The Best Beach Destinations for a Summer Escape

 

Summer is synonymous with sun, sand, and surf. Whether you're looking for a bustling beach town or a secluded coastal haven, there’s a beach destination that’s perfect for your summer escape. This blog will explore some of the most popular and hidden gem beach destinations in the USA and abroad. We’ll also recommend top beachfront hotels and resorts, highlighting their amenities like ocean views, water sports, and beach bars to ensure you have a fantastic beach vacation.

Popular Beach Destinations in the USA

1. Maui Beach, Hawaii 

Maui is a perennial favorite for beach lovers, and it’s easy to see why. The island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Kaanapali Beach and Wailea Beach. 

Maui’s beaches are a tropical paradise, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters and lush greenery.

• Kaanapali Beach: Known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• Wailea Beach: A serene escape with calm waters ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
• Unique Experience: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the magical sunrise at Haleakal? National Park or attend a traditional Hawaiian luau.
• Local Attraction: Explore the scenic Road to Hana, with its waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches.

• Best Time to Visit: April through May and September through November.
• Why: These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to peak summer and winter seasons.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Amenities:Ocean views, adult-only infinity pool, water sports, and beachside dining.
Why We Love It: This luxurious resort offers stunning ocean views from every room and top-notch amenities, including snorkeling and paddleboarding right off the beach. The beachfront dining options provide a romantic setting for dinner with spectacular sunsets.

2.Miami Beach, Florida

Miami Beach is famous for its vibrant nightlife, art deco architecture, and beautiful sandy beaches. South Beach, with its iconic Ocean Drive, is a must-visit.

Miami Beach is a vibrant blend of culture, nightlife, and pristine beaches.

• South Beach: Famous for its lively atmosphere, colorful art deco buildings, and bustling Ocean Drive.
• Unique Experience: Take a salsa dancing lesson or enjoy a sunset cruise along Biscayne Bay.
• Local Attraction: Visit the nearby Miami Design District for high-end shopping and contemporary art galleries.
• Best Time to Visit: March through May.
• Why: Springtime in Miami Beach offers warm temperatures, fewer tourists, and a variety of outdoor festivals and events.

Recommended Hotel:The Setai, Miami Beach

Amenities:Private beach access, oceanfront pool, water sports rentals, and beach bar.
Why We Love It: The Setai blends modern luxury with historical charm. Enjoy the serene private beach, or venture out to experience the energetic South Beach scene. The beach bar is perfect for a refreshing cocktail under the sun.

3. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks offer a more laid-back beach experience with miles of undeveloped coastline, charming seaside towns, and historic sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

The Outer Banks offer a peaceful retreat with miles of unspoiled coastline.

• Unique Experience: Explore the historic lighthouses, such as Cape Hatteras and Bodie Island, or try kiteboarding in the sound waters.
• Local Attraction: Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial and learn about the birthplace of aviation.
• Best Time to Visit: Late April through June and September through October.
• Why: These shoulder seasons provide mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates while still allowing for beach activities.

Recommended Hotel: Sanderling Resort

Amenities: Oceanfront rooms, beach access, water sports equipment, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: Sanderling Resort provides a peaceful retreat with direct beach access and activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The tranquil environment and stunning ocean views make it an ideal spot for relaxation.

4. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica combines the charm of a beach town with the excitement of a city. The famous Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park and aquarium, is a highlight.

Santa Monica combines the charm of a beach town with the excitement of a city.

• Unique Experience: Ride the Ferris wheel at the Santa Monica Pier for panoramic views of the coast.
• Local Attraction: Stroll along the Third Street Promenade, known for its street performers, shops, and restaurants.
• Best Time to Visit: September through November.
• Why: Fall offers warm weather, fewer tourists, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busy summer months.

Recommended Hotel: Shutters on the Beach

Amenities: Oceanfront location, bike rentals, beach services, and poolside dining.
Why We Love It: Shutters on the Beach offers a quintessential Southern California experience. With direct access to the beach and a range of activities, including biking along the iconic beachfront bike path, it’s perfect for active travelers.

