Beach vacations are fun, relaxing and inject life and colour back into our lives – quite literally. Beach destinations are usually beautiful and exotic, and look a lot like paradise with combinations of lush greenery and turquoise waters, which is why it’s the best place to kick back and relax.
If you’re looking to be surrounded by awe-inspiring beauty this coming summer, we have the ultimate destination list for you – but not without honing in on the places with the bluest waters .. because who can say no to swimming in oceans clearer than a swimming pool or diving in paradise?
Thanda Island, Tanzania
You’ve probably never heard of Thanda Island because it’s one of the most exclusive islands in the world. With only a few rooms in the main manor house, it’s a luxury private island resort, offering guests the chance to book out the entire island all to themselves. Yes, you could be living the dream in the middle of the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa’s Tanzania, surrounded by crystal clear waters filled with exotic marine life; white sands, plush palm trees and vegetation, and amenities to die for. We’re talking yoga on the beach, sailing trips, swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving, tennis – you name it, Thanda Island’s got it.
Menorca, Spain
Travelers love to visit Spain because it’s beautiful, its history is intriguing and the strong culture, fascinating – but also because it has some of the greatest beaches in Europe. Places like Barcelona, Ibiza and Marbella are favourites for beach holidays, but one Spanish island that’s incredibly underrated, and in my opinion, the most exquisite of them all, is Menorca. Menorca is a quaint island near to Majorca, which has been slow to develop in comparison to the tourist hotspots mentioned. It really feels like a sleepy island, laid-back and non-pretentious. But the best part of it, is the beaches, with waters so blue you’ll think you’re in the Bahamas. And to make it even better – they’re never overcrowded, in fact, on some beaches, you may even be the only person there.
Sabah, Borneo
A state of East Malaysia, Sabah is known for its world-class diving, with rich marine life and stunning visibility. You may find it hard to leave the waters alone, constantly amazed by the bright colours and exotic life lurking below the shoreline. But there’s a rich amount of biodiversity on land too, making Sabah the perfect destination for those who want a good dose of sea activities, as well as ample national parks and incredible wildlife such as orangutans.
Sardinia, Italy
If you’re looking for a more ‘vibey’ summer destination, with a fair number of holidaymakers and locals bringing the energy, then Sardinia is for you. It’s a tourist hotspot because travelers have quickly found out about the breathtaking blue water, exotic cliffs that plunge into the ocean, the energetic Olde Town, and of course the amazing Italian food. Sardinia is known for some of the bluest waters in all of Europe, and it’s usually still and calm even in the deep sea due its location in the Mediterranean. It’s an absolute treat for a young couple, or a group of friends who are looking for the perfect combination of sun, sea and plenty of partying.
Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is, of course, the ultimate party island, and one that has attracted the young and the restless for years and years. But what you may not know, is that there are sides to Ibiza that are laid-back, ideal for travelers looking to catch a break in the sun, rather than rave their holiday away. On the east of the island are some gorgeous turquoise beaches such as Cala Benirras and Cala Bonita. Just across from Ibiza is another European favourite, Formentera, an exquisite little island surrounded by incredible waters and filled with trendy, beachy restaurants and boho-style accommodation. Formentera can be reached by small boat and takes around 30 minutes from Ibiza. What’s great about visiting Ibiza, is that you get the best of both worlds – whatever you’re feeling for, whether it be ultimate relaxation, or an awesome night out, its available to you, complete with draw-dropping natural beauty.
Capri, Italy
Capri is one of the most stylish, sophisticated beach destinations in the world. If visitors are not eating incredible pasta and sipping on award winning wines, they’re enjoying the turquoise waters from a superyacht, or shopping up a storm in the town. This may be right up your alley, in which case Capri is the perfect place for you. But, while there’s plenty of grandeur all around, which makes for an interesting experience, there’s also a relaxed side to Capri, ideal for budget travelers. The beaches are incredible, and what’s better than spending all day there, or meandering through the town, looking for the best pasta on the island.
