A beach town has many facets. On one hand, there are all of the natural elements—whether it’s the shimmering blue waters, the white-sand beaches, or the rocky coastline. You also have human-made elements, such as the charming cottages and boats bobbing about in the harbor. There are also boardwalks between the sea and oceanfront structures. The combination of these two elements creates a relaxed atmosphere where you cannot help but appreciate the beauty around you.
You’ll find beautiful beach towns all over the world, but we wanted to know which ones were truly stunning. As part of our search, we tapped a few travel experts to share their picks for the most beautiful beach towns—discover their answers below.
Encinitas, California
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The founder of the Californian beach town, Brandon Berkson, has a few suggestions. Hotels Above Par“One in particular stands out,” says.Encinitas Vintage surf style meets quirky thrift stores in this eclectic blend Flashbacks Legendary surf shops such Hansen’s You can also find out more about the following: Concept Surf Shop. Its farm-to-table restaurants showcase the area’s fresh, coastal vibe, while Moonlight State Beach is the perfect spot to surf—or simply watch the action from the sand,” he tells Travel + Leisure. Encinitas, with its sunny streets and relaxed atmosphere, is like the Beach Boys’ song in real life.
Bald Head Island in North Carolina
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This small island, off the coast Southport, North Carolina was where I spent my summers as a child. It is small and family-friendly. You can only get around on a golf cart. Fora travel advisor Sarah Young. Part of the Brunswick IslandsBald Head Island has the oldest lighthouse still standing in North Carolina – “Old Baldy” – and offers scenic hiking, biking and kayaking opportunities, as well as relaxing on the beaches. Young says, “It is my favorite place to go every summer and will always be my special beach destination.”
Praiano, Italy
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Praiano, just down the coast from Positano is equally beautiful but much less crowded, says Alicia Walter creator of The Passport Couple. “The town is a small one, but it has postcard views of the surrounding cliffs and beaches. the one under the Fiordo di Furore bridge, “It’s like a scene from a film.” Berkson recommends Berkson’s Stay at Casa AngelinaHe describes it as “an exceedingly chic, dreamy boutique hotel perched above the piercingly-blue Tyrrhenian Sea.” He recommends heading to Il Pirata“A romantic restaurant carved in the rock, perfect for celebrating milestones and birthdays.”
Nosara Costa Rica
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If you close your eyes, the first thing that comes to mind would be a picture of a surf village. Nosara,” says Fora travel advisor Nicole Campoy Jackson. Nosara is a beach town that combines the jungle with sand, and has a laid-back, romantic vibe. You’ve just finished surfing and jump into your 4×4 for a dirt road adventure in search of a breakfast Burrito, an iced-coffee and some sand. You’re enjoying a passionfruit margarita and a citrusy ceviche at a three-wall bar by night.
Todos Santos, Mexico
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Berkson describes Todos Santos As Cabo’s “cooler and quieter younger brother,” it offers “a slower pace and a real taste of Baja California Sur.” Tucked between mountains, desert, and the ocean, the beach town has all sorts of photogenic moments—but Berkson shares that it’s the collection of “thoughtfully designed” boutique hotels that really shine. “Unlike the sprawling Cabo resorts, places like Boho-chic and Four-Key are more intimate.” Desierto Azul On Sundays, turn off the Wi-Fi to encourage guests into a laid-back desert rhythm. Nearby, Villa Santa Cruz It offers upmarket, yet unpretentious accommodations. These include tented suites on the beachfront and warmly-hued hacienda style architecture. He explains that they have stables where guests can ride horses along the beach.
Kiama (Australia)
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No one should be surprised that AustraliaIn a country known for its beautiful coastlines, there are some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Kiama is one of the most relaxing oceanfront destinations. Kiama lies about 45 minutes south-east of Sydney and is much more than just a typical coastal village. Kiama Blowhole is the largest blowhole in the world, shooting water up to 100 feet. If you don’t want to admire this natural marvel, then go surfing, explore ocean pools and volcanic rocks formations, or look at the historic terraces from the 1880s.
