Introduction
Spending time in a beautiful coastal destination is a wonderfully relaxing and rewarding experience. Whether you seek a romantic getaway with your significant other, a family vacation, or some time alone with nature, you can find a stunning variety of island getaways to suit anyone’s desires.
So often our brief holiday or even weekend breaks are limited to the same places - beach holiday here, historical city there - but there is something utterly sublime about taking some time to enjoy the sights and sounds of island life. From idyllic Mediterranean retreats to adventure-filled Polynesian paradises, it is easy to find the ideal place to make a lasting memory or two.
Below, we look through some of the unique and breathtaking coastal destinations around the world that are certainly worth exploring.
Greek Isles
The Dodecanese islands, located just off the southern coast of Greece’s mainland, offer an incredible glimpse of Europe’s gorgeous coasts. They are merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Greek Isles but are an excellent place to begin exploring. Not only do they provide plenty of activities and attractions, but their serenity and stunning landscapes certainly make them a must-visit destination.
The islands vary drastically in terms of what they have to offer, but never fail to deliver both traditional and untamed beauty. Kalymnos, for example, is renowned as a rock climbers’ paradise, while the quiet and laid-back Kos is known for its sun-drenched beaches, archaeological ruins, and alluring cobbled streets.
The larger of the Greek Isles include: - Kos: A fairly large island with plenty of history and an alluring atmosphere. - Rhodes: The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is home to fascinating ruins, Medieval walls, and fascinating medieval streets. - Karpathos: An unspoiled and beautiful island, home to ancient sites, picturesque harbours, and peaceful villages. - Symi: A stunningly picturesque island with few of the crowds of the more famous Greek islands.
Azores
The Azores archipelago is located more than 1000 kilometres off the coast of Portugal and is home to the charming city of Ponta Delgada. Often overlooked compared to the otheridly islands of the Mediterranean, the Azores offer some of the most unspoiled landscapes and stunning coastlines in the world.
The Azores experience all four varied seasons, offering beautiful sights year-roundand a variety of activities that can be enjoyed in any weather. In particular, the summer months are ideal for both hiking and swimming. The islands are home to several natural hot springs and crater lagoons, making them the ideal place to relax and soak away your worries.
The nine islands of the Azores can all be explored by boat tours and guided walks, with each destination providing its own unique charm and attractions. The more popular islands include:
- São Miguel: The island offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as several quaint fishing villages, a dramatic volcanic lake and heritage sites.
- Faial: This visually stunning island city is renowned for its incredible blue-tinted caldera and stunning views over the Atlantic.
- Pico: An island of historical sites and spectacular nature trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
- Terceira: A tranquil and serene island filled with stunning beaches and rolling hills, as well as some captivating cultural attractions.
Caribbean
From the sunny shores of Jamaica to the lush landscapes of St. Lucia, the Caribbean offers some of the world’s most stunning coastal destinations. Although the islands are spread out and quite varied in their offerings, the Caribbean is home to some of the most spectacularly romantic beach destinations in the world. Every corner of the Caribbean has some sort of stunning beach to explore, and many of the islands are home to some truly exquisite resorts and spas.
The Caribbean is also a great choice for those seeking an adventure-filled vacation. Activities such as deep sea fishing and coral reef snorkeling can both be enjoyed in the crystal-clear waters. Some of the best islands to explore include:
- Jamaica: A vibrant and colourful island known for its stunning Jerk Chicken, endless array of activities, and beautiful beaches.
- St. Lucia: A paradise filled with majestic peaks, white-sand beaches, and natural hot springs.
- Barbados: The party island of the Caribbean, known for its excellent snorkeling sites and lively nightlife.
- Grenada: An idyllic destination renowned for its exotic wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and miles of natural beaches.
Maldives
Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is one of the most stunning islands in the world and a renowned destination for honeymooners and beach lovers alike. Here you will find some of the most beautiful and tranquil locations in the world. With its turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches, the island is the perfect place to just kick back and relax.
The island nation is also an excellent location for scuba divers and has some of the most spectacular diving spots in the world. There are countless colourful reefs to explore, schools of friendly fish to observe, and fascinating shipwrecks to explore.
Those who don’t feel like getting in the water will also find plenty to do in the Maldives, from an array of luxury spas and wellness centres, to thrilling expeditions and stunning sunset cruises. Two of the best islands to visit in the Maldives include:
- Baa Atoll: Home to the UNESCO-listed Hanifaru Bay, floating bungalows, and a wide range of aquatic life.
- Ari Atoll: Boasting some of the most beautiful lagoons and white-sand beaches, as well as immense coral reefs.
Polynesia
Polynesia is an archipelago of over a thousand islands located throughout the Pacific Ocean, scattered across a vast expanse, and offering stunningly authentic island escapes. With its more low-key, rustic approach to tourist experiences, Polynesia is the perfect destination for those seeking something a little more rugged than the typical holiday destination.
The islands are renowned for their breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From epic hikes through the lush rainforests, to remote lagoons and dreamy stretches of white sand, there is something to enjoy here for nature lovers seeking something a little out of the ordinary. Two of the most recommended destinations within Polynesia include:
- Tahiti: A beautiful island filled with coral-fringed lagoons, mountainous backdrops, and plenty of outdoor activities.
- Bora Bora: The largest of the Society Islands, a paradise of crystal-clear lagoons, white-sand beaches, and plenty of hidden beauty waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the stunning coastal destinations that are worth exploring, from the Mediterranean to the Maldives, Polynesia and the Caribbean. While there are certainly plenty of other places to discover around the world, these idyllic islands provide a unique and authentic escape for those seeking something a little different for their next island getaway.