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For the best beach vacations in the world, you could hit the iconic SkyWheel on a Myrtle Beach vacation or find your happy on a Hawaiian beachside vacation . You could get intrepid and head for a secluded beach vacation in the Maldives or dive into glorious waters from any of Fiji’s 333 islands for a wonderful family beach vacation—they really can be the exquisite last word in shoreside experiences.

The easy way to bag beach vacation deals

Booking the best beach vacations is as easy as click, click, click. Whether you stay in the USA or fly further afield, you can take your pick of incredible beach vacations spots by sorting your Expedia search results by deals, price, rating and more. Flick your finger over our filters to refine your search to include water parks, spas, pools, ocean views, and whatever makes your beach trip brilliant. Now all that’s left to do is bundle your airfare, accommodation, and car rental in one for a package deal that makes your wallet say WOW!

Top destinations for Beach Vacations

Discover Florida beach vacation packages

Florida is one of the most iconic destinations in the country when it comes to beach vacation packages. You'll find a massive array of beaches to explore that offer welcoming white sands and turquoise waters. Plus, some of the best accommodations can put you just steps away from the water.

Enjoy the sun with Fort Myers beach vacation packages

Take in the sugary white sands of Fort Myers beach with a beach vacation package. Not only can you enjoy plenty of fun spots for watersports like parasailing and kayaking, but simple swimming and fishing are available in abundance as well. Plus, you can embark on eco-tours of the area.

Find fun in the sun with Destin beach vacation packages

When you book a beach vacation package in Destin, you can enjoy its famous emerald waters and white sandy shores. The beach is good for swimming and diving, with fishing and snorkeling available as well. Of course, you'll also find plenty of waterfront restaurants right on the beach with a variety of cuisine available.

Take a trip to Texas with beach vacation packages

Texas beach vacation packages come in many different shapes and sizes, but the Gulf Shore always has something special to offer travelers looking for beachfront fun. Luxury and affordability are available in equal measure, and you'll find accommodation options across islands, coastal towns, and remote locations all along the Lonestar waterfront.

Relax in Fort Walton with beach vacation packages

At Fort Walton Beach, you can relax with a beach vacation package that offers much more than easy beach access. You'll also find pristine and well-kept golf courses as well as nature tours that keep things interesting. Additionally, the calm waters of the beach make it especially family-friendly, but people of all ages can find fun in a relaxing swim.

Go international with beach vacation packages to Thailand

Some of the most visually stunning beaches in the world are available in Thailand. The quiet serenity of these sandy shores attracts travelers from around the globe, and you can enjoy it all with a beach vacation to the country along the southern regions. Phuket Island is especially popular if you're looking for calm, relaxing waters.

Take it easy with beach vacation packages to South Carolina

In South Carolina, you'll find a variety of beach vacations available. Whether you're staying in a charming city or somewhere a bit more remote, you'll have no shortage of fun things to do throughout the area. Swimming, boating, and fishing are so popular that you'll hardly ever have to go far to find all the equipment you need.

Enjoy luxury with beach vacation package to Waikiki

Take it easy with a beach vacation to Waikiki. This Hawaiian beach is among the most popular in the country, offering tropical flair and all the amenities you'll ever need, like luxury accommodations, delicious restaurants, and fun shops where you'll find custom-made items for sale. Plus, special events are held in Waikiki quite frequently.

All you need to know about beach vacations

What are some of the best beach vacations in the world.

The world’s most extraordinary beaches will make you rethink what it means to be beside the sea. Marvel at the black sands of Alaska , make powder-white sandcastles in Mexico or cruise your way around the rocky Croatian coastline by boat. Wherever you are, stop and listen to the sounds of the ocean and you’re sure to feel those vacation vibes.

How can I book an inexpensive beach vacation?

Bag the best cheap beach vacation packages by being flexible with your destination or dates, and ideally traveling outside of peak seasons. If you’ve more specific seas in your sights, enter the details and use the filters to find a budget-friendly trip. Be sure to look for hotels away from the beachside or even consider a vacation rental with its own kitchen to save on eating out.

What are some of the best beach vacations in the US?

There are awesome beach vacation spots along every coast of the US. Book a brilliant beach break in Maui , Hawaii, where the sand makes way to eye-watering volcanic vistas. Head to the East Coast to spot turtles, with loggerheads, leatherbacks, and hawksbills sauntering along the sand at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. For a classic US beach break, head to The Golden State of California .

What are the best beaches to go to with kids?

Cop a kid-friendly beach vacation in Corpus Christi , where the Gulf Coast provides a beautiful backdrop for horseback riding, volleyball, or the simple act of sunbathing. Feast your eyes on Florida beach vacations too, for fam-tastic oceanside adventures just a mouse’s whisker from Disneyland.

How can I book an all-inclusive beach vacation?

All-inclusive beach vacations await at the click of your finger. Use the all-inclusive filter to search the latest beach vacation deals—with everything from cocktails to kids clubs included. You can even choose to book your flight and hotel together.

How can I find last minute beach vacation deals?

If you love a last-minute deal , you’ve come to the right place. Choose from our top picks or use the date and destination filters to build your ultimate beach break. Package your accommodation, airfare, and car rental for the most affordable adventure.

Where can I go for an east coast beach vacation?

If you love the east coast most, book a vacation in mesmerizing Maine for rugged sandy bays, pretty waterfront towns and world-class foodie fun. For a beach break away from the crowds, North Carolina’s Crystal Coast is so good you won’t want the world to know about it.

Can I book a beach trip with free cancellation and/or flexible dates?

Feel the freedom of flexibility and book a beach break with free cancellation. Filter by payment option to see what’s on offer, and for more information, visit our Customer Service Portal .

Why should I book a beach vacation with Expedia?

Relax before you even reach the beach by booking your next seaside vacation with Expedia. Choose from our latest incredible deals, or customize your trip in just a few clicks, with simple search and filter functions.

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A year of the world's

Best 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.

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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The 10 Best Beach Destinations in the World

Jamie Moore

Jamie Moore was the seatbelt-less '70s kid whose wanderlust began while fighting with siblings in the back of a roadtripping van. Now, as a travel writer, she covers family fun, budget getaways, outdoor adventure, Vancouver Island, and more, usually with her own kids in tow.

She is the author of the Vancouver Island Exploration Guide iPhone app (2010) and various Vancouver Island tourism guides. Moore is also a regular SmarterTravel contributor.

Her articles have appeared in USA Today Travel, Yahoo! News, Rand McNally travel guides, WestJet's in-flight up! magazine, Women's Health & Fitness magazine, European Homes & Gardens magazine, iParenting's travelingtoday.com, Indianapolis Monthly magazine, Resort + Recreation magazine, RCI's Endless Vacation and Ventures magazines, Kiwanis Magazine , and others.

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You could spend hours daydreaming about the world’s best beach destinations. But how do you choose one that’s right for you?

The following list can help. All of the beaches below offer exceptional beauty, clean sand and water, and nearby tourist infrastructure—and many of them are trending upward in traveler popularity.

Editor’s note: Some services and amenities at these destinations may be altered/halted due to the pandemic. Save these ideas for when it’s safe to travel again, and always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rule s, and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Jo ann snover/shutterstock.

Providenciales is home to Grace Bay Beach, which made Tripadvisor’s list of the top 25 beaches in the Caribbean as well as SmarterTravel’s own list of the 10 best Caribbean beaches .

“Provo” is the picture-perfect Caribbean destination, one that’s been discovered but not overrun. There are clear turquoise waters, coral reefs for snorkeling, and soft white sand where you can beach comb for miles without encountering crowds. Groove to ripsaw music with the locals and savor conch fritters and jerk chicken at the outdoor island fish fry on Thursday nights.

Where to stay: The Oasis at Grace Bay offers rooms, suites, and villas just a short walk from the soft sand of Grace Bay Beach.

Check Prices for The Oasis at Grace Bay in Grace Bay

The Essential Beach Packing List

Bali, Indonesia

Gekko gallery/shutterstock.

Find your beach nirvana on the southern peninsula of Bali, where scenes from Eat, Pray, Love were filmed. Spirituality infuses many aspects of daily life here, so expect encounters with local traditions that prompt a little soul searching.

Among Bali’s best beaches are Kelingking Beach , which requires some 500 steps to access (but don’t worry, the jaw-dropping views from above are worth it); and Gunung Payung Beach , one of the island’s hidden gems.

Where to stay: Highlights of a stay at the dreamy Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa include the warm, friendly service and the infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

Check Prices for The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa in Seminyak

Maui, hawaii, tropicdreams/shutterstock.

Maui is among America’s most iconic bucket-list beach destinations. Its beaches—including Kaanapali Beach and Kapalua Beach —consistently rank among the best in the world. And what Maui lacks in affordability, it makes up for in beauty and novelty far beyond the perfect palm-fringed beaches.

Experience fire dancing at luaus, sunrise hikes to dormant volcano summits, and countless waterfalls along the curvy drive to Hana . And it’s now a little more affordable to get there: Southwest started regular service to Maui (and other Hawaiian destinations) from select West Coast cities in 2019.

