The Best Beach Vacation for Every Month of the Year
Updated: Apr. 12, 2024
Spend the year following the sun from tropical islands to golden-sand retreats with this guide to the best beaches across the globe
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Dive into beach weather anytime
Gray skies near you? No worries! You can jet off to perfect sun and surf literally every month of the year … if you know where to look, that is. I’ve searched the world for perfect beaches that offer blue skies, turquoise water and golden sand for any time you need a beach day, no matter what month.
During my more than two decades as a travel writer, I’ve snorkeled, sailed and swam in water as near as my home in New Jersey and as far-flung as the Galapagos Islands. I’ve dipped my toes into the ocean in at least a dozen different locations, including Hawaii, Florida, Thailand, Greece, Spain, Croatia, Mexico, Belize, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Puerto Rico. I’m always ready to dive into new waters, especially when my East Coast home is covered in snow or so humid you can barely breathe, so the best beach for every time of year is one of my favorite things to research.
How we choose the best beaches
To help me with my quest to find the perfect beach for every month, I first tapped the experts at Tripadvisor, who recently released their 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards for the world’s best beaches. “Our Travelers’ Choice lists reveal that there’s no one-size-fits-all beach day,” says Sarah Firshein, head of editorial at Tripadvisor. “Our top 25 winners alone encompass 18 countries across five continents.” The top beach this year is in Europe (more on that below), bumping the perennially popular Caribbean from the spot.
Vacasa, the leading home rental source in the United States, gave me a deeper look at the most popular beach destinations across the country. “Beach destinations always top Vacasa’s seasonal travel surveys,” says Daned Kirkham, senior director of real estate at Vacasa. “Last fall, more than two in five fall travelers [43%] were heading to a beach destination. This year, about one-third of Americans [34%] were considering or making plans to snowbird.” (Snowbirds leave their cold-climate homes to spend winter somewhere warmer.) It’s a plan, I have to admit, that sounds pretty tempting.
In addition to expert input, I also considered the following:
- The best weather for each destination
- When crowds are heaviest
- The perfect audience for these beaches
- Special events, such as holiday celebrations
Taken together, you’ll have the perfect beach spot, no matter when you want to travel. Read on to discover the best beach for every month of the year.
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About the experts
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January: Placencia, Belize
Have you heard of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef? I thought so. How about Belize’s Barrier Reef? Not so much, right? I’m here to tell you that in 2024, it’s time to put this natural wonder on your must-visit list. This is the world’s second-largest barrier reef (behind Australia’s), and it’s actually the biggest reef in both the Northern and Western hemispheres. The snorkeling here is magnificent, and so is the diving—plus, it’s not as crowded as the better-known Australian alternative.
I like to base myself in Placencia, where it’s easy to take a guided boat tour out to Laughing Bird Caye, a white sand island that will make you feel like you’ve discovered a beach oasis. Belize is easy to reach with direct flights from multiple spots in the United States, including New York, Miami and Houston. It’s also one of the safest countries in the world and an affordable place to visit. Bonus: It’s also one of the foreign countries that uses U.S. dollars.
Where to stay: The Turtle Inn, a Family Coppola Hideaways property, (yes, the Coppola of Hollywood fame), is a 25-room seafront escape with individual thatched cottages decorated with handcrafted wood furnishings. They’re naturally cooled by sea breezes, giving you a laid-back, beachy stay. The resort has a dive shop with four boats and promises that guests can get PADI certified right on-site in just four days.
In addition to offering an ideal location to experience the sand and sea, it’s also just a short bicycle ride or walk from the charming seafront fishing village of Placencia, where I like to stroll along the crisscrossing sidewalks to visit local artisan shops and pick up some ice cream before heading to one of the delicious dining spots in town.
February: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Just south of Cancún is this stretch of golden beach and warm Gulf waters spanning 80 miles along the Mexican Caribbean. The Riviera Maya is world-renowned for its stunning sand, clear blue waters, spectacular Mayan archaeological sites, cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with water that ancient Mayans considered sacred) and lush landscapes full of mangroves, lagoons and tropical jungles. All in all, it’s safe to say this gorgeous coast offers something special for every type of traveler. And if you like all-inclusives, you’re in luck: This part of Mexico excels in offering one-and-done priced resorts, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
Note that the weather can get hot and rainy from May through October, so late fall through early spring are the best times to visit here. You can fly to Cancún nonstop from Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and more, so getting there is a breeze.
Where to stay: Meet-and-greets with Nickelodeon characters, swim-up suites overlooking the ocean and whimsical dining options galore—find all this (and more) at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya. This family-friendly winter getaway is most famous for its themed entertainment offerings and on-site water park, where you’ll find more than 20 slides to zip down.
