Breathtaking beaches you need to see in your lifetime
Looking for the perfect stretch of sand to soak up the sun, away from the hustle and bustle of the most popular hotspots? Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway with your special someone or an exciting adventure with the family, these spectacular beaches are sure to take your breath away.
Explore a hidden beach on your next getaway to Riviera Nayarit. The famous Playa Del Amor – which was named one of the “21 Best Beaches in the World” by National Geographic – is located in Marieta Islands National Park. To get to Playa del Amor, you have to take a boat ride from the mainland followed by a short kayak ride or swim through a cavern to reach its secluded shores. To preserve the unique site, a limited number of people are permitted to visit each day. You can explore this natural wonder yourself on the Island Discovery tour with Sunwing Experiences, one of the view tours that will take you to the hidden beach.
Where to stay: After spending the day exploring Playa del Amor and the Marieta Islands, head back to Riu Palace Pacifico to try out a range of water sports like kayaking, windsurfing and bodyboarding. The beach at the resort is also beautiful, with views of the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains in the background – you might even be able to spot whales off the coast, depending on the season.
Located just a short cruise off the coast of Varadero is Cayo Blanco, a tiny but picturesque island that’s home to some of Cuba’s most breathtaking white sands and crystal-clear waters. Take a Sunwing Experiences catamaran cruise to this beautiful island and spend the day lounging on its sprawling stretch of sparkling beach or snorkelling above the colourful coral reef located just off the shore. The island is uninhabited, so you’ll feel like you and your fellow visitors have the place to yourself!
Where to stay: When you’re not lounging on the shores of Cayo Blanco, you can soak up the sun on the sprawling beach at the adults only Memories JIbacoa. Sip on mojitos from the Sea Breeze beachside bar or grab a bite to eat with a side of spectacular views at El Ranchon restaurant. For even more rest and relaxation, head to the on-site spa for a pampering massage.
Situated off the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula is the laidback island of Isla Holbox. This picturesque destination is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and is the perfect place to discover Mexico’s natural beauty, whether you’re biking down palm-lined trails or swimming with friendly whale sharks. Because cars aren’t allowed on the island and there are only a handful of resorts on Isla Holbox, the beaches are some of the best in the state of Quintana Roo, with plenty of spots for you to set up your lounge chair and towel.
Where to stay: Stay right on the pristine shores of Isla Holbox at Mystique Blue Boutique Suites. With just 38 luxury suites – some of which offer ocean views and swim-out pools – you’ll feel like you’re living in your own personal paradise at this beachfront resort. Spend the day exploring the island on a bike tour before heading back to the resort for a unique and immersive culinary experience.
With 365 beaches to choose from across the island of Antigua – one for every day of the year – you’ll never run out of options to choose from for a relaxing beach day. Green Island Beach, which is accessible only by boat, is located just off the coast of Nonsuch Bay. Take a luxury catamaran tour that drops anchor at Green Island where you can spend the day snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters and working on your tan in your own private island oasis. There are plenty of other activities you can try on the secluded shores like stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and more.
Where to stay: Royalton Antigua Resort and Spa is not only located on its own private stretch of sand – it’s also right next to one of the island’s other famous beaches, Deep Bay Beach. Enjoy delectable Italian dishes at the oceanside Grazie restaurant before strolling to the top of the resort grounds for panoramic views of historic Fort Barrington and a shipwreck in the distance.
Punta Cana is renowned for its seemingly endless stretches of pristine white-sand shores and is home to what’s considered one of the best beaches in the world – Bavaro Beach. After days of lounging by famous shores, why not head on a day tour to the breathtaking Saona Island off the coast of Bayahibe? Nestled in the protected Del Este National Park, this desert island is home to crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling and sparkling white-sand shores ideal for soaking up the sun. You’ll enjoy access to the island’s exclusive beach club and a delicious BBQ lunch.
Where to stay: Cool off from your desert island beach excursion at one of the largest resort water parks in the Caribbean. When you stay at Grand Memories Punta Cana, you can enjoy unlimited access to the seven slides, wave pools and spray grounds. Looking for more laidback vibes? Snag a lavish Bali bed by one of the elegant pool areas or head to the stretch of Bavaro Beach next door at Royalton Punta Cana Resort and Casino.