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Beaches

The Best Beaches to Visit and Other Global Destinations

Searching for the best beaches to visit? We cover ten global locations including Palawan and Cape Town to help you plan your next trip.

10 places3 min readUpdated 21 September 2026
The Best Beaches to Visit and Other Top Destinations
The short answer

If you are looking for the best beaches to visit, Palawan and Cape Town are your top choices during the winter months. These destinations offer reliable weather and swimming conditions from November through March.

Choosing a travel destination requires looking at weather patterns and accessibility. This list covers ten locations based on their optimal visitation months to ensure you avoid the worst of the regional rainy seasons.

1

The Pink City

Jaipur·India
East facade of Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City because of the color of its buildings. It was founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II. The city is one of the first planned cities in modern India. You can explore the historical architecture designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya. The best time to visit is from November to February when temperatures are cooler.

Suits
History enthusiasts and architecture fans.
Worth knowing
The city is 268 km from New Delhi.
Planning Jaipur?

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2

New Zealand Alpine Scenery

Hooker Valley in summer, with Mount Cook Range in the background

This national park protects a large portion of the Southern Alps. Glaciers cover 40 percent of the total park area. Haupapa / Tasman Glacier is the largest in the country. The area has been protected since 1885 to preserve the local landscape. Visit between December and April for the best hiking conditions.

Suits
Hikers and nature photographers.
Worth knowing
The park is remote and requires significant travel time from major cities.
Planning Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park?

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3

The Nile River Engineering

Lake Nasser behind the Aswan Dam, Egypt

The Aswan High Dam was built between 1960 and 1970 to control flooding along the Nile. It also generates hydroelectric power for the country. The construction of the dam created the massive Lake Nasser reservoir. It changed the economy and agriculture of Egypt significantly. Plan your trip for November through February to avoid extreme heat.

Suits
Engineering buffs and Nile travelers.
Worth knowing
Summer temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
Planning Aswan High Dam?

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4

Costa Rica's Young Volcano

Arenal Volcano·Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano panorama
Photo: Rhododendrites, CC BY-SA 4.0

Arenal is a young stratovolcano in northwestern Costa Rica. It stands 1,633 meters high and has a distinct conical shape. The volcano was dormant for centuries before recent activity. It is located near the town of La Fortuna. December to April is the best window for seeing the peak without heavy rain.

Suits
Adventure travelers and hikers.
Worth knowing
It is a three-hour drive from San Jose.
Planning Arenal Volcano?

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5

The Philippine Archipelago

Palawan·Philippines
Palawan, One of the Game and Refuge Sanctuaries which was established in 1967 in the Philippines.
Photo: Theglennpalacio, CC BY-SA 4.0

Palawan is the largest province in the Philippines by total area. It sits at the crossroads of the Luzon and Visayas island groups. Many travelers know it as the Last Frontier. The province consists of many islands with varied marine life. The dry season lasts from November to April, making it ideal for coastal activities.

Suits
Beach lovers and snorkelers.
Worth knowing
Inter-island travel often relies on small boats which can be unreliable in rough seas.
Planning Palawan?

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6

Norway's Northern Hub

Tromsø·Norway
Kvaløya. Tromsø. Norway.

Tromsø is located on the island of Tromsøya in Northern Norway. It serves as a major cultural center for the region. The city center features many wooden houses dating back to 1789. Bridges connect the central island to the mainland suburbs. Visit between October and March to maximize your chances of seeing the night sky.

Suits
Winter travelers and northern lights seekers.
Worth knowing
Daylight hours are extremely limited in mid-winter.
Planning Tromsø?

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7

Lao Cultural Center

Phou si Luang Prabang Laos プーシーの丘 ラオス・ルアンプラバーン
Photo: 松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 3.0

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its blend of traditional Lao and colonial architecture. It hosts over 30 Buddhist temples. The city name means Royal Buddha Image. Daily rituals like the morning alms-giving ceremony are a part of local life. Travel from November to February for comfortable temperatures.

Suits
Those interested in culture and quiet towns.
Worth knowing
The city is small and best explored on foot.
Planning Luang Prabang?

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8

The Gateway to Angkor

Siem Reap·Cambodia
The front proch of Wat Damnak has depressed arches typical of the colonial era monasteries in Cambodia.
Photo: Willuconquer, CC BY-SA 4.0

Siem Reap is the second-largest city in Cambodia. It is the primary hub for visiting the ancient temples of the Khmer Empire. The city features a mix of French colonial and Chinese architecture. You will find many craft shops and rice paddies nearby. Visit between November and February for the best weather.

Suits
History and archaeology travelers.
Worth knowing
Temples require a multi-day pass which can be expensive.
Planning Siem Reap?

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9

South Africa's Oldest City

Cape Town·South Africa
Vegan Lekker Nuggy Gatsby in restaurant Lekker Vegan, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa. It is located on the shore of Table Bay and is known for its natural setting. Table Mountain is the most prominent landmark in the city. The area has a long cultural history dating back to its founding. November to March is the best time for beach visits and outdoor activities.

Suits
City explorers and beach goers.
Worth knowing
Water shortages have been a recurring issue in the region.
Planning Cape Town?

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10

The World's Tallest Building

Burj Khalifa·United Arab Emirates
Burj Khalifa towering over the whole Dubai skyline seen from the air
Photo: Tim Reckmann, CC BY-SA 3.0

The Burj Khalifa stands 828 meters tall in Dubai. It has held the title of the tallest building in the world since 2011. Construction began in 2004 and finished in 2010. The main structure is made of reinforced concrete. Visit between November and March to avoid the intense desert summer heat.

Suits
Urban sightseers and architecture fans.
Worth knowing
Tickets for the observation deck should be booked well in advance.
Planning Burj Khalifa?

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What people wish they had broughtFor the places on this page

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Planning your trip based on these specific windows will help you manage expectations. Check your travel dates against these local conditions for a smoother experience.

Questions people ask


What is the best time to visit beach destinations?

Generally, the dry season is the best time. For tropical locations like Palawan, target November to April.

Are these destinations expensive?

Prices vary widely. Locations like Laos and Cambodia are generally more affordable than Norway or New Zealand.

Do I need a visa for these countries?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. You must check your specific country's regulations before booking.

Is it safe to travel to these places?

Most major tourist destinations are safe, but you should always check your local government's travel advisories before departing.

Somewhere to stay on this trip

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