The beach is a panacea. A whiff of fresh sea salt air and you will feel of your stress melting away. Seeing pristine blue oceans greet you can set your worries to rest. There’s nothing like spending a few days close to the beach, soaking in the bluest of waters and burying your feet in white sand.
But if there’s one thing that can kill that beach vibe, it’s a big crowd. Unfortunately, many of the best beach destinations today are overcrowded. If you’re expecting to take great photos with the sea as your backdrop, you might be disappointed because the crowd will prevent you from taking that perfect Instagram shot (or even the perfect photo for your Instagram advertising). It’s hard to relax and unwind when you have to share the beach with thousands of other vacationers.
That doesn’t mean that you should remove beaches from your travel list though. There are still a lot of amazing under the radar beach destinations that will make you feel like you are a castaway with all the beach to yourself.
Here are some of the beach destinations to put on your bucket list:
- Barbuda
Barbuda is half the 2 islands that make up the Eastern Caribbean known as Antigua and Barbuda. Both are low-profile destinations boasting of the clearest water you will ever see. But the main reason why this is a must-visit is because it is remote. It is unpopulated too with a very low population, so you can expect untouched beaches such as Palm beach. Aside from water activities, you can also enjoy going bird-sighting at the Frigate Bird Sanctuary.
- The Algarve
It is one of Portugal’s hidden gems. Located at the southernmost region of the continent, this coastline has seriously stunning views. On a clear day, the water glitters like diamond. Indulge in water activities during the day but when you get tired, you can always wander into their quaint towns and streets or check out their pottery and ceramics.
- Viña del Mar
This quaint beach town in Chile is a local favorite. People living in nearby towns flock to this beach area to get some much-needed R&R. Escape city life and take a breather in this beautiful place that is also replete with attractions like museums and gardens.
- Koh Lanta
Thailand has many beach offerings. Which self-respecting beach enthusiast hasn’t heard of Phuket and Phi Phi? They are two of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations. But hidden far from these places is Koh Lanta. It’s the perfect spot to do coral snorkeling and sunset viewing. There are lots of restaurants to indulge in local Thai cuisine. You may even experience a cooking lesson or two if you want to veer away from the usual water activities.
- Todos Santos
If Mexico is your travel destination this summer, considering trying Todos Santos rather than more popular spots like Cabo San Lucas. It’s the perfect destination for surfers who prefer bigger swells and tumbling waves. There are also plenty of days when the ocean is calm and perfect for swimming and other beach activities. If you love art, you will love it here. It’s known for being an artist colony. Visit galleries and come home with an artwork or two.
- Panglao Island
The Philippines isn’t lacking in beautiful beaches. With the rehabilitation of the famous Boracay beach, people are flocking to Palawan to get their fill of blue waters and sea diving. But there are also plenty of other alternatives if you are visiting the Philippines and Panglao Island is one of them. You can try different activities like dolphin watching. If you are an avid diver, you won’t be disappointed here as well. You can even try different diving jobs if you plan to stay longer. Just check this post for more information.
Take the road less traveled and you just might discover places that can change your life for the better.
