October 2022 – healthyng

Adventure Travel

The best national parks in California

Beating out even famously scenic destinations like Alaska and Utah, California is home to more national parks than any other state. The Golden State’s 10 national parks showcase the best of the West Coast’s diverse range of landscapes, from the towering redwoods of NorCal, the arid deserts of SoCal, the iconic flora of Joshua Tree and the surreal geologic results of past volcanic eruptions and glacier paths.

From crown jewels of the whole system like Yosemite to remote marine ecosystems like Channel Islands National Park, California’s national parks certainly pack a punch. In addition to these officially designated jewels, the National Park Service runs a bevy of other protected places, including wilderness areas, seashores, preserves and such national monuments as Cabrillo and Muir Woods.

If you want to get outside and let nature awe you, the Golden State has what you’re looking for. Here are the best national parks in California.

1. Yosemite National Park

Best for sheer grandeur

The centerpiece of the national park system and California’s most popular national park, Yosemite attracted 3.9 million visitors in 2023. Its grandeur is so evocative that it inspires awe even for those who’ve never been. A UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional natural beauty, including five of the world’s highest waterfalls, it’s also often considered the most beautiful national park in the state.

The park’s busiest and most developed part, Yosemite Valley, includes hits like the granite monster El Capitan, the precipitous drop of Bridalveil Fall, the green, often wildflower-strewn valley floor, and, front and center, glorious Half Dome. Other sections of the park burst with giant sequoia groves and an endless array of wilderness trails, and they are no less sublime.

In for the long haul? Load up that pack and connect the dots from the heart of Yosemite to the pinnacle of Mt Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous USA. A true adventure, the physically demanding 211-mile John Muir Trail goes step by step up and over six Sierra passes topping 11,000ft. Join other blister-footed obsessives crossing chilly rivers and streams as you traverse Yosemite Valley, the roadless backcountry of Kings Canyon and Sequoia and the oxygen-scarce Whitney summit.

Pay homage to the oldest living things on earth. With some trees estimated to be about 4,000 years old, the gnarled and wind-battered stalwarts of the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest have certainly stood the test of time. From Independence, wind your way up the high-altitude road to the White Mountains, stopping midway to admire the distant spiked ridge of the Sierra Nevada and the valley below. At the solar-powered Schulman Grove Visitor Center, get your bearings and catch your breath before admiring these wizened survivors.

But there’s more than natural beauty here. Located in Yosemite Valley and built in the 1920s, The Ahwahnee Hotel is a stunning architectural jewel. Its public spaces, including the dining room with its soaring 34ft high ceilings, are a step back in time.

Planning tip: A free shuttle service helps visitors get around the park.

Male hiker standing on rocks atop Glen Pass, Kings Canyon National Park, California, USA — Kings Canyon offers endless backcountry adventures © RooM the Agency / Alamy Stock Photo

2 & 3. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Best for backcountry exploring and ancient trees

Joined by a high-altitude roadway bisecting a national forest and contiguous with several wilderness areas, these two parks offer vast stretches of alpine bliss. Groves of giant sequoias, wildflower-strewn meadows, gushing waterfalls, dramatic gorges and spectacular vistas reveal themselves at nearly every turn.

With a dramatic cleft deeper than the Grand Canyon, rugged Kings Canyon offers true adventure to those who crave seemingly endless verdant trails, rushing streams and gargantuan rock formations. The camping, backcountry exploring and climbing here are all superb. Neighboring Sequoia National Park gets all the glory, but Kings Canyon also has groves of enormous sequoias and far less trafficked trails. The canyon’s General Grant Grove is home to a sequoia nicknamed General Grant, the second-largest tree in the world.

Peaks more than 14,000ft high make up other parts of the park, most designated wilderness. Still, Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Hwy 180; only open end of April to October) twists and bends through some of the most dramatic scenery in California, making the natural bounty accessible to all (all who drive with confidence, that is). The Big Stump Entrance, near Grant Grove Village, is the park’s only entrance station.

As if all that weren’t enough, picture unzipping your tent flap and crawling out into a “front yard” of trees as high as a 20-story building and as old as the Bible: Welcome to Sequoia National Park. Brew some coffee as you plan your day of adventures in this extraordinary place, with its soul-sustaining forests and gigantic peaks soaring above 12,000ft.

