Six Sun-Soaked Destinations for the Ultimate Summer Escape
Some summer escapes are about ticking destinations off a list. Others are about sinking into the sunshine, slowing your pace and letting the destination do the heavy lifting. Whether that’s floating in crystal-clear water, wandering along sun-warmed promenades, or waking up to the sound of the sea, the right beach break has a way of resetting everything.
From Montenegro’s laid-back Adriatic coast to the tropical islands of Okinawa, these sun-drenched destinations offer more than just good weather. Think swim-friendly bays, white-sand beaches, easy-going city-meets-sea escapes and a generous dose of that summer holiday feeling we all crave. If you’re planning a sunshine escape, these six destinations are guaranteed to deliver serious warmth, water and wanderlust.
Soak up the sunshine in Herceg Novi, the ‘City of Sun’, Montenegro
Herceg Novi, known as the City of Sun, is a charming Adriatic town ideal for summer holidays, with warm, breezy weather and a relaxed pace. Set at the entrance to UNESCO-listed Boka Bay, it features clean, sandy beaches, shady promenades and cultural sights such as Forte Mare fortress and the old town’s stepped alleyways. Swimming, boat trips and nearby Mount Orjen hikes make it perfect for active days, while the all-inclusive Iberostar Waves Herceg Novi sits right on the Adriatic with private beach access, pools and sea-view doubles from £1,048 per person (flights included) for a week in August with Jet2 Holidays. montenegro.travel
Bask in the sunshine of tropical Okinawa, Japan
Mention Japan and tropical beaches and sun are unlikely to come to mind, but venture to Okinawa and discover paradise. Made up of over 150 islands, Okinawa is often referred to as the Hawaii of Japan. Be sure to visit Ishigaki – home to beautiful secluded beaches, extensive limestone caves, forested mountains with impressive vistas and fantastic scuba diving. For a truly special Okinawa beachfront experience, book a stay at the recently opened Rosewood Miyakojima, the perfect getaway for those looking for a slice of tropical paradise on their expedition to the Far East. japan.travel/en/uk/
Swim in crystal-clear waters in Los Cabos, Mexico
Located at the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos offers a stunning summer getaway with golden sands, sunny skies and mesmerising backdrops. The summer months create ideal conditions for beach hopping and spending time on the water, whether that’s swimming at Medano Beach, snorkelling in the crystal-clear, protected bays of Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay, or kayaking on the Sea of Cortez. For those planning ahead, Amanvari (opening mid-2026) will introduce a new level of luxury to the region on Costa Palmas, featuring elegant design, private beach access, a signature spa and world-class dining that combines Japanese, Italian and regional cuisine. visitloscabos.travel
Walk along white sand beaches in Florida’s Paradise Coast, North America
Offering beautiful white sand beaches, warm Gulf waters and lush subtropical landscapes, Florida’s Paradise Coast – Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades – provides a relaxed summer escape. From the elegant shores of Naples to the pristine stretches of Marco Island, visitors can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding and breathtaking sunset cruises, and experience one of the lushest seasons for wildlife spotting in the Everglades National Park. The summer months are the region’s low season, with more affordable flight and hotel rates. Stay at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort for unrivalled ocean views and three miles of private beach access, from £426 per night. paradisecoast.com
Get a taste of the Mediterranean in Valencia, Spain
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the city of Valencia blends a rich history in the Old Centre with golden sand beaches for relaxation. These beaches include La Malvarrosa, El Cabanyal and Patacona, which offer long ribbons of soft sand and a wide promenade. For a wilder feel, the dune-backed shores of El Saler and La Devesa, set within the Albufera Natural Park, provide quieter stretches. Valencia combines the best of a city break with a beach holiday and staying centrally in the neighbourhood of Rufaza at Yours Boutique Hotel is a great way to experience it, from £143 per night. visitvalencia.com/en
Embrace the California-cool beach life in San Clemente, California, North America
Lap up California surf and beach culture in San Clemente, located in the heart of Orange County. The laidback beach town boasts four miles of gorgeous coastline with highlights including the San Clemente Pier, and a 2.3-mile Beach Trail accessible by foot or bike. Catch some waves with a lesson at Wavehuggers Surf School, or opt to taste the local bites at Fisherman’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar which provides breathtaking sea views and fresh produce. Enjoy ocean views from the Sea Horse Resort, offering studios, one bedroom and two bedroom suites from £258 per night. visitcalifornia.com
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