August is traditionally a month that’s reserved for summer vacations. August is a month that seems to be dedicated to long-awaited vacations, unplugged moments from the office, and relaxing in beaches-friendly locations. This will continue to be true for the foreseeable future, but we have been able to add new destinations to our travel radars over the past year.
Yes, our Instagram feeds are still flooded with scenic views of the Positano cityscape from the iconic or sparkling blue waters of Capri, but there’s a new wave of beach towns emerging. The feeling of being at the beach is magical. From the warm, salty air on your skin to its scent in the breeze, it’s an experience like none other. These ten beach towns are the best choices for anyone looking to escape to the beach in winter or to plan a spontaneous summer vacation. Continue scrolling to see the next generation of beaches that you can visit for relaxation, restoration and discovery.
San Sebastian, Spain
The resort town is surrounded by Playa de la Concha (the beach) and Playa de Ondarreta (the beach). A bayfront promenade hosts renowned restaurants and shops. Stay at the luxury hotel in the heart the city, which celebrates the historic charm of this charming beach town.
Comporta, Portugal
Its remote, beautiful beaches are one of Portugal’s most treasured secrets. The majority of the fishing villages have remained largely unknown to tourists. Jaclyn Sienna Indian, founder of Sienna Charles a luxury lifestyle and travel company that offers ultra-luxury lifestyles, says Comporta is her favorite beach to visit in the summer. “The wild beaches of Comporta in Portugal are my favorite summer beaches. My husband and I love to rent a house, visit the seafood markets, cook together, and then go back to our home. India says that India and her husband spend a lot of time on the beach, as well as visiting all the fish shacks along the shore for lunch. Book a few nights at the and for a truly unique stay, disconnect from the world and explore the small shops on Rua Dom Afonso Hisriques or Rua do Secador.”
Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
Located on the northwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Peninsula Papagayo embodies the native saying “Pure Vida”, which means a way to live. This 1,400-acre, intimate beach town is home to Ollie’s point and Witch’s Rock, two of the most popular surf breaks in the world. They attract surfers from all walks of life. Stay at to enjoy a unique experience, such as lessons at the resort’s luxury surfing school. The coral reefs of Peninsula Papagayo are another reason Peninsula Papagayo is so well-known. Miguel Sanchez, director at the Explorers, Latin America’s most exclusive resort, says that coral reefs are vital to the health and well-being of the underwater ecosystem. Due to its richness and diversity, the Gulf of Papagayo is one of the most significant areas in Costa Rica. They are the foundation of a marine community that attracts a variety of fish and other species who come to feed.
To restore the health and size of the coral reefs, Peninsula Papagayo has begun a three-year coral restoration project, working with government, universities, and private organizations. For the perfect moment, take a stroll down the Promenade Le Corbusier. It is the perfect beach destination because it blends the best of both old and new history.
Papas Beach, Ios, Greece
There is never a shortage of beach destination discovery. Papas Beach is hidden away on the Greek island Ios. It boasts a golden sand beach and clear blue waters. The ultimate destination for modern travelers, it is the ideal place to stay. Its design philosophy is a commitment towards delivering an aesthetically unique product while respecting the traditional Cycladic architecture and accommodating modern traveler’s needs. Angelos Michalopoulos, Calilo’s owner, says that Calilo is a peaceful retreat in the Cyclades. Calilo’s beach is surrounded with dramatic cliffs, offering guests a private place to relax, sunbathe and connect with nature. “We want to share the beauty of the island’s island with guests. Papas Beach is an island treasure that we hope everyone can experience.”
Anguilla
With a relatively short flight from New York at around four hours, the tiny Caribbean island Anguilla is garnering the attention of many East Coasters–especially this year. The world’s leading beach expert says that Anguilla is only 35 miles across, but there are 49 beautiful beaches. All beaches have soft, white sand and clear turquoise waters with vibrant coral reefs. It is less touristy than other Caribbean islands, and retains a more authentic feel than others. Book a stay at the property for families looking for a memorable beach escape. The property’s remote location gives it the feeling of being on an island.
Jose Ignacio, Uruguay
The bohemian-chic fishing village of Jose Ignacio, Uruguay, is often described as where St. Tropez meets Marlborough Country. The village of Jose Ignacio, in true beach-town fashion has its appeal by bringing the old character and culture of the community into a new world. Jose Ignacio boasts stunning private beaches, world-famous surfing at La Barra and luxury accommodations.
Trancoso, Brazil
Founded by Jesuits in the 16th century, Trancoso is a historic fishing village in the south of Bahia. The area was largely undiscovered until hippies and artists discovered it in 1970s. It retains its beautiful architecture, unspoiled nature, rich traditions, and stunning architecture. The area is surrounded by dense jungle on three sides, and the ocean on the fourth. Trancoso was first discovered by a boutique hotel. Wilbert Das, the long-standing creative director at Diesel, founded the hotel. It features 11 one-to-three-bedroom casas. All of them are restored with local, sustainable materials. There is no signage to distinguish one UXUA building from another local home.
Las Catalinas, Costa Rica
Another must-visit beach destination in Costa Rica is Las Catalinas. This outdoor paradise is ideal for trail runners, mountain bikers and yogis. Las Catalinas has 26 miles of single-track bike trails that offer spectacular views of the coast and valleys. Two of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches are also within the town. Las Catalinas, which is protected from the south swell, is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. It has consistent moderate waves that make it perfect for body surfing, boogie boarding, standup paddle-boarding (SUP), and sea kayaking.
Portofino, Italy
The small town of Portofino stretches along San Fruttuoso Bay, proving true to the Instagrammable moments of Italy with brightly colored houses dotting the shoreline of the clear blue waters. You can enjoy a more intimate look at the town and get a better view of the village than tourists. The Splendido Mare, which was reopened May 1, 2021 after a full restoration by Paris-based FESTEN Architecture, is a great place to stay. The history of the Splendido Mare is a reflection of its location in a fishing village, where there have not been any new houses built since 1935. Terracotta tiles from Impruneta and ceramic tiles from Garfagnana are some of the local elements. Carrara marble is another example. DaV Mare is a new restaurant that focuses on seasonal and local ingredients. Its signature dishes include paccheri alla vintorio, a simple tomato pasta. The little gelateria is located in the heart piazzetta’s center. You can explore the Italian Riviera by boat on a traditional Lingurian vessel, or you can spend the afternoon in the sun at Bagni Fiore, Paraggi’s most exclusive beach.
Todos Santos, Baja California
For West Coasters, the town Todos Santos is a hidden beach-town treasure. Todos Santos is located less than 50 miles away from San Jose del Cabo Airport. This town has 355 days per year of clear weather. It has been praised as a peaceful surf town, and an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. There are many experiences in the center of town. Enjoy surfing at different levels at Cerritos and San Pedrito beaches, guided hiking, or mountain biking along the Pacific coast. A botanical garden featuring 60 endemic species, Mexican-made furniture, and a below-ground spa that was inspired by Todos Santos’s secret watering hole, as well as an open-fire cooking area with an Oaxacan clay oven, make this the perfect place to stay.
