Whether you count the warm temperatures or the advent of Memorial Day weekend, there is no question that summer 2018 is officially here.
In honor of my favorite season, I asked a panel of experts from around the world for their favorite beaches. We’ve got hidden getaways in Greece, one of the best surf spots in the United States and some drool-worthy white sand in Zanzibar. Basically, whether you like to suntan or snorkel, this curated list has you covered wherever you are in the world.
Time to get your wanderlusting on.
1.Pink Beach, Flores, Indonesia
A highlight of Indonesia, it is clear why Pink Beach was given its name. Tiny red coral fragments mix with the white sand of the beach to give it a pink hue and the view from the beach is incredible.
2. Pass Island, Coron, Philippines
This beach is the epitome of paradise, and if you get here early enough, you’ll have the island all to yourself. The white sand beaches are supposedly the whitest in Coron and the shallow water is great for snorkeling.
A British photographer, Jordan Hammond travels with world with his camera in hand. Follow his picturesque adventures on Instagram here.
3. San Onofre State Beach, California, United States
The “Best Sun-Up to Sun-Down Beach” is San Onofre State Beach in San Clemente, California. If you want to spend the entire day at the beach, “Sano” is the spot! Right off the I-5 freeway, Sano has everything you need from showers to fire pits and world famous waves. Without a California State Park Pass it’s $15 to get in, but it’s worth every penny.
Alyx Tortorice and Maddy Javier are the owners of Starfysh Wetsuits, a women’s wetsuit company based in Southern California. Follow their water escapades on Instagram.
4. Seme Beach, Cameroon
With its powder soft coffee color, Seme Beach in Cameroon is the best place to both relax and take in local culture. Travelers and locals come here to sip on fresh ice cold coconuts, play soccer and marvel at the beauty of the volcanic sand.
5. Paje, Zanzibar
The pristine white sand on Paje goes out as far as the eye can see, but that’s only part of it’s once of the best. No matter how many travels and tourists come to enjoy it, locals continue to go about their day to day life unfazed. The juxtaposition of kitesurfers, seaweed farmers and fishermen is quite beautiful. It also doesn’t hurt that you can find some of the most beautiful and colorful aquatic life in this region.
As the face and voice behind the creative platform Spirited Pursuit, Lee Litumbe‘s mission is to publish inspiring and informative travel content. A Cameroonian by birth, an American by upbringing and a nomad at heart, Litumbe is currently traveling long term throughout Africa. Follow her travels on Instagram.
6. Cayes of Belize, Belize
The Cayes of Belize are home to the second largest barrier reef in the world. They are perfect for activities like sailing and snorkeling, and also offer camping.
7. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Phi Phi Islands in Thailand is no secret…but it’s breathtaking views are out of this world. If you can beat the crowds by arriving early, you’ll discover why this beach is so popular.
Ciara Johnson is full-time travel writer and blogger at Hey Ciara. At heart, she’s just a Texas girl who’s curious about the world. Follow her on Instagram to see where the globetrotter will end up next.
8. Kendros, Donousa, Greece
The sandy and secluded beach of Kendros lies less than a mile southeast of Stavros and is easily reached. Livadi, an hour’s hike further east, sees even fewer visitors. Inland there are still paths and tracks that lead into the hills to timeless little hamlets.
Lonely Planet, the largest travel guide book publisher in the world, just shared their guide to the Best in Europe for this summer. Follow along their wanderlust-inspiring Instagram here.