Where to stay: Each spacious unit at Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach includes a full kitchen and a private balcony.

Check Prices for Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina

Hugh o'connor/shutterstock.

Ringed with silky white sand, Grenada, the Caribbean’s “Spice Island,” even smells like paradise with all the nutmeg grown here. While you can find cruise passengers and hawkers if you go looking for them (at Grand Anse Beach, for instance), the beauty of this island lies in its quieter corners, including Morne Rouge Beach , the underwater sculpture park , and rainforest trails.

Where to stay: The cottages and hotel rooms at Petite Anse Beachfront Hotel & Restaurant are located on a secluded beach in the northern part of the island.

Check Prices for Petite Anse Beachfront Hotel & Restaurant Grenada in Saint Patrick Parish

Fernando de noronha, brazil, marcelo alex/shutterstock.

A 21-island archipelago and natural UNESCO World Heritage site 224 miles off the northern coast of Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is home to three of the world’s top-ranked beaches. One of them, Baia do Sancho , ranked in the top three on Tripadvisor’s 2021 list of the best beaches in the world.

The archipelago limits the number of visitors to protect its delicate ecosystems and wildlife. Those lucky enough to experience Noronha’s secluded beaches will see crystalline waters flanked by reddish sand, volcanic cliffs covered in lush vegetation, and dramatic sightings of the local spinner dolphins.

Where to stay: Rooms at Pousada Del Mares are simple but comfortable, with a location near restaurants, beaches, and shops.

Check Prices for Pousada Del Mares in Fernando de Noronha

8 Private Islands You Can Actually Afford to Rent

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Kanphipha/shutterstock.

White sand as soft as powdered sugar brings spring breakers and retirees in droves to Clearwater Beach, where restaurants, hotels, and souvenir shops vie for space within sight of the calm waters. Clearwater made Tripadvisor’s 2021 list of the best beaches in America .

The most pristine beaches in the area are at Caladesi Island State Park , an undeveloped paradise accessible only by ferry.

Where to stay: The family-owned Barefoot Bay Resort & Marina overlooks Clearwater Bay and is just a short walk from the beach.

Check Prices for Barefoot Bay Resort and Marina in Clearwater

18 Beach Houses Still Available to Rent for Summer 2021

Crete, Greece

Patryk kosmider/shutterstock.

The 2018 release of the Mamma Mia! sequel brought the buzz back to the magical Greek Isles, where the storyline is set. Crete isn’t as popular—or pricey—as Mykonos or Santorini, but it still offers plentiful sun, sand, and history.

You can split time between the island’s rich culinary culture, ancient ruins, and alluring beaches. Laze in sheltered coves or on the top-rated Elafonissi Beach , a nearly mile-long protected stretch of white sand with shallow turquoise lagoons and sea turtles.

Where to stay: The intimate Theodore Boutique Hotel has just nine rooms, most with full or partial sea views.

Check Prices for The Theodore Boutique Hotel in Agia Marina

15 Beach Bag Essentials You Need for Summer 2021

Inga Locmele/Shutterstock

A favorite of honeymooners, St. Lucia is growing more popular with tourists of all types. In 2019, this exclusive tropical paradise saw a record-setting number of visitors .

In between adventures such as swimming in waterfalls, hiking to the summit of Gros Piton, and kayaking to Pigeon Island, you can relax on St. Lucia’s many beautiful beaches. Traveler favorites include Anse Mamin and Jalousie Beach .

Where to stay: The all-inclusive Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort offers a little something for everyone, from half a dozen swimming pools to a spa and wellness center.

Check Prices for Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort in Castries

Praslin island, seychelles.

Secluded and romantic, the 115-island Seychelles archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean off East Africa, has a mystical draw. Seychelles’ beaches, including Anse Lazio on Praslin Island, are among the most photographed in the world.

Anse Lazio is a sweeping white crescent framed by granite rocks and tropical rainforest. It’s isolated but worth the effort to get to Anse Lazio, where solitude and nature reign. Or hop a 15-minute ferry from Praslin Island to La Digue to see the stunning pink sands of Anse Source d’Argent .

Where to stay: Hotel Cote d’Or overlooks a stunning white beach on Praslin Island and offers activities such as canoeing, beach volleyball, and even archery.

Check Prices for Hotel Cote D'Or in Anse Volbert

10 Rules for Sailing the Seychelles

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Rob hainer/shutterstock.

Myrtle Beach is one of the most family-friendly and affordable beach destinations in the U.S. Here you’ll find 60 miles of sandy shores with nonstop fun for kids, plus reasonably priced condo-style accommodations that parents love.

There’s always something happening in Myrtle Beach, from the opening of new restaurants and breweries to special events year-round.

Where to stay: One of the newest hotels in town, South Bay Inn and Suites , is an ideal option for families with its indoor water park and convenient boardwalk location.

Check Prices for South Bay Inn and Suites in Myrtle Beach

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Discover the 15 best beach vacations in the US

With miles and miles of coastline in the US, it can be hard to decide which beach to pick for your next vacation. To help you choose I’ve put together my favorite beach vacations in the US. My selection of beach vacations is based on popularity, scenery, and the amenities available, as well as how easy they are to get from across the country.

You’ll find a good mix of luxurious and budget-friendly options, as well as some unique places to visit this summer. So, let’s dive right in.

15 of the best beach vacations in the US

• The Hamptons
• Rockaway Beach
• Asbury Park Beach
• Ocean City Beach
• Coligny Beach Park
• Clearwater Beach
• Gulf Shores Public Beach
• Glass Beach
• Harris Beach
• Carmel Beach
• Santa Monica Beach
• Ka’anapali Beach
• Waikiki Beach

1. The Hamptons

• Location: Long Island, NY
• Best for: If you enjoy luxury vacations

The Hamptons is one of the best summer vacation spots in the northeast. Often considered a getaway for the rich (and sometimes famous), it’s a great option if you’re looking for a little luxury this summer.

The Hamptons is home to many beaches, so you can explore a new one every day. Egypt Beach is known for its calm atmosphere, while East Hampton Main Beach has a lifeguard for extra safety. Two Mile Hollow Beach is one of the most scenic, while Georgica Beach is famous for its great sunbathing areas.

Whether you’re making a full trip out of it or just coming from New York for the day, the Hamptons is a great choice.

2. Rockaway Beach

• Location: Queens, NY
• Best for: Anyone visiting or based in NYC

If you’re visiting New York City, this is a great place for a day trip or weekend. And you don’t even need a car – Rockaway is accessible via subway and bus.

Rockaway Beach is NYC’s only legal surfing spot, so if you’re looking to catch a wave, this is the place to come. In addition to swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, it’s a great spot for beach sports. Think volleyball, handball, skateboarding, rollerblading, playgrounds for the kids, and more – Rockaway has it all.

When you’re looking to clean up, take advantage of the spray showers and restrooms on-site. There’s also a five-mile boardwalk offering plenty of restaurants, bars, and picnic areas for when you get peckish.

3. Asbury Park Beach

• Location: Asbury Park, NJ
• Best for: Music lovers

Asbury Park Beach is one of the best beach vacations in the US along the Jersey Shore. This area boasts historic charm and a unique personality, as well as pristine white sand along the waterfront.

The beach stretches for about a mile, and you’ll find people swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and more here. Whether you want to stretch out on the sand, play a game of beach volleyball, or hit the waves, this is the perfect place to do it.

The historic boardwalk is full of restaurants, shops, and bars to explore. Music lovers will want to visit The Stone Pony , the storied bar that famous locals like Jon Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen used to frequent.

4. Ocean City Beach

• Location: Ocean City, Maryland
• Best for: Travelers without a car

Ocean City Beach is one of the best summer vacation spots if you’re on a budget. The city boasts 10 miles of white sand beaches along with a three-mile boardwalk. Those looking to get right into the water can go kayaking, jet skiing, or surfing. Otherwise, you can try a spot of fishing or build sandcastles.

Afterward, head to the boardwalk. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops there, and even some amusement park rides like the Ferris wheel and the legendary Jolly Roger’s two-level carousel .

This is also one of the best beach vacations in the US to visit without a car. The town is fairly small and most of the attractions are within walking distance. If you want to explore more, rent a bike from one of the shops along the boardwalk.

5. Coligny Beach Park

• Location: Hilton Head Island, SC
• Best for: Golfers

Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts, golf courses, and remarkably well-maintained beaches. This particular beach is located on the southern half of the island near many of the area’s luxury resorts.

While you don’t have to stay at a fancy resort to enjoy this beach, stepping foot on it will make it feel like you are. The entrance is beautifully landscaped, lined with gazebos and palm trees galore. You’ll also find more amenities than you would at the average public beach: enjoy free wi-fi, benches, swings, fountains for kids to play in, and more.

6. Clearwater Beach

• Location: Clearwater, Florida
• Best for: Budget travelers

This is the best location in Florida for beachgoers on a budget. Don’t let the concentration of upscale resorts fool you; there are plenty of wallet-friendly accommodation options in Clearwater. For example, check out the Tropical Inn & Suites .

