Summer by the Sea: Coastal Getaways Worth Adding to Your Bucket List

The fresh salty air, the warmth of the sun on your skin and the sound of waves rolling in, is there anything more uplifting than time spent by the sea? Creating a feeling that is hard to match, it’s no surprise that coastal getaways have been a holiday fixture for many of us for generations.

Even if you’re not too keen on taking a dip in the sea, it’s one of life’s simple pleasures being able to walk along a beach or quietly sit on the sand and look out on the horizon. It’s this sense of freedom that feels good, so a coastal getaway offers the ideal change of pace you may be looking for, whether you want sunshine, culture or simply a beautiful view to wake up to each morning.

Whilst Ireland has plenty of stunning coastline to enjoy, with the Wild Atlantic Way always a great option, below are a few alternatives that are just a short trip away, some of which may have a little bit more sun to enjoy too. So, if you are looking to add to your bucket list of coastal adventures, the following should give you plenty to look forward to.

Biarritz, France: Surf, Sophistication and Atlantic Charm

Long seen as an ideal destination to soak up the sun and sea, the city of Biarritz on France’s South-Western coast is one of those coastal spots that feels instantly special. It was once regularly visited by European royalty, becoming a world-famous spa town in the 18th Century, and the former royal palace on the beach is now the Hotel du Palais, where you can enjoy a bit of luxury on your stay.

You’ll find elegant seaside living with a relaxed surf culture, with the city one of the first in Europe to embrace surfing in the 1950s. The powerful waves have since made Biarritz a world-famous destination for surfers. Its long sandy beaches are also perfect for swimming, sunbathing or simply taking in the fresh Atlantic air.

The town itself is full of character, with chic cafés, independent shops and a charming waterfront promenade to wander along. The fisherman’s port is where to go to enjoy fresh seafood as well as see the colourful buildings, the city’s lighthouse and walk along the Grande Plage where you can shop, eat and relax as much as you want. Biarritz is a coastal destination that easily earns a place on any travel bucket list, feeling both stylish and laid back.

Costa Brava, Spain: Rugged Coastlines and Hidden Coves

If you love dramatic scenery and clear blue waters, the Costa Brava has to be high on the list of coastal destinations, a dream location just north of Barcelona and close to the French border. Its coastline is known for its rocky cliffsides, sheltered bays and pleasant seaside towns that all feel tailor-made for Summer.

Holidaymakers from all over Europe are drawn to the regions’ lively resorts as well as quieter coves, depending on what you’re looking for. You can swim, snorkel and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea, which is always a welcome relief from the hot temperatures at the height of Summer. If walking the coast is more your thing, there are various coastal paths to explore that offer some of the most scenic walks in Spain, where you’ll find secret beaches and panoramic viewpoints, including between Sant Pol beach and Platja d’Aro, which has various coves along the way.

In the towns such as Tossa de Mar, Calella de Palafrugell and Cadaqués, you’ll find each brings its own atmosphere, whether you want local food, a bit of history or a relaxing day by the sea. The medieval towers and walls can be seen in Tossa de Mar, whilst heading inland to Girona you’ll find some of the locations used during filming of Game of Thrones if you’re a fan.

There’s plenty to enjoy in Costa Brava that will help you have an easy-going holiday, making it a coastal escape worth visiting even if you’ve been many times before.

Peace of Mind: Why Every Summer Holiday Needs the Right Travel Cover

Before continuing with our list, it’s important to remember that whichever dream seaside destination you plan to visit, you’ll want peace of mind from the moment you set off. Nothing can derail the perfect holiday quicker than life’s unexpected events putting a dampener on your mood (and your finances).

Summer holidays should be smooth and carefree, but unexpected problems do happen, from flight delays to misplaced luggage or even emergency medical needs abroad. This is why it helps to compare travel insurance options before you book and find the cover you need. A comprehensive travel insurance policy from providers such as Staysure gives you financial protection if your plans change suddenly, and it also provides peace of mind if you need treatment while you are away.

Some holidaymakers overlook the value of travel insurance until they really need it, so adding it to your planning early on can save you from stress later. It is a simple step that keeps you focused on relaxing by the sea rather than dealing with unnecessary worries.

The Greek Islands: Sun, Sea, and Iconic Scenery

With so many to choose from, it’s difficult to pick just one of the Greek Islands as a bucket list location. If you’re fortunate enough to have visited any of them before, with 227 inhabited islands to choose from, you’ll know exactly what we mean. They are made for the Summer, with crystal clear waters, bright white villages and cinematic-like landscapes that will give you a memorable experience.

Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, or even the largest, Crete, are all worth a visit, but there are many others to explore depending on how long your trip is. Each one has its own personality; Crete being perfect for those looking for long beaches, glorious mountain scenery and Minoan palaces such as Knossos, Rhodes which offers medieval history as well as plenty of golden sandy beaches, or the much-hyped Santorini with its famous clifftop views and white buildings.

If you can’t choose one, island hopping is another great option, giving you the chance to explore lots all in one trip thanks to the well-connected ports. Peaceful beaches, energetic nightlife or a bit of both can all be found on the Greek Islands, making it hard to beat on this list.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: Scenic Drives and Famous Beaches

So much has already been said about Italy’s Amalfi Coast that you’ll probably be familiar with this stunning location even if you’ve never been before. It has a reputation for beauty that is timeless and completely deserved, with winding mountain roads where every corner is picture-worthy, dramatic sea views and colourful cliffside towns. It has to be one of the most iconic coastal spots in Europe.

Towns like Positano, Amalfi and Ravello each offer their own charm that you should try to visit all in one trip, offering boutique shops and terraced lemon groves, and lively waterfronts where the lemon ice cream and iced drinks are a must.

Many visitors come for the beaches and boat trips, where you can swim in clear turquoise water or explore hidden coves along the coastline. You can even take a day trip by boat to Capri for those looking for extra luxury, if you don’t mind the summer crowds. Add to this the fresh Italian food, warm evenings and a generally relaxed atmosphere, it’s difficult not to want to go back every year.

For a summer getaway filled with scenery and romance, the Amalfi Coast more than earns its bucket list status.

Your Next Summer by the Sea Awaits

Whilst next Summer may feel a long way off, it’s never too early to start planning and booking in your next adventure. You can then look forward to relaxing by the sea and having an unforgettable time.

Biarritz, Costa Brava, Amalfi and the Greek Islands are difficult to choose between, but all will provide exactly what you’re looking for from a coastal getaway. Add these to your travel wish list today and start looking for your flights, ideal accommodation, and any popular activities before they book up.