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Aerial view of  a beautiful white sand beach and Muri Lagoon in Rarotonga, Cook Islands

More Than Just the Beach

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By Carrie Hawes


Our favourite beach holiday destinations all offer the perfect atmosphere for a truly relaxing holiday where the most strenuous activity need only be deciding what’s for dinner. However, often these paradisaical destinations offer a host of activities beyond the sun loungers too. So, if you find yourself with itchy feet then take advantage of many of these fabulous local experiences.

Indian Ocean – Wildlife

The Indian Ocean is home to some of the world’s best wildlife experiences. The Maldives is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs making it a world-class destination for snorkelling. If you’re looking for something bigger the magnificent South Ari Marine Park is one of the world’s undisputed hotspots for whale shark sightings. 


What Mauritius lacks in whale sharks, it makes up for in dolphins! Take a catamaran cruise in search of these wonderful creatures and get the chance to snorkel with them in the wild.


Above water, there's plenty to captivate. The paradise isles of the Seychelles and Rodrigues are home to gentle giant tortoises whilst Madagascar promises incredible sightings of lively lemurs which are endemic to the island.


 

Whale shark in the Indian Ocean, Maldives
Whale shark

Asia – Cuisine

In Asia you’ll experience idyllic beaches but also some of the world’s finest cuisine. Take a food tour in Thailand’s Phuket to taste freshly made Pad Thai or Tom Yum Goong and wash it down with some locally grown coffee. Or how about a Balinese culinary experience in Indonesia? Visit local markets to select produce before rolling up your sleeves to learn how to prepare some signature dishes. 


Malaysia’s cuisine is the best of both worlds, with influences from Indonesia, Thailand and India among other countries. Satay is particularly delicious here and a local food not to be missed.


 

A big bowl of tom yam with seafood, a traditional Thai dish
Tom yam soup

Caribbean – Music

Awash with reggae, calypso, dancehall and the vestiges of jazz and gospel, you’ll quickly find the rhythmic beats of the Caribbean fantastically infectious. Enjoy watching an impressive steel band at Shirley Heights in Antigua, tap out beats in time to Bob Marley at Oistins Fish Fry in Barbados, or catch the sultry tones of jazz at a music festival in St Lucia. 


Whether you’re a calypso connoisseur, or simply want a bit of a boogie, the tropical tones of the Caribbean are bound to keep you captivated.


 

Steel drum band, Barbados
Steel drum band, Barbados

Middle East – Adventure

The Middle East is the perfect destination for those wanting activities on the doorstep on their beach holiday. Thrillseekers are covered with a multitude of waterparks and theme parks just waiting to be explored in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Get out of the city and you are wowed by towering desert dunes. Oman also offers the opportunity to hike in the stunning mountains of Jebel Akhdar. 


With year-round sun and a short flight time, the Middle East is a sure favourite.


 

A four wheel drive vehicle riding through the sand dunes in the Middle East
Dubai desert safari

For more inspiration, take a look at our Beach Holidays pages.

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Written by Carrie Hawes

Carrie is the Head of Content at Trailfinders and based in our Kensington head office. Carrie has worked at Trailfinders since 2003 and has travelled to 86 countries (and counting!). Her favourite destinations include India, Rwanda and Easter Island.

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