Whether you prefer a relaxing break, enjoy snorkelling or love getting stuck into water sports, a beach is a vital part of any holiday. Even if you hate sand between your toes (like me!) it IS still possible to have a beach holiday by choosing a rockier destination. Here’s how to find a coastal break to suit all budgets…
Beaches make the ideal spot for getting away from technology and the noise of busy city streets, which is why so many people want to include a a coastal spot in their holiday planning. There are so many sandy award-worthy coastlines around the world, such as getaway resorts like Bora Bora and the Virgin Islands. Some are just an hour’s flight away, or you can go luxurious with a distant far-flung Caribbean location. And if you start planning your 2019 holiday now, you’ll be able to take advantage of some excellent early-bird discounts. So, to help you pick out your ideal stretch of sand, here are some destinations from across the globe that you might want to consider.
BERMUDA
Horseshoe Bay beach in Southampton, Bermuda, is famed for its blush-red sand. Its rosy colour comes from a mix of crushed shells, coral and calcium carbonate and provides the ideal Instagram backdrop for your beachy snaps. But that’s not all. Surrounding the curved Caribbean coastline are dramatic rock formations with hidden caves and tucked-away coves, providing the ideal spot for watching the sun set with a cocktail.
GRENADA
Grenada is called the “Isle of Spice” and is one of the most southerly of the Windward Islands. Its soil and weather are best for growing nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and bay leaves, as well as cocoa and bananas. Regarded the most charming harbour city in the Western Hemisphere, the capital St. George’s with its red-roofed brick houses epitomises Grenada’s laid-back appeal. Lovely seashores and the breathtaking surroundings of mountains, waterfalls, and rainforest are Grenada’s recipe for relaxation.
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
The Turks and Caicos Islands are home to a few of the most amazing beaches in the world. Take Grace seaside, for instance, frequently winning the accolade of the “world’s best beach”; this beautiful bay contains a barrier reef that’s home to some excellent scuba diving spots including a shipwreck of the la Famille specific, a Soviet oil rig vessel that’s been grounded considering 2004. Meanwhile, Long Bay seaside offers a a great spot for kiteboarding and horseback riding through the sand.
CUBA
Everybody knows Cuba’s colourful capital Havana – from the 1950’s Cadillacs to the movie set-style structure, but the island has great seaside credentials, too. Cayo Santa Maria– one of the Caribbean’s biggest secrets – is a tiny island off the north coast of Cuba. It has an 8-mile long sandy beach, and the world’s 2nd largest barrier reef. So you can switch between relaxing on the secluded seashores and going under the waters to spot turtles, angelfish, and barracudas.
THAILAND
Thailand was famously the location of Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie ‘The Beach.’ That’s probably because there are so many beaches to choose from, including unspoiled beauties, locals’ favourites and bustling resorts. Thailand is a popular choice with students and backpackers because your money goes a lot further when you get there. Plus, a number of the beaches are next to hotels and hostels too, so you’ll be only be a few steps away from the sand throughout your stay.
I’ve tried to compile this list of beachy destinations based on an ever-decreasing budget to suit every income level, but all are perfect for couple vacations. If you want to book a getaway with your other half, any of these beautiful beaches are ideal for a romantic break. You may even want to plan your wedding on a beach to ensure a relaxed day, an intimate wedding and a cheaper-than-the-UK option!
Let me know if you’ve been to any of these destinations in the comments below and I’d love to hear your suggestions for a beach holiday too. Where have you been that surpassed your expectations and what destination is next on your list? Leave me a comment and let me know 🙂
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