scallop shells. Reached by a winding gravel road, this is edged by formidable mountains and dramatic cliffs. But you’re unlikely to see another human here – only a tenth of Iceland’s visitors ever make it as far as the Westfjords.

29. Jibei Island beach, Taiwan

Found in Penghu County, among the remote western islands of Taiwan, Jibei is an almost untouched spot, out of reach of most city-going travellers. Getting here involves taking a boat from the North Sea Tourist Centre to the main part of the island, where there are plenty of watersports, sun umbrellas and wooden cabins for an overnight stay. But it’s the secluded, often deserted sandspit, a 15-minute walk away, that’s truly special. There are no man-made intrusions here – just the murmur of the ocean and a mile of untrodden sand.

30. Uig Sands, Isle of Lewis, Scotland

A busy day at Uig is when two people show up at once. Lying some 20 miles west of Stornoway on Lewis’s surf-battered Atlantic coast, this is a big, dramatic beach watched over by tussocky dunes and grizzled mountains. The beach itself is famous for being the place where a set of Viking chess pieces – dating back to the 12th century and made from the husks of walrus teeth – were unearthed, but it has a lot more going for it than just its history. The surrounding machair flower meadows erupt into bloom in June, and its enormous uninterrupted stretches of sand are a playground for kite-buggy enthusiasts. Check into the 19th-century country house Lews Castle .

We've rounded up the best secret beaches in Scotland

31. Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Cast away in the protected Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of southern Mozambique , Benguerra is a place where sandbars shimmer like nacre and leggy flamingoes pick their way delicately through the channels. A short sail by dhow east of the town of Vilanculos, the fine sand here is fringed by a two-mile-long coral reef, while migrating humpbacks and huge whale sharks pass majestically further offshore. The shot-silk waters are also home to the largest dugong population in the western Indian Ocean, and inland you’ll find congregations of crocodiles and all manner of bird species. But best of all, its marine reserve status means there’s only a handful of lodges on the island, so once the day-trippers depart, you’ll have the beach all to yourself. Stat at andBeyond Benguerra Island , a classy but unpretentious beach retreat.

Read more about the best beaches in Mozambique

32. Al Mughsail, Salalah, Oman

There’s something Mad Max -esque about Al Mughsail, with its unflinchingly white sand, parched frankincense trees and cinematic blow holes (especially impressive during monsoon season) which erupt every couple of minutes, shaking the earth and spewing out seawater with a deafening sound. Stretching for four unbroken miles and fringed with sheer limestone cliffs, the beach is lapped by gleaming turquoise water which can get a little choppy at times. That said, it’s a wonderful spot from which to watch fishermen pilot traditional dhows just offshore; catch them at dusk for the most dramatic photographs, when they are silhouetted against the treacly Omani sunset.

33. Playa Paraiso, Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba

It’s likely that Playa Paraiso – stretching across a small island just off Cuba ’s southern coast – still looks much like it did in 1494, when Christopher Columbus sailed to Cayo Largo on his second expedition to the New World. Its sieved-flour sand and crystalline waters remain pristine, while the nearby reefs offer some of the finest diving in the Caribbean. Warm, calm waters make the beach ideal for paddlers and swimmers, while wildlife lovers should keep their eyes peeled for iguanas and giant sea turtles. Shade can be hard to come by though, and naturists head to the east end of the beach – so stay west if you prefer to keep things covered up.

34. Luskentyre, Outer Hebrides

At the end of a winding road on the wind-battered west coast of the Isle of Harris, you’ll find something to make your eyes pop. Luskentyre Beach is a paint splash of brilliant white, surrounded by almost impossibly azure water. On a sunny day, it’s so unerringly blue you may find it hard to believe you are at a beach in Scotland at all. But regardless of its paradoxically tropical feel, it’s at its most beautiful when eel-coloured storm clouds roll in and seas turn flinty, turning this dramatic landscape an eerie monochrome.

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Top 10 best beach destinations in the world

Monday  newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best beach destinations in the world.

A beach is always an excellent location for a relaxing holiday, so it’s no wonder that millions of us flock to a beach destination when we have time to travel. With vast stretches of white sand, clear turquoise waters, waving palm trees, and a tranquil ambiance, vacationing at the beach is always as fun as it sounds. Whether you love relaxing on the sand, snorkeling in clear warm waters, or try the athlete in yourself with exciting watersports, a beach always offers an activity to suit everyone. Of course, not all beach destinations are equally good, so to help you plan your next tropical escape, I share with you my 10 preferred hotspots in the world for a relaxing beach holiday.

You can find more info below my slideshow (with a selection of luxury hotels per destination). Think I forgot a beach destination? Leave a comments  or take my  poll below.

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10. THAILAND

A veritable paradise of sugar white sand, crystal clear waters, and dramatic scenery, Thailand’s tropical beaches are renowned around the globe for their beauty. Unfortunately, mass tourism has destroyed some of them. Remember The Beach ? Well, these days you’ll have to look a little harder to find the utopian paradise of the 1990s cult backpacker novel on Thailand’s Andaman coast. However, little gems still shine brightly on Phi Phi island. And some of the country’s most luxurious resorts – such as the phenomenal resort of Soneva Kiri – still feature their own private, pristine beach.

• Best time to visit : the weather in Thailand is reasonable most times of year, although it certainly gets hot and rainy during the summer. November through February are the coolest times of year and there is certainly less rain than at other times in the year. However, avoid the rainy season (July to October) at all costs since tropical downpours can be torrential.
• My selection of luxury resorts : read my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Thailand .

9 . PHILIPPINES

With more than 7000 islands dotted with beautiful white sand beaches that are lapped by warm aquamarine seas and edged by spectacular coral reefs, picking a favorite beach in the Philippines may sound like a challenging task. El Nido in Palawan, often dubbed as the Philippines’ last frontier, is definitely one the best destinations in the country, not only because of the powder-fine beaches and gin-clear waters, but also because of the area’s fabulous limestone formations, towering cliffs, prehistoric caves and thundering waterfalls.

• Best time to visit : there are two distinct weather patterns in the Philippines. The southwest monsoon, which runs from May to October, brings the rains and the northeast monsoon, which prevails from November to early May, is the dry season. For most of the country, the wet season starts in June, peaks in July to September, and fades out in October. Typhoons are common from June to November with storms raging up the east coast. January to May is the best time to visit.
• My selection of luxury hotels :  Amanpulo ,  Shangri La Boracay , and Nay Palad Hideaway

8. NORTHWESTERN USA & CANADA

The Northwestern area of the American continent boasts some of the most spectacular wild beaches in the worlds, in particular Second Beach in Olympic National Park (USA) and Long Beach in the Pacific Rim National Park (Canada). Do not expect a tropical idyll though, since these areas rank among the wettest places on earth. Here, you can walk on miles of long sandy beaches backed by lush, old-growth rainforest, while watching the thundering waves of the Pacific Ocean with the occasional whale breaching at the horizon.

• Best time to visit : it depends on your interests. In the winter you can expect a lot of rain and potentially high winds but many people go just to storm watch. July and August would be the best time in terms of less precipitation, warmer temperatures and sunshine but fog is often a plague in the morning.
• My selection of luxury resorts :  Long Beach Lodge ,  Wickaninnish Inn , and Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

7. QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

Queensland has hundreds of world-class beaches, each offering a distinctive experience. Whitehaven Beach, located on the largest of the Whitsunday Islands, is often voted amongst the world’s most beautiful beaches ; stretching over 3,7 miles (6km) and boasting brilliant silica sand, among the purest in the world, you’ll soon realize why. Another favorite is Seventy-five Mile Beach, which is Australia’s premier four-wheel driving location and runs along Fraser Island’s east coast; the fabulous beach boasts miles upon miles of pristine sand and sea, as well as a vast array of wildlife.

• Best time to visit : April through October (winter time Down Under) is the best time to enjoy abundant sunshine and less rain. It is also peak visibility time for divers. The Australian summer months from November to April are hot, rainy and sticky across Queensland (with the chance of a cyclone in the north).
• My selection of luxury resorts : read my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Australia .

6. CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Cape Town, often dubbed South Africa’s Mother City and IMHO the world’s most beautiful city , has some of the world’s most spectacular beaches on its doorsteps, just minutes from the city center at the foot of the epic Table Mountain. From the family friendly beaches on the False Bay coastline to the gorgeous beaches for the rich and beautiful on the incredibly spectacular Atlantic Seaboard, you’re sure to find a stretch of sand that suits your fancy. My favorite Capetonian beaches are Camps Bay, Clifton and Llandudno.

• Best time to visit : Cape Town’s hot, dry summer months run from late October to late March. Temperatures reach their peak between December and February, and this is generally seen as when to go to Cape Town for the best beach weather.
• My selection of luxury hotels: read my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Cape Town .

5. HAWAII, USA

Besides jaw-dropping natural scenery (think active volcanoes, towering cliffs, and dense jungle), the Hawaiian islands also boast some of the best beaches in the world. Some built around the high drama of intense waves crashing against razor-sharp lava rocks; some so remote that they are only accessible by helicopter or landing watercraft; and some are so hidden and gorgeous that they need to remain a secret. The islands of Kauai and Maui are best for travelers looking for a relaxing beach holiday (but don’t forget to explore the incredible landscapes outside the resorts).

• Best time to visit : the off-season, when the best rates are available and the islands are less crowded, is spring (Apr to June) and fall (Sept to November) — a paradox because these are the best seasons to be in Hawaii, in terms of reliably great weather.  Winter (December to March) can be surprisingly wet and cloudy.
• My selection of luxury resorts : read my top 10 list of the best hotels in Hawaii .

4. FRENCH POLYNESIA

With 118 islands dotted in the mighty blue South Pacific Ocean, French Polynesia has, as you probably expect, some pretty awesome beaches. Just 12 miles (19 km long), the lush little slipper of land called Bora Bora lies in French Polynesia’s most mesmerizing lagoon edged by fine white sandy shores. Luxurious over-water bungalows nestled over the world’s most beautiful lagoon with a tropical backdrop make Bora Bora a top destination for the discerning traveler.

• Best time to visit : the wet season (Polynesian summers) runs from November till April. During these months the humidity levels can be at an all time high and storms are frequent and unpredictable. The dry season from May to October is when tourism is at its peak on the islands; during these months the temperature is a few degrees lower and rain is rare.
• My selection of luxury resorts : read my top 10 list of the best luxury resorts in French Polynesia .

3. TURKS AND CAICOS

The Turks and Caicos Islands have some of the planet’s most ethereal turquoise seas and finest, powdery sand beaches, and are surrounded by the globe’s third-largest coral reef. While their western neighbors of the Bahamas went mass with their lost-on-the-way-to-Las-Vegas resorts, the Turks went class, quietly opening a string of very luxurious resorts in the past decade.

• Best time to visit : like other islands in the Caribbean, Turks & Caicos’ dry seasons and peak travel period lasts from December to March. However, the best time to visit Turks & Caicos is April and May, a sweet spot featuring lower prices and fewer crowds. The weather is pleasant year-round with average highs that hover in the 80s, but these islands do experience a rainy season, and the threat of hurricanes lingers from June to November.
• My selection of luxury resorts :  Amanyara and COMO Parrot Cay

2. THE MALDIVES

Located on the equator towards the south of India, and stretching over 500 miles (800 km), the Maldives are the visible coral tips of an oceanic volcanic mountain range whose outer edge at some points plunge to depths of over 2 miles (3 km). The islands are blessed with stunning white beaches, crystal clear blue lagoons, incredible underwater wildlife, and unrivaled luxury resorts .

• Best time to visit : the best weather is between January and April, which also means high season (and high hotel prices). The monsoon runs from May to October, peaking in June. It is worth paying higher prices and sticking to the dry season as there is nothing to do on a rainy day except drink, work out or scuba dive. Especially November and December, which are often labelled as dry season months, have been very unsettled recent years.
• My selection of luxury resorts : read my top 10 list of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives .

1. THE SEYCHELLES

Mother Nature was extremely generous when she created the archipelago of the Seychelles, comprised of 115 scenic islands scattered in the Indian Ocean east of Kenia. The beauty of the Seychellois beaches is beyond words and unmatched anywhere else in the world: exquisite ribbons of powdery-soft white sand are lapped by turquoise waters and backed by palm tree covered hills and big rocky boulders.

