5 beach destinations you'll want to add to your travel list

Publication date: 17-08-2026

Happy young couple enjoying the sea on a beach getaway.

Whether your ideal vacation means relaxing under palm trees, exploring rugged coastlines, or discovering a new seaside destination, there are plenty of incredible places to soak up the sun. Here are five beach destinations that each offer something a little different, from outdoor adventure to laid-back island charm. 

 

Before you pack your bags, take some time to properly prepare your trip, like getting travel insurance tailored to your needs. This way you can travel with confidence, even if the unexpected happens while you're away from home.

5 beach destinations worth adding to your bucket list

Whether you're looking to relax, enjoy water activities, or simply take in breathtaking scenery, each of these destinations offers a different experience. If you're planning a sunny escape, these destinations are sure to inspire your next adventure.

A silhouette of a man and his dogs walking on the beach in Tofino

1. Tofino: Where surf meets the wild west coast

Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is known for its long Pacific beaches and natural beauty. It's an ideal destination for travellers who want to pair time by the ocean with unforgettable outdoor experiences. 

 

Surfers can take on world-renowned waves, while hiking enthusiasts can explore spectacular rainforest trails. If you visit during the right season, you may even catch a glimpse of whales or seals along the coast. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation, Tofino offers the best of both worlds.

2. Indonesia: Island escapes filled with culture and natural beauty

With thousands of islands home to white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Indonesia is a top destination for a beach vacation. From Bali to Lombok, each island offers its own blend of relaxation, nature, and culture. 

 

There's much more to discover than beautiful beaches. Wander through centuries-old temples, see the terraced rice fields, browse bustling local markets or head out for incredible diving and surfing. Indonesia's mix of stunning scenery and vibrant traditions makes every island feel like a destination of its own.

Views of kelor island on komodo national park, Indonesia
Couple on the beach in Barbados

3. Barbados: Island charm, turquoise waters and laid-back living

Barbados is famous for its soft sandy beaches, turquoise waters and welcoming atmosphere. This Caribbean destination is perfect for combining beach days with fun local experiences. 

 

Coral reefs make it an excellent place for snorkelling, while local markets, coastal villages, and flavourful Caribbean cuisine offer plenty of opportunities to discover the island beyond the beach. 

 

Whether you're watching the sunset, listening to live island music, or simply unwinding by the water, Barbados makes it easy to settle into vacation mode.

4. Algarve: Golden cliffs and unforgettable ocean views

Located in southern Portugal, the Algarve is known for its stunning golden cliffs, hidden coves, and Atlantic beaches. Its dramatic coastline and charming seaside towns make it one of Europe's most picturesque beach destinations. 

 

Explore picturesque villages, sample local specialties, or take a boat excursion along the coastline. Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike scenic coastal trails, paddle through sea caves by kayak, or admire spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic.

Woman tourist travel in Portugal enjoying beautiful Algarve beach ( Albufeira)
Costa Rica Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge

5. Costa Rica: A beach getaway surrounded by nature

Costa Rica is an ideal destination for travellers looking for both a beach vacation and unforgettable nature experiences. Along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, beautiful beaches are surrounded by lush biodiversity. 

 

Between days spent soaking up the sun, you can spot sloths, monkeys and toucans in the country's national parks, or hike through tropical rainforests. Whether you're exploring the coastline or venturing inland, Costa Rica offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife.

Beach vacation packing essentials

Once you've picked your destination, it's time to get ready! Packing a few key essentials before you leave can help make your trip a little smoother. Here's a checklist to help you get started: 

 

  • Bathing suit 

  • Hat or cap 

  • Sunglasses 

  • SPF 50+ sunscreen 

  • Insect repellent 

  • Sandals 

  • Beach towel 

  • Portable charger for your electronic devices 

  • First aid kit and any necessary medications 

  • Proof of vaccination (for certain destinations) 

  • Passport  

  • And of course, a Travel Insurance 

Woman carefully packing vacation essentials into a yellow suitcase, organizing travel documents, fashionable hat, camera, and clothing, preparing for an exciting trip.

Travel insurance: Don't leave home without it

Vacations are meant for relaxing, but unexpected situations can happen anytime, even on a short getaway. A sprained ankle, mild dehydration, or a medical consultation abroad can quickly lead to significant expenses. 

 

That's why Emergency Medical Care coverage is one of the smartest ways to protect yourself before you travel. 24/7 Blue Cross Travel Assistance is available worldwide from our specialized team.​ Depending on where you're going and the type of trip you've planned, you may also want additional protection such as Trip Cancellation and Interruption, Baggage, Accidental Death or Dismemberment, and Rainy Day coverage. 

 

Before you leave, take a few moments to choose travel insurance that gives you the confidence to truly enjoy the trip.

Your next beach getaway starts here

From Canada's rugged Pacific coastline to the Caribbean's turquoise waters and the unforgettable landscapes of Europe and Asia, there's no shortage of incredible beach destinations to explore.  

 

No matter where your next vacation takes you, a little planning before you leave can help you relax and make the most of every moment. 

 

Before your trip begins, be sure to choose travel insurance that's tailored to your travel plans and your needs. 

Explore our coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. While beach vacations are often associated with relaxation, unexpected events can still occur. A medical issue, an injury during an excursion, misplaced luggage, or a last-minute change to your travel plans can quickly disrupt a trip. Travel insurance helps you travel with confidence. 

so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.

The protections available depend on the coverage you purchase, but travel insurance may include benefits such as: 

 

  • Emergency Medical Care 

  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption 

  • Baggage 

  • Accidental Death or Dismemberment 

  • Rainy Day 

When travelling outside Canada, healthcare and other unexpected travel-related expenses can be significantly more expensive than you may expect. Travel insurance can help reduce the financial impact of unforeseen events and provide access to assistance services when support is needed. 

It's generally recommended to buy travel insurance shortly after booking your trip. Purchasing coverage early may allow you to take advantage of eligible trip cancellation benefits and ensure you have protection in place well before departure.