07/06/2021
Ready to hit the beach?
Remember those heavenly days we spent lounging in the sun with our toes in the sand and that carefree feeling of having absolutely no idea what time it is? We’ve been dreaming about it, too.
Here’s some good news: not only are several of our favorite beach destinations reopened to visitors, but you can also book any coastal escape now and if your travel plans change, you can reschedule with no penalty fees!
So, without further ado, here are our picks for this year’s Top 15 Beach Destinations!
Caribbean
1. Puerto Rico
Are you craving a Caribbean vacation without the hassle of a passport? If you’re an American citizen, Puerto Rico is the answer! A territory of the United States, Puerto Rico is a sun-kissed paradise offering pristine beaches, terrific food, and incredibly friendly locals.
2. Belize
Chase your bliss to Central America, where you can journey through the natural wonders of Belize. Snorkel the second largest barrier reef, swim among harmless nurse sharks and southern stingrays, and get a healthy dose of the Belizean sun.
3. Dominican Republic
Relish the beautiful beaches and explore one of the Caribbean's most geographically diverse countries. The Dominican Republic has hundreds of miles of coastline, offering a satisfying mix of white-sand beaches, rocky cliffs, and secluded mangrove lagoons.
4. St. Lucia
St. Lucia conjures images of beauty, romance, and adventure. From its warm waves and dreamy beaches to its incredibly friendly locals, St. Lucia is as welcoming as it is picturesque.
Mexico
5. Cancun
Stretch out on the beach, dive into tropical waters, chase down the best of Cancun's culinary scene, and even explore nearby ruins and hidden islands.
6. Playa del Carmen
Get the best of Mexico's sun, sand, and surf on the Caribbean Coast. Snorkel through the beautiful Garden of Eden cenote, swim with sea turtles at Akumal beach, and feel your worries drift away with the tides.
7. Tulum
Known for its laid-back lifestyle, incredible beaches, and world-class dining, Tulum has quickly become one of the hottest destinations on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum arguably has the nicest stretch of beach in all of the Yucatan. Whether you choose to spend the day at a public or private beach, you’ll find only soft white sand and crystal clear water.
U.S.A.
8. Cape Cod
Cape Cod is made up of 15 different towns, all with their own unique atmosphere and energy. The Cape Cod National Seashore has over 40 miles of protected coast and something fun for everyone.
9. Charleston
Rich in history and consistently voted a top destination in the U.S., Charleston is overflowing with southern charm and history. Head out to Sullivan's Island for water activities, great restaurants, and interesting shops.
10. Maui
This tropical paradise has it all: hundreds of spectacular beaches, cascading waterfalls, flourishing jungles bursting with color and birdsong, dramatic volcanic craters, and charming Hawaiian towns.
11. Miami
Who can resist the white sand and crystal clear water of Miami? Slather on the sunscreen and lounge in a hammock or head out to windsurf, kayak, or even waterski.
12. LA
Enjoy fun in the sun at Santa Monica Pier near Los Angeles. Catch a wave at Venice Beach before you stroll the bustling beach town, or drive out to Malibu to see gorgeous oceanfront homes and dreamy sunsets.
Europe
13. Algarve
Portugal's Algarve region is where you'll encounter golden beaches, castle villages, and cliffs offering sweeping views. Watch colorful fishing boats bob in the sea, walk cobbled streets, and sip some local wine. Here, leisure is a specialty.
14. Croatia
On the coast of the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Croatia is the epitome of seaside Mediterranean bliss. Whether you’re making a beeline for Dubovica Beach, touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in Hvar, or venturing out to one of Croatia’s secret islands, this is one beach destination that will never disappoint.
15. Ibiza
The whole coastline of Ibiza is dotted with centuries-old watchtowers which were built to protect the island from raiding pirates. Check out the western side of the island for some of Ibiza’s best beaches: Cala d'Hort, Cala Salada, and Cala Vadella.