• Best time to visit : Seychelles is often sold as a year round destination and it is. However there is more chance of bad weather, that is to say rain, from November to March. The transitional months of October and April are excellent for a visit as the oceans are very calm and the weather balmy. During the dry seasons (May to September), it can be windy (causing seaweed on the south or south-easterly side of the islands) with rough seas.
• My selection of luxury resorts : read my top 10 list of the best luxury resorts in the Seychelles .

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16 Comments

Love this piece! Turks and Caicos has been on my bucket list for years!!

Love your column. I wish you would label your beautiful pictures so I knew where to go to see this view/location.

Hello! Thanks for the summary. I would like to go somewhere in August. I am based in Asia. What would you recommend taking into account the distance and weather? I would like to do scuba diving as well. I was thinking of the Philippines but it might be rainy. What do you think?

In August, you will enjoy Asia’s best beach weather in Indonesia!

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Thank you for writing very informative topic about best beach destinations. please keep it up, Thank you

Great piece! Love it 🙂

Thank you sweetie for sharing those stunning beaches with us. Our bucket list is getting even longer 😀

love Your segments! Leaving NYC for the Seychelles and Mauritius tomorrow. Thanks for all of Your reviews! I follow Brian (TPG) I will now follow You as well!

Enjoy your holiday! I just finished a series of trip reports on my blog about the Seychelles.

Thanks for the information, very useful.

Always flood of biased votes and listings from MiddIe East, places like Hawaii are always on top for a reason and have a vibrant culture, missed a lot of the top dogs.

Hello blogger! Thanks a lot for sharing such a great post on the best beach destinations in the world. Adriana and Dylan are also a couple of wanderers from Sweden & Wales and the best travel vloggers and youtubers as well. They are pursuing our dream lives of travelling and exploring the world together, including resorts, hotels, beaches, food, drink, and more. To know more, visit their site.

There’s nothing like the feeling of sand between your toes and the sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore. Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relaxing on a beach can be a great way to recharge and find a sense of peace.

There are surf resorts and boat charters that cater specifically to surfers in the Mentawai Islands, offering comfortable accommodations, meals, and access to a variety of surf breaks, including Kandui.

The diversity of beach destinations showcased in this article is truly remarkable. From the rugged beauty of Big Sur to the exotic allure of the Seychelles, each destination offers its own unique charm and appeal. I can’t wait to start planning my next beach getaway based on these recommendations. The ever-changing landscape of the real estate market keeps us on our toes, but it’s also a testament to the dynamism and opportunities within the industry.

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A year of the world's

Best Beaches

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16 Best Beaches in Mexico—Whether You Want a Quiet Surf Escape or Thrumming Nightlife

By Caitlin Morton

Mexico is one of those well-rounded countries that offer a little bit of everything: food, culture, gorgeous landscapes, and some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire world. But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination—and for good reason. The nation boasts nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, stretching along the warm Gulf of Mexico to the east and the wild, surfer-friendly Pacific Ocean to the west.

Perhaps the best aspect of Mexico’s beaches is their diversity. Regardless of the type of vacation you seek—a surfing adventure, a cultural immersion, or an off-grid retreat—you’ll find a stretch of sand to fit your needs. Case in point: We rounded up 16 spots that stand out for their unique activities, luxurious accommodations, and overall beauty, and there truly is something here for every traveler.

From popular vacation spots to hidden island gems, here are the best beaches in Mexico. 

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Punta Mita, Nayarit

Punta Mita is a lush, private peninsula on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, about 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. This 1,500-acre enclave receives consistently warm and sunny weather, and its crystalline waters lend themselves perfectly to swimming and surfing. But the best asset of Punta Mita is its collection of luxury hotels and resorts: Take your pick from the newly opened Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection , or opt for other favorites like the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita ,  The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort , and  W Punta de Mita .  

Playa Balandra, La Paz

About 40 minutes outside of La Paz , Playa Balandra is arguably the most picturesque beach in all of Baja California. The idyllic spot lies on the eastern coast of the peninsula, overlooking a peaceful bay that spills out into the Caribbean-esque Sea of Cortez. You won’t find many better places in the area to go snorkeling and swimming—and the views of the desert meeting the ocean are truly second to none. 

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Cabo San Lucas is known as a popular tourist destination—hello, spring breakers !—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The resort city happens to have some of the best beaches in Mexico, including the remote Playas La Palmas (rent a 4x4 to get there) and Playa Acapulquito, a veritable surfer’s paradise . And then there are the resorts. You have tons of options here, but you won’t do much better than Chileno Bay Resort , featured on our 2018 Hot List . Aside from its beautiful and breezy villas, its location on one of Cabo’s most swim-friendly beaches can’t be topped.

Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo

While often thought of as a side trip from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a destination in its own right. The main beach of Playa Norte is made of crushed coral, has warm shallow waters, and is much quieter than the beaches across the bay. Scuba enthusiasts should take note: The island is home to the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.

Jamie Spain

Kelsey Glennon

Megan duBois

Boone Ashworth

Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

We dubbed Isla Holbox, just north of Cancun, “ One of Mexico’s Last Secret Beach Towns ” back in 2017; and while it might not be such a secret anymore, it still dazzles with its stretch of beaches, aqua-blue water, and nature preserve. Spend your days browsing the markets and textile shops in town, and don’t you dare forget to visit the island’s famous over-water hammocks. Punta Caliza , a relative newcomer to the scene, is one of our favorite places to stay.

Playa del Amor, Nayarit

It looks like something out of a fantasy movie, but Playa del Amor (more commonly referred to as “Hidden Beach’) is a very real, albeit hard-to-reach, attraction. Part of the Marietas Islands (about a 1-hour boat ride west of Puerto Vallarta), the beach is engulfed by a cave with a gaping hole in the roof—a hole rumored to be the result of bombs from military testing by the Mexican government during the early 1900s. Sinister origin aside, the hole now serves as a unique skylight that opens the beach up for sunbathing and photo ops, but the extremely strong currents here make swimming a risky endeavor.

Zihuatanejo, Guerrero

The Pacific Coast surf town of Zihuatanejo (often shortened to “Zihua”) has natural beauty that is equal parts alluring and hard to reach (hence the lack of crowds). We keep going back for the cliffs and ravines blanketed by mangroves, scooped-out bays, and a backdrop of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. Zihua has four beaches that are reachable from the city center, the best—and most remote—being Playa Las Gatas. The white sand and cyan lagoon are perfect for lounging with a beer, snorkeling, and maybe spotting a humpback whale on the horizon.

Costalegre, Jalisco

The Costalegre spans Mexico’s Pacific Coast into the states of Jalisco and Colima, where luxury hotels stand adjacent to wild landscapes. One such stunning example is Cuixmala : Aside from its oceanfront infinity pool, private beach, and extremely luxurious suites, the estate has a 30,000-acre wildlife preserve literally in its backyard. How’s that for indulgence?

Playa Los Cerritos, Baja California Sur

Five-mile-long Playa Los Cerritos is one of the safest swimming spots near funky Todos Santos , an hour north of Cabo on the Pacific. It’s a popular spot for surfing (and lessons are easy to find), shell collecting, and family outings. It is also one of the most developed beaches in the area: Aside from taking advantage of an on-site bar and restaurant, visitors can reach the hippie-chic boutique hotel from Liz Lambert, Hotel San Cristóbal , via a short drive to Playa Punta Lobos.

Playa Zicatela, Oaxaca

Playa Zicatela is one of the most famous surfing spots in all of Mexico, located on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca . The breaks here have drawn comparisons to Hawaii’s famed Pipeline, and you can often find major surfing competitions taking place on the beach. Even if you aren’t big on water sports, the surrounding town of  Puerto Escondido will draw you in with its funky hotels, public artwork, and shoes-optional restaurants.

Playa Paraiso, Tulum

About an hour south of Cancun, Tulum has emerged as one of Mexico’s most beloved beach destinations, thanks to an abundance of white sand, warm turquoise water, and jungle-lined roads and ruins. Perhaps the best slice of paradise is the appropriately named Playa Paraiso, where folks flock for the aforementioned scenery as well as an abundance of activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving. There are even changing rooms and a beach club serving up cold drinks, so go ahead and plan on staying all day.

Isla Espíritu Santo, Baja California Sur

Located in the beautiful Sea of Cortez, Isla Espíritu Santo is a short boat trip away from La Paz on the lower half of the Baja California Peninsula . The uninhabited island is full of red rocks, pristine white beaches, and many species of exotic wildlife . Swimming with a colony of sea lions is the highlight of many an expedition, followed by a relaxing picnic on the shoreline.

Troncones, Guerrero

Formerly a quiet fishing village, 46 miles north of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport, Troncones has become an under-the-radar escape for adventurous travelers. The three-mile-long beach draws surfers from all over the world, while eco-tourists love horseback riding on the sand and hiking in the nearby Sierra Madre mountains. Best of all, with a population hovering around 500-600 permanent residents, Troncones always maintains a wonderful sense of isolation.

Playa Mujeres, Cancun

Cancun may be one of Mexico’s more tourist-heavy beach destinations, but it’s hard to ignore the city’s postcard-perfect stretches of white sand and turquoise water—even if you do have to dodge some crowds during your visit. If you go a little off the beaten path, you may even get some sandy real estate all to yourself. We recommend heading towards Playa Mujeres (not to be confused with Isla Mujeres, which is about seven miles off the coast of Cancun), an idyllic resort community wedged between the Caribbean and a wildlife preserve, to enjoy some peace and quiet (bonus serenity points if you can book a stay at the adults-only  Excellence Playa Mujeres ).

Yelapa, Jalisco

Yelapa is only accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from Puerto Vallarta. Therein lies the appeal of this off-the-radar paradise , where the beach is long and the tourists are sparse. Step directly off the boat onto the crescent-shaped sand, grab some fish tacos and beer at the thatched-roof bar Angelina’s Gardens Beach Club, and spend the rest of the day swaying in one of the many hammocks strung up beneath the palms.

Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca

The town of Puerto Ángel sits on a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay, bookended by craggy rocks and surrounded by wooded hills. The waters here are calm and bright blue, although the town mostly serves as a small fishing port. The best beach scene is found at Playa La Boquilla, about three miles east of the bay, where the shallow waters make for excellent snorkeling .

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• United States

10 Best Beach Vacation Destinations In The U.S.

Find family fun in the sun or romance under the stars at these beloved beach settings..

Memorial Day weekend isn't the only time our brains should instinctually begin to daydream about the beach. In fact, any time it's not December, January or February, the beach should be on your mind. Summer vacation planning might mean returning to a seashore that's been a family tradition for years or heading to a new beach you've always wanted to visit.

Thankfully, if you live in the United States, there are plenty of options for the best beach vacation spots across the country's 50 states. Take to the East Coast, and visit Cape Cod, Massachusetts for an all-American outing, chowing down on lobster rolls and letting your feet seep into the sands. Interested more in a sophisticated, artsy scene? Check out Laguna Beach in California. You also can't go wrong with a visit to the Magic Isle (Maui) in Hawaii .

If you're still undecided about where to visit for one of your next beach vacations, here's a look at the 10 best beach vacation destinations in the U.S.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Few beach vacation spots are as quintessentially New England as this hook-shaped island. Its scenic sand dunes and shingled cottages have made it an annual summer vacation favorite for generations of Americans. A succession of charming beach towns — including Hyannis to the west, Chatham at the easternmost point and artsy Provincetown at road's end — offer house rentals, B&Bs and hotels or motels with pools and spa facilities.

And any Cape Cod beach experience must include lobster-roll lunches and sunset clambakes to make for one of the best beach vacations in the U.S. It's all wicked cool.

Laguna Beach, California

For summer R&R that includes gallery hopping, wine sipping and spa going, this upscale beach community, located about 90 minutes north of San Diego, is ideal. Several of the best beach resorts in the U.S. — Montage Laguna Beach , the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel and Surf & Sand Resort , among others — are set along the area's picturesque cliffs and are perfect for a romantic couple's escape or a girlfriends' getaway.

The town is a longtime art colony (with more than 100 galleries), so it's easy to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. The region's focus on healthy California cuisine means you'll eat well in every sense, along one of the best vacation beaches in the country.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida

Some places just make you go, "Ahh..." and these neighboring islands on the west coast of Florida are among them. Their endless white-sand beaches — many scattered with delicate sea shells — offer panoramic views of the clear, calm waters and golden sunsets of the Gulf of Mexico.

