Everyone loves a great city, regardless of what continent you’re on. Spain has Madrid and Barcelona; Paris has France; Ireland has Dublin. The list goes on and on. At Superior Cruise & Travel, our agents appreciate the uniqueness of each capital and what it has to offer. But we also understand that even the thrill-seeking travelers needs time to relax and take in the beauty of moving place to place.
We work with travelers of all preferences, and if one thing is true, it’s that everyone loves a little getaway that doesn’t exert too much time, money, or effort. These quiet beach getaways offer the opportunity to escape the chaotic city in search of your own little slice of peaceful paradise. Check out these five amazing beach cities getaways!
Ko Samet – Bangkok
Just two hours away from the raucous beauty that is Bangkok lies Ko Samet — an idyllic beach for travelers looking for a getaway closer to home. While most travelers to Thailand will head South for its main cluster of islands, not everyone can make the journey. The Northern part of the beach is perfect for mingling and socializing long after sunset, while the Southern beaches are quiet enough to take a blissful nap. The beach is dotted with restaurants offering a myriad of cuisine, where you can dine while looking out into the picturesque water and sunset.
Montauk – NYC
Montauk isn’t cheap, but it’s the NYC getaway everyone wants to be at. Situated on the Eastern tip of long island, this place embodies the saying “fun in the sun.” Travel & Leisure referred to Montauk as “the Hamptons without crowds.” Every type of activity is offered here — from golfing to cycling to surfing and hiking. And thanks to its proximity to fresh water, the seafood draws in foodies around the world, and the town’s many restaurants cater to them. You’ll find some of the most fresh lobster, scallops, and tuna on this little island hamlet. The drive is about three hours from the city, but well worth the journey. Alternatively, the Hampton Jitney is a bus service that picks up travelers from New York City and makes its rounds throughout Long Island.
Sperlonga – Rome
Rome has so much to offer its visitors, from its history-steeped architecture to its decadent cuisine. But Rome is also known for drawing in large crowds, and the city can get quite hectic during high season. Entry into the more popular museums and attractions often require lengthy lines, and the heat doesn’t make it any easier.
Just a 45-minute drive (1.5 hours if you take public transportation) from Rome’s center lies Sperlonga, a picturesque beach town that’s noted for its cleanliness. And, according to some travelers, “Italy’s best kept secret.” The water is clear and surrounding area pristine, and the town has been given a Blue Flag designation for its upkeep and environmental initiatives.
Calella – Barcelona
Of all the beach getaways near Barcelona, Calella tops many lists. This quaint beach town is situated in Costa Brava, where the water is splendidly clear and ideal for swimming. Located just 45 minutes from Barcelona, this seaside destination is perfect for travelers of all types. Like Sperlonga, it was also awarded the European Blue Flag. For quieter relaxation, stick to the southern stretch of beach. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, visitors will find plenty of activities for children during summer months, as well as guided tours and water sports.
Praia da Adraga, Sintra – Lisbon
Praia da Adraga is located just an hour away from Lisbon, but it will feel like hundreds of miles away. Here, the Adraga beach is serene, and ideal for peaceful sunbathing, surfing, and watching sunsets. Part of its remoteness is because its position: virtually no public transportation goes here, so visitors must hire a driver or opt for a rental car. But it’s this location that keeps the area calm and pristine.
Located in Sintra, while the beach might draw you in, it’s everything about this magical town that keeps people here. For many visitors, Sintra looks like nothing short of a fantasy storybook page, with white palaces, stonewalled taverns, castles, and gardens. The city center, Sintra-Vila, is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once you’ve set your eyes on its rolling green hills that lead straight into the Atlantic, you’ll have a clear understanding of why.
