Beaches & Islands Blog

Latest Articles

Best Places to Surf in Japan

Surfing may not be as synonymous with Japan as sushi or sake, but there’s a thriving surf scene in the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’. The annual typhoon season (especially between August and October) brings powerful swells to Japan’s Pacific Coast, making this the optimal time to hit the waves. And with almost 18,500 miles of coastline to choose from, there’s no shortage of shores. Keen to narrow down the options?

Best Beaches in the USA

When it comes to postcard-perfect beaches, the USA has them in bucket-(and spade)-load. From California’s colourful coast and Florida’s buzzing beaches to Oregon’s rugged shores and Georgia’s photogenic stretches, there’s no shortage of sandy escapes on a USA holiday. Spot puffins on Cannon Beach and nesting turtles on Perdido Key, or stroll past Art Deco architecture on South Beach and charming hotels overlooking Coronado Beach.

Most Beautiful Islands in Italy

Italy’s marvellous mainland is high on every traveller’s bucket list (and rightly so). But did you know that there are around 450 islands in Italy? Whether you’re searching for otherworldly beaches, ancient history or picturesque villages, Italy’s scene-stealing islands deliver. From the large and legendary to the best off-the-beaten-track beauties, read on for our roundup of the most beautiful islands in Italy.

Best beaches in the Seychelles

Made up of 115 islands, each with picture-perfect coastlines, narrowing down the best beaches in the Seychelles is no easy task. But don’t worry, we have you covered. From surfing at Anse Intendance to snorkelling in Anse Soleil, Mahe is home to some of the Seychelles’ most beautiful beaches. Meanwhile, Praslin’s Anse Georgette and La Digue’s Anse Source d'Argent offer the ideal sunbathing spots. Whether you want to spot nesting sea turtles, admire swaying palm trees or photograph granite boulders, read on for our top beach picks.

Most Beautiful Islands in the USA

As the fourth-largest country in the world, it’s easy to get lost in the mainland maze on a USA holiday. However, cast your attention beyond its shores, and you’ll discover a spectacular smattering of islands within (almost) touching distance. From the wildlife-rich Santa Catalina to Hawaii’s gorgeous ‘Garden Island’, read on to discover our pick of the most beautiful islands in the USA.   1. Santa Catalina, California2.

Most Beautiful Islands in Japan

Formed of 14,125 islands tumbling into the surrounding seas, Japan has captivating coastal scenery to spare. And while each island is as pretty as the next, picking where to go depends on what you want to see and do. Craving tropical island bliss? Looking for quirky art installations? Ready to lace up your boots and hike through ancient forests? Whatever it may be, read on for where to find this and more with our pick of the most beautiful islands in Japan.

Best Beaches in the World

A beach holiday is all about blissful relaxation (and finding sand in your suitcase on your return home). Breathe in salty sea air in the Seychelles, dive beneath the pristine waters of the Philippines or dig your toes into South Africa’s silky dunes. From local shores like the UK’s windswept Holkham Beach to the land down under on Australia’s peaceful Palm Cove, the ultimate beach escape awaits. Flip-flops and sunglasses packed?

Best Beach Towns in Croatia

There’s something about a beach town: that unbeatable blend of sea, sand and sophistication. And a holiday to Croatia has plenty to pick from. Weave through Rovinj’s vibrant old town, unwind on Primosten’s pristine sands or admire the scenic sights on a boat trip in Baska. History buffs can explore St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Hvar Town while hiking enthusiasts will likely prefer Baska’s lush walking trails.

Mauritius or Seychelles?

Mauritius or Seychelles, how can you possibly choose? Both coastal escapes offer velvety sands, lyrical landscapes and vibrant marine life. Hike through Black River Gorges National Park and dine on a fresh catch at a seafront restaurant on a holiday in Mauritius. Or dig your toes into Anse Soleil’s soft sands and snorkel through Praslin’s pristine waters during a trip to the Seychelles. Still undecided?

Best Beaches in Colombia

Colombia’s many must-sees include its captivating, almost 2000-mile-long coastline. Be it jungle-draped bays, tropical islands or coastal deserts, Colombia’s beaches always deliver on wow factor. Whether sunbathing or water sports are on the agenda, there’s plenty to choose from: it’s the only South American nation with a Pacific and Caribbean coast. So, where to begin? Read on to discover our inside scoop on where to find the best beaches in Colombia…    1.

Best beaches in Sydney

It’s a tough job narrowing down the best beaches in Sydney, but we love a challenge. As the capital of New South Wales and the country’s most densely populated city, there’s an abundance of urban attractions. But away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD (Central Business District), there is sun, sea and sand in spades. Fire up the barbecue at Bronte Beach – where you can watch salty-haired surfers race for the waves – or snorkel along the jagged coastline of Shelly Beach.

Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

Whether scattered with shards of crystal-like icebergs or fringed with bottle-green palm trees billowing in the breeze, black sand beaches are magical and draw crowds from far and wide. They are created when age-old lava, basalt and minerals are broken down by rolling waves until all that is left is glistening sand as dark as the midnight sky. A visit to some of Earth’s most amazing black sand beaches is a must for any travellers wanting to explore otherworldly landscapes and astonishing geography, combined with exciting culture and whacky wildlife.

Balearic Islands vs Canary Islands

Cerulean skies, cobalt blue seas and stunning mountainscapes; we could be describing any one of the 11 idyllic islands that together make up the Balearics and the Canaries. Both long-time favourites among British holidaymakers, it’s finally time for a head-to-head between these two Spanish island groups to see how they compare when it comes to climate, beaches and overall good-time vibes. So cast aside any preconceptions of partying and package holidays and read on to find out who will triumph in the Spanish island stand-off between the Balearic Islands vs Canary Islands.

Our Four Favourite Underrated Greek Islands

‘Underrated’ and ‘Greek’ don’t often appear in the same sentence. Thanks to its dreamy landscapes, rich history, colourful cuisine and Mama Mia fame, the country is one of the world’s most treasured travel spots. But with over 200 inhabited islands, even Greece has a handful of glorious hidden gems to offer up. Looking to live the island life far away from flocks of tourists? Read on to discover four of the best underrated Greek islands.

Best Beaches in Corfu

It’s no secret that Greece does beaches exceptionally well. There’s nothing quite like settling down on the powder soft sand of a Greek beach, after an invigorating dip in the Ionian Sea and before an idyllic dinner watching the sunset. Playing host to just shy of 60 beaches, Corfu knows a thing or two about these sandy strips of perfection. From pebbled pockets of peace and quiet along the northeastern coastline, to unspoilt swathes of honey-hued sand on the island’s western shores, there’s something to suit every age and energy level.

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