A holiday in the sun is the perfect chance to escape wet and windy Ireland and work on your tan. Before you rush to book the nearest available dates, think about what you want to avoid any holiday regrets.
If you’ve saved your annual leave and want to spend it relaxing on the beach, check out our guide on booking seaside destinations below.
Climate Consistency and Optimal Travel Seasons
Not every destination has perfect weather year-round. Popular tourist attractions in North African and Mediterranean countries, like Greece, suffer from dangerous heat waves and wildfires. Others are chillier in spring and autumn, making swimming and sunbathing unappealing.
The shoulder season can be a good time to book to avoid extreme temperatures and large crowds. Alternatively, you can fly to the southern hemisphere for winter holidays with guaranteed sun. Lanzarote Holidays offer a mild climate year-round, making it an attractive choice for warm beaches.
Quality and Variety of Beaches
Beaches make or break a seaside holiday. Look for clean, well-maintained beaches with lifeguards and easy access to cafes and food stands. Check online for warnings about dangerous rip currents, tides, and poisonous jellyfish. Beaches with mellow waves will be safe for beginners trying surfing for the first time.
A mix of dramatic rocky and tranquil sandy beaches will provide sunbathing and photo opportunities. Some destinations, like Horseshoe Bay Beach in Bermuda, have pink sand thanks to calcium carbonate, while shallow waters can create a breathtaking turquoise hue as light reflects off the rock bottom.
Range of Accommodation Options
Whether you prefer Airbnb, luxury resorts, or budget-friendly hotels, your destination should have a diverse range of options that suit you best. With Airbnb, you’ll access a broader range of unique accommodations and the ability to cook your own meals to save on restaurant expenses. They’re also more flexible regarding check-in/check-out times than hotels.
Staying in a high-quality hotel will remove the stress of housekeeping, letting you focus on getting outside and exploring the local area. Some resorts offer exclusive access to beach events and water sports before relaxing at the bar in the evening.
Availability of Activities and Attractions
While staying on the beach is great, there should be other opportunities to enjoy. Look for nearby walks in nature reserves and mountain ranges if your family are hiking enthusiasts or cycle paths that follow the coastline.
Many seaside towns have rich histories to explore or are within a short bus or train ride of an ancient nearby city. In Arrecife, for example, you can visit Castillo de San Gabriel, a 16th-century fortress that currently houses the International Museum of Contemporary Art. El Charco de San Ginés is a favourite among visitors for its scenic walkway along a natural lagoon and former fishing village, with plenty of restaurants along the way.
