Beach Holidays
The most beautiful beaches worldwide, from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean. Discover stunning coasts, insider tips and the best travel times for your perfect beach holiday.
Why Beach Holidays Never Go Out of Style
There is hardly anything more relaxing than walking barefoot over warm sand in the morning, listening to the sound of waves and gazing out across the endless sea. Beach holidays are the most popular type of holiday – and for good reason.
Whether a romantic cove in Sardinia, an endless sandy beach on Fuerteventura or a tropical paradise in the Maldives: there is the perfect beach for every taste and budget. And it is far more than just sunbathing – snorkelling, surfing, kayaking or simply walking along the shore for hours make a beach holiday a versatile experience.
In this guide we present six of the best beach destinations, give you real insider tips and help you with planning – so your next beach holiday will be unforgettable.
The 6 Best Beach Destinations
From Europe's coasts to tropical islands – these beaches make holiday dreams come true.
Algarve
PortugalDramatic cliff coastlines, golden sandy beaches and over 300 sunny days a year. The Algarve offers spectacular grottoes, crystal-clear water and excellent value for money. Perfect for families and couples alike.
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Zanzibar
TanzaniaPowder-white beaches, turquoise water and spice plantations. Zanzibar combines tropical beach paradise with Arab and African culture. The underwater world is spectacular for snorkelling.
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Maldives
MaldivesThe ultimate for beach lovers: overwater bungalows, endless lagoons and an underwater world like no other. Perfect seclusion and pure luxury – but also possible on budget islands.
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Sardinia
ItalyCaribbean feeling in the heart of Europe! Sardinia offers beaches with crystal-clear water that can easily compete with the Caribbean. Plus Italian cuisine, charming villages and wild, untouched nature inland.
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Koh Lipe
ThailandThe little paradise in the far south of Thailand. Koh Lipe impresses with small, quiet beaches, fantastic snorkelling opportunities and a relaxed atmosphere away from mass tourism. Ideal for those seeking peace and nature.
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Fuerteventura
Spain (Canaries)Endless white sandy beaches, year-round mild climate and perfect conditions for surfers and kitesurfers. Fuerteventura is the least touristy Canary Island and offers desert-like landscapes and absolute tranquillity.
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Beach Destinations Compared
All top beaches at a glance – find the perfect destination for your budget and travel time.
| Destination | Budget | Flight Time | Best Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algarve | $$ | 3h | May–Oct | Cliffs & Grottoes |
| Zanzibar | $$ | 10h | Jun–Oct | Tropical & Culture |
| Maldives | $$$$ | 10h | Nov–Apr | Luxury & Diving |
| Sardinia | $$ | 2h | May–Oct | Caribbean in Europe |
| Koh Lipe | $ | 12h | Nov–Apr | Quiet & Affordable |
| Fuerteventura | $$ | 4.5h | Year-round | Surfing & Dunes |
10 Insider Tips for Beach Holidays
Real tips from experienced beach lovers that make the difference between good and unforgettable.
Be at the beach early in the morning
Most tourists don't arrive until 10 am. Early risers have the most beautiful beaches almost to themselves – and experience the best lighting for photos.
Pack reef shoes
Many tropical beaches have sea urchins, coral or sharp rocks. Light water shoes protect your feet and cost just a few euros.
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes beforehand
Sun protection needs time to absorb. Apply cream at your accommodation, not just at the beach. SPF 50 is essential in tropical regions.
The off-season is pure gold
Many beach destinations are just as beautiful in the off-season but 40-50% cheaper. September is often the best month in the Algarve: warm, affordable, quiet.
Local beaches over hotel beaches
The best beaches are often not directly in front of the hotel. Ask locals or search Google Maps for secluded coves.
Bring an underwater camera
Even without a diving licence, many beaches offer great snorkelling. A waterproof camera or phone case for 20 euros is absolutely worth it.
Check sun lounger prices beforehand
In some countries (Greece, Italy), sun loungers cost 15-30 euros per day. Budget for this or bring your own beach mat.
Check wind and wave forecasts
Apps like Windy or Windfinder show you exactly which beach is best sheltered on which day. Wind can vary greatly, especially on islands.
Drinking water in reusable bottles
Plastic waste is a problem in many beach towns. A reusable bottle saves money and waste. Many accommodations offer free refills.
Never schedule travel for a Sunday
Flights are often more expensive and airports more crowded on Sundays. Tuesday to Thursday offer the best flight prices for beach holidays.
The Perfect Beach Packing List
So you don't forget anything – these items belong in every beach suitcase.
Sun Protection
- SPF 50 sunscreen
- After-sun lotion
- Wide-brimmed sun hat
- Quality sunglasses (UV400)
- UV protection shirt for water sports
- Lip balm with SPF
Beach Equipment
- Beach towel or mat
- Waterproof phone case
- Snorkel set
- Water shoes / reef shoes
- Beach bag with wet compartment
- Inflatable water mattress
Practical Items
- Reusable water bottle
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Travel first aid kit (plasters, ibuprofen)
- Insect spray (for evenings)
- Kindle / waterproof e-reader
- Power bank for on the go
Useful Tools for Your Beach Holiday
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