Anne Fritz, deputy editor at Reader’s Digest, recently visited the property with her daughter and shares, “I was so impressed by every aspect of this property. The design is stunning, the food is delicious—yes, even at the buffets—and the service is impeccable. It’s so much more than a ‘kid’s’ hotel.” The only downside? The beachfront is in the process of being restored after the 2021 hurricane, so there’s nowhere to lounge.
March: Oahu, Hawaii
Realistically, the weather in Hawaii is good almost year-round, and the beaches on Oahu offer something for every interest and mood. This was one of Vacasa’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why Waikiki is one of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii: It’s been combining wide stretches of white sand, tropical ocean waters, great waves and endless sunshine with sophisticated hotels, hopping bars and gourmet restaurants in a winning combination since the 1950s. For a quieter day in the water, head west to Ko Olina, where you’ll find protected lagoons, soft sand and just a handful of resorts.
March is the sweet spot to visit, landing between the winter holidays and Easter break, which also translates to better prices for the same sand. Plus, December through March is peak whale-watching season, when you can spy mighty humpbacks breaching from your lounge chair.
Where to stay:Â The expansive Aulani, a Disney resort and spa, is a popular vacation spot chock-full of family-friendly features and amenities, including a lazy river, two waterslides, a fish-filled lagoon for snorkeling and a handful of pools and water play areas, including a splash pad. Out on the sheltered man-made lagoon (excellent for swimming), families can take advantage of free chair and umbrella rentals, as well as boogie boards and sand toys.
The Hawaiian design elements—found in the playful Disney-inspired guest rooms and common areas—only add to the tropical ambiance. And since this is a Disney resort, you can expect five-star service and tons of magical touches, including character experiences, Mickey-shaped sweet treats and, of course, Dole Whip. Best of all, the complimentary Aunty’s Beach House (the on-site kids club) will keep children ages 4 through 12 entertained.
“My family loved the luau, where you learn about Hawaii’s history and culture through dance and song,” says Fritz, who recently visited the property with her husband and two children. “Keep an eye out for the hidden menehune sculptures (similar to leprechauns)—there are 300 around the resort.” Her family also enjoyed designing their own Hawaii-themed Mickey ears, meeting Hawaii-based Disney characters, including Stitch and Moana, and having a room with a kitchenette.
April: The Algarve, Portugal
The best beach in the world? According to Tripadvisor, that would be the 3 miles of golden sand known as Praia da Falésia, a beach on the coast of Portugal. (Yes, it beat out everything in the Caribbean, Hawaii and the South Pacific!) The tiny fishing town of Olhos de Agua surrounds the sandy cove that kisses the Atlantic Ocean. This gorgeous stretch of soft sand and colored cliffs is in the enchanting Algarve region, which boasts scenic fishing villages, charming seaside restaurants, hidden grottoes and turquoise waters. Recent visitors say a boat tour of the caves is a must-do. The best time to visit? Spring, when there are fewer crowds and lower prices.
Where to stay: Nearby is the Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort, a newly renovated hotel set right on the clifftop of Vale de Covo, with expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and refreshing ocean breezes. There’s also an incredible pool with views over the sea, easy access to the beach and an expansive complimentary breakfast buffet every morning. Extra bonus: Portugal offers amazing value for your money, with even the five-star Tivoli offering rooms starting at less than $200 per night.
May: Galapagos Islands
May in the Galapagos is perfect for swimming and snorkeling at the area’s many beaches. You’ll arrive before the cooler water temperatures (the result of the seasonal switch-up that comes with being on the equator) and the peak-season crowds that descend upon the island in June through August. It’s truly a life-changing experience to see the wildlife in these unique island sanctuaries comprising volcanic ruins, multihued beaches and, of course, clear blue waters. The Bahia Gardner Beach on Espanola Island was named one of the best beaches in the world thanks to its abundant animal life. Every night, sea turtles come to lay their eggs on magical Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island. Marine iguanas, pelicans, flamingos and sea lions inhabit the shores. Tortuga Bay is also known for surfing, snorkeling and kayaking.
Where to stay: To see the dozens of islands and their incredible beaches, you’ll need to take one of the small number of cruises that are approved to traverse this protected national park. My husband, son and I sailed through the Galapagos Islands with Quasar Expeditions, which operates two small ships. Both the M/V Evolution and M/Y Grace sail on seven-night itineraries. We sailed on the bigger of the two, the 36-passenger M/V Evolution, which was staffed with some of the most knowledgeable guides I’ve ever met. We were able to get up close to everything from herds of sea lions lounging on the beach to whales cresting in the water.
