Go Deeper: Top Beach Destinations with Culture

Are you struggling to decide between sun loungers and sightseeing?

Do you want to spend your days lazing on the beach while your partner craves adventure?

Well, now you don’t have to compromise.

We’ve rounded up five of the most stunning beach destinations around the world that also offer cultural experiences just off the sand – so you’ve got the best of both worlds.

Top beach destinations with culture

Thailand

Venture to secluded Railay Beach in Krabi where you can relax in luxury surrounded by the jaw-dropping scenery of one the most beautiful beaches in the world. Let your worries melt away with a therapeutic Thai massage, go snorkelling in crystal clear water or learn more about Thai cuisine as you hone your skills in a cooking class.

Once you’ve had enough downtime, there are adventures aplenty on your doorstep. Thrill seekers can try sea kayaking, white-water rafting, quad biking or rock climbing at Phra Nang Beach.

Venture north to spend a night at Elephant Hills tented camp. Thailand’s first luxury tented jungle camp brings the magic of African safari to the tropical forest habitat of Thailand’s elephants. With a focus on animal conservation, you will get to feed and interact with Asia’s largest land animal during a unique, award-winning Elephant Experience.

Elephant Hills tented camp

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Photos by our travel expert Samantha Potter on her recent visit.

Elephant Hills

Elephant Hills

Elephant Hills

Elephant Hills

Vietnam

Situated on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is one of Vietnam‘s most charming towns. Wander the well-preserved ancient trading port, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, and sample delicious Vietnamese dishes or shop for handicrafts and textiles.

Rest your legs and relax on Hoi An’s white sand city beaches. Or nip over to Cham Island – a cluster of just seven small islands just 30 minutes by speedboat from Hoi An. Spend the day snorkelling in the warm water and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch right on the beach.

With July and August offering perfect beach weather, Vietnam is a top summer holiday destination for families.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Chile

Let us plan the ultimate beach+culture itinerary to South America’s most underrated nation, Chile.

The coastal city of Valparaiso with its bohemian vibes, colourful clifftop homes and vintage funicular railways is a great introduction to Chilean culture. From there, you can easily reach neighbouring Vina del Mar, one of Chile’s most popular beach resorts. Music lovers shouldn’t miss the Viña del Mar Song Festival, held in February every year.

Hawaii

Hawaii‘s beautiful beaches are a big drawcard, but a trip to the Hawaiian islands also offers you the chance to discover the thriving South Pacific culture and aloha spirit. This encompasses every aspect of life on these islands, from the friendly locals to the captivating Hula dance and the local dishes dominated by fresh seafood.

Experience the warm aloha spirit for yourself on a tailor-made holiday to Hawaii, Kuai, Maui, Lanai and Oahu.

Kenya

Kenya offers the best of both worlds, with amazing wildlife and stunning coastlines. Head out on safaris with local guides in the Masai Mara in search of the ‘Big 5’. Speak to us about timing your trip to see the spellbinding spectacle of the Great Migration, as millions of wildebeest and zebra make their way to the Masai Mara.

An incredible palm-fringed coastline that stretches endlessly and pristine beaches, make Mombasa one of Kenya’s top beach destinations. Explore the underwater world on a snorkelling excursion in Mombasa Marine Park or set sail in search of dolphins, humpback whales, turtles and more just off Mombasa’s coast.

Talk to our experts about creating a custom beach itinerary that is equal parts relaxing and culturally immersive.