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, this beach stretches for 2.5 miles, giving you plenty of space to spread out your towel. If you want protection from the sun, rent a cabana or umbrella. Or if you like fishing you can rent equipment here.

Once you’re done in the water, head to the beachfront Pier 60 to enjoy some food, drinks, and a free nightly entertainment program,

7. Gulf Shores Public Beach

• Location: Gulf Shores, Alabama
• Best for: Families with young children

Another option for those on a budget, Gulf Shores has all the perks of a Florida beach without the Florida prices. The waters in Gulf Shores are calm and crystal clear, making it the perfect spot for families and beginner swimmers. Come try your hand at boogie boarding or play some outdoor sports on the sand.

While this public beach may not have many amenities, it’s known for being incredibly clean and safe for kids. It also boasts a pier with a small entry fee, where you can mingle with fishermen and maybe even spot a dolphin.

8. Glass Beach

• Location: Port Townsend, Washington
• Best for: Hikers

Glass Beach of the best places to visit this summer for those who want something a little different. Glass Beach is located on the Olympic Peninsula and is famous for its abundance of high-quality sea glass. As a result, it’s perfect for scavengers hunting for jewelry-quality gems.

To get to this beach, you’ll need to hike from nearby North Beach. You can even bring your furry friends if you keep them on a leash. The hike from here to Glass Beach is about three miles and you can enjoy incredible views and spot bald eagles and the occasional whale along the way.

9. Harris Beach

• Location: Brookings, Oregon
• Best for: Campers

Located inside Harris Beach State Park , this Harris Beach is famous for its incredible scenery. The beach is home to beautiful rock formations and plenty of tide pools, which provides lots of opportunities to explore nooks and crannies both in and out of the water. There’s also room to sunbathe and you can go for a swim (if you’re not afraid of the Pacific’s chill).

Because of its unique terrain, this beach also attracts plenty of wildlife. Be prepared to encounter sea lions, seals, migrating whales, a variety of birds, and much more. It’s also a popular spot for hiking and biking, and you can stay at the campground less than a mile from the coast.

10. Lake Tahoe

• Location: Tahoe National Forest , California
• Best for: Nature enthusiasts

Heading inland, Lake Tahoe is situated in northern California right on the border with Nevada, and as the largest alpine lake on the continent, it’s surrounded by dozens of towns. This means you have plenty of options for where to stay based on your budget and preferred activities.

Pope Beach is known as one of the best in the area. Located in South Lake Tahoe , it stretches for about a mile and is lined by majestic pine trees. Spend the day swimming, rent a boat or kayak, and head out to explore more of the lake itself. After your day on the water, stop for a picnic and enjoy the unmatched mountain views.

11. Carmel Beach

• Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea , California
• Best for: Travelers with dogs

Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most picturesque places in the US, so it’s no surprise that the beach here is incredible. It boasts pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and amazing views. It’s also a popular surfing spot, so be sure to bring your board.

If you’d like to bring some food along, this beach is a popular picnic spot, and dogs can roam unleashed. It’s also permitted to bring a bottle of wine to enjoy during sunset.

If you’re on a budget, the good news is there are plenty of quaint inns and vacation rentals nearby.

12. Santa Monica Beach

• Location: Santa Monica , California
• Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, and surfing

Santa Monica has become world-famous as one of the best summer vacation spots in the US. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, and you can enjoy an incredible sunset view.

Santa Monica Pier , though, is the main attraction. Boasting an amusement park with games, rides, and plenty of fair food, it’s the perfect entertainment venue for all ages.

Once you’re done at Santa Monica Beach, head down the path to nearby Venice Beach, famous for its alternative crowd and unique atmosphere.

13. San Diego

• Location: Southern California
• Best for: If you’re looking for a beach vacation with variety

There are plenty of beaches to explore in San Diego , so this is one of the best beach vacations in the US for those who want a little variety. Start at Mission Beach, perhaps the most popular with tourists and residents alike. Next, head to Coronado Beach, just across the bay from the mainland. Accessible via Coronado Bridge, you’ll enjoy golden sand, comfortable sunbathing and swimming, and the opportunity to explore the historic Hotel del Coronado . Finally, hit La Jolla Cove to experience San Diego’s natural beauty.

14. Ka’anapali Beach

• Location: Maui, Hawaii
• Best for: A sunsoaked beach vacation

Heading further west, we reach Hawaii. This is a great summer destination as it’s one of the driest and warmest places in the US during this time. Ka’anapali Beach is one of the most beautiful on Maui and was once a favorite of Hawaiian royalty.

Boasting three miles of soft white sand, it’s perfect for sunbathers and swimmers looking for a relaxing day. Want a bit of culture? Stay for the daily cliff diving ceremony, a reenactment of a feat performed by an ancient Hawaiian king.

The area surrounding Ka’anapali also boasts plenty of resorts and hotels, world-class shopping, golf courses, and numerous outdoor adventure activities for you to enjoy. 

15. Waikiki Beach

• Location: Oahu, Hawaii
• Best for: Beginner surfers

Waikiki Beach is located in Honolulu , so it’s easy to access and popular with tourists worldwide. This also means it can get crowded, though, so make sure to get there early in the morning.

Waikiki is known for its calm waters, so it’s the perfect place to take young kids and beginner swimmers. If you want to try surfing, it’s also a great place to book your first lesson. Authentic Hawaiian luaus and cultural events abound on this beach regularly.

Waikiki Beach is also surrounded by plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels, for you to choose from.

Looking for more summer vacation ideas ? Read up on the best places to go in June , find the July hotspots , and check out the best places for an August visit . Or if you’re interested in visiting Europe check out the best beaches in Europe.

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Typically, they’ll be on the east coast. For example, Ocean City, Clearwater, Daytona Beach (Florida), and Virginia Beach have good affordable accommodation options and plenty of free things to do.

The US beach with the clearest water 1 is located on the northern shores of Lake Michigan: Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island, Wisconsin. Some other spots with impressively clear water include Crystal Sands Beach in Destin , Florida, and Moonshine Beach on the shores of Long Creek, Missouri.

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The best beaches in the U.S. for summer trips

Editor's Note

Carefree summer beach days are finally upon us. You don't have to travel to far-flung destinations like Mallorca, Spain, or Bali, Indonesia, to find a summer beach paradise.

The U.S is home to many diverse waterfront landscapes, from breezy sand dunes and rocky cliffside shorelines to cityscape sands and secret beach coves.

No matter where you live (even if you're landlocked), there's likely a beautiful beach near you, though it may not be oceanfront. You don't need an ocean to find the perfect stretch of sands, thanks to waters like Lake Tahoe and the Great Lakes.

Plus, you may just be able to avoid crowded airports and flight delays by taking a summer beach road trip closer to home.

Related: How to visit Lake Tahoe on a budget

From California 's surf spots to charming East Coast nature reserves, here are 20 of the best sandy shores in destinations around the U.S. for your summer beach adventure.

Cowell Ranch State Beach, California

With California's more than 400 public beaches, narrowing down a summer beach escape in the Golden State can be challenging. Those who want a serene beach experience should head to one of the quieter, less crowded beaches of Northern California's Half Moon Bay.

A short hike down from Highway 1 takes you to a staircase that leads to Cowell Ranch State Beach, a rugged stretch of sands flanked by rocky bluffs. You may spot a variety of flora and fauna, even seals, from the shore.

Kaihalulu Beach, Hawaii

Hawaii's islands are ringed by endless beaches, so it may be hard to decide which one to try. However, red sand sets Kaihalulu Beach on the island of Maui apart from the rest.

The steep, narrow trail to the beach can be difficult and even slippery. However, it offers a unique, crowd-free opportunity to enjoy the blue waves crashing against the rich, colorful sand.

Related: Your guide to Hawaii's best beaches

North Avenue and Montrose beaches, Illinois

One of Chicago's finest city beaches, North Avenue Beach offers the refreshingly cold waters of Lake Michigan set against a perfect view of the city's skyline rising up behind the golden sand.

With an array of summer festivals like Volleywood, the Chicago Air and Water Show and various music events, North Avenue Beach's allure lasts all summer. If you tire of the sand and lake, visit the nearby Navy Pier or rent bicycles and ride them along the city's lakefront.

A few miles farther north, Montrose Beach is a popular locals beach (it has a fun dog-friendly section) backed by a tranquil bird sanctuary. There are paddleboards and kayaks for rent, a marina for boat rentals, a golf course nearby, and much-loved The Dock beach bar with vacation vibes and live music.

Sand Harbor Beach, Nevada

On the northeastern shores of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor is a cove dotted with boulders offering visitors idyllic lake and mountain views. Swim in the refreshing, clear waters, paddle out by kayak to admire the large rocks located along the shoreline or enjoy a picnic at one of the tables.

If it gets too hot, retreat to the shade of the cedar and Jeffrey pines that line the beach. Visit during the annual summer Shakespeare Festival, which sets up a beachfront stage for performances.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

If the name sounds familiar, maybe it's because "Good Morning America" named this national lakeshore the Most Beautiful Place in America. The park likely earned the accolade thanks to its towering sand dunes that perfectly contrast the sharp-blue waters of Lake Michigan (and the smaller Glen Lake), as well as the surrounding green forest.