June: Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
Coming in at No. 5 on Tripadvisor’s top beaches list is Grace Bay, a top spot for swimming and snorkeling. For more adventurous beachgoers, kitesurfing is a big draw—and one of the reasons we added Turk and Caicos to our Best Places to Go in 2024 list. Avid divers love the mammoth undersea coral wall off Grand Turk too. Of course, Grace Bay is also popular for simply sunbathing and walking along the soft white sand.
There’s an extra bonus if you visit in June: Not only does summer bring blue skies, white clouds and shimmering water, but hotel prices are generally the lowest from June through August.
Where to stay: The calm, clear waters at Grace Bay Club are so picture-perfect, says Reader’s Digest Executive Editor Aviva Patz, that “it’s like stepping into a screensaver.” Other highlights of this all-suite hotel include the 1,100 feet of white sand beachfront from where you can jump into activities like sailing, kiteboarding, oceanfront yoga, private dive trips, golfing, bone fishing, bottom fishing, reef fishing and deep-sea fishing.
All of the 136 suites have oceanfront views from private verandas or patios, so you can enjoy the ocean breezes without leaving your luxe room. For families, there’s a Kids Town children’s program for ages 5 to 12, and for everyone, there’s Just Tacos beachside dining spot (“good enough to justify the whole trip!” says Patz) and complimentary nonmotorized watersport activities and complimentary full American breakfast daily.
July: Cape May, New Jersey
As a Jersey girl, I have to confess to having a soft spot in my heart for the Jersey Shore (what we locals call the beach areas that follow the Atlantic Ocean for 130 miles here). The East Coast has a very limited window when the weather is sunny, the ocean is warm and inviting, and the beach towns are at their liveliest. In other words, you want to visit in July (although August is fun too).
Despite the short season, I’m here to tell you that Cape May is one of the absolute best beach vacations in July. The East Coast’s beaches are often as scenic as their Caribbean counterparts. So take advantage of the July sunshine to hit the sand in Victorian Cape May, America’s first beach resort. The golden sand here is perfect for sunning or strolling—you can even find diamonds (Well, Cape May diamonds, which are sparkling silica) while you walk along the shore. Bike along the coastline to reach the Cape May Lighthouse or take a whale-watching trip out into the Atlantic Ocean.
Where to stay: Base yourself at historic Congress Hall. The family-friendly property may have been there for two centuries, but it offers modern amenities like beach lounge chairs with waiter service, a pool with a bar and a farm-to-table cafe and restaurant.
August: Ocean City, Maryland
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach in the mid-Atlantic states, it’s hard to beat this Tripadvisor pick, which landed in the Top 10 for best U.S. beaches. Newsweek once called this a “quintessential American beach town,” and it’s easy to see why it consistently draws visitors from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The 10-mile stretch of golden sand is paired with a 3-mile-long boardwalk filled with amusements, including a vintage carousel from 1902, and decadent beach eats, such as malt-vinegar-doused Thrasher’s fries and creamy Kohr’s frozen custard. In short, this is an affordable family vacation idea everyone will love. For warm weather, hit the beach here before the end of the summer months.
Where to stay: Nestled along Ocean City’s pristine shores, the newly renovated Ashore Resort & Beach Club offers ocean views and exclusive beachfront access. There are newly renovated rooms and on-site dining experiences, and you’re in an ideal location to easily access the boardwalk and explore nearby attractions like Jolly Roger amusement park. Fritz, who vacationed here as a child with her parents, fondly remembers the Old Pro Golf’s themed mini golf courses (she’s partial to the Renaissance castle on 28th Street) and freshly made saltwater taffy from the Candy Kitchen.
September: Barceloneta Beach, Spain
Barcelona offers a cultural city and beach rolled into one; it’s just a short hop from the city’s center to Barceloneta Beach, a golden 2-mile stretch considered one of the best beaches in Spain. Even though September is considered off-peak, that’s when temperatures can climb up to 80 degrees, making the waters perfect for swimming. (Since I visit often, I know when the best times to visit Spain are.) Entrance is free, and there’s a wide range of amenities, such as volleyball courts, beach tennis, lounge chairs, umbrellas, showers and changing rooms.
When I visited with my family, we especially loved strolling along the Passeig Maritim, an almost mile-long promenade adjacent to the beach lined with shops and restaurants. At night, the shores transform into a pulsing nightlife scene; many nightclubs and lounges are situated just steps away from the sand.
