Top 8 Destinations for Beach and Sea Lovers

Beaches

Are you an avid beach and sea lover looking for your next destination? Well, you've come to the right place. There are endless breathtaking beaches and stunning ocean scenery worldwide, so it can be hard to decide which one to visit first! To make things easier, we have listed the top eight destinations for beach and sea lovers that you must add to your bucket list

From picturesque Caribbean islands to majestic coastal cities in Europe, there is something on this list for everyone. Whether you dream of a romantic getaway or a family vacation with plenty of activities, these top destinations will ensure that your days spent by the beach will turn into unforgettable memories. So pack your sunhat and sunglasses, because these are the best places to visit for the perfect beach getaway.

1. Norfolk, England

Norfolk has long been a prime destination for beach and sea lovers, offering stunning coastlines, beautiful cottages by the sea, and some of the best seafood in England. Norfolk boasts miles of unspoiled coastline, perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and windsurfing. It also offers many Norfolk coastal cottages to rent that are located directly on the shoreline - providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. The area is home to several beautiful sandy beaches, such as Holkham Beach and Great Yarmouth Beach, which are ideal for sunbathing and relaxing.

Norfolk's cuisine is another major draw for tourists. Fresh seafood dishes can be found throughout Norfolk, including crab cakes, mussels, and oysters. Norfolk is also a prime destination for birdwatchers, offering beautiful coastal walks and the Norfolk Wildlife Trust's Cley Marshes Nature Reserve, which supports over 280 species of birds. 

2. The Mediterranean Coastline

The Mediterranean coastline is a popular destination for beach and sea lovers alike. With clear waters, stunning views, and breathtaking landscapes, this area of the world offers an unforgettable vacation experience. The Mediterranean climate also makes it an ideal holiday destination with warm summers and mild winters that make outdoor activities comfortable even in the off-season. 

Apart from its beautiful scenery, the Mediterranean coastline has plenty to offer in terms of cultural attractions. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, sample delicious local cuisine, or participate in traditional festivals. There are also numerous opportunities for water sports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and windsurfing.

The region's proximity to many countries, including Morocco, Spain, and Italy, allows travelers to plan trips to various destinations within the same trip easily. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to experience more than just one country in the region. 

3. The Caribbean

The Caribbean is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and seas in the world, making it an ideal destination for beach and sea lovers. With over 7,000 islands, there are plenty of choices for those exploring and relaxing by the shore. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot colorful fish and coral beneath the surface, perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving. Plus, many islands have secluded coves with white sandy beaches that provide a great escape from everyday life.

In addition to its stunning waterfront views, The Caribbean offers a variety of activities beyond swimming and sunbathing. From kayaking around sheltered creeks and fishing at sunset to standup paddleboarding in the surf and exploring vibrant marine life, there are plenty of activities to keep the beach and sea lovers entertained. It is also known for its warm weather climate, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The balmy temperatures make spending time on the water a pleasant experience all year round!

4. California Coastline

California's stunning coastline is one of the world's most popular and beautiful beach destinations. Its breathtaking views, warm sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse aquatic wildlife offer an amazing experience for all beach and sea lovers. 

The state's majestic rocky cliffs are home to some of the most iconic surfing spots in the country. Surfers from across the globe come here to enjoy perfect waves that roll in year-round. If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of sheltered bays where you can paddle board or kayak without fearing high tides or strong currents.

For those who love nature, California Coastline offers a unique opportunity to observe marine life up close. Its abundance of coves, bays, and estuaries makes it the perfect place to spot playful sea lions, curious otters, and colorful fish. For those who prefer fishing or boating, a range of charter boats can be found in most coastal towns offering everything from whale-watching tours to deep-sea excursions.

5. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a top-rated destination for beach and sea lovers, with its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure filled with activities like surfing, fishing and kayaking there's something to suit everyone in Costa Rica.

The country boasts two long coastlines – one on the Caribbean Sea and one along the Pacific Ocean. The Caribbean coast has some of the best waves in Central America for surfing and secluded spots, making it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Meanwhile, the Pacific coast offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets imaginable. There are also plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations like Osa Peninsula, Tortuguero, and Bahia Drake, which allow visitors to explore untouched beaches.

6. Bali, Indonesia

A tropical paradise in Southeast Asia, Bali is a great choice for beach and sea lovers who want an immersive experience of culture and stunning beaches. The island's famous white sandy beaches are just one of its draws - many travelers will tell you that the unique artistry and spiritual power associated with Balinese culture make it truly special. From surf spots to cliffside temples, there is something new to discover around every corner. Whether you've been looking for adventure or a place to relax, Bali has something for everyone!

7. Thailand

From Bangkok to Koh Samui, the Southeast Asian country of Thailand is a bucket list destination for many beach and sea lovers. With its lush jungles, crystal clear waters, and interesting cities, Thailand offers something for everyone. Take a boat trip around one of the many islands or go snorkeling at one of the coral reefs - whatever it is you're looking for beach activities, there's no shortage here!

8. The Maldives

If your dream beach vacation involves white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of sunshine, then the Maldives is your destination. This tropical paradise offers stunning luxury resorts on many small islands and plenty of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports. Plus, with a laidback atmosphere and friendly locals, it's easy to relax here in one of nature's most beautiful places.

Beaches

Whether you're looking for an active adventure or a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these top 8 beach and sea destinations have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and hit the waves – you won't regret it!



 

Member login

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Are you an Overland Adventure Traveller?

Does the smell of spices wafting through the air make you think of Zanzibar, a cacophony of honking horns is Cairo, or a swirl of brilliantly patterned clothing Guatemala? Then this is the site for you!
Hosted by Grant and Susan Johnson, RTW 1987-1998

Next HU Eventscalendar

25 years of HU Events
Be sure to join us for this huge milestone!

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

Virginia: April 24-27
Queensland is back! May 2-5
Ecuador June 13-15
Germany Summer: May 29-June 1
CanWest: July 10-13
Switzerland: Date TBC
Ecuador: Date TBC
Romania: Date TBC
Austria: Sept. 11-14
California: September 18-21
France: September 19-21
Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
Admin only DVD promo block 220 new.h

Books

amazon

All the best travel books and videos listed and often reviewed on HU's famous Books page. Check it out and get great travel books from all over the world.
NOTE: As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases - thanks for your help supporting HU when you start from an HU Amazon link!