Best city plus beach trips
Why choose when you can have both? Why not take a city trip and get your daily dose of vitamin sea? You won't ever have to take off your flip-flops as you wander along sandy shorelines and seafronts dotted with shops in these city-plus-beach locations.
South Korea’s second-largest city also boasts miles of idyllic coastline
The 100-year-old Santa Monica pier and the adjacent length of ivory sand are probably the greatest parts of Los Angeles. This seaside town's expansive beach, powder-blue wooden lifeguard towers, and iconic Ferris wheel stand in stark contrast to Los Angeles' urban sprawl.
There is also a well-liked farmers' market nearby, brimming with delectable fresh local flavours. If staying in is more your thing, though, Santa Monica is awash in enticingly trendy eateries—and we don't just mean your standard LA salad and green juice combo. Compared to downtown, this tranquil coastal village has a different vibe. You can take the Metro to find a ride between Santa Monica and LA or rent a car to experience the freedom of the open road.
The outdoor pool at Casa Del Mar is virtually on the beach, making it a great option for a peaceful getaway. Sit back in your vintage lounger and watch as the beach carnival lights come to life in the evening.
Busan is a great choice for a city-beach getaway due to its booming art scene, active nightlife, and kilometres of sandy coastline. Thanks to monuments like Gamcheon Culture Village, a neighbourhood noted for its steep steps, twisting alleyways, and rainbow-hued buildings, this port city, which is surrounded by lush mountains, cascades down the shoreline like a sea of colourful concrete.
The best pubs, cafés, and restaurants in South Korea may be found in Busan. You can discover some of the freshest seafood on the planet here thanks to its proximity to the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan. Experience Jagalchi Market's artful chaos by getting up before the sun. The largest fish market in South Korea is here, and many of the nearby eateries provide food that is fresh from the sea.
Busan is made even more dynamic by its large multinational community and active student culture, in addition to its delicious cuisine. However, Haeundae Beach, where the boardwalk is dotted with bars and restaurants, is the perfect place to escape the neon-lit streets and soak up some sun. Looking for a more relaxed atmosphere? See the famous Gwangan Bridge, which is on the calmer Gwangalli Beach and is lit up in a rainbow of colours every night.
Given that Busan has an international airport, getting there by plane is simple. A high-speed rail that runs often and takes three hours can also be taken to get to Busan if you're coming from Seoul. Stay at Hotel Kyungsung to be close to Haeundae Beach.
San Sebastián is a city found in the lovely Basque Country, on the rocky coast of Northern Spain. This historic port city's Gothic-Basque architecture produces a lovely cityscape of gorgeous landmarks bordered by idyllic beaches. The crescent-shaped shoreline of La Concha beach is divided from the forested hills on each side by the deep emerald waters of the Bay of Biscay.
San Sebastián served as the summer capital of Europe during the reign of Queen Regent Maria Cristina. Thousands of people used to come here to enjoy the sun, surf, and some very delicious local fare. Foodies continue to go to the city decades later to dine at any of its nine Michelin-starred restaurants and enjoy some of the finest culinary treats in the world. However, you won't have to spend a fortune to eat well here. Enjoy a dish of pintxos, a form of regional tapas, together with a cool glass of Txakoli, a sparkling white wine from the area.
Stay at Pension Alameda in the centre of the Old Town, just a short stroll from La Concha and other iconic squares brimming with delicious restaurants.
Arambol, though technically a village, is unique for its quiet, hippie-like beauty; thatched roofs cover the wooden shacks, and palm trees follow the arc of the shoreline. It is only a short drive from Goa's main cities.
This paradise-like island with coconut trees all around welcomes you to cool yourself in the warm Arabian Sea while taking in the laid-back atmosphere that will make the sounds of India's busy metropolises seem like a distant memory. Watch yogis practise their commitment to nature's deep blue splendour at sunrise each morning as food vendors and musicians cater to your senses. Panjim and Palolem are two other well-known beaches with nightlife like that of a city. Both are easy to get to.