Sanibel has a distinctly casual charm with small, traditional beachfront motels. Captiva, on the other hand, is golf-cart friendly with legendary eatery the Bubble Room and the large South Seas Island Resort offering activities of all kinds, making for one of the best beach vacations.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Historic lighthouses, wild horses and scenic flights in open-cockpit biplanes above the spot where the Wright Brothers first flew — beach family vacations in the Outer Banks can include all this and more.

With a large inventory of beach-house rentals (and quite a few resorts and inns, too), towns such as Duck, Corolla, Hatteras, Nags Head and Kitty Hawk are scattered along this series of sand dune-studded barrier islands, making it a top spot for leisurely getaways with friends and multi-generational family vacations . Fresh seafood is plentiful, and activities include hang gliding, bike riding and deep-sea fishing at one of the best family beach resorts.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

To experience nature at its finest, it's hard to top Cannon Beach, a wide, wild swath of sand on the Oregon Coast about 90 minutes from Portland. Known for its dramatic rock formations (235-foot-tall Haystack being the most famous), lush rainforests (complete with waterfalls), large artist population (galleries abound) and wildlife (you can easily spot nesting puffins and grazing elk), Cannon Beach is ideal as a romantic-getaway spot for eco-loving couples.

Aside from beachcombing and surfing, hiking is the activity to do (the views from Ecola State Park are sublime), and accommodations include dozens of inns to suit all budgets.

The Hamptons, New York

Each summer, this string of charming villages, located on the southeast coast of Long Island, plays host to New York's A-listers — from Wall Street bigwigs to music moguls — who escape the city to weekend at beachfront estates worthy of an Architectural Digest cover.

But, if you plan ahead, more modest house rentals are also available in Southampton, East Hampton, Bridgehampton, Amagansett and Wainscott. Besides sunning and socializing, the Hamptons are known for farm stands offering fresh, local produce, restaurants specializing in Long Island seafood and farm-to-table cuisine and vineyards ideal for lazy afternoons sipping wine.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is nicknamed "the Magic Isle" and with good reason.

In addition to its famous beaches (Kaanapali, Wailea and Makena, to name a few), this Hawaiian island is home to Haleakala (a surreal volcanic crater that's 10,023 feet above sea level), Molokini (a crescent-shaped, offshore lava formation offering superb snorkeling ), Upcountry (a lush area with historic cowboy towns and lavender farms) and Hana (a remote spot perched on black-lava landscape and accessible solely via the twisting, turning Hana Highway).

Add in humpback whales (from November to March), spinner dolphins and a half dozen golf courses, and Maui has something for everyone.

Newport, Rhode Island

Whether you're into surfing, sailing or touring Gilded Age mansions, Newport is a beach vacation destination with a star-spangled pedigree. Its largest beach, Ruggles, is sweeping crescent of sand favored by surfers. Its historic Thames Street is lined with antique shops, pubs and seafood restaurants.

Choose from an array of romantic inns ( the Chanler at Cliff Walk and Forty 1 North , for instance) or full-service hotels ( Newport Marriott or Hotel Viking ). For active sightseeing, stroll or jog the scenic 3½-mile Cliff Walk with grand mansions on one side and the sailboat-studded waters of Narragansett Bay on the other.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Want to tick another state off your visited list? Then make it Alabama, where Gulf Shores offers nature (it's home to 6,500-acre Gulf State Park), entertainment (outdoor concerts) and foodie fun (from shrimp to barbecue).

In total, there are 32 miles of white-sand beaches that let you explore the region's beautiful landscapes, as you spy on seabirds and eagles, alligators and even black bears. Accommodations include condo rentals, B&Bs, motels, hotels and campsites.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

If you're looking for a beach vacation destination that offers active summer sports as well as easy access to a city famous for its history and quirky charm, check out Hilton Head Island. Located 45 minutes from Savannah Georgia, it has carved a niche with its focus on golf, tennis, biking and nature walks, along with a plentiful supply of hotel rooms and condo and house rentals in all price ranges.

Day trips to Savannah add antiquing, historic home tours and low-country cuisine (shrimp and grits, anyone?) to the mix.

Recommended

22 Best Tropical Vacations

Written by Lana Law , Michael Law , and Karen Hastings Updated Sep 29, 2023

Each year, countless travelers find themselves looking for the perfect tropical vacation destination. Many end up defaulting to places they know and settling for the familiar. If you're looking for something new and awesome to add to your travel itinerary, you've come to the right place.

Our list is here to help you find new destinations, maybe something you haven't heard of, or possibly something you've been considering. Think palm-lined beaches, jungle adventures, romantic getaways, and exotic places where you can embrace the culture and customs or discover wildlife you've never seen before.

We've selected some of our favorite tropical hotspots from around the world to inspire and entice your imagination. Read through our list and start planning your next tropical vacation.

1. Maldives

2. palawan, the philippines, 3. riviera maya, mexico, 4. bora bora, tahiti, 5. kaua'i, hawaii, 6. the mamanuca islands, fiji, 7. st. barts, the caribbean, 8. the cook islands, 9. the seychelles, 10. bali, indonesia, 11. dominican republic, 12. port douglas, australia, 13. the andaman coast, thailand, 14. the nicoya peninsula, costa rica, 15. florida keys, usa, 16. zanzibar, 17. mauritius, 18. cartagena, colombia, 19. puerto rico, 20. ambergris caye, belize, 21. the abacos, the bahamas, 22. sri lanka.

Strung across the Indian Ocean southwest of India and Sri Lanka, the 26 natural atolls of the Maldives exude an almost surreal beauty. This is due, in large part, to the luminous blue waters that surround them. If slipping into the crystal-clear, soul-warming sea is a top criteria for your perfect tropical vacation, this is the place to do it – water comprises 99 percent of the Maldives. Paradoxically, it also threatens to inundate the shores of this low-lying island nation.

Male is the capital city, but most visitors head straight out to one of the remote atolls, where luxury resorts and bone-white beaches fringed by aquamarine waters await. Diving and snorkeling are world-class, and the Maldives is also a top surfing destination . The most popular surf spots are in the North and South Male Atolls.

Other popular things to do in the Maldives include swimming with manta rays and whale sharks, as well as big-game fishing. With water being a focal point and so many islands to choose from, the Maldives is also the perfect candidate for a cruise vacation.

Accommodation: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives

Off on its own in the azure waters of the Sulu Sea, miles from anywhere, lies the shockingly beautiful island of Palawan. Spectacular karst limestone mountains draped in dense greenery jut directly out of impossibly clear waters and bring to mind visions of Krabi, Thailand .

The incredible area surrounding Bacuit Bay near El Nido is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines with bathtub-warm waters so shallow that you can walk out a hundred meters and only be up to your waist. Off in the distance are islands, some of the most famous being Cadlao, Helicopter, and Shimizu. Each island hides an enchanting secret—be it a hidden lagoon, a secret beach, or an underwater paradise full of neon-colored fish.

Deluxe resorts occupy private island locations and offer guests top-notch service in spectacular settings complete with over-water bungalows, infinity pools, and gourmet dining. Closer to El Nido the beach area of Corong Corong and Las Cabanas offer comfortable waterfront accommodation and plenty of dining options.

Fans of underground adventure will want to be sure to check out the fascinating and easily accessible Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This river is located near Sabang, about a four-hour drive from El Nido. Boat tours, which can be arranged from Puerto Princesa or Sabang, take you deep underground on a narrated tour past bizarre stalactites while bats flutter by your head.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Wondering about the best tropical vacations on a budget? If you're looking for beautiful beaches, culture, and zesty cuisine all wrapped up with an affordable price tag, the Riviera Maya (Mayan Riviera) in Mexico is a great choice. On the tip of the Yucatán peninsula, along the Caribbean coast, the Mayan Riviera encompasses the resort destinations of Cancún , Playa del Carmen , and the island of Cozumel .

You don't have to stay at a big bustling all-inclusive resort here, though you'll find plenty fronting the long, postcard-worthy beaches. Intimate boutique hotels and yoga retreats are also in the mix.

Swimming with stingrays and dolphins diving, snorkeling, and fishing in the clear waters are popular things to do in the Riviera Maya , and culture vultures can explore the magnificent ancient ruins of Tulum , in a stunning setting above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, or Chichén Itzá , a few hours' drive away from the resort strip.

Bora Bora is the quintessential South Pacific paradise. This lush and dramatically beautiful island in French Polynesia rises to a sharp emerald peak ringed by an azure lagoon. Clusters of coconut palms bristle along the beaches, and luxury bungalows perch over the crystal-clear waters, some with glass floor panels, so you can peer into the thriving sea below.

While Bora Bora scores top points for natural beauty, it also ticks the box if you're seeking some cultural appeal. The official language is French, and you can taste the Gallic influence in the gourmet cuisine. Add a bevy of fun water sports, kayak trips to tiny motu (islands), picturesque hiking trails, and adventures such as shark dives, and, it's easy to see why many travelers rank pricey Bora Bora as a top honeymoon destination . It's the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime place for a tropical vacation, and one of the best tropical vacations for couples.

Called the Garden Isle, Kaua'i is a tropical Eden. Lush rainforests, waterfalls, and spectacular green coastal peaks lure nature lovers from around the world. A natural masterpiece of dramatic lava-sculpted landscapes, the island has a more laid-back vibe than its popular sister islands of Maui and Oahu.

Though Kauai is known for being home to one of the rainiest places on Earth, the island is comprised of several microclimates, and the area around touristy Poipu tends to be drier.

Underwater, you'll find colorful coral reefs, where turtles and tropical fish swim. On land, you can bask on golden beaches, admire the cloud-capped scenery from the cliffs above Hanalei Bay, hike among the velvety peaks of the breathtaking Napali Coast, and explore the deep and jungly 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon . Tropical gardens, waterfalls, cute coastal towns, and fantastic surf breaks are other top Kauai attractions .

Don't be surprised if you find yourself sharing Kauai's amazing beaches with slumbering monk seals; nature reigns here, and that's a big part of the island's allure.

If you're dreaming of an idyllic South Seas island bathed in sunshine, the Mamanuca Islands in Fiji fit the bill. A short boat ride from the gateway town of Nadi, this picture-perfect string of about 20 islands is popular for its gleaming palm-studded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thriving coral reefs.

When you first glimpse these tropical beauties, it's easy to see why Survivor and the Tom Hanks movie Cast Away were filmed on islands in this chain. When choosing where to stay, your budget and interests will determine the best Fiji island for you.

Accommodation ranges from lively backpacker resorts to family-friendly hotels with thatched bures (traditional huts), and luxury hideaways.

One of the planet's top surf breaks, Cloudbreak , lies about a mile away from Tavarua Island Resort, but you can access this legendary break from other island resorts as well.

Fijians love children, so this is also a fabulous destination for families with youngsters looking to relax, and you'll find plenty of family-friendly resorts here, too.

If you like the glittering jet-setter scene, private villas, and pretty beaches, French-influenced St. Barts should be top on your list. But it all comes at a price.

A constant stream of visiting movie stars and mega-moguls means that accommodation and food costs more here than other destinations – especially during high season. However, in return, you'll find beautiful blond beaches backed by green hills, world-class shopping and dining, and a cultural sophistication that many other tropical destinations lack.

Like everywhere, low season offers great deals. Plus, all the beaches are public, so you can hide away in a private villa or boutique hotel and live the life of the rich and famous for less. Besides basking on the beaches, shopping, and feasting on mouthwatering continental delicacies, other popular things to do in St. Barts include snorkeling, diving, kitesurfing, kayaking, fishing, surfing, and sailing.

The top beaches are Saline Beach, Gouverneur Beach, and Lorient, and the red-roofed capital of Gustavia is one of the prettiest towns in the Caribbean.

The Cook Islands is a dream destination known for its sublime beaches bristling with palms, and home to some of the friendliest people in the South Pacific.

Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands and the main tourist gateway. Here you'll find beautiful beaches, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing, all popular activities in the Cook Islands . One of the popular ways to explore Rarotonga is to rent a small scooter and make your way along the island's ring road stopping off at whatever deserted beach you desire.

Aitutaki is a stunning island and perfect if you'd like to venture further afield. Only a 45-minute flight from Rarotonga, it is blessed with a luminous aqua lagoon, lush peaks, and soft-sand beaches. Once you get there, you'll probably agree that Aitutaki ticks all the boxes for the perfect exotic tropical vacation.