5.Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is known for its clear, shallow waters and white sandy beaches. It's a great family destination with plenty of activities for all ages.

Clearwater Beach is a family-friendly destination with shallow, calm waters.

• Unique Experience: Join a dolphin-watching cruise or take part in the nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 festival.
• Local Attraction: Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin from the movie “Dolphin Tale.”
• Best Time to Visit: October through December.
• Why: These months provide pleasant temperatures, less humidity, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for beach activities.

Recommended Hotel: Sandpearl Resort

Amenities: Private beach, beachfront pool, water sports rentals, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: Sandpearl Resort offers luxurious accommodations with a focus on sustainability. Guests can enjoy various water sports, including parasailing and jet skiing, and relax with a drink at the beach bar.

Hidden Gem Beach Destinations in the USA

1.Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island offers a more secluded beach experience with 13 miles of pristine beaches, historic sites, and charming downtown Fernandina Beach.

Amelia Island offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

• Unique Experience: Go horseback riding on the beach or take a sunset sail along the Intracoastal Waterway.
• Local Attraction: Explore the historic downtown Fernandina Beach, with its quaint shops and Victorian-era architecture.
• Best Time to Visit: March through May.
• Why: Spring offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Recommended Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Amenities: Oceanfront rooms, private beach access, golf course, and beachside dining.
Why We Love It: The Ritz-Carlton provides a luxurious getaway with a focus on wellness. Enjoy activities like horseback riding on the beach or a round of golf, and unwind with a beachfront dinner.

2.Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, including the iconic Haystack Rock. The town itself is quaint and filled with art galleries and cozy cafes.

Cannon Beach is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and artistic community.

• Unique Experience: Visit during the annual Sandcastle Contest or enjoy a bonfire on the beach.
• Local Attraction: Hike through Ecola State Park for stunning views of the coastline and Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.
• Best Time to Visit: September.
• Why: September offers warm weather, fewer tourists, and clear skies, ideal for beach walks and exploring the town.

Recommended Hotel:Stephanie Inn

Amenities: Oceanfront rooms, complimentary breakfast, wine tastings, and beach access.
Why We Love It: Stephanie Inn offers an intimate, romantic escape with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The personalized service and cozy atmosphere make it a perfect spot for couples.

3. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores offers beautiful white-sand beaches and warm Gulf waters. It’s a great destination for families and those looking for a relaxed beach vacation.

Gulf Shores offers a relaxed beach experience with warm Gulf waters.

• Unique Experience: Take a deep-sea fishing trip or explore the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.
• Local Attraction: Enjoy family-friendly fun at the nearby Waterville USA amusement park and water park.
• Best Time to Visit: March through May and September through November.
• Why: These shoulder seasons provide warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer season.

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Gulf State Park

Amenities:Beachfront location, outdoor pool, bike rentals, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: This eco-friendly hotel offers modern amenities while being steps away from the beach. Enjoy biking along scenic trails or relaxing by the pool with ocean views.

4. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a charming seaside town known for its Victorian architecture and pristine beaches. It’s a great destination for a relaxing summer getaway.

Cape May is a charming seaside town with Victorian architecture and beautiful beaches.

• Unique Experience: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district or join a whale-watching tour.
• Local Attraction: Visit the Cape May Lighthouse and the Nature Center of Cape May.
• Best Time to Visit: September through October.
• Why: Fall offers warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere while still allowing for beach activities.

Recommended Hotel:Congress Hall

Amenities: Oceanfront location, beach service, outdoor pool, and live entertainment.
Why We Love It: Congress Hall is a historic hotel offering modern comforts. The beachfront service includes chairs and umbrellas, making it easy to enjoy a day by the sea.

5.Kiawah Island, South Carolina 

Kiawah Island offers 10 miles of unspoiled beaches and a wealth of outdoor activities, including golfing, biking, and kayaking.

Kiawah Island offers unspoiled beaches and a wealth of outdoor activities.