Forio, Italy
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“For a more peaceful escape from the bustling city” Amalfi CoastIschia should be on your list. Young says that it’s less famous than Positano and Sorrento which makes it more special. She says her favorite place is outside the Mezzatorre HotelIt is located just a few miles from the town of Forio. The water is crystal clear and you can enjoy your own little slice of heaven. I’ll always remember floating in the water with my mom last summer for hours—because of the high mineral content, you can literally float for hours,” she says. If you don’t want to float, visit Forio’s harbor, historic center and the Torrione. It’s an impressive coastal watchtower that was built in 1480.
St. Ives is located in England
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CornwallThe list of stunning beach towns in is long. Many of these towns feature white-washed bungalows, cobblestone streets that wind through them, and turquoise water, which is more common in the Mediterranean or Caribbean. St. Ives in particular is stunning. The coastal town, originally a fishing village, is known for its turquoise ocean, rugged coastline, and all things maritime—fresh seafood, fishing boats, and historic cottages and boathouses now converted into galleries, studios, and vacation homes.
Shimoda, Japan
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Walter describes Shimoda as “a quiet coastal town in the Izu Peninsula that offers crystal clear waters, soft sands, and a tranquil atmosphere.” We had no idea that there were beach resorts like this in Japan. In just a few short hours, you can be riding your bike or surfing along the coast after a luxurious train ride from Tokyo. Venture to Shirahama BeachThere are shops that rent beach equipment and sell quick food.
Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy
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“Santa Margherita Portofino, its famous neighbor, is one of the most popular destinations in Italy. picturesque stretches of Italian coastline, perhaps tied with the cliffside splendor of Amalfi,” says Jackson, who describes the area as a “mix of sandy and rocky beaches with colorful umbrellas all lined up right next to charming towns, lush gardens, and hilltop wineries and olive groves.” “If you look at it from above, it all fits together into one beautiful view,” says Jackson, adding that it is best enjoyed with a cocktail and snack. fritto misto.”
Bar Harbor, Maine
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A gateway to Acadia National ParkBar Harbor is the perfect blend of natural and man-made beauty. For a glimpse of both, take a stroll along the Shore PathStarts at sunrise at the Town Pier adjacent to Agamont Park. Keep an eye out for the Bar Harbour InnThe Porcupine Islands and Egg Rock Light are lighthouses dating from the 1870s. Take a scenic drive along the 27-mile Park Loop Road for a great view.
Deià, Spain
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“Mallorca This is my favorite place, and I highly recommend taking a boat tour to explore all the beaches. “Each one has its own unique vibe and there’s nothing better than hopping from one to the next while taking in the breathtaking coastline,” says Young. She also recommends eating lunch at Sa Foradada, located in the small coastal village of Deià. Mallorca’s “crown jewel,” Deià boasts cliffside ocean views, an idyllic town, and turquoise waters—you’ll definitely want to take a dip in Cala Deià.
Careyes, Mexico
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“The small towns and less-developed coastlines of CareyesJackson says that. and its neighbor Manzanillo are difficult to beat. “This stretch of coast was bought in 1968 by an Italian banker who set out to create a creative community here, with a good portion of its beautiful landscape purposefully left untouched. More than the town, the community and coastline is what draws people.
Coral Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
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“St. John It’s like walking into a postcard when you see beaches like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay. The water is crystal clear and the sand soft and white. “The island is a perfect place to relax, with its laid-back atmosphere and untouched nature,” Young says. Cruz Bay is the main town on the island. Coral Bay is the quieter of the two. The village has a relaxed atmosphere, despite the damage caused by Hurricanes Irma in 2017 and Maria. You can find classic beach bars, like Skinny Legs From the highest point on the Island, you can enjoy panoramic views.
Muizenberg, South Africa
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Jackson believes that South Africa’s capital, while a bit bigger than a typical beach city, should be on the must-see list of every beachgoer. “Cape Town has to be my favorite beach town in the entire world. Seeing the massive, beautiful peak of Table Mountain, the city center at its base, and a truly beautiful coastline just beyond—it’s an embarrassment of riches,” she says. You’ll come for the penguins at Boulders Beach, and stay for Camps Bay, Cape of Good Hope with its windy cape, the surf vibes of Cape Town, etc. Muizenberg“The cool, old, fishing village style in Kalk Bay is a must see, as are the many little beaches that lie between.” Muizenberg’s colorful and historic changing cabins make for great photos. The water is also warm and calm and perfect for those just learning to surf.