Choose to gaze at dagger-sized stalactites in a 100,000-year-old cave, view the largest living tree on earth, climb 350 steps to a granite dome with soaring views of the snow-capped Great Western Divide or drive through a hole in a 2,000-year-old log. All that before you’ve even walked a trail – where the wild scenes (and brief encounters with black bears) will give you goosebumps, charging waterfalls will leave you awestruck and epic overnight backpacking trips will lead you to deserted lakes and idyllic backcountry camps.

Two people stand amid the rocky, rumpled landscape of Death Valley National Park, looking tiny in comparison the the peaks — Hiking in Death Valley National Park is challenging but rewarding © Dan Sedran / Shutterstock

4. Death Valley National Park

Best for natural extremes

The very name evokes all that is harsh, hot and hellish –a punishing, barren and lifeless place of Old Testament severity. This is a land of superlatives – hottest, driest and lowest – windswept sand dunes, water-sculpted canyons, extinct volcanic craters, palm-shaded oases and plenty of endemic wildlife. Nature truly puts on a lively show in Death Valley.

Furnace Creek is Death Valley’s commercial hub, home to the national park visitor center, a gas station, ATM, post office and lodging. There’s also a mission-style “town square” with a general store, restaurant, saloon and ice cream and coffee parlor. There’s lodging, gas, a general store, dining, RV and camping options at both Stovepipe Wells Village and Panamint Springs. Places to see around Panamint Springs include the ten beehive-shaped Wildrose Charcoal Kilns built in 1876 for processing silver and lead and Darwin Falls, a spring-fed waterfall. At Stovepipe, cool off in the lodge’s swimming pool.

Planning tip: Park entry permits ($35 per vehicle) are valid for seven days and available from self-service pay stations along the park’s access roads and at the visitor center.

Manzanita Lake and Lassen Peak, Lassen Volcanic National Park — The world’s largest plug-dome volcano is reflected in Manzanita Lake © MBRubin / Getty Images

5. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Best for otherworldly landscapes

In the summer, the dry, smoldering, treeless terrain within this 106,000-acre national park stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding cool, green conifer forests. In winter, tons of snow limits how far you can travel inside its borders. Still, entering the park from the southwest entrance is like stepping into another world. The lavascape offers a fascinating glimpse into the earth’s fiery core. In a fuming display, the terrain is marked by roiling hot springs, steamy mud pots, noxious sulfur vents, fumaroles, lava flows, cinder cones, craters and crater lakes. At 10,463ft, Lassen Peak is the world’s largest plug-dome volcano.

Centuries ago, this was a summer encampment and meeting point for Indigenous tribes such as the Atsugewi, Yana, Yahi and Maidu, who hunted deer and gathered plants for basket making. Now their descendants work with the park to educate visitors about their ancient history, traditions and contemporary culture.

Lassen has 150 miles of hiking trails, including a 17-mile section of the Pacific Crest Trail. Experienced hikers can attack the Lassen Peak Trail, whose 5-mile round trip takes at least four-and-a-half hours; the first 1.3-mile stretch, up to the Grandview viewpoint, is suitable for families. The 360-degree view from the top is stunning, even if the weather is a bit hazy.

Near the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, a gentler 2.3-mile trail leads through meadows and forest to Mill Creek Falls. Further north on Hwy 89, note the roadside sulfur works with its bubbling mud pots, hissing steam vent, fountains and fumaroles. The moderate 1.5-mile Bumpass Hell trail and boardwalk lead to an active geothermal area with bizarrely colored pools and billowing clouds of steam.

A condor flies across an almost full moon that has risen over jagged rock formations at Pinnacles National Park — A condor flies in front of the moon above rock formations at Pinnacles National Park © NickLustPhotography / Getty Images

6. Pinnacles National Park

Best for condor sightings

A study in geological drama, this park’s craggy monoliths, sheer-walled canyons and rambling caves are the result of millions of years of erosion. In addition to hiking and rock climbing, the park’s biggest attractions are its two talus caves. Balconies Cave is always open for exploration, while Bear Gulch Cove is generally closed from mid–May to mid–July, when the resident colony of Townsend’s big-eared bats raises their offspring.

The park’s namesake spires form a natural barrier bisecting the park. For the west entrance, exit Hwy 101 at Soledad and follow Hwy 146 northeast for 14 miles; the east entrance is accessed via Hwy 25 from Hollister and Hwy 146. There are visitor centers on both sides. No road connects the two sides of the park, though you can hike across in about an hour. While in the park, watch for endangered California condors circling above.

Planning tip: Pinnacles are best visited during spring or fall since the summer heat can get extreme.