It's just a 45-minute drive from Traverse City, where you can stop for the famous annual Cherry Festival, which includes parades, races, air shows and musical performances.

Sagg Main Beach, New York

Sagg Main combines the highbrow feel of the Hamptons with the relaxed comfort of a neighborhood beach. The beach feels secluded, backed by Sagaponack Pond, a wild, natural area.

It's also slightly closer to Manhattan and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) than some of the other beaches in East Hampton or Montauk, making it easy for city-dwellers or travelers to arrive. AvGeeks landing late at JFK should consider spending a night at the TWA Hotel before heading east to the beach.

Long Beach Peninsula, Washington

Stretching for almost 28 miles, aptly named Long Beach is one of the country's longest continuous beaches. There are seven access points to different sections of the beach, which never feels crowded.

Although the water is chilly for swimming, it's an incredible beach for a good long stroll. The wooden boardwalk is starkly different from busy U.S. boardwalks, like the one in Venice Beach, California. It stands in pure tranquility, suspended above the sand dunes offering stunning sea views.

Visitors can also enjoy the summer beach breeze during the Washington State International Kite Festival.

Grant Park Beach, Wisconsin

Though it's just a quick 20-minute drive from central Milwaukee, Grant Park Beach feels like a hidden refuge. It's accessible by car or a short, relatively easy hike along a wooded trail. Visitors can swim in cold Lake Michigan and take advantage of beach amenities like spots to get snacks, children's play areas, volleyball nets and even a nearby golf course.

Combine a beach day with a visit to Milwaukee's famous annual Summerfest, which features an impressive lineup of both well-known and up-and-coming musical artists and groups.

Mustang Island, Texas

A barrier island on the Gulf coast of Texas, Mustang is home to 18 miles of sandy shoreline. Mustang Island State Park is an ideal spot to explore the quiet, protected sands and experience the Mustang Island Paddling Trail, a collection of kayaking routes that run through shallow fishing waters.

For a little more action, the 6-mile Port Aransas Beach is close to Fishermans Wharf Pier and the observation tower at Roberts Point Park, where you can sometimes spot dolphins and other marine life.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

This beach is just an hour and a half from Portland. The wild, grassy shoreline and the picture-perfect view of famous Haystack Rock in the ocean are simply stunning.

You can plan a whole vacation around visiting this beach, as the charming town of Cannon Beach offers quaint shops, gourmet dining options and beach bars, all ideal for a relaxing trip to the seaside. Note: Even in summer, it may be too cold to swim.

Tybee Island, Georgia

If rainy weather ruins your Tybee Island beach day, Savannah's historical center is just 18 miles away. When the sun is shining, though, wandering the barrier island's long stretch of soft sand or along the picturesque boardwalk is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. History buffs will appreciate a visit to the lighthouse, which dates back to 1736.

Coast Guard Beach, Massachusetts

Enjoy Cape Cod's serene sands at the 20-mile-long Coast Guard Beach. Fans of Henry David Thoreau should visit, as he deemed this spot the "Great Beach." It's also only about an hour-and-a-half drive away for Boston residents.

The area is part of the saltwater Nauset Marsh, home to a number of shorebird species, as well as marine life such as sharks and seals. Active beachgoers can swim, surf or boogie board in the Coast Guard Beach waters or bike along the marsh paths.

Crescent Bay Beach, California

Bordered by cliffs, Crescent Bay Beach is a small cove in Southern California. A favorite with bodysurfers when the waves are high, the beach also attracts snorkelers when the ocean is calm. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and sea lions hanging out on famous Seal Rock, about 350 feet offshore.

Disney fans, take note: This beach is only 25 miles away from Disneyland .

Related: The 22 best beaches in California

Goosewing Beach Preserve, Rhode Island

Goosewing Beach Preserve is a serene mix of shoreline, dunes and a coastal pond. What the beach lacks in amenities, it makes up for in natural beauty (think pebbly, silver sands and many species of birds flying over the foamy swells). The preserve's sandy bluffs and grassy dunes provide a true escape from the daily grind.

The preserve charges a parking fee per car ($18 on weekdays and $23 on weekends). Proceeds go to protect this delicate ecosystem, which is home to many threatened shorebirds.

Related: TPG's picks: The best places for a family beach vacation

Kill Devil Hills Beach, North Carolina

AvGeeks should head to Kill Devil Hills Beach in the Outer Banks. It's the actual site of the Wright brothers' first flight.

Brightly colored homes line the long, sandy shore, just a short drive from the Wright Brothers National Memorial, featuring a large statue, museum and even a special junior aviation center with children's activities.

If you'd like to visit other coastal stretches, the Outer Banks is home to myriad other summer beach options.

Black Beach, Minnesota

You don't have to visit Spain's volcanic Canary Islands to experience a black-sand beach. One of the most unique beaches in the U.S., Black Beach is famous for its glimmering black sand along the shore of Lake Superior.

The sand isn't volcanic, though. Its dark color is a result of taconite, a mining substance in the lake water. Either way, this dark-sand beach, complete with red-rock hills and verdant foliage, is unlike any other.

Related: 8 of the most beautiful beaches on Mallorca, Spain

Clearwater Beach, Florida

It's hard to pick a top beach in Florida , but Clearwater is always a traveler favorite. The 3-mile stretch of powdery sand and turquoise water should be enough to satisfy sun-seekers year-round. There's plenty to do, including parasailing and a beachfront promenade ideal for walking, rollerblading or biking.

Enjoy gorgeous hues as the sun sets. Once evening hits, there are almost endless choices for oceanfront dining and cocktails.

Reid State Park Beach, Maine

The 770-acre Reid State Park is home to Maine's first state-owned saltwater beach. Besides sandy beaches, which are a rarity along Maine's mostly pebble-and-rock coastline, the park has abundant plant and bird life, sand dunes, marshes and rock formations. It's also one of the state's most popular surfing areas.

Combine a summer beach trip with a hot air balloon adventure in Lewiston (a one-hour drive from Reid State Park) for the Great Falls Balloon Festival, in addition to other Maine summer festivities like lobster and clam bakes.

Dauphin Island, Alabama

Dauphin Island charges a small fee to visit its beaches ($10 per car). Besides swimming off the tranquil beaches, you can hike trails, visit a bird sanctuary and check out historical monuments, including cannons.

It's known as the sunset capital of Alabama. From the shores of Dauphin Island, visitors can enjoy some of the most colorful and peaceful sunsets in the southern U.S.

Indiana Dunes, Indiana

The Indiana Dunes span both a national and a state park. Both are home to golden sands, blustery dunes and a number of hiking trails.

With summer events like bird-watching and stargazing meetups, sand sculpture contests and s'mores days, there are lots of activities if you get bored swimming, lounging on the beach, walking the trails or frolicking on the dunes. Those who want to bring lunch or stay the night can enjoy the designated areas for picnicking and camping, too.

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6 Beaches for Budding Swimmers, Surfers and Castle Builders

For families with children, we found half a dozen beaches in the United States and Mexico, each tailored to a particular summer activity.

By Freda Moon

A family beach vacation is an American classic. But depending on their children’s ages and inclinations, some families may be drawn to different kinds of shorelines: those featuring clear, calm water for snorkeling and learning to swim; or, for shell collectors and young naturalists, sandy stretches carpeted with seashells or bordered by tide pools. For castle builders, fine sand is a must, while would-be surfers need tidy waves, ready to ride. Here are six great beaches in the United States and Baja California for family-favorite summer activities.

For castle builders: Mission Beach , San Diego

San Diego’s temperate climate allows for barefoot beach days year-round. For those who’d rather build with sand than lie in it, Mission Beach has another advantage: San Diego Sand Castles and the sand sculptor JT Estrela. Mr. Estrela, a former math teacher, offers lessons in the art of sand castle construction on this family-friendly Southern California beach, where the sand is perfect for castle building: The grains are fine but not too silty, clean below the tide line, free of shells and rocks, and pack hard.

In his two-to-three-hour sessions (starting at $160 for two people, $20 for each additional person), Mr. Estrela works with families to build elaborate five-foot-tall castles. The goal is for participants to “feel like this insider of arcane knowledge,” he said.

While the best sand in the San Diego area is at the offshore city of Coronado in San Diego Bay, Mr. Estrela prefers working with families at Mission Beach. Known for its boardwalk amusement park, Belmont Park ; historic beachfront swimming pool, the Plunge ; and excellent playgrounds, it’s particularly fun for kids. The smell of cotton candy and hot dogs hangs in the air, mingling with shrieks from the Giant Dipper, Belmont’s 1925 wooden roller coaster, squawking sea gulls and salt spray. Its biggest downside is its popularity, which means parking can be a challenge.

For new swimmers: Onekahakaha Beach Park , Hilo, Hawaii

In an archipelago known for spectacular beaches, Onekahakaha Beach Park , on the rugged, volcanic coast of the Big Island, may seem a counterintuitive choice. At Onekahakaha, with its two large, sandy-bottomed ocean pools enclosed by lava rock walls and backed by palm trees and an expansive grassy lawn, the sand is mostly below the surface.

