Although we are in the midst of January, there is one sure way to defeat those blues. And that is of course by booking a holiday and chasing the sunshine at some of the most exciting beach fronts!
Aer Lingus has returned with another fabulous sale over on their website, this time helping us through one of the dullest (and let’s face it, most miserable) times of the year.
We decided to come up with a handy little guide to the most beautiful AND exciting beach fronts to check out this summer. G’wan, you deserve some sunspiration…
Nice
Fun fact: Nice has a total of four miles worth of beachfront, so you’re spoiled for choice!
The various beach fronts in Nice are dotted with loads of restaurants, bars and shops, so you definitely won’t run out of things to experience (and eat!) here.
Depending on which type of accommodation you opt for, you have the option of lounging on one of the fabulous private beaches such as Ruhl Plage and Castel Plage, both complete with comfortable loungers, waiter service and unbelievable food.
But if you don’t have access to these beaches, there are still plenty of options for you.
Coco Beach is very popular with locals so expect it to be buzzing when you arrive. Bring along a picnic or dine in the restaurant that is nestled on the seafront by the beach, such as Terramadre, which serves up an interesting mix of Italian and French cuisine.
For more dining options while at the beach, you can travel a mere 15 minutes up the road (via a handy public bus) to find Villefranche-Sur-Mer.
Miami
Arguably the most extravagant beach fronts on the list, there are some gorgeous meals to be eaten, stunning drinks to be drunk and insanely fun activities to enjoy on the various beaches in this incredible city.
One of the city’s most buzzing beachfront areas has to be South Beach which is full to the brim with nightlife and folk living that glam lifestyle in the Florida sunshine.
You’ve probably also heard of Ocean Drive, which is equally as full of life all day and all night and full of dining options.
For DELICIOUS Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, Gianni’s At The Villa is the place to head. Or for fine seafood, head to A Fish Called Avalon.
Then, enjoy a cocktail or glass of champagne on a bed under a cabana at Nikki Beach, or grab a mojito as you live your watch incredible Latin dancers all night at Mango’s Tropical Cafe.
Barcelona
With a coastline that stretches for near to 5km, Barcelona really is more than just a city break. It also makes for a super fun and jam-packed beach holiday where you’re sure to get all of the sunshine you could possibly need, and then some.
The most popular beach in the city is probably Barceloneta which would be considered to be closest to the city centre. Dotted along the beach are plenty of casual dining experiences, most of which serve up delicious American-style grub. Plus, there are plenty of eateries on the beach itself, with popular ones including Jefferson, Bo Kaap and La Deliciousa.
Nova Icaria Beach is another exciting spot to soak up the sun and experience the best of what a sun holiday in Barcelona has to offer. Picture it now: going for a dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean followed by a drink and a bite in one of the fab bars dotted along the beach like Chiringuito Mokai Beach or Chiringuito Carmelina.
Meanwhile, Mar Bella Beach is popular amongst young people. Expect to see skaters and people enjoying a game of basketball as well as people taking part in different watersports such as kayaking.
Basking in glorious sunshine -you’d find it hard to be anything but content in Barcelona.
Santa Monica, LA
Santa Monica is a coastal town located in downtown Los Angeles and is absolutely bursting with seaside adventures, delicious dining opportunities and that wonderful Californian sun.
To the north of the pier, the beach is cut off from the city by the Pacific Coast Highway (a drive which will provide you with insanely beautiful coastal views).
To the south of the pier, the beach is level with the city of Santa Monica, and there is a wide range of activities to enjoy in the sunshine such as surfing, paddleboarding, cycling and having a go at the International Chess Park.
And of course, there are loads of places to eat. Popular restaurants among tourists and locals alike include Perry’s Café, which offers fabulous breakfast and lunch menus while you have your feet perched in the sand. There’s also Back on the Beach where you can grab some unreal Californian cuisine, and Catch Restaurant and Sushi Bar.
The pier itself features an amusement park, an aquarium, a carousel, an arcade, a trapeze school and more dining options than you can shake a stick at. I don’t know about you, but the thought of experiencing all of this Californian fun in the sun is getting me really pumped.
Feeling inspired to jet across to some of the sunniest destinations this year?
You know what to do. Check out the fabulous January Sale over at Aer Lingus and give yourself some fun in the sun to look forward to.
And while you’re at it, why not check out some amazing gelato to taste around the world in 2020.
