6 Exceptional Beach Escapes to Discover This Year
Imagine sipping cocktails from a vintage tuk-tuk by the sea, salsa rhythms blending with ocean waves under starry skies, or reflecting thoughtfully on history's pivotal moments. There's an ideal beach for every mood. Explore six standout destinations to visit this year.
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Banyan Tree Samui, Thailand
This Gulf of Thailand hideaway already captivates with its private bay and pool-equipped rooms. Now, Banyan Tree Samui has unveiled one of the world's most charming beach bars: Froggy Sea Breeze Beach Bar. Nestled in a sandy cove, it features a refurbished 1960s emerald-green Daihatsu Midget "frog-head" tuk-tuk—once a Thai taxi icon—serving drinks under twinkling lights. Don't miss the Botanica, a gin cocktail infused with absinthe, nodding to the froggy theme.
The Beaches of Tahiti
Mark the 250th anniversary of Captain Cook's 1769 arrival in Tahiti with a swift, affordable trip. French Bee offers flights from SFO to Papeete starting at $309 one-way. Skip the rush to Bora Bora—Tahiti's own stunning beaches shine, including black-sand Venus Point Beach with its lighthouse, surfer haven Papanoo Beach, and snorkeling gem Plage de Toaroto.
The Beaches of St. Martin's, Isles of Scilly, England
Crystal-clear aqua waters, golden sands, and local winemaking await off England's southern coast. Reach the Isles of Scilly by 4-hour ferry or 20-60 minute flight from the mainland—a gem boosted by Will and Kate's visit. On tiny St. Martin's (pop. ~120), enjoy SUP-friendly Par Beach, rock-pool-rich Lawrence’s Bay, and idyllic Great Bay for swims, strolls, or picnics with local libations. Beyond beaches: snorkel with seals, hike to the daymark, or visit the quirky Humanist Whiskey Barber.
The Beaches of Normandy, France
For reflective travels, visit Normandy for the 75th D-Day anniversary commemorations. Key sites include Omaha Beach (American cemetery, Overlord Museum), Utah Beach (Museum of Landings), and Sword Beach (Atlantic Wall Museum). These poignant exhibits pair with the region's breathtaking coastline. Time your trip for late August's Dîner sur La Digue in Cabourg (Aug. 24)—a free seaside picnic for all.
Caribe Hilton Beach, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's tourism rebounds post-Hurricane Maria, with the iconic Caribe Hilton—the first Hilton outside the continental U.S. (opened 1949)—shining after a $150 million, 15-month renovation. Lounge on its famed beach or sip from the glass-walled Caribar, birthplace of the piña colada. Sample originals and new twists like Espuma Colada (Don Q Aged Rum, coconut, pineapple, bitters, cream, nutmeg) or Sparkling Colada (1800 Coconut, pineapple-rosemary syrup, bitters, sparkling wine).
The Whitsundays, Australia
The Whitsundays epitomize Great Barrier Reef beauty with powdery sands and turquoise lagoons. The InterContinental Hayman Island resort reopens post-multi-million renovation on its 1,000-acre private isle, offering lagoon views, suites, pools, global dining, and excursions. Venture to world-renowned Whitehaven Beach, then quieter Betty’s Beach at Hill Inlet. Revel in silica sands and clear waters before helicopter or seaplane return.