Separated from the Pacific Ocean’s notoriously powerful waves and rip currents, the seawater within the pools is warm and placid, protected and shallow, which makes it excellent for little kids learning to swim, as well as for older kids to snorkel. It’s also home to nonthreatening marine life (no sharks here), including green sea turtles.

Though the water is only about waist-deep on an adult, there are lifeguards, adding to Onekahakaha’s reputation for safety. And without a wide swath of sand between the pools and the shoreline path, the water is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. There’s also a swing set, picnic tables and proximity to the lush Hilo area.

As long as you’re on the Big Island, the site of several active volcanoes, visit the thermal pools alongside some of its beaches, including Pohoiki Black Sand Beach at Isaac Hale Beach Park , 40 miles south of Onekahakaha. The ocean there may be a bit rough for young swimmers, but it’s a great place to show children a fresh lava flow.

For would-be surfers: Wrightsville Beach , N.C.

Wrightsville Beach is considered by many surf historians to be the home of East Coast surfing and one of the first places outside Polynesia and the Pacific Rim for the sport to catch on .

It also has some of the best beginner’s breaks in the United States , said Sean Griffin, 37, a surfing instructor and the father of a 5-year-old, who started riding the local break when he was 8.

He points out that Wrightsville is the only surfing beach in the state that has clear, blue water. Being able to see one’s hands and feet and the sandy bottom “makes anyone feel more comfortable in the ocean,” he said.

At Surf With Sean , Mr. Griffin offers private 90-minute lessons ($95 to $120) to surfers as young as 3 and into their 80s, as well as surf camps for kids ($425 per week). “There’s no reason they shouldn’t be able to learn or give it a shot,” said Mr. Griffin, who provides all gear in all sizes, including adaptive equipment.

There’s more to the area’s kid appeal than its waves. Mr. Griffin points to Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier , at the center of the beach, where his son “loves seeing all the salty fisherman pulling in fish,” and the big, modern playground at Wrightsville Beach Park .

For tide pool explorers: Carkeek Park , Seattle

Naomi Tomky — a lifelong Seattleite, author of “ The Pacific Northwest Seafood Cookbook ” and mother of two daughters, 6 and 8 — recommends Carkeek Park in Seattle for an immersive experience in Puget Sound marine life. At low tide, Ms. Tomky said, the narrow beach “just goes out for ages,” exposing tide pools filled with starfish, sea snails, anemones and “many, many crabs, from the size of your fingernail to the size of your hand.”

Unlike tide-pooling elsewhere on the West Coast, where the powerful Pacific Ocean requires caution because of dangerous sneaker waves , Puget Sound is rich with life but calm enough for Ms. Tomky to let her daughters explore on their own.

Just 30 minutes from downtown Seattle, Carkeek is part of the Seattle Aquarium’s Beach Naturalist Program , which sends naturalists to various shorelines around the area.

Along with the below-the-tide-line intrigue, Carkeek is also known for an annual spectacle: spawning salmon. In the fall, it’s possible to stand over the park’s Piper’s Creek and watch the fish — a sacred Indigenous symbol of the Pacific Northwest — on the run.

“It’s one of the coolest things you can see,” said Ms. Tomky, “to understand how these fish share the city with us as they swim back into their former home.”

For shell hunters: Tigertail Beach , Marco Island, Fla.

Sanibel Island, a barrier island just off Fort Myers, Fla., is one of the most famous shelling destinations on the planet. That popularity comes with a downside: It’s often picked over by enthusiasts who hit the shoreline at dawn. The island is also still recovering from Hurricane Ian, which badly damaged its infrastructure in 2022.

As an alternative, the shelling guide Evan Kuperman (a.k.a. Captain Evan) recommends Tigertail Beach on Marco Island, about an hour south.

Mr. Kuperman, a Florida master naturalist , operates Sand Dollar Shelling Tours . His tours ($125 per adult, $90 per child, and families of up to six people for $650) take guests by boat to places like the Ten Thousand Islands , a mangrove mud flat habitat and National Wildlife Refuge.

For visitors unable to join one of his trips, Mr. Kuperman said that Tigertail, a publicly accessible beach ($8 parking fee), offers exceptional shelling.

Marco Island is more built up than Sanibel, but Tigertail, at the island’s north end, is a county-owned park with a lagoon and a position facing the Gulf of Mexico that lends itself to accumulating seashells, including rare and striking ones, like the spiny ornamented lace murex and reddish brown banded tulip .

But everyone is hoping for a junonia, or Juno’s volute, a sea snail that has to travel far in churning waters to reach the beach intact. “You don’t find it,” said Mr. Kuperman, “it finds you.”

For young snorkelers: Playa el Chileno , Los Cabos, Mexico

About halfway between bustling Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Playa el Chileno is no longer an undeveloped local secret. Now backed by the sprawling Auberge resort Chileno Bay Resort & Residences , the beach remains public and comparatively tranquil. Awarded the Blue Flag certification for meeting stringent environmental standards, Chileno is exceptionally well maintained.

While catamaran snorkeling tours come and go from Chileno Bay, it’s also possible to reach the reef from the shore, which makes it good for inexperienced snorkelers who might find it intimidating to leap into deep water without easing their way in. High Tide Sea Expeditions offers snorkeling excursions via kayak that start at nearby Playa Santa Maria, hug the coast and arrive at Chileno by water. For younger kids and anyone who prefers more time in the water, there’s a guided two-hour tour that visits both beaches by car ($95 to $130 per person, including equipment).

Among the roughly 50 species of fish that snorkelers might encounter along Chileno’s rocky outcroppings and coral reef, there are large tuna, sea turtles, puffer fish, Panamic green moray eels, Cortez angelfish and blacknosed butterflyfish — among many other colorful creatures. The coral here is less vibrant than some places, but the number and variety of fish are thrilling.

Freda Moon, a frequent contributor to the Travel section, lives on a boat in San Francisco Bay with her husband and two kids. Her upcoming National Geographic book with the coauthor Ashley Harrell, “100 Beaches of a Lifetime,” will be published next year.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Get Out on the Water This Summer

3 6 Hours in Traverse City, Mich.:  Explore the laid-back city loved for its annual cherry festival, unspoiled lake vistas and access to epic dunes .

6 Great Beaches for Families:  For families with children, we found half a dozen beaches in the United States and Mexico , each tailored to a particular summer activity.

Surfing in Texas: A wave pool in Waco offers consistent conditions, affordable prices and a friendly vibe for beginner surfers .

Hidden Island Treasures: Being far from everywhere is the point in the Magdalens, a colorful and tranquil Quebec island chain  north of Prince Edward Island.

A Famous Massachusetts Inn: A writer returns to a classic Nantucket hotel, where he worked 50 years ago, to ponder how he, the island, and the newly refurbished inn have changed .

5 Waterfront Hotels : Whether it’s by a river, lake or ocean, or in a castle, cottage or on the site of a former torpedo factory, here are places to stay where the water is never far away .

Escape Cancun crowds: 8 quieter Mexico beach towns for your next vacation

• Cancun is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, but there are a plethora of other, less popular Mexican beach towns just waiting to enchant travelers.
• From charming surf towns to snorkeling along sea turtles, travelers should explore the diverse beauty of the rest of Mexico’s expansive coastline.
• With no shortage of warm weather, sun and surf throughout Mexico, these destinations offer a quieter, less crowded experience.

Cancun reigns as one of the world’s top tourist destinations, and there’s no mystery why. The Caribbean Sea-adjacent locale has a myriad of sprawling beach resorts, clear turquoise waters and a vibrant nightlife. In 2023, Cancun welcomed over 21 million tourists .

While Cancun is beautiful and lively, there are a plethora of other, less popular Mexican beach towns just waiting to enchant travelers. From charming surf towns to snorkeling along sea turtles, travelers should explore the diverse beauty of the rest of Mexico’s expansive coastline.

With no shortage of warm weather, sun and surf throughout Mexico, these destinations offer a quieter, less crowded experience than enjoying Cancun alongside 30 million other tourists. 

Far Homes spotted hidden gems across Mexico’s coast, looking at the destinations’ natural beauty, recreational activity offerings, safety and accessibility to learn and experience the local culture. To assess each town’s safety ratings, Far Homes released a report looking at crime statistics from data by the Executive Secretary of the National Security System. While some of these spots are known to attract tourists, they’re nowhere near as saturated as Cancun or Cabo. 

Here are eight under-the-radar beach towns in Mexico to consider adding to your travel list.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Cancun without the crowds: Meet Isla Mujeres, a quieter Mexican getaway

Located about an hour from Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita perfectly balances bustling and mellow energy. “Sayulita is a fun little town full of eclectic restaurants and shops,” said Gene Alvarez, a local real estate agent from Net Real Estate who works with Far Homes. “With several great surf breaks and a laid-back atmosphere, it attracts surfers, backpackers, and bohemians.” It’s easy to get around for travelers not well-versed in Spanish, and many people rent mopeds or golf carts to cruise around the town. While the main beach in town, Playa Sayulita, can be crowded for both surfers and beachgoers, travelers can head north to the neighboring village of Playa San Pancho for quieter, more serene beaches.