Want to see some cities? Goa's Portuguese heritage is a great place to learn about the state's capital, Panaji. It's vibrant and features a patchwork of attractive architectural designs. This is particularly obvious in areas like Fontainhas, often known as the Latin Quarter. If you'd rather stay in the city, you can book a luxurious room at the Taj Resort & Convention Centre Goa in Panaji or relax at the GoYm Resort in Arambol while listening to the waves crash outside your window.
The 100-year-old Santa Monica pier and the adjacent length of ivory sand are probably the greatest parts of Los Angeles. This seaside town's expansive beach, powder-blue, wooden lifeguard towers, and iconic Ferris wheel stand in stark contrast to Los Angeles' urban sprawl.
There is also a well-liked farmers' market nearby, brimming with delectable fresh local flavours. If staying in is more your thing, though, Santa Monica is awash in enticingly trendy eateries—and we don't just mean your standard LA salad and green juice combo. Compared to downtown, this tranquil coastal village has a different vibe. You can take the Metro to find a ride between Santa Monica and LA or rent a car to experience the freedom of the open road.
The outdoor pool at Casa Del Mar is virtually on the beach, making it a great option for a peaceful getaway. Sit back in your vintage lounger and watch as the beach carnival lights come to life in the evening.
Wasaga is the world's longest freshwater beach and just a short drive from Toronto
The longest freshwater beach in the world is Wasaga, which is close to Toronto. Wasaga Beach, the longest freshwater beach in the world, is located not far from Toronto on the shores of the Great Lakes. It had previously received the coveted Blue Flag certification for beautiful, well-maintained beaches. Wasaga Beach is a good getaway spot for families because of the calm, shallow sea and absence of tide.
The seaside promenade is lined with bars that serve food and breezy cocktails throughout the warmer months. Little is the time of year when this Ontario village comes alive, with beach barbecues and music filling the smooth sand. Your inner wild child will be enthralled by the area's forest pathways, flowing streams, and hidden swimming holes. You may easily satisfy your craving for busy streets and skyscrapers with a short journey to Toronto.
With a hot tub, BBQ, and outdoor pool, Saga Resort has everything you could possibly need for your city-beach vacation, and it's only a six-minute walk from the beach.
Reference: booking
South Korea’s second-largest city also boasts miles of idyllic coastline
The 100-year-old Santa Monica pier and the adjacent length of ivory sand are probably the greatest parts of Los Angeles. This seaside town's expansive beach, powder-blue wooden lifeguard towers, and iconic Ferris wheel stand in stark contrast to Los Angeles' urban sprawl.
There is also a well-liked farmers' market nearby, brimming with delectable fresh local flavours. If staying in is more your thing, though, Santa Monica is awash in enticingly trendy eateries—and we don't just mean your standard LA salad and green juice combo. Compared to downtown, this tranquil coastal village has a different vibe. You can take the Metro to find a ride between Santa Monica and LA or rent a car to experience the freedom of the open road.
The outdoor pool at Casa Del Mar is virtually on the beach, making it a great option for a peaceful getaway. Sit back in your vintage lounger and watch as the beach carnival lights come to life in the evening.
Busan is a great choice for a city-beach getaway due to its booming art scene, active nightlife, and kilometres of sandy coastline. Thanks to monuments like Gamcheon Culture Village, a neighbourhood noted for its steep steps, twisting alleyways, and rainbow-hued buildings, this port city, which is surrounded by lush mountains, cascades down the shoreline like a sea of colourful concrete.
The best pubs, cafés, and restaurants in South Korea may be found in Busan. You can discover some of the freshest seafood on the planet here thanks to its proximity to the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan. Experience Jagalchi Market's artful chaos by getting up before the sun. The largest fish market in South Korea is here, and many of the nearby eateries provide food that is fresh from the sea.
Busan is made even more dynamic by its large multinational community and active student culture, in addition to its delicious cuisine. However, Haeundae Beach, where the boardwalk is dotted with bars and restaurants, is the perfect place to escape the neon-lit streets and soak up some sun. Looking for a more relaxed atmosphere? See the famous Gwangan Bridge, which is on the calmer Gwangalli Beach and is lit up in a rainbow of colours every night.