• Unique Experience: Play a round of golf on one of the island’s world-class courses or explore the salt marshes by kayak.
• Local Attraction: Visit the nearby Charleston, rich in history and Southern charm.
• Best Time to Visit: April through June and September through November.
• Why: These months offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation rates, making it ideal for beach and outdoor activities.

Recommended Hotel: The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Amenities:Oceanfront rooms, private beach access, golf courses, and beachside dining.
Why We Love It: The Sanctuary provides a luxurious escape with world-class amenities. Whether you’re playing a round of golf or enjoying a meal with ocean views, it’s an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.

Popular Beach Destinations Abroad

1. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a world-renowned beach destination. With its clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and stunning scenery, it’s a tropical paradise.

Phuket offers a blend of vibrant nightlife, cultural sites, and stunning beaches.

• Patong Beach: Known for its bustling nightlife and water sports.
• Unique Experience: Visit the Big Buddha or take a traditional Thai cooking class.
• Local Attraction: Explore the vibrant markets and historic sites in Old Phuket Town.
• Best Time to Visit: November through February.
• Why: These months offer cooler temperatures, dry weather, and calm seas, making it perfect for beach activities and water sports.

Recommended Hotel: Trisara

Amenities: Private beach, infinity pool, water sports, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It:Trisara offers unparalleled luxury with private villas and breathtaking views. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and gourmet dining by the beach.

2.Maui, Hawaii

Maui is a perennial favorite for beach lovers, and it’s easy to see why. The island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Kaanapali Beach and Wailea Beach.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Amenities: Ocean views, adult-only infinity pool, water sports, and beachside dining.
Why We Love It: This luxurious resort offers stunning ocean views from every room and top-notch amenities, including snorkeling and paddleboarding right off the beach. The beachfront dining options provide a romantic setting for dinner with spectacular sunsets.

3.Santorini, Greece

Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. The beaches of Perissa and Kamari are must-visits.

Santorini is famed for its breathtaking sunsets and unique volcanic beaches.

• Perissa Beach: With its black sand and clear waters, it’s perfect for water sports.
• Unique Experience: Take a boat tour to the volcanic islands and hot springs.
• Local Attraction: Visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a well-preserved Minoan city.
• Best Time to Visit: April through June and September through October.
• Why: These shoulder seasons provide pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, ideal for exploring the island and enjoying the beaches.

Recommended Hotel: Canaves Oia Hotel

Amenities:Ocean views, infinity pool, private beach access, and romantic dining.
Why We Love It: Canaves Oia offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The private beach access and romantic dining options make it perfect for couples.

4.Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is the epitome of a tropical paradise with its turquoise lagoon and overwater bungalows. It’s a dream destination for honeymooners and luxury travelers.

Bora Bora is a tropical paradise with its turquoise lagoon and luxurious overwater bungalows.

• Unique Experience: Go shark and ray feeding or enjoy a private beach picnic.
• Local Attraction: Hike up Mount Otemanu for stunning views of the island and lagoon.
• Best Time to Visit: April and November.
• Why: These months offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices compared to the peak seasons of May through October and December through March.
• Best Time to Visit: April and November.
• Why: These months offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices compared to the peak seasons of May through October and December through March.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Amenities: Overwater bungalows, private beach, water sports, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: The Four Seasons offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and romantic dinners under the stars from the privacy of your overwater bungalow.

5. Dhangethi, Maldives

The Maldives is a collection of idyllic islands with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s a top destination for luxury and relaxation.

The Maldives is a top destination for luxury and relaxation with its idyllic islands and clear waters.

• Unique Experience: Experience an underwater spa treatment or a private dining experience on a secluded sandbank.
• Local Attraction: Dive or snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
• Best Time to Visit: November through April.
• Why: These months offer dry weather, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for beach activities and water sports.

Recommended Hotel: Soneva Fushi

Amenities:Private villas, beachfront location, water sports, and gourmet dining.
Why We Love It:Soneva Fushi offers a luxurious and eco-friendly retreat. Enjoy activities like diving and snorkeling, or simply relax on your private stretch of beach.

Hidden Gem Beach Destinations Abroad

1. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar offers pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and a rich cultural history. The beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa are particularly stunning.