Fly into Cancun Airport and head about three hours south to Akumal for a quieter escape from Cancun and Tulum. Scoring high with Far Homes for its natural beauty, Akumal has become more known among travelers for its pristine beaches and lush jungles. Must-dos in Akumal include snorkeling with sea turtles in the clear waters of the marine protected area of Half Moon Bay and swimming in the enclosed cenote Yal-Ku Lagoon, said local real estate agent Rob Kinnon from BuyPlaya. Just 15 minutes south is the famous Tulum Archaeological Site, where Mayan ruins made of limestone sit perched upon a cliff.

Puerto Escondido

Located in the Pacific Ocean-facing state of Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido is a rising destination for its world-class surfing breaks and easy-going lifestyle. Travelers can fly directly to Puerto Escondido International Airport, less than two miles from town. “From the trendy bars of Zicatela to the laid back vibes of La Punta, the town has something for everyone,” said local real estate agent Jon Ferioli from Bayside Real Estate. “And with nods from international magazines, Puerto Escondido is quickly becoming the go-to spot for digital nomads seeking inspiration and connection.” The town scored high for its activities offerings. Even if you don’t want to brave the often powerful waves, travelers can go on crocodile boat tours through the mangroves, witness the glowing bioluminescent plankton in two of the nearby lagoons at night, or visit Casa Wabi, a contemporary art and architecture museum. 

Isla Holbox

If you’re really itching to escape the crowds, head to Isla Holbox, a 26-mile-long car-free island located right off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. While the island has grown in popularity and therefore development, it still offers travelers a secluded beachside retreat. Travelers can wander the streets, which are paved in sand, barefoot or in golf carts – the main mode of transportation on the skinny island. To get there, travelers fly to Cancun International Airport then travel by car for two hours to Chiquila to board a 15-minute ferry ride to the island. While it may take more effort to visit Isla Holbox over Cancun or Cabo, it’s well worth it. The resort town ranks high for natural beauty, including bioluminescent lagoons and whale shark tours, and safety. 

Those seeking out the sun and sand will find Huatulco to be paradise with its 36 beaches and nine bays, and endlessly sunny weather. Less developed than Puerto Vallarta and Cancun, the small resort town offers activities like kayaking, hiking waterfalls or scuba diving, and is bordered by the Huatulco National Park. Of course, travelers can just relax on the beach as well. To get there, travelers can fly into Bahias de Huatulco International Airport, a short hour-and-a-half flight from Mexico City. “The international airport is only 10 minutes away, and the area attracts tourists looking for a more authentic Mexican experience and small-town feeling,” said Brent May, founder and CEO of Bayside Real Estate. 

Located on the Pacific coast in Oaxaca, Zipolite’s former hippie culture is still retained with its laidback, rustic charm and a focus on eco-tourism. The community evolved around a hippie beach culture and has now become known for its excellent restaurants, bars, trendy boutique hotels, and low-key party culture,” said May. Over an hour’s drive from Puerto Escondido International Airport, the town scored high for activities and safety, and there are not as many tourist traps as in the more developed parts of Mexico. The massive Zipolite beach remains Mexico’s only legal nude beach, but there’s also a western end known for surfing and a small eastern bay called Playa del Amor that's known among the LGTBTQ+ community. “

This sleepy fishing village of Mahahual has grown in popularity among travelers, thanks partly to cruise ships. However, it still has much to offer travelers, ranking high for culture and safety by Far Homes. “This charming coastal town is best explored by bicycle,” said Gaby Ortiz, sales manager at Maya Ocean, a local real estate broker. “As you pedal through its scenic streets, you can lose track of time, immersed in the natural beauty and tranquility of your surroundings.” To get to Mahahual, travelers can fly into Chetumal International Airport and drive for about two hours. Travelers eager to experience vibrant marine life will find Mahahual to be the perfect destination. Spanning nearly 72 miles, the largest barrier reef system in Mexico and the Caribbean, Banco Chinchorro, is just an hour-long boat ride away. The UNESCO biosphere reserve is home to coral, American crocodiles, rays, turtles, nurse sharks and even sunken ships. On land, travelers can visit the Museum of Costa Maya and the Chacchoben Mayan ruins to learn more about local history and culture. 

Todos Santos 

About an hour’s drive from Los Cabos International Airport on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Todos Santos is known as a haven for artists and creatives as well as its colonial architecture. Nestled between the coast and the desert, the town ranked highly for natural beauty, safety and culture with Far Homes. If travelers venture away from the bustling town center – home to boutique galleries, shops and restaurants – they can go surfing at the nearby Playa Los Cerritos or hike the coast of Punta Lobos. “At one time a small fishing village, Todos Santos now boasts several chic hotels and world-class dining, but it hasn’t lost its indie soul. Make sure to stop at Jazamango for a true Todos Santos dining experience,” said Nancy Costa, a local real estate agent with Costa Cabo Realty. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Jupiter High baseball coaches used fund-raising money for travel to conferences, IG finds

While the review of the team's financials is complete, the school district is also investigating complaints about a toxic environment on the team..

Jupiter High School's baseball team coaches used $6,000 from student fundraising to pay for coach trips to Nashville and Daytona Beach, overpaid "consultants" by more than $3,000 and required players to raise $1,200 each in order to play, more than double other teams in the area, a special review of the team's activities has found.

The school district is also investigating parent complaints about a toxic environment on the team, including allegations that an assistant coach verbally abused and body-shamed players about their weight, and another complaint stating that a volunteer had pleaded no contest in 2014 to a disqualifying drug offense and shouldn't have been allowed to work with the team.

The school board on Wednesday, June 13 approved the review of the team's financial practices. The auditor's recommendations include requiring former head coach Andy Mook and his assistant coaches to pay back $3,339 to the school district.

New Warriors on the block: Joe Giummule takes over Jupiter baseball for 2024-25 season

Mook resigned after 13 years with the team in December, the same month the school district began its investigation into allegations of his misconduct.

Jupiter High School Principal Colleen Iannitti formally responded to each part of the district's review and promised to follow all district financial policies for athletic teams. Iannitti also reported that Mook and the assistant coach accused of body-shaming players are no longer involved with the program. The school has hired Joe Giummule to take the reins beginning this upcoming school year.

Mook did not respond to two separate requests for comment.

Jupiter High baseball team coaches paid for trips to Nashville, Daytona Beach with student-raised money

Five complaints from parents between April 2023 and February 2024 prompted the school district's inspector general to review the baseball team's financial practices.

The complaints, four of which were anonymous, claimed that Mook's baseball team was possibly mismanaging money raised and contributed by students and their families. The complaints also said Mook and assistant coach Alex McCall were creating a hostile environment on the team by shaming players for their body size.

Another parent complained that Mook allowed volunteer Spencer Preston to work with the team although he should have been disqualified from employment that required direct contact with students due to a 2014 felony drug charge.

Preston was charged with selling or delivering cannabis within 1,000 feet of a school by the Martin County Sheriff's Office. Adjudication was withheld.

Inspector General Teresa Michael's office reviewed the financial allegations and sent the complaints about the team's culture and the felony charge to two other agencies in the school district to investigate.

On the financial side, the district found that Mook, another unnamed coach and an unnamed volunteer improperly reimbursed themselves more than $15,000 throughout 2023 for baseball team expenses that they paid with their personal credit cards .

The inspector general found that it's unusual for 22% of a program's budget to be spent on reimbursements to coaches who put expenses on their personal cards instead of using district-approved processes for buying products from approved vendors using a central account. Those expenses were approved by Iannitti, who was not investigated by the inspector general.

But not all of those expenses were legitimate.

About $6,000 of the money reimbursed to baseball team coaches was for three coaches to attend the Florida Athletic Coaches Association conference in Daytona Beach in December 2022. Mook and another coach also traveled to the American Baseball Coaches Association conference in Nashville in January 2023.

Mook reimbursed himself $6,214 for those expenses from the baseball team's main account, which is funded through student fees and contributions.

School district policy prohibits teams from using student fundraising money to pay for adult travel, instead stipulating that operating accounts, administrative accounts, facility rental accounts, booster club funds or donations earmarked for coaching clinics must pay for that travel.

The review also found that Mook overpaid two "consultant coaches" a total of $3,075 for conferences on top of their consulting contracts.

Finally, the review found the coaches accepted more than $4,500 in Zelle and Venmo payments from students and members of the public for entry into the team's golf tournament, participation in the year-end banquet and other fundraisers. The coaches deposited the money into the team's account, but school district policy prohibits using third-party payment apps to collect money for athletic teams.

The inspector general noted that without access to the coaches' personal bank accounts, it's impossible to tell whether all the Venmo and Zelle payments were ultimately deposited into the team accounts.

The review recommends that Mook and the other coaches involved be required to pay more than $3,300 back to the school. Jupiter High will also need to reimburse the baseball team for the $6,000 in adult travel that was financed through money raised by students.

