Dierks Bentley said it best when he sang “I went wheels up on a runway…I’m somewhere on a beach”.
We’re all tired of being cooped up and with widespread distribution of vaccines, everyone is looking forward to a getaway. It looks like many people this year are saying “Beach please!” and with good reasons: You spend more time outdoors where it is easier social distance.
We’ve all been indoors for too long and the Vitamin D that sunshine brings is even better when mixed with Vitamin Sea.
Are you in need of some great beach recommendations? Get on my calendar now to talk about your upcoming beach vacation!
Here are some tips to make sure you pack like a pro for a seaside escape:
First get organized
With a variety of activities, you need to think about how to organize your bags to make the most of your space. Packing cubes and compressions bags can help you save both space and time. They make unpacking easy as you can just slip them straight into the drawers of your hotel dresser.
Your basic beach list
If your goal is to settle on the beach and just chill. Here is the minimum list of things to bring along:
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bathing suit
• Swim goggles
• A good book or your e-reader
• Sandals and/or swim shoes
• Tank tops
• Shorts
• Hat
• Cell phone and charger (add a portable one for longer days on the sand)
• A waterproof phone case
• Underwear
• Pajamas
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Other toiletries
Pandemic era basics
Even with vaccines becoming widespread, masks are not going away any time soon. While the ability to social distance may allow you to uncover your face for some of the time (nobody really wants the “raccoon face tan” that wearing a mask full time could bring), you will be required to wear a mask in any settings where people gather. A beach vacation is just what you need…lay outside and get a tan (and don’t forget to take off our mask!).
Copies of your documentation
It is always wise to have a photocopy of your passport when traveling overseas.
It is also a good idea to take clear phots of your documents and keep them on your phone (Covid vaccine card). Having a copy has helped many people if they lose their original when it comes to getting a temporary replacement at a local consulate.
In this day and age where proof of vaccination, negative Covid test, or existence of anti-bodies could make the difference between entry and denial for various venues, having an extra copy could save the day.
Are you ready to hit the beach yet?
Let me help you to get “your toes in the water” and have “not a worry in the world” (according to Zac Brown).
Here’s some good news: not only are several of our favorite beach destinations reopened to visitors, but you can also book any coastal escape now and if your travel plans change, you can reschedule.
So, without further ado, here are our picks for this year’s Top 15 Beach Destinations!
Caribbean
1. Puerto Rico
Are you craving a Caribbean vacation without the hassle of a passport? If you’re an American citizen, Puerto Rico is the answer! A territory of the United States, Puerto Rico is a sun-kissed paradise offering pristine beaches, terrific food, and incredibly friendly locals.
2. Belize
Chase your bliss to Central America, where you can journey through the natural wonders of Belize. Snorkel the second largest barrier reef, swim among harmless nurse sharks and southern stingrays, and get a healthy dose of the Belizean sun.
3. Dominican Republic
Relish the beautiful beaches and explore one of the Caribbean's most geographically diverse countries. The Dominican Republic has hundreds of miles of coastline, offering a satisfying mix of white-sand beaches, rocky cliffs, and secluded mangrove lagoons.
4. St. Lucia
St. Lucia conjures images of beauty, romance, and adventure. From its warm waves and dreamy beaches to its incredibly friendly locals, St. Lucia is as welcoming as it is picturesque.
Mexico
5. Cancun
Stretch out on the beach, dive into tropical waters, chase down the best of Cancun's culinary scene, and even explore nearby ruins and hidden islands.
6. Playa del Carmen
Get the best of Mexico's sun, sand, and surf on the Caribbean Coast. Snorkel through the beautiful Garden of Eden cenote, swim with sea turtles at Akumal beach, and feel your worries drift away with the tides.
7. Tulum
Known for its laid-back lifestyle, incredible beaches, and world-class dining, Tulum has quickly become one of the hottest destinations on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum arguably has the nicest stretch of beach in all of the Yucatan. Whether you choose to spend the day at a public or private beach, you’ll find only soft white sand and crystal clear water.
U.S.A.
8. Cape Cod
Cape Cod is made up of 15 different towns, all with their own unique atmosphere and energy. The Cape Cod National Seashore has over 40 miles of protected coast and something fun for everyone.
9. Charleston
Rich in history and consistently voted a top destination in the U.S., Charleston is overflowing with southern charm and history. Head out to Sullivan's Island for water activities, great restaurants, and interesting shops.
10. Maui
This tropical paradise has it all: hundreds of spectacular beaches, cascading waterfalls, flourishing jungles bursting with color and birdsong, dramatic volcanic craters, and charming Hawaiian towns.
11. Miami
Who can resist the white sand and crystal clear water of Miami? Slather on the sunscreen and lounge in a hammock or head out to windsurf, kayak, or even waterski.
12. LA
Enjoy fun in the sun at Santa Monica Pier near Los Angeles. Catch a wave at Venice Beach before you stroll the bustling beach town, or drive out to Malibu to see gorgeous oceanfront homes and dreamy sunsets.
Europe
13. Algarve
Portugal's Algarve region is where you'll encounter golden beaches, castle villages, and cliffs offering sweeping views. Watch colorful fishing boats bob in the sea, walk cobbled streets, and sip some local wine. Here, leisure is a specialty.
14. Croatia
On the coast of the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Croatia is the epitome of seaside Mediterranean bliss. Whether you’re making a beeline for Dubovica Beach, touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in Hvar, or venturing out to one of Croatia’s secret islands, this is one beach destination that will never disappoint.
15. Ibiza
The whole coastline of Ibiza is dotted with centuries-old watchtowers which were built to protect the island from raiding pirates. Check out the western side of the island for some of Ibiza’s best beaches: Cala d'Hort, Cala Salada, and Cala Vadella.