Zanzibar offers pristine beaches and a rich cultural heritage.

• Nungwi Beach: Known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.
• Unique Experience: Visit a spice farm or take a dhow cruise at sunset.
• Local Attraction: Explore the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Best Time to Visit: June through October.
• Why: These months offer cooler temperatures, less humidity, and dry weather, perfect for beach activities and exploring the island.

Recommended Hotel: Zuri Zanzibar

Amenities: Private beach, infinity pool, water sports, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: Zuri Zanzibar provides a unique blend of luxury and local culture. Enjoy beachfront yoga, snorkeling, and dining on fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.

2.Cebu, Philippines

Cebu is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent diving spots. Malapascua Island and Bantayan Island are hidden gems worth exploring.

Cebu is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots.

• Malapascua Island: Famous for thresher shark diving.
• Unique Experience: Swim with whale sharks in Oslob or explore the stunning Kawasan Falls.
• Local Attraction: Visit the historical Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City.
• Best Time to Visit: November through April.
• Why: These months offer dry weather, pleasant temperatures, and calm seas, ideal for beach activities and water sports.

Recommended Hotel: Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa

Amenities: Private beach, water sports, diving center, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: Shangri-La offers luxurious accommodations with a focus on outdoor activities. The resort’s private beach and diving center make it an excellent choice for adventure seekers.

3. Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara is a hidden gem on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, known for its surf-friendly beaches, yoga retreats, and laid-back atmosphere.

Nosara is a hidden gem known for its surf-friendly beaches and yoga retreats.

• Unique Experience: Join a surf camp or take a yoga class on the beach.
• Local Attraction: Explore the nearby Ostional Wildlife Refuge, known for turtle nesting.
• Best Time to Visit: December through April.
• Why: These months offer dry weather and pleasant temperatures, making it perfect for surfing, yoga, and beach activities.

Recommended Hotel: The Gilded Iguana

Amenities: Surf school, yoga classes, beach access, and poolside dining.
Why We Love It: The Gilded Iguana offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy surfing lessons, yoga sessions, and delicious meals by the pool.

4. El Nido, Philippines

El Nido is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and hidden beaches. It’s a paradise for those looking to escape the crowds.

El Nido is renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs and hidden beaches.

• Unique Experience: Island hopping tours to discover hidden lagoons and secret beaches.
• Local Attraction: Dive or snorkel in Bacuit Bay, known for its vibrant marine life.
• Best Time to Visit: November through May.
• Why: These months offer dry weather, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures, ideal for island hopping and beach activities.

Recommended Hotel: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island

Amenities:Private beach, infinity pool, water sports, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: This eco-luxury resort offers a secluded escape with luxurious amenities. Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and dining on fresh seafood while taking in the breathtaking views.

5. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago known for its stunning beaches, rich marine life, and conservation efforts. It’s a paradise for nature lovers.

Fernando de Noronha is a paradise for nature lovers with its stunning beaches and rich marine life.

• Unique Experience: Dive with dolphins or hike to the secluded Sancho Bay.
• Local Attraction: Visit the Projeto Tamar turtle sanctuary.
• Best Time to Visit: August through December.
• Why: These months offer dry weather, pleasant temperatures, and fewer tourists, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring the island.

Recommended Hotel: Pousada Maravilha

Amenities: Oceanfront bungalows, infinity pool, diving excursions, and beachfront dining.
Why We Love It: Pousada Maravilha offers an intimate and luxurious experience with a focus on sustainability. Enjoy diving, snorkeling, and relaxing in your private bungalow with panoramic ocean views.

Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach destination with vibrant nightlife or a secluded haven to escape the crowds, there’s a beach destination perfect for your summer escape. From the sandy shores of Maui and Miami Beach to the hidden gems of Zanzibar and Nosara, these destinations offer a variety of experiences to suit every traveler’s taste. When planning your trip, consider the beachfront hotels and resorts highlighted in this blog, each offering unique amenities like ocean views, water sports, and beach bars to make your stay unforgettable. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready for the perfect summer getaway.