Jupiter High students have to pay more to play varsity baseball than surrounding teams

Michael's office also found that Jupiter High baseball players were required to raise money or contribute more than double the amount of other teams nearby.

During the 2023-24 school year, players on the team were responsible for raising $1,200 each to fund the baseball program under the school's "fair share" contribution model, a common practice across district high school athletic teams and band programs.

The "fair share" program requires players to either fundraise $1,200 or opt out by writing the program a check so each player equally finances the team's activities for the season. Some schools and programs offer scholarships to help families pay for their required "fair share" fees. But Jupiter's "fair share" fees for baseball players far outpaced nearby William T. Dwyer and Palm Beach Gardens high school teams.

Gardens High did not charge any fee to participate, but the team required players to raise money for the team's efforts. Dwyer High's baseball team's "fair share" fee was $500 for varsity players and $350 for junior varsity players. All three baseball teams have 23 or 24 members, but Jupiter's baseball team has seven coaches, while the other two programs have five.

Jupiter High, Dwyer High and Gardens High are all highly competitive baseball programs that have traded off top spots in the district's baseball scene in recent years. Dwyer won the Class 6A state championship this spring. Jupiter's last state championship was in 2018.

Katherine Kokal is a journalist covering education at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at [email protected] . Help support our work; subscribe today!

Protect Your Trip »

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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Our travel writer shares his New England summertime favorites, from the best beach to the perfect miniature golf course

Tell us your favorites in the comments..

B URLINGTON, Vt. — I knew I had found the ideal bike trail when I pedaled past a sign that read, “Today! Maple Creemees.”

Any bike trail near an ice cream stand selling decadent maple creemees already has a huge advantage over all others. But even without the ice cream stand, the Island Line Trail is stellar. The 14-mile bike path, which was once the route of the Island Line Railroad, hugs the shore of Lake Champlain and, for three miles, offers a unique experience of biking over the lake. There’s a gap in the trail to let boat traffic through, but fear not, a bike ferry takes cyclists from one side of the trail to the other.

The trail is primarily flat, so you don’t need to train on a Peloton or worry about your fitness level. I biked the Island Line round trip earlier this month and didn’t break a sweat. Keep in mind that my normal exercise routine is raising an arm to signal a server that I’m ready for another glass of wine, and even I could complete the ride. Near the start of the trail, you’ll find Local Motion Bike Rentals , which rents standard or electric bikes. I recommend reserving online in advance to sidestep disappointment. On a warm, breezy day, the Island Line Trail is perfection.

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It may sound brazen, but I’m declaring Island Line the best bike trail in New England. And that’s just the start. After years of disagreeing with best-of lists, I decided to create my own. I’ve lived in New England my entire life, and for the past decade, I’ve enjoyed exploring it further for work. I’ve seen influencers with far less experience and acumen declare themselves experts. Why not me?

I carefully pondered categories, leafed through old notebooks, and consulted with fellow New Englanders. So, my friends, here it is, the inaugural edition of Christopher Muther’s Completely Random and Highly Personal List of New England Summertime Favorites.

Best Beach: Misquamicut State Beach

Declaring any beach superior to another is a sure way to upset New Englanders. They’re either angry you didn’t mention their favorite beach, or they’re angry you did. I’m calling Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, R.I., the best because it has more facilities than most (playground, concessions, outdoor showers, and wheelchair accessibility), plus, the ocean water will not give you frostbite. I love Ogunquit Beach in Maine, but I’m just not a cold plunge kind of guy. When you’re done at Misquamicut, grab a drink on the Verandah at the Ocean House , which is just 10 minutes away. 257 Atlantic Ave., Westerly, R.I., riparks.ri.gov/beaches .

Best Miniature Golf Course: Putters Paradise & Ice Cream

This is one of the most challenging categories to narrow down. New England has so many old-school miniature golf courses with amazingly kitschy obstacles that I felt guilty choosing one. My first inclination was to give the win to the delightfully bizarre Miniature Golf on the Village Green in Natick. The 60-year-old course is focused on the American Revolution, and kids are always begging to play American Revolution-themed miniature golf. With apologies to the Founding Fathers and Natick, I think the best course can be found at Putters Paradise Mini Golf & Ice Cream in West Yarmouth. It’s filled with memorable obstacles (A pink octopus named Princess Tina! A maniacally happy dolphin!), and the course is well-maintained and challenging enough for all ages. 119 MA-28, West Yarmouth, 508-771-7394, www.puttersparadise.net .

Best Boston Roof Deck: Long Bar, Raffles Boston

Boston’s rooftop eating and drinking scene has experienced a growth spurt over the past decade, which made choosing a favorite city roof deck harder than I anticipated. I was ready to give this category to Deck 12 at the Yotel in the Seaport (and I still recommend it), but the patio at the Long Bar elevates al fresco imbibing, and not simply because it’s located on the 17th floor of a posh hotel. There are some drawbacks to the terrace at the Long Bar. It’s a hard place to score a table, and the menu isn’t necessarily wallet-friendly. But the views of the Back Bay and the innovative cocktails make up for its shortcomings. Pick a special occasion, or make one up, as an excuse to experience it. 40 Trinity Place, Boston, 617-351-8888, www.raffles.com/boston .

Best Glamping: Huttopia White Mountains

Huttopia, a French-owned chain of glampgrounds, has found the magic formula between old-school camping and modern comfort. Their tents (particularly the Trappeur tent) actually feels like camping. It’s still a canvas tent, but it also has a bathroom, comfy beds, and a basic kitchen inside. You can opt for a more rustic experience (the tiny Bonaventure tent), or go full glam in the modern and chic Vista tiny house. Either way, make s’mores by the fire at night and pretend you’re roughing it. The New Hampshire location is situated on 50 acres of lakefront forest and is in the heart of the White Mountains. There’s also Huttopia in Sanford, Maine . Prices generally range from $125 to $350 depending on the season and availability. Pine Knoll Road, Albany, N.H., 603-447-3131, canada-usa.huttopia.com .

Best Way to Beat Summer Traffic: CapeFlyer

I’m here to deliver good news, and, of course, bad news. The good news (in case you missed it, and a lot of people have) is that there’s train service between Boston and Cape Cod. The CapeFlyer has been around for 11 years and runs from South Station to Hyannis with stops in Braintree, Middleborough, Wareham Village, and Buzzards Bay. It’s 2 hours and 20 minutes of watching scenery instead of taillights. The bad news is that the CapeFlyer’s schedule is incredibly limited. The train runs one round trip per day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. On Saturday and Sunday, trains depart South Station for Hyannis at 7:45 a.m., and depart Hyannis back to Boston at 6:10 p.m. On Fridays, the train runs in the evening. Boston-to-Hyannis round trip tickets are $40 ($20 for seniors). You can bring your bike on the train at no charge, or, when you get to Hyannis, you can take the free trolley service around the town and to the beach. capeflyer.com .

Best Hike: Flying Mountain Loop, Southwest Harbor

Flying Mountain Loop in Acadia National Park isn’t a well-guarded secret trail only used by locals and in-the-know hikers. It’s quite popular. Despite this, I’ve never encountered crowds when I hike Flying Mountain. That could also be because I steer clear on weekends, or perhaps vacationers are more intent on tackling better-known hikes. Their loss is our gain. Flying Mountain is the shortest labeled peak in Acadia, but despite the limited height, it offers sweeping views. It’s a quick, mile-and-a-half round trip hike. The trail is labeled moderate, so it’s better for kids who are a little older and active adults. But it’s a limited physical investment with a big payoff. In less than an hour, you see Somes Sound and the surrounding mountains stretched all around you. The entire hike usually takes less than two hours, but it can go much longer depending on how often you stop to gaze at the scenery. 96 Fernald Point Road, Southwest Harbor, Maine, www.nps.gov .

Best Maple Creemee: Canteen Creemee Company

I’m brazenly declaring a lot of superlatives in this list, but even I’m not foolish enough to think I could possibly choose the best place to get ice cream in New England. It’s like trying to choose which one of your cats (or, for most people, children) you love most. But, I’ve eaten more maple creemees than anyone should be legally allowed to consume in a lifetime, and can hands-down say that the Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield, Vt., has perfected the creamier-than-soft-serve creemee. It’s rich, smooth, and the maple tastes fresh. Canteen Creemee gets inventive with chocolate, cinnamon, and ginger creemees, and by all means, you should try them. But their best offering remains the original maple. 5123 Main St., Waitsfield, Vt., 802-496-6003, www.canteencreemee.com .

Best Beachfront Bargain Lodging: The Surfside Hotel

Escaping to a seaside hotel at the height of summer in New England is not for the faint of heart. Both procuring a reservation and paying the nightly rate can be daunting. However, there’s a dreamy retro hotel on Long Island Sound in Connecticut that was recently renovated, sits on the beach, and is priced around $250 a night through most of July and August (price always changes with demand and availability). The Surfside Hotel in Stratford opened just after the pandemic with rooms that look like a breezy mashup between the Hamptons and Southern California. I’m highlighting the Surfside in an effort to get you to check out the beaches in this part of New England, and also so you’ll explore the rest of Stratford. The town has 18 miles of shore, plus a museum dedicated to railroad and model railroading ( Boothe Memorial Park and Museum ), the National Helicopter Museum , the Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum , and even a museum dedicated to the Merritt Parkway. You laugh now, but on a rainy day when you can’t go to the beach, you’ll be thanking me for the Merritt Parkway Museum recommendation. 10 Washington Parkway, Stratford, Conn., 475-476-7873, www.thesurfside.com .