More than 20 motu (small islands) are sprinkled around the lagoon. The small island of Tapuaetai (One Foot Island), in its southeast corner, is a popular Cook Islands day trip with a beautiful perspective of the lagoon.

If you really want to splurge, opt for a luxurious over-the-water bungalow. From here, you can paddle to your own private motu, plonk down under a palm tree, and pretend you're Robinson Crusoe for a day.

Need a nature fix? The Seychelles should top your list of tropical islands to visit. UNESCO-listed nature reserves, flourishing coral reefs, and beautiful boulder-rimmed beaches are a wonderland for wilderness lovers, and more than half the land area of these 115 emerald beauties is protected.

The only dilemma about visiting the Seychelles is deciding which tropical island to visit. International visitors fly into Mahé. Here, you'll find Victoria the capital, as well as the international airport, the cruise ship port, and beautiful Morne Seychellois National Park .

On Praslin Island, you can explore the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai , a prehistoric forest studded with rare giant coco de mer fruit palms. And if you're a beach aficionado, you'll love laid-back La Digue, which is home to some of the Seychelles' most beautiful beaches . Add to this a sprinkling of ravishing outer islands, and you'll have plenty of places to live out your tropical fantasies.

Besides exploring the luxuriant jungles and nature reserves, the top things to do in the Seychelles revolve around the water. You can bask on the beaches, dive and snorkel the reefs, sail, and surf the swells. Fishing is also excellent here – especially on Alphonse Island and Farquhar Atoll.

For those seeking a tropical vacation with a spiritual side, Bali beckons with its mystical charm. Temples filled with fragrant incense; rice paddies glowing in the late amber sun; and the calm, gentle people are some of Bali's highlights . Best of all, this is an ideal destination if you're looking for cheap tropical vacations – food and accommodation are relatively affordable.

If you're seeking a lively beach scene , with plenty of shops and restaurants, base yourself in busy Kuta or Seminyak , where you'll also find fantastic surf beaches. Sanur is a great spot for families, with gentle waves, and Ubud , in the lush hills away from the coastal hubbub, is the island's emerald soul.

Bali is also known for its relatively affordable spa treatments. You can pamper yourself here without the sticker shock.

Accommodation includes everything from cheap-as-chips hostels to beach resorts and luxury villas staffed with personal chefs and drivers.

The neighboring volcanic island of Lombok is also a popular destination, with less development than its famous sister island.

The Dominican Republic is a top choice for travelers looking for fantastic beaches and a luxury stay at an all-inclusive resort. But this popular vacation destination has much more to offer than just glorious beaches . You can also find great surfing and kiteboarding, small off-the-beaten-path towns, jungle adventures, and cultural hotspots.

Head to Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , or La Romana to find some of the best resorts in the Caribbean clustered along idyllic sweeps of palm-fringed beach. This is the place to come for a relaxing vacation.

If you want a little more of an independent travel experience and a local vibe, try heading to the small town Cabarete . Dine with your toes in the sand at an assortment of restaurants lining the main beach. Or, head to the surrounding beaches for surfing (Encuentro Beach) and kiteboarding (Kite Beach).

Inland, you can climb the highest peaks in the Caribbean, raft the white waters of the Río Yaque del Norte, hike to waterfalls through the steamy jungle, or bike through pine forests along alpine trails. Or, explore the less developed beaches and small towns on the Samaná Peninsula .

The capital, Santo Domingo , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with charming colonial architecture and a fascinating history. You can do excursions to the capital from Punta Cana or La Romana, but this city is worth more time than just a day trip.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic

Port Douglas is an ideal destination for adventurous nature lovers. About an hour's drive north of Cairns in Queensland, this upscale town has evolved from its humble origins as a snoozy fishing village into a popular tropical tourist resort and a handy base for reef trips and wilderness safaris.

Two of the richest ecosystems in Australia lie a short hop from here: the Great Barrier Reef , with superb diving and snorkeling; and the Daintree Rainforest, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Site, which tumbles to the reef-dappled waters of Cape Tribulation .

The town's leafy streets are lined with mango trees and palms, as well as a cluster of upscale shops, cafés, and art galleries. But one of the star features of Port Douglas is Four Mile Beach , a blond crescent of jungle-fringed sand. Swimming is restricted here during marine stinger season (November through June); however, it's always a favorite spot for a stroll.

Other prime Port Douglas tourist attractions include the Wildlife Habitat and the Flames of the Forest Aboriginal Culture and Rainforest Dining Experience . Fishing trips and northbound expeditions through the rugged landscape of the Cape York Peninsula are also popular.

The winter season, from May through September, is the best time to visit, when temperatures are cooler and drier weather prevails.

The Andaman Coast is a convenient base for exploring the spectacular islands of the Andaman Sea. These lush limestone peaks rise from turquoise waters, creating one of the planet's most striking seascapes.

Famous isles include the Phi Phi Islands , such as Ko Phi Phi Don, and its many resorts, and Ko Phi Phi Leh, where the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach was filmed. These islands are on the popular Phuket Day Trip circuit, but you can still find your very own peaceful patch of paradise if you venture further afield. Phang Nga Bay is home to more than a hundred of these emerald beauties, including the famous James Bond Island.

Popular areas to use as a base for exploring all this natural beauty are Krabi or popular Phuket , Thailand's largest island. The dazzling scenery continues inland at Khao Sok National Park , where you can commune with elephants amid the jungle-cloaked peaks.

Accommodation ranges from homestays and budget-priced beachfront bamboo shacks to luxury villa-style resorts perched on sea cliffs, but even high-end resorts tend to be more affordable here than other tropical destinations.

This is a great choice if you're looking for exotic culture, fiery food, and ravishing scenery that doesn't break the budget. Try to avoid the southwest monsoon, which usually strikes the coast from the end of May through the middle of October.

On the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica , the Nicoya Peninsula is a hot spot for surfers and eco-tourists. It also has some of the best beaches in Costa Rica . Pockets of jungly forests and long beaches washed by perfect barrel breaks make this a popular place to visit for nature lovers and surfers.

Tamarindo is a prime tourist destination. It's the most developed town on the peninsula, with fantastic surfing for all skill levels at Playa Tamarindo, as well as a wide range of restaurants and hotels.

It lures a colorful mix of fun-loving backpackers, surfers, families, and chilled-out expats. Around Tamarindo you can snorkel; dive; horseback ride; zipline; and watch turtles nesting from October through March at nearby Playa Grande , one of Costa Rica's most important nesting grounds for leatherback turtles.

Upscale Santa Teresa in Mal Pais , along the peninsula's southwest corner, is also known for its fantastic surf, as well as yoga retreats, organic eateries, and boutique hideaways.

Other prime places to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula include beautiful Nosara , backed by a tangle of green forest; Montezuma; and peaceful Samara , one of the peninsula's least developed towns.

Not far from these beach towns, one of Costa Rica's top tourist attractions , the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, protects one of the continent's last unspoiled pockets of cloud forest.

Home to the only coral reef in the United States, the Florida Keys offer a fun tropical fix, fantastic fishing, and a few pretty palm-lined stretches of sand. Trailing south of Miami for more than 110 miles to within about 90 miles of Cuba, the Keys are coral islands linked by causeways, so you can drive between them on the Overseas Highway, which runs from Key Largo south to Key West .

Top attractions in the Florida Keys cover nature and culture. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Key Largo offer great diving and snorkeling, and Bahia Honda State Park boasts some of the prettiest beaches. And you can't miss legendary Key West. Its anything-goes mentality complements the colorful Caribbean-style cottages and rich Hemingway history. You can also visit the southernmost tip of the United States here – it's one of the popular things to do in Key West .

Although the Florida Cays isn't necessarily one of the top beach vacations in the USA, you'll still find beautiful stretches of mostly man-made shore, and many are fronted by popular beach resorts with palm-studded grounds and views of the crystal-clear turquoise water.

Feel like fishing? Islamorada proclaims itself the "sportfishing capital of the world," with tarpon, bonefish, and permit to catch; and Marathon is also excellent for casting a line. Big-name fishing tournaments are held in the surrounding waters each year. It's also home to a number of beautiful resorts.

While you're here, try to sample some conch, a type of marine snail, as well as the famous key lime pie.

Rich in culture, Tanzania's Zanzibar archipelago is a popular post-safari island escape. This string of idyllic coral-fringed islands lies off Tanzania's coast, north of Dar es Salaam , and has long been a cultural crossroads due to its key position on spice trading routes. Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe have all left their mark on Zanzibar, and you can see, feel, and taste these many influences during your visit.

Zanzibar Island (officially called Unguja) anchors the archipelago. This is the most popular place to stay, thanks to its beautiful beaches and UNESCO-listed historic center, Stone Town . Take a walking tour through the tangle of cobbled streets, and explore the island's historic sites, from its eye-catching architecture and spice-packed bazaar to the richly carved doors for which the island is famous.

Relaxing on Zanzibar's beautiful beaches is a quintessential Tanzania experience . Graceful dhows glide along turquoise waters rimmed by bone-white sand, and snorkeling and diving are excellent along the islands' coral reefs, especially off the island of Pemba.

Craving a wildlife experience? Look for colobus monkeys in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park or book a close-up critter encounter at Cheetah's Rock. You can also sign up for dolphin tours offshore.

Wondering about other things to do in Zanzibar? Tour a spice farm or stay in a zero footprint eco-bungalow at Chumbe Island Coral Park .

Known as the "pearl of the Indian Ocean," Mauritius is an island paradise off the coast of Madagascar. Volcanic landscapes endow the island with a striking beauty, and luxury resorts with spas and golf courses line the silky-sand beaches.

Beaches are a highpoint. Le Morne Beach, Flic en Flac, and Pereybere are standouts, and many guests book a trip to Iles aux Cerf to loll in the idyllic lagoon. With all the enticing turquoise water, aquatic activities rank high on the list of top things to do in Mauritius. Swim or snorkel along the beautiful beaches, dive the colorful coral reefs off the island's west coast, kitesurf, sail, or book a deep-sea fishing trip.

Mauritius is also known for its many endemic species of both plants and animals (most famously the dodo, which became extinct in the 17th century). Top nature experiences include hiking to Chamarel Waterfall, climbing UNESCO-listed Morne Brabant, and spotting some of the island's many species of birds.

And if you're feeling hungry, Mauritius cuisine will tantalize your taste buds. It reflects the island's multicultural roots with Indian, African, Chinese, and French influences.

With all these rewarding things to see and do, no wonder Mauritius makes the list of popular places to visit for a tropical honeymoon.

Colombia is a land of striking contrasts and diverse natural areas, but its Caribbean coast is a wonderful spot for a tropical vacation. This is where you'll find Cartagena, one of the most beautiful cities in South America .

The historical walled city is an architectural masterpiece of restored buildings that look like they've fallen out of a magazine. Some of these now hold luxury hotels with rooftop pools and stunning views, while others have been converted into restaurants serving outstanding cuisine.

If you're a beach lover, Cartagena has you covered. The city is surrounded by beautiful beaches. Some of the most gorgeous soft-sand beaches are found on islands you can day trip to from the city. You can also find kitesurfing beaches here, including nearby Boquilla.

Wander the old streets, dine on the historic walls overlooking the ocean, listen to the musicians in the squares fill the night air with their melodies, and relax by a poolside in the afternoon as you soak up the warmth of the sun.

From here you can also head off to explore other interesting places to visit in Colombia . Less tropical but equally impressive in their own way are Medellin and Bogota . Colombia ticks all the boxes.

Puerto Rico is a fascinating destination and also an easy tropical vacation to organize, especially for Americans who don't require a passport. If you are traveling from the US, it is a domestic flight and does not involve going through customs.

Beaches, rainforests, surfing, history, and shopping are all on offer here, and when you layer all those great things on top of the historic 16th-century sights of the Old City of San Juan , you'll discover Puerto Rico is the complete package.

Puerto Rico boasts stunning beaches, including Liquillo's palm-fringed paradise, the wave action of Playa Crash Boat, and the urban fun of Playa Condado in San Juan. Before the day heats up, tour the impressive 16th-century Fuerte San Felipe del Morro, commanding one of the most breathtaking locations in the Caribbean.