Seussian Joshua trees sprout from the desert of Joshua Tree National Park © Dennis Silvas / Shutterstock

7. Joshua Tree National Park

Best for hypnotic desert vistas

As if from the pages of a Dr Seuss book, whimsical-looking Joshua trees welcome visitors to this 794,000-acre park at the convergence of the Colorado and Mojave Deserts. Rock climbers know “JT” as the best place to climb in California; scrambling up, down and around the giant boulders can be fun for all. Hikers seek out hidden, shady, desert-fan-palm oases fed by natural springs, while mountain bikers are entranced by the desert views. It’s also a great place to camp.

Originally named the humwichawa by the Cahuilla Nation, these unusual trees, a type of yucca, were often used to make rope, baskets and other clothing. When the Mormon settlers came along, they dubbed it the Joshua tree because the branches stretching toward heaven reminded them of the biblical prophet Joshua pointing the way to the promised land. In spring, the trees send up a huge, single, cream-colored flower, while the octopus-like tentacles of the ocotillo cactus shoot out crimson flowers. The mystical quality of this stark, boulder-strewn landscape has inspired many artists, including U2, who spent time here while recording their 1987 album The Joshua Tree. Unless you’re day-tripping from Palm Springs, base yourself in the desert communities linked by 29 Palms Hwy/Hwy 62 along the park’s northern perimeter.

Joshua Tree, a small community of just over 6,000, serves as a national park hub and has a visitor’s center for the area. If you love old Westerns from the 1940s and 50s, Pioneertown is worth a stop. Designed to look like the 1880s, it’s actually a much newer creation that was developed as a film and TV set.

A man walks on a path by giant trees in Redwood National Park, California, USA — Walking through Redwood National Park draws your eyes upward © Carmen Martínez Torrón / Getty Images

8. Redwood National Park

Best for looking up

This park is the southernmost of a patchwork of state and federally administered lands under the umbrella of Redwood National and State Parks. Pick up a map at the visitor center and check out the many hiking options. A few miles north along Hwy 101, a trip inland on Bald Hills Rd leads to Lady Bird Johnson Grove, with its 1.5-mile, kid-friendly loop trail. Or enjoy the secluded serenity of Tall Trees Grove where, as the name implies, you’ll find the park’s tallest trees.

To protect Tall Trees Grove, the number of vehicles allowed per day is limited. Pick up the free permits at the visitor center in Orick, then choose your hiking options. There’s the challenging half-day trip that’s a 6-mile rumble on an old logging road followed by a moderately strenuous 4.5-mile round-trip hike. Or try either the 1-mile there-and-back or a 2.5-mile loop, accessed from Davidson Rd at Elk Meadow, to Trillium Falls.

Planning tip: Winter brings high waters prompting the removal of footbridges crossing Redwood Creek. Check with park rangers before hitting the trails.

Dolphin jumping out of the water in front of a rock arch formation — Swimmers leap from the water in Channel Islands National Park © Daniel Friend / Getty Images

9. Channel Islands National Park

Best for marine life

The four northern islands of the eight Channel Islands – San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa and tiny Santa Barbara to the south – make up the stunning Channel Islands National Park. It brims with tide pools, kelp forests and a multitude of sea caves, including the largest in North America. It’s also home to almost 150 plant and a few animal species all unique to the island. The chain is accessible by boat from Ventura or Oxnard.

Snorkel, dive, swim and kayak among the kelp beds and along the sandy beaches on Anacapa, Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands. San Miguel and Santa Barbara abound with colonies of northern elephant seals.

Planning tip: Beautiful any time of year, the islands receive most visitors between June and September. The best times to visit are during the spring wildflower season (April and May) and in September and October when the fog clears. Winters are often stormy but are ideal for whale-watching.

Other National Park Service-designated sites in California

A wooden ladder leading to the surface of Golden Dome Cave at Lava Beds National Monument © Alberto Loyo / Shutterstock

10. Lava Beds National Monument

Best for geology

Perched on a shield volcano, Lava Beds National Monument is a truly remarkable 47,000-acre landscape of geological features – lava flows, craters, cinder cones, spatter cones and amazing lava tubes. More than 800 caves have been found in the monument, all averaging a comfortable 55°F (13°C) no matter the temperature outside. You can spy Indigenous pictographs and petroglyphs in certain corners of the park, too.

A wide view of the pathway leading to the lighthouse at Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California, USA — The lighthouse at Point Reyes National Seashore looks like it’s perched at the end of the world © Jerry Sanchez / Shutterstock

11. Point Reyes National Seashore

Best for crashing waves

A rough-hewn beauty, Point Reyes National Seashore boasts marine mammals and birds, along with scores of shipwrecks. Follow Sir Francis Drake Blvd 20 miles west to the point’s edge-of-the-world lighthouse, the perfect spot for observing migrating whales in winter.

