I’m not sure what is about the summer season that turns my insides. In any case, when June arrives I look through my schedule and wondering, “Okay… where’s the nearest body of water, and how fast can I get to it?”
Always been a lover of the beach. There are those who love mountains, while others love the urban living But for me? Just the sea’s sound and a little sunburn or a slick of salty skin and I’m relaxed. There’s a sort of therapeutic simply sitting in the ocean doing nothing and not being ashamed of it.
This is a true guide. It’s not an overly-seo’d, polished type. It’s not a list telling you to visit the Maldives and spend $10,000 on an overwater villa (unless it’s your thingthere’s no judgement). This list comes from a beach-loving person to another, an assortment of beaches I’ve visited and places I’ve pinned to my map app, with a label such as “someday.”
1. Porto Covo, Portugal
Small. Quiet. Honest.
I came across this place by chance Like so many wonderful travel stories, they begin. I was on a road trip along the coastline of Portugal and wanted to take an break. We pulled into a tiny village with whitewashed houses and blue trim. I ordered coffee and then… continued.
I did not even take a lot of photographs. It was a bit sacred to Instagram.
2. Tybee Island, Georgia (USA)
Hairy, sour skin and fried shrimpthis is Tybee.
There aren’t any fancy resorts here. Instead, you’ll see colourful beach houses with stilts, cruisers on beaches through sleepy streets, and seafood restaurants that are cash only. It’s got that grit that you find in a place where flip-flops are accepted everywhere and bartenders are always have stories to tell.
No noise, no deadlines. All nature is doing her thing.
3. Cannon Beach, Oregon
This isn’t your typical tanning kind of beach. It’s the kind that you go to in case you’re looking to reset.
Cannon Beach is cold -We need to get that out and out of the way. There’s no way to swim there. But the the drama of the whole thing? Next level.
It was the month of August, but it was almost like fall. I left feeling more grounded – as if I’d been having a conversation with the earth.
4. San Pancho, Mexico (Nayarit)
This is something you’d like to keep secret and secure while at the same time.
Everybody talks about Sayulitaand it’s a lot of fun certainly however San Pancho is just a couple of miles away and is a different atmosphere. Quieter. Slower. More… present.
There’s a main road which runs through town, and it is finished at the beaches. Every evening at 6 p.m. the crowds meet. Kids, locals, travelers surfers, couples of all ages -all looking to the west, watching the sun set into the Pacific. It’s a kind of routine. No phones. No distractions. All you need is the present.
I had a conversation with a man who told me that he had been there for a week but never left. I understand now.
5. Isle of Skye, Scotland
It’s not a typical beach destination I’m sure you’ll agree with me.
There’s a beach that’s called Coral Beach. It’s necessary to walk there for approximately 25 minutes in grassy fields, rolling hills and sheep. However, once you reach it you’ll find something different. Sand that is white and made of crushed coral. Blue water that is so bright it isn’t real. And silence. Real silence.
The breeze hits your face with a hard slap. the water can freeze your feet But somehow it’s among the most peaceful spots I’ve been.
I didn’t do any swimming. I didn’t tan. I laid on a beach and gazed at the ocean for what seemed like hours. I believe I cried in a small amount. But not out of sadness, but… some thing more profound.
6. Koufonisia, Greece
I’m not sure I want for me to blog about this issue.
No cars. No chaos. You bike or walk around the city. You have dinner in barefoot the beach tavernas and eat barbecued octopus, the tomatoes taste as sweet. In the evening it becomes silent. Like, unbelievably quiet.
I arrived thinking I’d be there for three days. I stayed nine.
What Actually Makes a Beach Trip Worth It?
It’s not only about the view, or how many Instagram people like your sunset photos receives. It’s all about the sensation. The first step in warm sandy soil. The salt sting in your eyes. The sensation your skin gets after a long swimming session -it’s a bit tight, a bit burnt and a bit alive.
It’s also the small things. A local child who shows you a way to the most beautiful beach. When you lose track of which day it is. The inexpensive beer that tastes better when you’re drinking it while putting your feet on the water.
These are the things that you keep in mind. Not the pictures. The emotions.
Real Talk Before You Go
- There’s no need for much. A swimsuit, an extra towel or a book you won’t read, and sunscreen. That’s it.
- Speak to people who are not yours. Not in a scary way, but just say hi. People are more friendly on the beach.
- Reduce speed. Seriously. Stop making plans every minute. The most memorable moments occur when you let go of the idea.
- Be on your own If you’re required to. Some of the most memorable beach trips I’ve been on were taken by myself.
Final Thought
Summer doesn’t last. It’s the same for the energizing feeling you feel floating in warm water, or the way the sun dry your skin when you lay on a blanket. These are moments that are very small. It’s easy to overlook. They’re also the ones that are enduring.
It’s a good idea to go. Even if it’s only for just a few days. Find the beach. Let it take you aback.
Don’t forget your shoes If you’re able. It’s always better to walk barefoot.