In the evening, the Old Town of San Juan is enchanting with its candy-colored colonial buildings illuminated by soft lighting. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, enjoy the warm evening air, and don't miss the chance to have dinner on a patio in the area.

For some light adventure, head out on a rainforest stroll to the La Mina waterfall in El Yunque National Forest , or take a catamaran tour to Cayo Icacos, a deserted island in the La Cordillera Nature Reserve.

Further afield, the stunning beaches and laid-back charm of the islands of Culebra and Vieques are places you'll want to visit but won't want to leave.

Off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, Ambergris Caye in Belize is one of the most popular places to visit in Belize and the largest of its 200 cayes. While its Caribbean beaches are generally better for fishing than swimming, thanks to their flourishing turtle grass flats, the magnificent Hol Chan Marine Reserve more than compensates, with superb diving and snorkeling less than a half-mile from shore.

This underwater wonderland is part of the Belize Barrier Reef system, the second largest barrier reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Shark Ray Alley is a popular site, where divers can come face to face with nurse sharks and stingrays. Anglers also flock here to prowl the flats for bonefish and try their luck for permit, tarpon, snook, and barracuda.

Part of the island's charm is its colorful town of San Pedro , where golf carts rule the streets, and funky restaurants showcase fresh seafood and Mexican-inspired cuisine. Since the northern part of the island lies a stone's throw from Mexico, the island has a strong Mexican influence, and many locals speak Spanish.

Almost 300 kilometers east of Florida, the beautiful Abacos, in the Bahamas, offer some of the world's best waters for boating and sailing. These peaceful Atlantic islands, also called the Out Islands or Family Islands, seem a world away from the busy tourist spots of nearby Florida . Here, you'll find secluded pine-fringed beaches; flourishing coral reefs; and sleepy fishing villages, where golf carts and boats are the main mode of transport.

British Loyalists settled these islands, and you can witness this heritage in the cute and colorful colonial cottages lining the narrow streets.

Prime areas for a low-key vacation include cute Elbow Cay , with its famous candy-striped lighthouse; charming three-mile long Green Turtle Cay, which feels like stepping back in time to the old Bahamas; and Treasure Cay , on Great Abaco, with its ravishing white-sand beach lapped by waters in technicolor turquoise. Guana Cay, Walker's Cay, and Man "O' War Cay are other popular islands.

Favorite things to do in the Bahamas include fishing, diving, snorkeling, relaxing, and chatting with the locals, and with miles of pristine beaches, it's easy to find your own private patch of soft, white sand.

Sri Lanka offers something for every kind of tropical traveler. Surf breaks, culture, history, nature, mouthwatering multicultural cuisine, and more than eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites are among the many experiences awaiting you in this captivating country. Top it all off with an affordable price tag, and Sri Lanka makes an ideal addition to your list of cheap tropical vacations.

Is basking on a powdery palm-lined shore your idea of tropical heaven? Sri Lanka's beaches won't disappoint. Traveling with an avid surfer? World-class surf breaks appeal to every ability level, from beginner to advanced. And if exploring underwater is more your style, you can snorkel and dive along coral reefs and fish-rich wrecks.

Nature is also a top draw on land. Take a Sri Lankan safari and delve deep into lush jungles to spot leopards, sloth bears, water buffalo, elephants, and a dazzling diversity of birds. Or explore the country's many cultural jewels. Ancient ruins, sacred temples, mosques, and colonial forts shed light on Sri Lanka's fascinating 2,000-year history. For an overview, head to the capital, Colombo and tour the National Museum.

Finally, the country's famous tea plantations are among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka . To see a different side of this tropical hot spot, don't miss the chance to indulge in a tea tasting high in the cool, mist-cloaked mountains.

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The 10 best beaches in the US to visit right now

L aguna, La Jolla, Clearwater , Miami – there’s no doubt that the US does a sterling job in stellar beaches . But sometimes such over-subscribed destinations can make carving out your own slice of paradise without the crowds something of a challenge.

Thankfully, the US is home to over 95,000 miles of shoreline, with 30 states boasting a coast, meaning there are plenty of secret surf and sand spots, whether you’re looking for family beaches , supreme sunset viewing points , dramatic cliffs, or simply a place to connect with nature.

There are plenty of options to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best secluded, underrated beach locations in the United States .

From isolated sandy stretches in North Carolina to hidden spots on California ’s rugged coastline and the breathtaking sunsets across Hawaii ’s Polihale Beach sand dunes, each of these would make an unforgettable holiday that’s far from the madding crowd.

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• Why Wynwood is the best day out in Miami

Cannon Beach, Oregon

While some beaches trade off their sunshine quota, Cannon Beach in the Pacific Northwest is unique by virtue of being a marvel to visit whatever the weather. This long sandy stretch of coastline is home to the dramatic Haystock Rock, a giant towering rock formation that’s accessible on-foot at low tide. Adjacent stone “needles”, tidalpools and flocks of seabirds combine to make this an atmospheric spot. While a summer stroll is always pleasant, visiting in winter, with crashing waves and brooding skies is an unforgettable experience. Don’t leave without checking out the many art galleries and specialist shops that populate the town.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are a 100-mile plus stretch of barrier islands separating the mainland through a series of sounds and inlets. Home to wild horses, lighthouses and blissfully isolated expanses of sand, it’s the ideal place to seek out a spot away from the crowds. Hit the surf at Cape Hatteras, go fishing at Rodanthe Pier, or scramble up Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest living sandy dune system on the east coast.

Avalon Beach, New Jersey

Don’t be put off by its association with reality TV show Jersey Shore : this Atlantic region is home to 127 miles of sublime coastline, with plenty to interest and inspire. Head to Avalon on the Seven Mile Beach for white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, boating or kayaking, while North Wildwood is home to gentler waters and completely free to visit. Commercial boardwalks with amusements, water parks, shops and restaurants make this an ideal destination for a family break.

Kauaʻi, Hawaii

Hawaii ’s beaches are renowned the world over for their soft, white sands and tropical waters, but KauaÊ»i is best known for its dramatic cliffs, canyons and lush rainforests. Known as the “Garden Isle” for its verdant interior, it’s an ideal destination for trekking and kayaking, as well as being home to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches.

PoÊ»ipÅ« Beach Park is one of KauaÊ»i’s most popular beaches, with a wading pool for younger swimmers and the occasional Hawaiian monk seal appearance, but travellers who really want to escape the crowds should head to the remote Polihale Beach. Located at the end of a dirty road, it’s a whopping 17 miles long, making it the longest stretch of beach in the entire state of Hawaii. Expect giant sand dunes, desert cacti and jaw-dropping sunsets. Polihale is notorious for being a very dangerous beach for swimming, however, so swap the dip for a steady stroll along the sands.

Cape Charles, Virginia

On the National Register of Historic Places, Cape Charles has one of the largest concentrations of turn-of-the-century buildings on the east coast. This quaint Victorian-era town is home to award-winning golf courses, two nature preserves ripe for exploration, and watersports galore, including kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Plus, Cape Charles’ soft, sand beach is free to access, with calm and shallow waters making it suitable for waterbabies.

Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

A 15-minute drive from downtown Corpus Christi is Padre Island, the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island. This conservation area, stretching around 66 miles, is a major migratory bird route and home to 350 different species, with nearly half of all north American migratory bird species passing through here at different times of the year. Explore this charming stretch of coastline by kayak or canoe, watch sea turtles being released, or simply walk along this untouched stretch of coastline. And if the prospect of returning to four walls doesn’t appeal, you can also camp here.

Seal Beach, California

California ’s not short of excellent beaches, but Seal Beach is an underrated gem. This laid-back town south of Los Angeles ’ Long Beach has soft white sand, incredible views from the second longest wooden pier in the state, and a 965-acre wildlife refuge you can visit. It’s also the start (or end) point of the San Gabriel River Trail, a 36-mile long cycle route that’s one of the best traffic-free spots in the valley for biking.

Dauphin Island, Alabama

Skip the crowds at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and take the 40-minute ferry ride to the more secluded Dauphin Island. Known as the “sunset capital of Alabama”, this island is home to seven miles of white-sand beaches, great weather and crystal clear waters. Hike through the ancient maritime forest of Goat Tree Reserve, where you can spot birds including vireos, flycatchers and owls and sign up for a chartered fishing expedition, before feasting on crab and lobster at the acclaimed Skinner’s Seafood.

Wellfleet, Massachusetts

Cape Cod has long been a major draw for visitors on the east coast, but it’s also prone to overcrowding. Wellfleet, meanwhile, is a pretty, small and peaceful town surrounded by coast on both sides and centrally located, meaning it’s easy to travel around if you start to yearn for more action. It’s also famed for its excellent oysters, making it an dream destination for foodies. Head to Mac’s on the Pier for some of the best. And don’t leave without visiting the Wellfleet flea market, the biggest on Cape Cod.

Wildcat Beach, California

Fancy a challenge? Rewards don’t come easy at Wildcat, with visitors required to hike five miles to reach this remote California beach, but it’s more than worth the trek. Short on time? Mountain bike on the Stewart Trail, before cooling off in the Pacific. This peaceful spot is home to seals, striking cliff views and some incredible sunsets. And if you’d prefer to spread the hike over a few days, you can rest your bones at Wildcat Campground. For a more active trip, pack up and hike north up the coastline to discover more secret beaches.

Torn between skiing and surfing? Here’s how to hit both slopes and the waves on a California weekend

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I've been to 20 Caribbean islands — these are the 5 I'd return to and the 2 I'd skip despite having great experiences.

• After visiting 20 islands in the Caribbean , I have lots of favorites and a few I wouldn't return to.
• St. Lucia offers wellness activities, fun nightlife, and great food.
• Although I enjoyed my time on Grand Bahama, this island left me wanting more.

There's a misconception that all Caribbean islands are the same. However, as someone who's been traveling to the Caribbean for almost two decades, I've found that each island has its own distinct food, festivals, and cultural traditions.

After visiting 20 Caribbean islands, I can see why the area is such a hot spot for tourism. In fact, travel to the Caribbean is already off to a strong start this year, with many destinations seeing an uptick in visitors compared to 2023 .

As someone who's spent a lot of time in the Caribbean, these are the five islands I'd love to return to and the two I'd skip.

St. Lucia offers wellness activities and great food.

Though St. Lucia is typically billed as a romantic destination , I visited on a solo trip and had a blast exploring the island.

Some of my favorite activities included a mud bath in Sulphur Springs, a rum and chocolate tour, and an afternoon boat ride past The Pitons.

St. Lucians also have some great street food and love to have a good time. During my stay, I headed to the lively Friday night Gros Islet street party for grilled conch and fried fish straight off the boat.

Dominica is great for hiking and natural attractions.

Nicknamed " the nature island ," Dominica is one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets.

One of my favorite excursions was a hike to Trafalgar Falls, a pair of stunning waterfalls about a 20-minute drive from the island's capital city, Roseau.

I also rode horseback on the island's black-sand beaches and floated on an inner tube through Titou Gorge, a cave with a hidden waterfall and swimming hole.

St. John has gorgeous beaches.

I spent my 15th wedding anniversary on St. John, the smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands. One of the highlights of my stay was a beach day at Trunk Bay.

The beach is located inside Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, and though there's a small entry fee, it's worth every penny. The beach is framed by lush mountains, and towering palm trees dot the wide, sandy shore. In short, it's paradise.

St. John isn't a hub for partying or late-night entertainment, but the island's gorgeous sunsets and natural setting are ideal for honeymoons and special anniversary trips.

Grenada is a snorkeling hot spot with a unique national park.

During my stay on Grenada, I encountered lots of warm and inviting locals, who would strike up conversations and ask how I was enjoying my visit.

Besides enjoying the popular Grand Anse Beach, I booked a day tour to Grand Etang National Park to check out Grand Etang Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by a lush rainforest.

I ended my stay on Grenada with a snorkeling trip to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park to see the submerged sculptures.

Turks and Caicos are great for decompressing on the beach.

There's a reason Turks and Caicos are a magnet for celebrities and socialites, but you don't have to be an A-lister to enjoy the islands.

Providenciales is the most populated island in Turks and Caicos. Provo, as some locals call it, offers a laid-back, tranquil beach vacation. Most hotels on Provo are located along Grace Bay, a picture-perfect stretch of pearly white sand and turquoise water.

Water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, and clear-bottom kayaking are popular, but I was content to spend most of my days alternating between reading on the beach and cooling off in the pool.

