Is there anything better than lying on a beautiful beach watching the waves come in? All this snow we’ve got in the UK right now has inevitably meant my mind has wandered to warmer climes. Relaxing holidays aren’t really my thing, but I do love everything that comes with a beach destination: swimming in warm seas, snorkelling, hiking along coastal trails, not to mention the abundance of fresh fruit you often get.
Here are 6 ultimate beach destinations that have made my wishlist. Have you visited any of these? Where else would you add to the list? Let me know in the comments!
Costa Rica
Costa Rica in Central America is blessed with both a Pacific and a Caribbean coast. It’s no wonder then that it has some stunning beaches. Costa Rica is an ideal destination if you’re after more than just flopping on the beach.
Head to the Guanacaste Province on the Pacific Ocean for Tamarindo Beach where you can try surfing or the quieter Langosta beach nearby to escape crowds. Nicoya Peninsula, also on the Pacific coast, is filled with fabulous beaches and plenty of hiking opportunities in the lush rainforest that forms the backdrop to the ocean. There’s also Manuel Antonio National Park, where some beaches lie within the boundaries of the park and you’ll spot sloths, iguanas, squirrels monkeys and much more. Venture a little further into Manuel Antonio and you may even get a beach to yourself.
Over on the Caribbean coast, the gorgeous Playa Tortuguero often has colourful parrots flying over it; you may even see some of the leatherback turtles that come here to nest.
Seychelles
The Seychelles, located off the coast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean, is the quintessential beach destination. The beaches are stunning, and it is easy to get around if you want to explore the area. On your visit to the Seychelles, start off at the island of Mahé and you will find secluded beaches and boats that will take you to many of the other islands. Head over to of Praslin Island where you will find great accommodation and the stunning beach of Anse Lazio. Spend a day on La Digue Island where you can relax in the tranquil beauty of the Anse Source D’Argent beach.
The Algarve
The Algarve is situated on the south coast of Portugal and there are many fabulous beaches to visit. Salema and Praia da Marinha are sheltered from the wind and they are safe for swimmers of all skill levels. Praia do Ancão, Almancil is fabulous beach that is popular with both locals and tourists and there are lots of great restaurants in the area.
For a more active break, head north slightly to Costa Vicentina National Park for cliff climbing and coastal hiking trails.
Mauritius
Another stunning island in the Indian Ocean, the tropical paradise of Mauritius is located east of Madagascar. Mauritius has some of the clearest waters I’ve ever seen. There is so much to see and do on a holiday to Mauritius, and the beaches are breathtaking. Trou aux Biches Beach is about 2km long and it is considered by many to be the best beach in the area. Le Morne is in the southwest and it is a sleepy village that is filled with glorious blue lagoons and white sandy beaches. You can spend your day relaxing on the beach, give kite surfing a try or spend your day in the water snorkelling. It is easy and inexpensive to take the bus to the different beaches on the island too.
Let’s not forget what else there is to see in Mauritius though: volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, gorges and birds and flora endemic to Mauritius.
Cuba
Cuba is the perfect destination if you’re looking for beaches and culture. Varadero, Cuba is a stunning area that is filled with beach resorts and stunning stretches of white sand along the Caribbean Sea. There is plenty of great snorkelling in the area and you can easily charter boats if you want to give deep sea fishing or scuba diving a try.
But did you know there are also beaches near to Havana? These are the beaches that Cubans go to and will give you a real taste of Cuba. Alternatively, if you’re feeling bold and have your own vehicle, head out to one of Cuba’s best kept secrets, Playa Los Pinos; it’s pristine, undeveloped and almost certainly the remote tropical beach you’ve been dreaming of.
Malaysia
Without a doubt one of the best beach destinations I’ve traveled to, Malaysia has so many gorgeous islands with snorkeling, diving and swimming opportunities.
There’s a distinct difference between the east and west coast islands: head east for white sands and warm bath tropical seas, head west for beautiful yellow sand beaches with more cultural opportunities and areas known for their food. On the east, you’ll find Tioman and the Perhentians; over on the west, you’ll find Langkawi (be sure to pay the SkyBridge a visit with views over to Thailand on a clear day) and Penang.
Have any of these made it onto your travel wishlist?
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