Trees in Muir Woods National Monument, Marin County, California, USA — The majestic forest of Muir Woods National Monument is only 12 miles north of San Francisco © Zack Frank / Shutterstock

12. Muir Woods National Monument

Best for a taste of nature near the city

The experience of walking amongst the world’s tallest trees can only happen in Northern California and part of southern Oregon. The old-growth redwoods at Muir Woods, just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, are the closest redwood stand to San Francisco. For more grandiose redwood forests, travel further north to Mendocino and Humboldt Counties.

Once destined to be felled for a dam, the trees were saved when congressman and naturalist William Kent bought a section of what was then called Redwood Creek. In 1907, he donated 295 acres to the federal government, and a year later, President Theodore Roosevelt made the site a national monument.

A cliff-face of basalt columns rises up from the rock-strewn ground at Devils Postpile National Monument — The basalt columns that give Devils Postpile its name were created by ancient lava flows that rapidly cooled © Getty Images

13. Devils Postpile National Monument

Best for column-climbing

The most fascinating attraction in Reds Meadow is the surreal volcanic formation of Devils Postpile National Monument. The 60ft curtains of near-vertical, six-sided basalt columns formed when rivers of molten lava slowed, cooled and cracked with perplexing symmetry. This honeycomb design is best appreciated from atop the columns, reached by a short trail, just an easy half-mile hike from the Devils Postpile Ranger Station.

From the monument, a 2.5-mile hike passing through fire-scarred forest leads to the spectacular Rainbow Falls, where the San Joaquin River gushes over a 101ft basalt cliff.

Planning tip: The chances of actually seeing a rainbow forming in the billowing mist are greatest at midday. The falls can also be reached via an easy 1.5-mile walk from the Reds Meadow area, which has a cafe, a store, the Reds Meadow campground and a pack station. Shuttle services run to the Reds Meadow area in season.

A column of light shines down into a lava tube in Mojave National Preserve, which hints at the dramatic geologic forces that shaped this corner of California — A lava tube in Mojave National Preserve hints at the dramatic geologic forces that shaped this corner of California © Airbnb

14. Mojave National Preserve

Best for utter solitude and serenity

Suppose you’re on a quest to reach the middle of nowhere. In that case, there’s no better place than the 1.6-million-acre Mojave National Preserve, a jumble of dunes, Joshua trees, volcanic cinder cones and habitats for bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, jackrabbits and coyotes. Whether you spend an entire day or just a few hours exploring the free preserve, enjoy sights like the giant “humming” dunes, an extinct volcano, a huge Joshua-tree forest and sculptured rock walls. The main visitor center, located in an old railroad depot in Kelso, has information and maps.

Planning tip: Daytime temperatures hover above 100°F (37°C) during summer, and plummet to around 50°F (10°C) in winter, when snowstorms can occur. Spring and fall bring strong winds. Gas isn’t available within the preserve.

Ansel Adams Wilderness Area is a desginated wilderness in the Eastern Sierras — Ansel Adams Wilderness Area is named for the famous photographer who introduced many Americans to the scenery of the West for the first time © Alamy Stock Photo

15. Ansel Adams Wilderness Area

Best for alpine scenery

Abutting Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake and Inyo National Forest, the lakes, peaks, gorges and glaciers in the Ansel Adams Wilderness Area make Sierra Nevada’s most dramatic alpine destinations.

A bristlecone pine with the Milky Way overhead in Schulman Grove in Inyo National Forest © Pamela Marcelino / Shutterstock

16. Inyo National Forest

Best for vast forests and high peaks

An enormous region of nearly two million acres of dense forests, high peaks and lakes and nine wilderness areas, Inyo covers a good chunk of California’s Eastern Sierra and White Mountains. Encompassing a vast network of trails and campgrounds, there are ranger stations in Lone Pine, Bishop, Mammoth Lakes and Mono Basin. The Inyo National Forest’s 128,000-acre Hoover Wilderness Area is a backcountry paradise dotted with such stunning sights as Virginia Lakes, Lundy Lake and the high peaks bordering Yosemite to the west.

Keep planning your trip to California

Find the best time to visit California’s national parks.
Visit nine of California’s national parks in one epic journey.
Traveling on a budget? Here are tips on how to save money.