However, Grand Cayman was one of the priciest islands I’ve visited.

Grand Cayman has a lot going for it: beautiful resorts, delicious food, and a flight from Miami that's under two hours.

The soft white sand and sparkling turquoise water of Seven Mile Beach have also helped make Grand Cayman a popular vacation spot .

But when I visited, I experienced a bit of sticker shock since US currency doesn't go as far as it does on other islands. The Caymanian dollar has a fixed exchange rate, and one Caymanian dollar is worth $1.21 USD.

I've visited more affordable islands with equally stunning beaches like Klein Curaçao Beach in Curaçao, Crane Beach in Barbados, and Palm Beach in Aruba.

Grand Bahama left me wanting more.

One of my first trips to the Caribbean was to Grand Bahama via a ferry from Fort Lauderdale . My husband and I stayed on the island for about a week, filling up on fresh conch and visiting the Port Lucaya marketplace.

While I enjoyed the laid-back stay, I've found that other Bahamian islands have more to see and do.

If you want to be closer to the action, skip Grand Bahama for New Providence, which is home to top-notch restaurants and hotels, historic landmarks like Queen's Staircase, and the annual Junkanoo parade.

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The 25 Best Hikes to Beaches in the U.S.

In summer or shoulder season, there’s nothing better than a water-view hike or one that ends up at a beach for lounging and swimming. From the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean and places in between, these are our favorites.

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In summer, or shoulder season for that matter, there’s not much better than a water-view hike or one that ends up at a beach for lounging and swimming.

Some of these routes see steady foot traffic. Others remain under the radar, or require serious legwork, which keeps them crowd-free. Either way, the Leave No Trace principles apply to any and all beach hikes: Stay on the trail, follow beach rules, and pack out whatever you bring in, to name a few.

Ready to hit the sand? Here are our favorite beach trails.

1. Dune Shack Trail | Provincetown, Massachusetts

See a side of Cape Cod that few visitors take the time to reach by walking the Dune Shack Trail . This sandy, dune-flanked route meanders for a mile along the Cape Cod National Seashore before reaching a relaxing beach with sweeping ocean views. Catch the trailhead off U.S. Route 6 heading northbound toward Provincetown. Trail-marker signs are sparse, but footprints between the dunes mark the way.

2. Dungeness Spit Trail | Olympic Peninsula, Washington

The Dungeness Spit Trail features the country’s longest natural sandspit, a stretch created as tide movements funnel in debris. This 11-mile roundtrip trail starts with a short path through the Pacific Northwest’s mossy, verdant landscapes before reaching the vast, driftwood-dotted waterfront. Once you reach the sandspit, you can hike five miles out to the lighthouse. Turn around there; the land beyond is protected for wildlife and closed to visitors. The trailhead is located in Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge ($3 entry fee required), near the Dungeness Campground.

3. Morse Mountain to Seawall Beach | Phippsburg, Maine

The four-mile out-and-back hike to Maine’s Seawall Beach is one of the most family-friendly excursions on this list. It’s a relatively easy jaunt through Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area, with trailside attractions like saltwater marshes, a trek up the 180-foot Morse Mountain, and the highly anticipated halfway point of Seawall Beach. Catch the trail from the parking lot off Morse Mountain Road. While the beach is the main draw, take time to admire the views from atop Morse Mountain.

4. Ozette to Rialto Beach | Olympic National Park, Washington

For another heart-pumping beach hike on the West Coast, try the 20-mile trek from the Ozette trailhead down to the craggy Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park . Most hikers coordinate a car shuttle, with one ride at the end (Rialto Beach) and one at the beginning (Ozette trailhead). While the sea-stack-speckled Rialto Beach is the scenic destination, the quiet beaches along this route are the star of the show—and a much-needed elevation break between steep up-and-down climbs. The NPS suggests allotting three to four days for this hike; permits are required and must be done in advance. Fee is $8 per adult per night, or $45 for an Olympic National Park Annual Wilderness Pass (covers camping fees, but you still pay a $6 reservation fee).

5. Kalalau Trail | Kauai, Hawaii 

Hawaii beaches know how to dazzle, but this hike is to one of the state’s wildest shorelines: Kalalau Beach. Kalalau Trail, known as one of the world’s most adventurous hiking routes, is the only way to reach this sandy paradise. The 22-mile-roundtrip trail weaves along sea cliffs and through five Napali Coast valleys before reaching the main attraction: Kalalau Beach. The trail starts off Kūhiō Highway. Permits are required ($35 a day, discounted for residents), are limited, and are only issued 90 days out, so get them early. Also, it’s critical on this hike to follow safety guidelines , given the untamed terrain.

6. Coastal Prairie Trail | Everglades National Park, Florida

Admire the dense and diverse Everglades National Park flora on a 15-mile roundtrip hike to Florida Bay’s Clubhouse Beach. After joining the Coastal Prairie Trail at Flamingo Campground, you’ll amble through buttonwood canopies, open prairies, and mangrove forests before dead-ending at the Clubhouse Beach turnaround. Camping is allowed along this shoreline, but a backcountry permit ($21 administrative fee plus $2 per person / night) is required.

7. Chapel Loop | Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Admire one of the Upper Midwest’s most jaw-dropping stretches of coastline, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, with a trek along Chapel Loop . The 10-mile route begins at the Chapel Road terminus and leads to birch forests, Lake Superior panoramas, waterfalls, and not one but two lakeshore stops: Chapel and Mosquito beaches. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so aim to arrive early. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore  entrance fee  is $10 per vehicle and good for seven continuous days.

8. Secret Beach Trail | Brookings, Oregon

The roughly one-mile out-and-back route to Secret Beach packs in all of the Oregon coast’s famed scenery: fern-filled forests, waves crashing against sea stacks, and a quiet sliver of beach from which to take it all in. Catch the Secret Beach Trail off U.S. 101 along the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor; there’s a parking lot near milepost 345. For safety reasons, it’s best to visit during low tide.

9. Whale Rock Trail | Narragansett, Rhode Island

On the low-key 1.5-mile Whale Rock Trail , a boardwalk leads visitors to a quintessentially New England scene, with lighthouses, rocky shores, and a small, sandy Narragansett Bay beach at the trail terminus. Pick up the trail at the end of Old Boston Neck Road, and be careful if walking on the shoreline rocks; they can get slippery.

10. California Coastal Trail Klamath Section | Redwood National Park, California

The California Coastal Trail spans 1,200 scenic miles, and one of the best portions for lesser-known beaches is the Klamath section in Redwood National Park . This roughly eight-mile out-and-back journey starts at the Lagoon Creek parking lot off Highway 101. While the trail itself lacks the park’s signature redwoods, it promises extensive Pacific views with sea stacks, coastal bluffs, and a spur trail to the sandy Hidden Beach.

11. Pine Beach Trail | Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Alabama

Alabama’s four-mile roundtrip Pine Beach Trail encapsulates the Gulf Shore’s natural beauty, from maritime forests and sand dunes to saltwater marshes and a secluded stretch of beach overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The Pine Beach Trail, located in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, is also one of Alabama’s go-to birding spots . Join the out-and-back Pine Beach Trail from the parking lot off Alabama State Route 180 near Cedar Grove. Try the one-mile Jeff Friend Trail loop for a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk with birding galore.

12. Chimney Bluffs State Park Trail | Wolcott, New York

Western New York is home to one of the Great Lakes’ most dramatic coastlines: Chimney Bluffs State Park where earthen spires sculpted by ice-age erosion tower over Lake Ontario. Hit the 1.5-mile out-and-back Bluff Trail to admire these drumlins from above, where they’re most impressive. Add in a beach stop at the turnaround spot, a parking lot at the trail’s eastern end that leads to a small but scenic stretch of rocky shore. This beach is more for gazing at the surreal spires than swimming or reclining; much of the shoreline is caked in mud, especially after rain. The entrance fee  to Chimney Bluffs State Park is $5 per vehicle.

13. Niquette Bay State Park | Colchester, Vermont

Set on the shores of Lake Champlain, Niquette Bay State Park offers some of the Green Mountain State’s most picturesque sights. Several short trails connect for a 3.4-mile loop around the park; the route includes a bypass trail to visit Niquette Bay’s sandy, shallow beach, located roughly halfway through the loop. Access the loop via Raymond Road off Route 2; entrance fee is required from late spring through fall ($4 per adult).

14. Evans Landing Trail | Sandpoint, Idaho

Enjoy Idaho’s wilderness with a trip on Evans Landing Trail , four miles out and back, with a quiet, stony beach on Lake Pend Oreille at the halfway point. The path winds through pine and cedar forests, with switchbacks that lead to a lakeside picnic area and firepit for viewing the mountain-meets-water surroundings. Find the trailhead just off East Ridge Road, roughly 17 miles south of Sandpoint.

15. Leigh Lake Trail | Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park tops many bucket lists with its soaring sawtooth peaks, but this national park is also home to one of Wyoming’s most dazzling beach hikes: Leigh Lake Trail . The roughly four-mile out-and-back route starts from the Leigh Lake Trailhead near Jenny Lake. It brims with Teton beauty, including views of the peaks Teewinot and Moran along the way. There’s not a specific turnaround spot here; pick from a series of small lake-access points, or continue a short distance for a sandy beach near the Leigh Lake backcountry campsites further along the trail. Grand Teton National Park’s  entrance fee is $35 per vehicle (good for one to seven days).

16. Hidden Lake Trail | Glacier National Park, Montana

On the roughly five-mile out-and-back jaunt to Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park , the journey is as impressive as the destination. Hikers take the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road to the Logan Pass Visitors Center to catch the Hidden Lake Trail . From here, it’s a picture-perfect hike to the water, largely on a boardwalk. Expect mountain panoramas, wildflowers, and potential wildlife sightings of marmot, mountain goats, and bears. Continue for a short walk past the Hidden Lake viewing platform to reach the small beach. Despite the name, the Hidden Lake trail is hardly hidden. It gets busy, particularly in summer, so arrive early to snag a parking spot. The Glacier National Park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle in high season, and good for seven days.

17. Lake Erie Bluffs | Perry, Ohio

Northeast Ohio isn’t the first place that comes to mind for stunning hikes to beaches, but perhaps it should be. Take Lake Erie Bluffs , a metro-park system one hour outside Cleveland, as proof. Lake Erie Bluffs sits along the Lake Erie shoreline, with a 2.7-mile loop that winds through the woodland park and down to the peaceful and uncrowded Lake Erie shoreline. Even better? The metro park offers primitive camping ( reservation required , $20 per night for out-of-county visitors), letting travelers not just hike to the beach, but sleep atop the bluffs overlooking it.

18. Lion’s Den Trail | Grafton, Wisconsin

Lion’s Den Trail is another impressive Great Lakes beach hike, this time in Wisconsin. The two-mile loop through Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve , one of Lake Michigan’s few stretches of undeveloped bluff land, includes wildflowers, lake views, and stairs down to a sandy beach. Join the trail via High Bluff Drive; you reach the public beach roughly halfway through the trek.

19. Gorge Run Trail | Bogue Chitto State Park, Louisiana

Take the five-mile point-to-point Gorge Run Trail to experience some of southern Louisiana’s best natural attractions: cypress-tupelo swamps, hardwood and upland forests, river lowlands, and of course, sandy riverside beaches. Find the trailhead near the park’s entrance, then follow along the red blazes. Add some gorge views to your day with a short side trail down wooden steps to the base of the gorge. Bogue Chitto State Park charges a  day-use fee  of $3 per person.

20. Panther Creek Trail | Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia

Panther Creek Trail isn’t your average hike-to-beach experience. Instead of leading to an ocean, river, or lake-adjacent beach, this seven-mile roundtrip route leads to the shore beneath the multi-tiered Panther Creek Falls. The path stays mostly shaded with dense oak and maple forests; reach the trailhead via Panther Creek Recreation Area off Historic Old Highway 441. Make sure to check trail updates before heading out, as the Forest Service is intermittently repairing the trail and bridges through 2024. The Chattahoochee National Forest single-day entrance fee  is $5.

21. Maury Island Marine Park | Maury Island, Washington

Take the ferry from Seattle to Maury Island to reach a stunning Washington state beach along the Puget Sound. The 3.5-mile Maury Island Marine Park trail starts from the parking lot off SW 244 th Street. It’s a three-quarter-mile hike along a gravel road from here, with Puget Sound and (weather-permitting) Mount Rainier vistas, to gain the roughly one-mile Maury Island Marine Park beach. In addition to offering waterfront strolls and beachcombing, the place is a popular scuba and snorkel spot, according to King County Parks .

22. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge | Virginia Beach, Virginia

Enjoy a lesser-known side of Virginia Beach at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This natural getaway features a web of seven trails in and around the protected wetlands, including stops at Refuge Beach, which is open for activities such as hiking or photography, but not swimming, surfing, or sunbathing, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service . Try a quick hike on the quarter-mile Seaside Trail from the refuge parking area; create a longer, two-mile trek with the Dunes and Seaside Trail loop ; or go even further via the refuge’s East or West Dike Trail s . The entrance fee  for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is $5 during high season.

23. Kincaid Beach Trail | Anchorage, Alaska

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Alaska for its soaring mountains and untamed wilderness, but just a stone’s throw from Anchorage lies another natural wonder: Kincaid Beach , the only large, sandy beach in the area. Find the shoreline via the trail from Kincaid Chalet. It’s roughly two miles roundtrip , although once you’ve hit the waterfront, you can walk about a mile further to soak up that far-flung beach scenery fully. Low tide is the safest time to visit; you may see moose and bear, so come prepared and practice wildlife-safe behavior during your visit.

24. Smuggler’s Cove | Channel Islands National Park, California

Don’t just hike to a beach, hike from one to the next on the Smuggler’s Cove Trail, one of the most beloved routes in Channel Islands National Park . Take the Island Packers ferry from Ventura to Scorpion Beach, and depart on a 7.5-mile roundtrip hike to Smuggler’s Cove , a secluded pebble beach with tidal pools and Pacific Ocean views. Stroll the shoreline before heading back on the trail to Scorpion Beach, where the Island Packers ferry picks up for the scheduled return trip to Ventura. There’s no fee to enter Channel Islands, but the trip does require the Island Packers Cruise fee of $63 for the round-trip day fare.

25. Fort to Sea Trail | Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, Oregon

Soak up history, forest scenery, and a sandy beach via the 13-mile roundtrip Fort to Sea Trail in Oregon’s Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, roughly two hours northwest of Portland. The trail begins at the visitor center at Fort Clatsop (entrance fee of $10 required, with the $35 Annual Oregon Pacific Coast Passport also available), where the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s Corps of Discovery bunked from December 1805 to March 1806. Follow the Corps’ footsteps through the woodland and bogs to reach Sunset Beach , where sweeping views stretch from Cape Disappointment to Ecola State Park.

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10 of the best beach towns in Europe, with places to stay

From the Turkish Riviera to the Île de Ré, we select quiet and unspoilt places to stay for sun, sand, snorkelling – or just snoozing

Assos , Cephalonia, Greece

There’s something quite particular about small but perfectly formed Assos – butterscotch and rose-pink houses line a horseshoe bay, with Venetian ruins scattered between the narrow alleys. There are two small beaches, but the real joy is to rent a motor boat and discover the small bays and coves that fringe this part of the Cephalonian coast. Walkers can follow the path out on to the headland to the ruins of Assos’s 16th-century castle; there’s not a huge amount to see, but the views make the walk worth it. Roi Suites is a bougainvillaea-clad cluster of well-equipped studio flats in a waterfront neoclassical building, with gorgeous sea views from the pool terrace. Doubles from £117 (minimum seven nights), roisuites.com

Akyaka , Turkey

One of Turkey’s “ cittaslows” – slow towns, with an emphasis on nature and sustainability – Akyaka sits at the mouth of the Azmak River on the shimmering Bay of Gökova. Behind the beach, a lattice of bougainvillaea-clad streets is home to traditional lokantas (simple bistros) and cafes; at night the seafront restaurants set tables on the sand. Boats potter up the Azmak from the small harbour, where fish restaurants line the leafy riverbank and a shady walking trail leads into the countryside. Akyaka is also Turkey’s kite-surfing hub, with several surfing schools on the long stretch of beach just out of town. The Iskelem , set in a tranquil bay over the headland, is a gloriously peaceful retreat with simple rooms and an excellent restaurant. Doubles from £ 83 B&B, iskelemotel.com.tr

Göltürkbükü, Turkey

If Turkey has a Saint-Tropez, this glitzy coming-together of two villages, Gölköy and Türkbükü, is it, with a newly created public beach and decked beach clubs that ooze a chilled, Côte d’Azur vibe. There’s plenty going on but it’s still far quieter than nearby Bodrum, and has a particularly strong restaurant scene – book a table at Arnavutköy for a sumptuous, fish-themed splurge. Behind the beach, souvenir shops stand cheek-by-jowl with designer boutiques, small pensions beside five-star hotels, and the regular dolmu ş (public bus) offers the chance to explore other villages on the peninsula, including unspoilt Gümüşlük, with ramshackle fish restaurants along the beach. The Matiz is a friendly B&B with five simple rooms, a tranquil leafy garden and roof terrace. Doubles from £86 B&B, matizturkbuku.com

Šibenik, Croatia

To say Šibenik is a mini-Dubrovnik may be slightly overstating the case, but it has the same elegant Venetian architecture and terracotta-roofed houses – and considerably less in the way of crowds. This is a town built for wandering: from the Riva, the seaside promenade, up to the elegant cathedral and through the tangle of passageways and alleys that lead up to the 11th-century St Michael’s Fortress. Blue-flagged Banj beach is a 200-metre walk from the centre, and has a restaurant and play area, while boat trips run out into the unspoilt waters of the Kornati archipelago. Hotel Life Palace is a lovingly renovated 15th-century mansion, with 17 rooms that channel the historic feel, with frescoes, exposed brickwork and Renaissance-inspired furniture. Doubles from £ 118 B&B, hotel-lifepalace.hr

Cavtat, Croatia

One of Dalmatia’s most charming small seaside towns, Cavtat has terracotta-roofed houses that ripple out around a small horseshoe bay, with two wooded peninsulas stretching out towards Dubrovnik, 13 miles away across the water. Low-key cafes and restaurants – several run by the same families for decades – run parallel to the waterfront promenade, with swimming platforms and small pebble coves giving way to crystal-clear water. Boat taxis run regularly to Dubrovnik and nearby Elaphiti islands, and there’s a lovely circular walking route through the woods, with a couple of simple beach bars that are perfect sundowner spots. Villa Pattiera , once the home of opera singer Tino Pattiera, stands at the top of the promenade, with lovely views from its 12 apricot-hued bedrooms. Doubles from £156 B&B, villa-pattiera.hr

Santa Maria di Castellabate , Campania, Italy

A world away from the hustle of the nearby Amalfi coast, the Cilento coast is studded with small seaside towns where faded palazzos and fishers’ houses overlook unspoilt beaches. Santa Maria is just such a place: fishing boats return early in the morning to supply the town’s restaurants, with fishers mending their nets on the blue flag beaches. Days can be spent lazing on the sands or following hiking trails into the Cilento national park, with the nearby archaeological sites of Paestum and Velia a big draw for history buffs. Stay at the Hotel Garden Riviera , on a hillside 500 metres from the centre, with gorgeous sea views and a shuttle to the beach. Doubles from £ 72 B&B, hotelgardenriviera.it

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La Flotte en Ré, Île de Ré, France

Once an important sea-fishing port, La Flotte is one of the Île de Ré’s most beautiful villages, with a tangle of lanes and alleyways running between classic Breton-style houses, a waterfront lined with restaurants and a sizable marina. Nearby Arnérault beach is the best choice for a lazy afternoon; the trees behind the beach offer shady spots for a snooze, with changing and toilet facilities – although it is very tidal, so check times before setting off. There are bikes to hire for the ride to atmospheric Abbaye des Châteliers, and a daily morning market for picnic goodies – excellent cheeses, breads and cured meats. The H ôtel Hippocampe is in the old village, with chic, airy rooms. Doubles from £ 74 room-only, hotel-hippocampe.com

Concarneau , Brittany, France

Steeped in history, with a belter of a beach and a working fishing fleet that fills the town’s restaurants with the freshest seafood, Concarneau is Brittany at its breezy, beautiful best. A town of two parts, it has 14th-century ramparts around the old town, set on a small island, and cobbled streets that wind between the houses to the bustling fishing port. Plage des Sables Blancs – a long stretch of unspoilt sand – is a short stroll from the centre of town, with good facilities including lifeguards. The Fishing Museum and the Marinarium – the oldest marine station in the world – are good wet-weather options for families. The Hotel Ker Mor is a quirky 19th-century hotel by the water’s edge. Doubles from £ 117 B&B, hotel- logishotels.com

Fornells, Menorca, Spain

Not to be confused with Playa de Fornells – a newer development a few miles away – Fornells is one of Menorca’s most charming fishing villages, with a low-key waterfront dotted with palm trees that has become a fish restaurant hub (the dish to order is caldereta de llagosta – lobster stew). In recent years it has also become known for watersports, with reliable winds making ideal conditions for windsurfing and wing-foiling; there are paddleboards for calmer days. The town beach is small, but Cala Tirant, on the other side of the headland, offers clear waters and a wide stretch of sand. Can Digus has light, airy apartments in the heart of town. Doubles from £ 57 room-only (two nights minimum), candigus.com

Llafranc , Girona, Spain

The jumble of whitewashed houses, blue doors and small fishing boats bobbing in the water give Llafranc a pleasingly old-school feel. Once the Costa Brava’s most glamorous spot – attracting everyone from Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí to Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren – it has mellowed into a quiet, family-friendly resort that only really gets busy in July and August. The sheltered harbour is ideal for watersports, including kayaking, sailing, scuba-diving and paddleboarding, and there are good walks – particularly the mile-long stroll around the pine-clad headland to Calella de Palafrugell – and enough bars to create a bit of night-time buzz. Hostal Sa Teula sits 100 metres from the sea, with 18 unfussy bedrooms and a restaurant serving locally caught fish and classic Catalan dishes. Doubles from £ 109 B&B, hostalsateula.com

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Washington weather in may 2024, and best places to visit, 10 best places to visit in miami in may 2024.

Australia Weather in May 2024 and Best Places to Visit

Australia is a land of diverse landscapes, from the sun-kissed beaches of the east coast to the rugged outback of the interior. The weather in May varies depending on where you are in the country, but in general, it is a pleasant time to visit with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

In the northern states of Queensland and the Northern Territory, the weather in May is warm and humid, with average temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). This is a great time to visit the Great Barrier Reef, as the water is warm and clear, and there is less chance of cyclones than in the summer months. It is also a good time to explore the rainforests of the Daintree Rainforest and Kakadu National Park.

In the southern states of New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia, the weather in May is cooler and drier, with average temperatures in the mid-teens Celsius (50s Fahrenheit). This is a good time to visit the cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, as the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and exploring. It is also a good time to visit the wineries of the Barossa Valley and the Grampians National Park.

In the western state of Western Australia, the weather in May is mild and sunny, with average temperatures in the low-20s Celsius (60s Fahrenheit). This is a good time to visit the beaches of Perth and Broome, as the water is warm enough for swimming. It is also a good time to explore the Pinnacles Desert and the Margaret River region.

Best Places to Visit in Australia in May 2024

There are many great places to visit in Australia in May 2024. Here are a few of our top picks:

1. Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, and for good reason. This vast coral reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. May is a great time to visit the Great Barrier Reef, as the water is warm and clear, and there is less chance of cyclones than in the summer months.

Sydney is Australia’s largest city and a vibrant cultural hub. There are plenty of things to see and do in Sydney, including visiting the Sydney Opera House, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and exploring the Royal Botanic Garden. May is a good time to visit Sydney, as the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and exploring.

3. Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and is known for its arts and culture scene. There are plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters to visit in Melbourne, as well as a thriving food and wine scene. May is a good time to visit Melbourne, as the weather is mild and dry.

4. Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Uluru (Ayers Rock) is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. This massive sandstone monolith is located in the heart of the Australian outback. Uluru is a sacred site to the Aboriginal people of Australia, and there are a number of ways to learn about its cultural significance. May is a good time to visit Uluru, as the weather is mild and dry.

Perth is the capital of Western Australia and is a modern and cosmopolitan city. There are plenty of things to see and do in Perth, including visiting the Art Gallery of Western Australia, exploring Kings Park, and swimming at Cottesloe Beach. May is a good time to visit Perth, as the weather is mild and sunny.