Given that Busan has an international airport, getting there by plane is simple. A high-speed rail that runs often and takes three hours can also be taken to get to Busan if you're coming from Seoul. Stay at Hotel Kyungsung to be close to Haeundae Beach.
San Sebastián, Spain
San Sebastián is a city found in the lovely Basque Country, on the rocky coast of Northern Spain. This historic port city's Gothic-Basque architecture produces a lovely cityscape of gorgeous landmarks bordered by idyllic beaches. The crescent-shaped shoreline of La Concha beach is divided from the forested hills on each side by the deep emerald waters of the Bay of Biscay.
San Sebastián served as the summer capital of Europe during the reign of Queen Regent Maria Cristina. Thousands of people used to come here to enjoy the sun, surf, and some very delicious local fare. Foodies continue to go to the city decades later to dine at any of its nine Michelin-starred restaurants and enjoy some of the finest culinary treats in the world. However, you won't have to spend a fortune to eat well here. Enjoy a dish of pintxos, a form of regional tapas, together with a cool glass of Txakoli, a sparkling white wine from the area.
Stay at Pension Alameda in the centre of the Old Town, just a short stroll from La Concha and other iconic squares brimming with delicious restaurants.
Arambol, India
Arambol, though technically a village, is unique for its quiet, hippie-like beauty; thatched roofs cover the wooden shacks, and palm trees follow the arc of the shoreline. It is only a short drive from Goa's main cities.
This paradise-like island with coconut trees all around welcomes you to cool yourself in the warm Arabian Sea while taking in the laid-back atmosphere that will make the sounds of India's busy metropolises seem like a distant memory. Watch yogis practise their commitment to nature's deep blue splendour at sunrise each morning as food vendors and musicians cater to your senses. Panjim and Palolem are two other well-known beaches with nightlife like that of a city. Both are easy to get to.
Want to see some cities? Goa's Portuguese heritage is a great place to learn about the state's capital, Panaji. It's vibrant and features a patchwork of attractive architectural designs. This is particularly obvious in areas like Fontainhas, often known as the Latin Quarter. If you'd rather stay in the city, you can book a luxurious room at the Taj Resort & Convention Centre Goa in Panaji or relax at the GoYm Resort in Arambol while listening to the waves crash outside your window.
Santa Monica, USA
The 100-year-old Santa Monica pier and the adjacent length of ivory sand are probably the greatest parts of Los Angeles. This seaside town's expansive beach, powder-blue, wooden lifeguard towers, and iconic Ferris wheel stand in stark contrast to Los Angeles' urban sprawl.
There is also a well-liked farmers' market nearby, brimming with delectable fresh local flavours. If staying in is more your thing, though, Santa Monica is awash in enticingly trendy eateries—and we don't just mean your standard LA salad and green juice combo. Compared to downtown, this tranquil coastal village has a different vibe. You can take the Metro to find a ride between Santa Monica and LA or rent a car to experience the freedom of the open road.
The outdoor pool at Casa Del Mar is virtually on the beach, making it a great option for a peaceful getaway. Sit back in your vintage lounger and watch as the beach carnival lights come to life in the evening.
Wasaga Beach, Canada
Wasaga is the world's longest freshwater beach and just a short drive from Toronto
The longest freshwater beach in the world is Wasaga, which is close to Toronto. Wasaga Beach, the longest freshwater beach in the world, is located not far from Toronto on the shores of the Great Lakes. It had previously received the coveted Blue Flag certification for beautiful, well-maintained beaches. Wasaga Beach is a good getaway spot for families because of the calm, shallow sea and absence of tide.
The seaside promenade is lined with bars that serve food and breezy cocktails throughout the warmer months. Little is the time of year when this Ontario village comes alive, with beach barbecues and music filling the smooth sand. Your inner wild child will be enthralled by the area's forest pathways, flowing streams, and hidden swimming holes. You may easily satisfy your craving for busy streets and skyscrapers with a short journey to Toronto.
With a hot tub, BBQ, and outdoor pool, Saga Resort has everything you could possibly need for your city-beach vacation, and it's only a six-minute walk from the beach.
Reference: booking
Photo by Larissa Farber
