7 beaches you have to experience
Whether it’s powdery white sands, spectacular turquoise waters that go on for miles or coves that offer the perfect shaded sanctuary from the hot sun, there are certain beaches out there that hit all the right notes with Canadians seeking some ‘Vitamin Sea’. If you’re looking for inspiration on which beach to hit up on your next vacation, this list will help get you started!
Varadero Beach (Cuba)
Cuba is known for its gorgeous beaches, but none are more popular than Varadero Beach which stretches an astounding 21km along Cuba’s northern coastline. The water here gently slopes into the ocean along the coast, making it perfect for families looking to play in the surf all day. For those who prefer to hang out on shore, there’s plenty of space for everyone so you’ll never feel crowded.
Where to stay: Enjoy soaking up the sun on some of the best spots on Varadero Beach at Memories Varadero Beach Resort. This family-friendly resort welcomes vacationers with an array of exciting amenities including four pools, one of which features a fun waterslide for kids, introductory scuba diving lessons and numerous activities ranging from windsurfing and snorkelling, to beach volleyball and pedal boating, so you’ll never run out of options to enjoy your vacation on the beach.
Seven Mile Beach (Negril, Jamaica)
Routinely making top ten lists as one of the best beaches in the world, the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril is a favourite amongst beach-seekers for its laid-back bohemian vibe and shallow turquoise waters. Plus, you can soak up Jamaica’s rich culture in many ways along this beach. Close by is the legendary Rick’s Café, where you can savour some jerk chicken and a rum punch while watching cliff divers perform death-defying stunts! You’re never far from a reggae beat and a cold refreshing drink in the ‘Home of All Right’.
Where to stay: Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma boasts unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea and is situated directly on Seven Mile Beach. The resort offers exclusive sections for both families and couples. Adults can upgrade to the Premium Couples category to enjoy a private beach area, beach butlers and an exclusive pool—perfect for a romantic getaway. Families on the other hand will love the splash park and kid-friendly activities - and of course there’s no better place than Seven Mile Beach for building some sandcastles!
Bavaro Beach (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
A favourite amongst Canadians, this beach in Punta Cana gets top marks for its long stretch of soft white sands, aquamarine waters and shady coconut palms. No matter where you decide to set up your sun lounger, this beach offers vacationers an idyllic Caribbean seascape that’s postcard perfect. Plus, many of the resorts on this beautiful stretch of sand include all sorts of land and water activities including beach volleyball, snorkelling, windsurfing, boogie boarding and more—meaning you can spend as much time on the beach as you like whether you’re relaxing or being active.
Where to stay: Royalton Bavaro Resort & Spa combines luxury with relaxation and fun on this top-rated beach; with activities for guests of all ages, an unbeatable kids and teen club and a lazy river everyone will love. Plus, vacationers looking to add some fun to their beach getaway can practice their hang-ten skills on the resort’s ultimate surf simulator, the FlowRider®.
Eagle Beach (Aruba)
Quite possibly the softest sand you’ll ever feel between your toes can be found on Eagle Beach in Aruba. With the least amount of annual rainfall in the Caribbean, you’re practically guaranteed stellar weather no matter what time of year you visit. From November to March, you might even get to see turtles hatching on the beach! Don’t forget to get the perfect Instagram shot with one Aruba’s famous Divi-divi trees!
Where to stay: With easy access to Eagle Beach, Divi Aruba All Inclusive Resort is one of the best places to stay in Aruba with great shopping and lively nightlife nearby. A supervised kids club gives parents a chance to find their Zen while relaxing on the beach, while the whole family will enjoy the 30-foot-high rock climbing wall on the beach. Cool off in the ocean or jump into any of the four incredible pools found on the resort.
Tulum (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
The ancient Mayans knew as soon as they laid eyes on it that Tulum was one of the most beautiful places on earth. Who could blame them for building an entire civilization there for over two centuries? Today, you’ll find ancient ruins to explore along the pristine beach with numerous excursions where you can learn about the area’s fascinating history and Mayan culture.
Where to stay: If you’re looking to relax in a nice secluded spot, Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa is an eco-friendly resort that’s nestled in 44 acres of lush tropical surroundings and highlights Tulum’s beautiful white-sand beaches. With the historic town of Tulum and an eco-adventure park nearby, this resort is a great location for a tropical getaway that balances fun activities and cultural explorations with restful relaxation.
Paradise Beach (Nassau, Bahamas)
The name of this beach says it all! Take a stroll along the pristine shore of Nassau’s Paradise Beach, where you may come across a stand that sells refreshing coconut water and snacks to replenish your energy. And, despite being so close to all the exciting attractions of Nassau such as Junkanoo festivals, the 141-acre Aquaventure water park, tons of shopping and the exciting Atlantis Casino, this beach is truly a tranquil paradise. There’s a reason they say it’s better in the Bahamas.
Where to stay: Riu Palace Paradise Island offers direct access to Paradise Beach and enjoys close proximity to Nassau’s most popular attractions. This adults only property has a number of services to recharge your batteries including a world-class spa, various sporting activities and delicious dining.
Playa Blanca (Panama)
Historically a small fishing village, Playa Blanca is fast becoming a popular destination for vacationers looking for their next great beach destination—especially those who crave relaxing afternoons in the sun. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it boasts some of the most pristine coral reefs between Colón and the San Blas Archipelago, and its sheltered waters offer some of the best visibility for divers. With sugary-white sands and turquoise waters, it’s no wonder this beach in Panama is quickly hitting top lists around the globe.
Where to stay: Nestled on a stretch of Playa Blanca Beach is Playa Blanca Resort. Here, families and groups can vacation in comfort with accommodations designed to accommodate groups of five or more. Plus, it also offers an on-site mini-zoo filled with tropical birds and small animals, in addition to the largest saltwater pool in Central America.
