Beach Vacations

The beach holiday is the platonic ideal of vacations: what nearly every traveler, whether active or armchair, dreams of. Soft sand, shady palms, a cold drink, a warm surf—what more could you want? It's no wonder so many ad campaigns hang their hook (and their products) on this seaside ideal: brands of beer, lines of clothes, models of cars. Travel + Leisure writers and editors are no strangers to the allure of the shore, and so search the world for the best beach vacations it can offer.

Most Recent

The Best Beaches on Hilton Head Island for Family Time, Romantic Strolls, Scenic Bike Rides, and More

There's a beach for every type of traveler on Hilton Head Island.

5 Best Family-friendly Hotels on Hilton Head Island

Whether you're planning your first multi-generational trip or Hilton Head Island is your longtime family vacation tradition, here's where to stay to keep everyone happy.

Best Private Boat Charters on Hilton Head Island

There's nothing better than a day out on the water.

The Best Family-friendly Restaurants on Hilton Head Island

Here's where to eat and have fun as a family.

Kauai Is Spearheading Hawaii's Regenerative Travel Movement — Meet the Locals Creating Change

More than a century after the first tourists arrived on Kauai, the Hawaiian island is luring modern travelers with a return to tradition — and a mission to give back.

15 Best Weekend Beach Getaways in the U.S.

From the beautiful California coast to the sunny Florida Keys, these are the best weekend beach getaways in the U.S.

More Beach Vacations

The Prettiest Place on the Washington Coast Is a Town You've Probably Never Heard Of

This charming coastal town is the best-kept secret in Washington state.

Why Winter Is the Best Season to Surf at New York's Rockaway Beach

For those who can tolerate it, cold-weather surfing can be just as invigorating—and crowd-free.

This Small Mexican Beach Town Is the Perfect Spot for a Family Vacation

French Polynesia Is Known for Its Stunning Beaches and Resorts — but a Younger Generation Is Working to Highlight Its Rich Traditions

7 Gorgeous Gulf Coast Beaches — From Texas to Florida

This New Caribbean Resort Has a Glass-bottom Pool, Swim-up Bar, and Massive Suites

This Caribbean Resort Is the Ultimate Girls Getaway — With Rum, Sushi, and Outdoor Adventures

For two longtime best friends, a reunion at Zemi Beach House was worth the wait. Here's what not to miss if you grab your friends and book this tropical escape.