Where to stay: You can’t get closer to Barceloneta Beach than the grand Hotel Arts Barcelona, a luxurious retreat facing the Mediterranean Sea, literally steps away from the sand. My family and I stayed here last year, and we were mesmerized by the views of the sailboats pushing into the sea each morning from our incredibly decadent duplex suite on the 35th floor.
In fact, the sparkling sea views continued to greet us at the delicious breakfast buffet, at the hotel’s infinity pool and oasis gardens perched on the third floor and from the hotel’s five indoor and outdoor restaurants and bars. (For even grander views, head up to the spa, which has its own pool, on the 43rd floor.) You’ll be hard-pressed to remember you’re in a city—until, that is, you head to the observation deck and spy the Sagrada Familia in the skyline.
October: Kaanapali, Maui
Kaanapali Beach on the island of Maui has grabbed Tripadvisor’s “Best in the U.S.” title for the second year in a row, with nearly 10,000 Tripadvisor reviews. This Hawaiian getaway is another favorite of my family, and I never get tired of seeing the crystal waters, perfect for snorkeling and surfing, against a backdrop of lush mountains. In fact, you can simply don a snorkel mask and step into the water to see multihued fish in a few moments. While the surf near the shore is absent of undertow, the waves pick up just a few yards offshore, making it a great spot to learn to surf too, which my son got to try when he was here for spring break.
Before dinner, don’t miss the daily cliff-diving ceremony at Pu’u Keka’a (Black Rock), held on the northern end of the beach at sunset. Extra perk: October offers great weather, fewer crowds and affordable prices.
Where to stay: Stay in the heart of the island’s exciting West Coast at the new Westin Nanea, an all-suite hotel with an extensive cultural program and authentic Hawaiian design right on the sand of north Kaanapali. My family appreciated the ability to stretch out in the apartment-style accommodations with multiple bedrooms, and we whipped up tropical smoothies with local farmstead produce in the full kitchen.
November: Santa Monica, California
Sun and fun along a stylish beachfront make Santa Monica a must-visit in sunny California—and one of Tripadvisor’s Top 10 beaches in the United States. Although the waves of the Pacific Ocean and the soft sand are both big draws, a lot of what makes this beach popular is what else you can do nearby with views of the ocean. You’ll find excellent shopping at the Third Street Promenade; some of the city’s most iconic dining spots, including The Ivy; and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean from the numerous swanky hotels. Plus, there’s the family favorite Santa Monica Pier, where you can ride the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel while getting a sea breeze.
Where to stay: The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is one of my all-time favorite beach-side hotels. Set on five expansive acres on a bluff north of Santa Monica Pier overlooking the ocean, this was originally the exclusive private estate of Senator John P. Jones, the founder of Santa Monica. Today, the Miramar is home to 31 beach-inspired bungalows perfect for channeling quintessential SoCal style in addition to a traditional hotel building. They all offer easy access to Santa Monica’s golden sand beaches and expansive bike paths that follow the Pacific Ocean.
December: Hollywood, Florida
Yup, it’s Hollywood, but not that Hollywood. You won’t find movie stars here, but what you will find at this retro cool beach, named one of the Top 10 in the United States by Tripadvisor, is the Broadwalk, a popular 2.5-mile pathway along a sun-kissed beach hugging the Atlantic Ocean. I came to Hollywood when I was a baby (really—this is where my grandparents came for sunshine when the winter months got too cold in New Jersey), and I’ve been visiting the golden sand here ever since.
The Broadwalk (note, it’s not “boardwalk”) is a great spot to bike, stroll, people-watch at outdoor cafes or check out one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Florida. If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s where parts of the dog beach scenes in the movie Marley & Me were filmed.
Where to stay: The iconic Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is just the kind of spot my grandparents would have stayed at. It’s spiffed up with modern appeal, features an infinity and a lagoon pool, and offers a private beach with a variety of watersports to enjoy. For families, the Dip and Slide Waterpark, perched above the Lagoon Pool, will keep the kids busy with waterslides, water cannons and splish-splash fountains. Tired after a day at the beach? The hotel features eight restaurants and lounges, so you don’t have to leave the property to have a great dinner.
Why trust us
At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Melissa Klurman tapped her two decades of experience as a travel writer to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We relied on reputable primary sources, including travel industry experts, as well as our editors’ and writer’s personal experience. We verified all facts and data and backed them with credible sourcing, and we will revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.  Â
Sources:
- Sarah Firshein, head of editorial at Tripadvisor
- Daned Kirkham, senior director of real estate at Vacasa
- Tripadvisor: “Travelers’ Choice Awards for the World’s Best Beaches for 2024”
Originally Published: December 20, 2018
