8 of the World’s Best Winter Beach Destinations
Relaxing on a sandy shoreline is one of the great summer activities, but what’s a beachgoer to do when the weather turns cold? Keep reading to learn about eight of the best winter beach destinations.
Australia
The Sunshine Coast is exactly that: a stretch of sun-drenched shorelines on Australia’s eastern coast. The most celebrated of the area’s sandy respites, the Main Beach in Noosa boasts calm waters thanks to the surrounding reefs, making it a great place to visit for families and beginner surfers alike. When you need a break from the sun, explore the village of Noosa’s chic shops and restaurants.
Noosa also gives beachgoers the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature on the Noosa National Park’s coastal trail, along which koalas are known to relax in the trees. Alternatively, all the way on the other side of the country, travelers can enjoy clear views of aquatic life in the Ningaloo Reef. Stretching for more than 160 miles along Western Australia’s remotely beautiful northwest coast, it’s the place to see turtles that nest from November to March.
Brazil
Beaches, rainforests, and mountains collide with bustling urbanity in Rio de Janeiro, making a trip to popular shorelines like Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon an unforgettable experience. Carnival turns the Brazilian city into one big party in February, so if you’re looking for relative peace while you soak up some rays, the best time to visit is in January.
If true tranquility is what you’re after, opt for the isolated beaches of Bahia, located on Brazil’s Atlantic coast. Instead of throngs of tourists, Bahia’s coast is replete with slices of local life in the form of surfers’ towns and cocoa farms. Surf and sail off the beaches of Itácaré, then check out a beach party in Trancoso.
Hawaii
There’s never a bad time—winter included—to visit Hawaii. Likewise, you can’t make a bad choice when deciding on which Hawaiian island to spend your getaway.
If you’re in doubt, opt for Oahu. Wide, golden sand beaches, unforgettable snorkeling; scenic drives, luxurious resorts—Oahu has something for every type of traveler. If you’re a surfer, be sure not to miss the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, which takes place in the winter.
Maldives
Nearly 12,000 islands constitute this tropical destination, and any of them will give you your fix of the white sand beaches and clear blue waters for which the Maldives is famous. The water is so blissfully warm here that you’ll want to avail yourself of the many water-sports opportunities, such as snorkeling amid the myriad coral reefs or taking in a sunset while out on a boat excursion.
For the full Maldives experience, check into a hotel with overwater accommodations. Condé Nast Traveler recommends Soneva Jani, a magical resort that’s perfect for both children and adults looking to rediscover their inner child.
Mexico
For a mixture of ancient and modern, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better than Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Tulum, especially, offers travelers the striking contrast of being able to tour ancient temples one moment and settling in next to fashionistas suntanning on the beach the next.
To the east, Sayulita is a quaint town on Mexico’s Pacific coast that’s home to one of the country’s most stunning beaches. Surf the world-renowned Pacific breaks, then enjoy a freshly caught lobster dinner while riding on a fishing boat. Retire not to a sterile megaresort, but to a charming bungalow located right on the beach.
Oman
On Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, beachgoers need only turn their heads to observe contrasting views of aquamarine waters perfect for diving and dramatic mountains. The white sand beaches, Caribbean-like in color, are the most specular in the Middle Eastern country.
Elsewhere in Oman, the capital of Muscat balances the hubbub of a city with beaches that are both tranquil and beautiful. For even more diving, head just south of Muscat, where you can view the Al Munassir shipwreck on a diving expedition.
Philippines
Similar to the Maldives, it’d be hard to go wrong with any of the more than 7,000 islands that constitute the Philippines. Remarkable white-sand beaches, protected waters with untouched reefs, world-class surfing, all in a country that’s famously friendly to tourists.
Still, you do have to make a decision of where to visit, and experts recommend Palawan, a quiet archipelago that offers everything great about the Philippines without all the crowds. Relax on the sand while gazing out at the turquoise ocean. When you’re ready for some adventure, explore the balmy waters on a kayak tour.
Thailand
The Thai islands are the stuff of dreams, and perhaps none elicits as much reverie as those in the Andaman Sea. Awaiting visitors here are miles of white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and calm, shimmering waters ready to be explored.
For those who prioritize unwinding, Koh Lanta is blissfully quiet and less touristy compared to its neighbors. After a day of beachgoing, stay in one of the old-fashioned guesthouses in the local small town or opt for more modern accommodations in the form of family-friendly hotels.