Australia is a multicultural country with a rich and diverse culture. The Aboriginal people of Australia are the traditional owners of the land, and their culture is an important part of Australian identity. There are many ways to learn about Aboriginal culture, including visiting Aboriginal art galleries, attending cultural performances, and taking guided tours of Aboriginal communities.

Australia is also home to a large number of immigrants from all over the world. This has resulted in a vibrant and cosmopolitan culture, with a wide range of cuisines, religions, and festivals to explore. May is a good time to visit Australia to experience the country’s diverse culture, as there are many festivals and events taking place this month.

Best Months to Visit Australia

The best time to visit Australia depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to experience the warm weather and sunshine, then the best time to visit is during the summer months from December to February. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, then the best time to visit is during the shoulder months of May and September.

Nearby Transportation

Australia has a well-developed transportation system, making it easy to get around the country. There are a number of airports in Australia, including international airports in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. There is also a good network of trains and buses that connect the major cities and towns. May is a good time to visit Australia, as there are fewer crowds on public transportation.

Australia has a diverse cuisine that reflects its multicultural population. There are many different types of food to try in Australia, from traditional Aboriginal bush tucker to modern Australian cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include fish and chips, meat pies, and pavlova. May is a good time to visit Australia to try the local food, as there are many food festivals and events taking place this month.

Best Hotels

There are a wide range of hotels to choose from in Australia, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Some of the best hotels in Australia include the Park Hyatt Sydney, the Langham Melbourne, and the Westin Perth. May is a good time to visit Australia to get good deals on hotels, as this is the shoulder season.

Australia is a great place to visit in May 2024. The weather is pleasant, there are fewer crowds, and there are many great places to visit. Whether you are interested in exploring the Great Barrier Reef, visiting the cities of Sydney and Melbourne, or experiencing the outback, Australia has something to offer everyone. We recommend starting to plan your trip in advance and researching the climate in the locations you plan to visit. We hope you enjoy your trip “Down Under”!

Justin Alexander is a seasoned globetrotter with an unyielding passion for travel and a fervent dedication to sharing his wealth of knowledge about destinations worldwide. An intrepid explorer at heart, Justin has traversed the far reaches of the globe, seeking out unique experiences and hidden treasures in every corner of the earth.

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The 25 best beaches on the east coast for 2024.

Plan the perfect summer getaway at these picture-perfect seaside locations.

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Even if you only have one day to spare, these stretches of sand guarantee a relaxing getaway.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Canaveral National Seashore: Titusville, Florida

Cape Cod National Seashore: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape May, New Jersey

Courtesy of Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority |

Delray Beach, Florida

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, New Jersey

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

South Beach: Miami, Florida

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Amelia Island, Florida

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Fire Island, New York

Tybee Island, Georgia

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Acadia National Park, Maine

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Stuart Beach, Florida

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28 Best Beaches on the East Coast — From Maine to Florida

These East Coast beaches have blue waters, soft sand, and fun activities for everyone.

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The East Coast of the U.S. is home to some seriously stunning landscapes, from rugged mountains to pastoral valleys. But no area showcases nature's artistry more than the region's gorgeous coastline.

The states bordering the eastern shore encompass nearly 30,000 miles of coastline,  according to the NOAA Office for Coastal Management . But with so many states to choose from, it may be hard to decide which beaches to visit, especially when you weigh all your options, from the rocky coves of Maine and the iconic boardwalks of the Jersey Shore to secluded Southern barrier islands.

Before we dig into our picks, though, let us start by saying there are plenty more beaches worthy of their day in the sun and your vacation time. So, by no means is this list ranked, exhaustive, or a slight to other local favorites. To keep things simple, we've compiled a list of two beaches per state. Here are 28 of the best beaches on the East Coast.

Sand Beach, Maine 

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Acadia National Park  is one of the most stunning places to explore in the spring, summer, and fall. After hiking through its seemingly endless trails, make your way to Sand Beach, a small stretch of shoreline accessible via Park Loop Road. The water will be cold, but the refreshing feeling is worth it, thanks to the solitude and stellar views. 

Gooch's Beach, Maine

Those looking for more action can head to Gooch's Beach in Kennebunk. The soft-sand stretch is popular with surfers, thanks to a  clean break  that's usually best in the fall, though the waves have been known to pick up in the summer if a good storm is on the way. While there's no snack bar here, there are lifeguards, so families can feel more at ease.

Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

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For miles of sandy shore, head to  Hampton Beach State Park . Visitors here can camp, fish, picnic, and, of course, swim in the Atlantic waters. And because it's a state park, it comes with all the necessary facilities, including bathrooms, for a comfortable experience.

Weirs Beach, New Hampshire

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Technically not a coastal beach, this beach is located on Lake Winnipesaukee, but it's just as glorious as a seaside escape along the Atlantic. Come for plenty of sand and calm waters that are perfect for small children. The beach also has a lively boardwalk and other happenings, including lake cruises, tons of dining options, and live music every once in a while.

Race Point Beach, Massachusetts 

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Race Point Beach, located in Provincetown, comes with miles of silky sand. It's a prime place to get a summertime glow or sit with a cozy sweater to watch a fall sunrise or sunset. It even has a lighthouse up on the dunes (though you will have to hike about two miles to get there, according to the local Chamber of Commerce ). 

Coast Guard Beach, Massachusetts

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For a gentler shoreline, head to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, a popular spot for families — locals and visitors alike. Though it's just 25 miles from Race Point Beach, the waters here tend to be much calmer, plus it features facilities, including a bathroom and rinse-off showers, as well as lifeguards all summer long. 

Easton's Beach, Rhode Island

Easton's Beach  in Newport is as idyllic as they come. The charming beach is also Newport's largest, making it easy to find a spot to lay down your blanket. In addition to amenities like a snack bar and bathrooms, it also has the bonus of a carousel and the Save the Bay Aquarium. 

East Matunuck State Beach, Rhode Island

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As the Ocean State, Rhode Island has its fair share of spectacular beaches, but none has as much charm as East Matunuck. Nestled at the far end of the state, East Matunuck State Beach is equipped with typical perks such as a snack bar, bathrooms, and summertime lifeguards keeping a watchful eye, as well as gorgeous dunes and a view of Block Island. Plus, it's down the street from the famed  Matunuck Oyster Bar , which is deserving of the short walk for a dozen oysters and a cocktail for lunch. 

Compo Beach, Connecticut

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Westport has several beaches ideal for exploration, but  Compo is the standout. The 29-acre park includes a large sandy beach that looks out onto the Long Island Sound with a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk and a concession stand. For those looking to break a sweat and have a little fun, there are also two sand volleyball courts.

Harvey's Beach, Connecticut 

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Harvey's Beach in Old Saybrook is the stuff of small-town dreams. The sandy beach, lined with gorgeous dunes, is a place where visitors can swim, fish, boat, and hunt for shells. There's a concession stand, changing rooms, and a small playground for kids too. 

Rockaway Beach, New York

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For New Yorkers, Rockaway Beach in Queens is as convenient as it gets. It's accessible via public transit from Manhattan and is a stellar spot to escape the hustle and bustle for a quick swim or a paddle out to surf. (It's technically the only beach in New York City  where it's legal to surf .) 

Cooper's Beach, New York

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There's no bad beach in the Hamptons , but for a more local vibe, make your way to Cooper's Beach. It's a gorgeous little pocket of sand along the Atlantic that's near restaurants. Even better, it's known for being just a little quieter in the summer than more popular nearby locales. 

The Cove, New Jersey 

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The beaches along Cape May go on for some 2.5 miles, and the best part about them is that they're within walking distance of many local accommodations and all the top attractions (a.k.a. those famous Victorian homes). But Cape May isn't just one beach; it's made up of many. One of the best is The Cove, ideal for everyone from families to solo surfers, kayakers, and those seeking a break from the more active beach scene down the shore.

Sandy Hook, New Jersey 

Further north, beachgoers should make their way to Sandy Hook. The expansive stretch is, once again, perfect for swimming, fishing, or paddling. The beach is also part of the larger  Gateway National Recreation Area,  which has miles of hiking and biking trails for when you've had enough of the sand. 

Bethany Beach, Delaware 

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Picturesque Bethany Beach is covered with grassy dunes sprouting up around the wooden boardwalk that goes on for a half mile. Come here for a stroll or sit and savor the sun for as long as you can before checking out the nearby shops and food vendors.

Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware

Cape Henlopen State Park , which can be found at the mouth of the Delaware Bay, features more than six miles of pristine coastline, including the Point, the exact spot where the bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. After spending some time at the beach, head to the Seaside Nature Center to learn more about the area's flora and fauna. 

Ocean City, Maryland

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Looking for a really, really big beach? Then, it's time to plan a trip to Ocean City, home to 10 miles of sand. The beach here is ideal for everything you'd ever want to do by the shore: surf, kayak, build sandcastles, play volleyball, and more. Ocean City also prides itself on its plentiful free activities in the summer, including movie nights and concerts. 

Assateague Island, Maryland

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Yes, there are two miles of beaches you can relax on at Assateague Island. But rather than park yourself in one spot for an entire day, stop in, get some sun, then go off and explore this fantastic island . Hike, see the lighthouse, and, if you're lucky, spot one of the famed wild horses running down the shore (just don't touch or feed them for your own safety). 

Virginia Beach, Virginia 

Virginia Beach is a lively slice of land where the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean meet. The destination is known for its buzzing boardwalk, plentiful events, and a standout dining scene steps from the sand, making it easy to go back and forth between the water and good eating all day long.

Buckroe Beach, Virginia 

Further north from Virginia Beach, you will find  Buckroe Beach , a smaller stretch of sand that feels scaled back compared to its more bustling counterpart. At Buckroe, visitors can head out for a swim, walk the pier, and take the kids to the nautical-themed playground for a laid-back yet equally pleasurable day at the beach. 

Nags Head, North Carolina

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What would a list of great Eastern Seaboard beaches be without mention of the Outer Banks? For the ultimate in solitude, head to Nags Head and its 12 miles of sandy shoreline. There are plenty of public access points — all you need to do is find a patch that's ideal for you and set up shop. Just make sure to pack enough water and snacks to last the day. If you really want to unplug, consider camping in the Outer Banks — at the Oregon Inlet Campground, you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves.

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

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If you like the island life, make your way to Emerald Isle, which has fewer than 4,000 permanent residents, but swells in population during the busy summer season. The 1,000-foot-long Bogue Inlet Pier offers a chance to fish for mullet, king mackerel, and more while seeing the beach from a whole new perspective. 

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Located along South Carolina's  Grand Strand  coast sits Myrtle Beach, one of the most popular beach destinations in the state . Made up of several connected beaches, the sand here goes on for miles. It's ideal for families, friends, and all who want to soak in the rays together. Plus, its proximity to nearby restaurants, accommodations, and attractions makes it easy to pop in or stay for days. 

Burkes Beach, South Carolina

North Carolina isn't the only state with island paradise beaches. Just look to Burkes Beach in the ever-popular Hilton Head Island for proof.  Burkes Beach  is often considered the more local of the island's beaches, meaning it's both a bit more relaxed and comes with fewer restaurants nearby. That said, the trade-off of peace and quiet just might be worth having to pack a sandwich along with your other essentials .

Driftwood Beach, Georgia 

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Find a little peace and a whole lot of picture-perfect views at  Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island. With beautiful sand, sea, and massive driftwood washed ashore, it's one of the best Georgia beaches for photographers.

North Beach, Georgia

North Beach on Tybee Island is made for those who enjoy long walks on the sand and hunting down the perfect seashells. It's a beachcomber's paradise and one that's easy to hop on and off between town shopping and dining excursions. Book a bed-and-breakfast for a charming stay.

Vero Beach, Florida 

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If you're seeking something a bit more low-key, head to Vero Beach, a peaceful area that's home to several beaches worth exploring. Want to bring home a little souvenir? Try treasure hunting at Seagrape Trail Beach. Want photos of sand dunes? Go to Treasure Shores Park. Want to surf? Try Wabasso Beach. See all of Vero Beach's  smaller shoreline stops here . 

South Beach, Florida 

The iconic South Beach has made its way into movies, music videos, and television series because it really is that vibrant, eclectic, and downright stunning — thanks to its azure waters lapping the white sand. During your visit to one of the most happening beaches in America, you may want to splurge on a chaise lounger at a beach club for the day.

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