Best Fried Clams: Bob’s Clam Hut

New Englanders are obsessed with lobster rolls. We debate what temperature they should be served at, if they should be dressed with mayonnaise or butter, and if the roll should be grilled or not. While all of that crustacean controversy is happening, I’m content to sit in the corner, away from the cross fire, and devour a basket of fried clams. Unlike the lobster fracas, there’s no bickering over what constitutes a perfect batch of fried clams. They should be meaty, but not rubbery. Hot, but not just-out-of-the-fryer scalding. Battered, but not lost in breading, and just a touch over-salted. We are blessed to live amongst so many clam shacks, but there’s one that makes them best. Bob’s Clam Hut has been perfecting the art of frying clams since 1956. I’m not the kind of person who takes pictures of their food, but everytime I’m at Bob’s, I take a photo of my fried clams and text it to my mom to make her jealous. She does the same. Strangely, I never tire of seeing those pictures. 315 US-1, Kittery, Maine, 207-439-4233, bobsclamhut.com .

Christopher Muther can be reached at [email protected] . Follow him @Chris_Muther and Instagram @chris_muther.

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10 Best Beach Towns in South Carolina, According to Locals

These are the best beach towns in South Carolina — from Charleston favorites to lesser-known ocean-front communities.

Dan Reynolds Photography/Getty Images

South Carolina is divided into four distinct regions: the Lowcountry, the Pee Dee, the Midlands, and the Upstate. While the latter two are beautiful in their own right, the first two can claim the state’s coastal areas — including its famous laid-back beach towns. From Myrtle Beach down to Hilton Head Island, wide stretches of sand, palmetto trees, bike paths, quaint boardwalks, and fresh seafood abound. 

I’ve spent much of my life frequenting the Palmetto State’s beach towns — visiting Kiawah Island every year and even living in Charleston for a period. So using my own experience, as well as the expertise of a few locals, we narrowed down the list of the best beach towns in South Carolina to 10. See if your favorite made the cut below.

Folly Beach

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

"As someone who lives 10 minutes from Folly Beach, I certainly feel like I am on vacation where I live,” Katie Hirsch, the director and chief curator of the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art , tells Travel + Leisure . It’s one of the closest beach towns to Charleston, so it’s a great option for a day trip if you’re visiting the Holy City; just be sure to arrive on the earlier side if you want to beat the crowds and have an easier time parking. Plus, “if you're an early riser,” says Hirsch, you might want to “try finding shark teeth during a morning beach walk.” She also recommends grabbing some food at local favorite Jack of Cups Saloon for “unexpected bites inspired by Asian cuisine.”

Related: This South Carolina Beach Town Is a Local Favorite — and It's Just Outside Charleston

Hilton Head Island

"Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to escape to if you want to be near a beach town but want a different environment from Charleston,” explains Hirsch. “It has modern touches but still keeps its Southern charm, appealing to both tourists and locals alike.” Hilton Head is known for its golf courses and bike trails, but there’s something for everyone on the 12-mile-long, five-mile-wide island. Gullah heritage tours, boat rides, paddleboarding, and birding are all itinerary contenders, and Hirsch also says the destination has “some of the best thrift stores.” If that’s up your alley, save an afternoon for exploring the goods at The Bargain Box , My Sister’s Closet, and The Church Mouse .

Related : 16 Best Things to Do on Hilton Head Island — From Golfing to History Tours

Isle of Palms

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I’ve spent countless days on Isle of Palms, a small barrier island just under 30 minutes from downtown Charleston. It’s one of the more family-friendly beaches in the area, with many visitors opting to stay at Wild Dunes Resort or rent a roomy oceanfront home. No matter where you are on the island, though, its leisurely pace, wide beach, and classic small-town features will entice visitors of all ages. One of my favorite things to do on “IOP,” as the locals call it, is to grab dinner at Islander 71 and watch the boats come in and out of the marina. I’d also recommend checking out the live music schedule at The Windjammer — or picking up a to-go frosé from The Co-Op .

Sullivan’s Island

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Named one of the best beach towns on the East Coast , Sullivan’s Island continues to be a favorite — especially for Charlestonians. “The beach is very relaxed, and the marsh views are second to none,” says Betsy Fuller, owner of A Maker’s Post . “If you’re visiting, I’d recommend taking a long beach walk ending at Station 22.5, so you can head into ‘town,’ aka Middle Street, to do a little shopping.” This part of Sullivan’s Island is popular for its various eateries; there’s everything from Mexican and barbecue to burgers and seafood. Fuller recommends getting a table at High Thyme or The Obstinate Daughter — then grabbing a nightcap at Dunleavy’s.

Related : How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Sullivan's Island, South Carolina

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The second-oldest city in South Carolina, Beaufort is often compared to Charleston; it’s historic, beautiful, and filled with oak trees and amazing architecture. Its proximity to the water is also a perk. Similarly to Charleston, you’ll have to drive a bit out of the main hub to get to the beach. If you don’t mind parking your beach chair by Battery Creek, rather than the Atlantic Ocean, make your way to the Sands Beach on the southern end of Port Royal. The beach is free to the public, and there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained, including shark tooth hunting, a boardwalk, and an observation tower. For true oceanfront beaches, you’ll need to drive to Hunting Island State Park, where five miles of beautiful beaches live alongside marshes, a saltwater lagoon, and maritime forests. 

Related: This Small Coastal Town in South Carolina Has Charleston-like Charm Without the Crowds

Pawleys Island

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Relaxation is paramount when you’re visiting Pawleys Island, a barrier island beach town located between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. This is the type of place where time automatically slows, where you’re encouraged to log off, and where you can see the unparalleled natural splendor of South Carolina’s coast. Spend your days crabbing, surfing (if the waves permit), fishing, golfing, or dining on classic Lowcountry staples; just don’t forget to save time for the art of doing absolutely nothing. For a particularly rejuvenating getaway, book a room at The Pelican Inn , an eight-bedroom bed-and-breakfast with a number of reading nooks and places to take a nap. 

Murrells Inlet

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Murrells Inlet, or the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” makes this list for a few reasons. For starters, the historic fishing village has a feature known as MarshWalk. The wooden boardwalk spans a half-mile along a natural saltwater estuary and several restaurants, including Bovine’s , Wahoo’s Fish House , and The Claw House . In between trips to the far-from-crowded Huntington Beach State Park , visitors should make a point to stop by Brookgreen Gardens , a zoo and 9,100-acre sculpture garden. Murrells Inlet was also previously the location of Goat Island, which Hirsch calls a “spectacle to see,” but as of 2023, the resident goats have been replaced with metal goat replicas as high tides posed too much of a threat to the animals.

Edisto Beach

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Edisto Beach isn’t your typical, buzzy beach town — and that’s the beauty of it. There are no stoplights, high rises, or chain restaurants on the entirety of Edisto Island, and the beach town itself wholeheartedly embraces the magic of slow living. For entertainment, visitors can (respectfully) explore the 4.5 miles of coastline, take a dip in the ocean, and search for shells, shark teeth, and other fossils that may wash up on shore. Biking, kayaking, and dolphin tours are also favorite vacation additions. But if there’s absolutely one thing you can’t miss while visiting Edisto Beach? The glorious sunsets. Bring a blanket to Edisto Beach State Park, sit back, and enjoy the show. 

Related: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Edisto Island, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach

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Myrtle Beach may technically be a city, but it has all of the trappings of your classic beach town. There’s a bustling boardwalk, golf courses, go-karts, souvenir shopping, and, of course, a number of public beaches. “I’ve always been drawn to the nostalgia that you can find on Myrtle Beach,” says Fuller. “One of my favorite movies, “Shag,” is set there, and whenever I watch it, I daydream about going back to visit the beach town in the 1950s.” And while it might be synonymous with spring break crowds and families on summer vacation, this is a destination that delivers — whether you’re hoping to spend the day by the water or keeping your schedule full, from sun-up to sundown. 

Related: 25 Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Kiawah Island

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“Beach town” has different associations for different people. To me, a beach town is somewhere that’s easily navigable by bike; it’s a place with only a few shops that all, for the most part, sell some form of sun hat or location-specific t-shirt. In South Carolina, a beach town also evokes a nostalgic mix of humidity, salt water, and the smell of pluff mud. Kiawah Island meets all of these criteria — and then some. A majority of the island functions as a gated private community, accessible only to residents, their guests, and those with reservations, though there are a couple of areas open to the public, namely Kiawah Beachwalker Park and Freshfields Village. At the latter, you can load up on all your vacation essentials — groceries, beach reads, bathing suits, and more. 

Related: This Small South Carolina Island Has 10 Miles of Pristine Beaches and One of the Best Resorts in the State