Romance

8 Caribbean destinations where couples can find romance

What couple can resist the Caribbean, with its promise of screensaver-worthy beaches and romantic resorts that go above and beyond to make every holiday feel like a honeymoon?

Whether you want to lounge in a private cabana, swing in a hammock, dine at a moonlit table for two, hike through lush rainforest or snorkel among primary-colored fish, you can do what pleases both of you on any of the islands that make up this coveted destination. All of which makes it even harder to narrow down the best places for couples in the Caribbean.

And that’s why we want to inspire you with these eight particularly romantic Caribbean destinations.

1. Little Cayman, Cayman Islands

Best for getting off the grid

Little Cayman is the smallest of the Cayman Islands and home to more iguanas than people – making it ideal for couples looking to spend quality time together. This dazzling island is just one mile wide and 10 miles long, its desert-island vibe offering up quiet beaches, crystal-clear waters, a tropical nature reserve and world-class diving sites. When you tire of swinging in a beachfront hammock, you can cycle to Booby Pond Nature Reserve to observe the resident colony of 4000 red-footed boobies (their name notwithstanding, you can identify them by their blue beaks).

Alternatively, take a dip in the multi-hued blue waters of South Hole Sound Lagoon (you may well be the only couple there). For a more strenuous workout, kayak over to Owen Island, where you’ll feel like the only people on the planet, or dive Bloody Bay Wall – a dramatic 6000ft drop-off that’s part of an underwater mountain range. You’ll have a handful of small hotels to choose from, including the colorful beach cottages at the Southern Cross Club and the all-inclusive Pirates Point Resort.

Planning tip: On Little Cayman, bikes are the transportation of choice. But since the island is too small to support a bike shop, most hotels and guesthouses will lend you a bike to get around or rent you one for a small fee.

2. Grenada

Best for underwater explorations

Grenada is home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park and the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean, making it a good choice for couples looking for once-in-a-lifetime dive experiences. The underwater gallery of sculptures can be found in the Molinère Beauséjour Marine Protected Area, with the artworks acting as artificial reefs attracting a wide variety of tropical fish.

The 18,000-ton, 65ft-long Italian cruise liner, Bianca C – known as the Titanic of the Caribbean – sits upright on the seabed at a depth of 165ft, just a mile off Grand Anse beach, and is a memorable dive for those with experience. If swimming’s your thing, check into Silversands, which boasts the Caribbean’s longest swimming pool, at nearly 330ft long.

A couple walks on a beach in front of Gros Piton, St Lucia, Caribbean — In Soufrière, St Lucia, beautiful views of the Pitons provide drama – and romance © fokke baarssen / Shutterstock

3. Soufrière, St Lucia

Best for a room with a view

If you were to see no other part of St Lucia on your romantic vacation, the district of Soufrière on the west coast would provide you with memories aplenty. Think hiking the imposing Gros Piton, mountain biking through overgrown former plantations, slathering each other in mud in the name of beauty at Sulfur Springs or taking a bracing freshwater shower at Diamond Falls. Most of these activities are an added bonus for couples drawn primarily to the romantic hotels that have made the area famous. Jade Mountain and Ladera are both in this area, both luxury properties that have done away with the fourth wall to allow its rooms to frame equally dramatic yet differing views of the Pitons.

Planning tip: Visit between February and May for the lowest chance of rain. High season ends after the Easter holiday, so May can also be a very affordable time to book your romantic break.

4. Antigua

Best for all-inclusive resorts

If you’re looking for the best all-inclusive resorts for couples in the Caribbean, you’ll find a glut of them on West Indian island Antigua. For suites with private plunge pools, try Hammock Cove, Galley Bay or Hermitage Bay. Older couples favor the quiet sophistication of Curtain Bluff, where they can mingle at the manager’s cocktail party hosted in the owner’s living room, while younger couples enjoy the activity program at Pineapple Beach Club. If you fancy romance, Maldives-style, try one of the overwater bungalows at the Royalton. Feeling flush? Then head to one of the most exclusive private islands in the Caribbean and book a stay at Jumby Bay, where Oprah Winfrey, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana own villas.

A woman hikes on a trail by the Layou River in the rainforest in Dominica, Caribbean — Lush Dominica offers countless ways for couples to enjoy adventures in nature together © David Madison / Getty Images

5. Dominica

Best for adventurous couples

With pristine rainforest, a river for every day of the year, waterfalls, national parks, volcanoes, white and black sand beaches, one of only two boiling lakes in the world (the other is in New Zealand), and a vast array of soul-restoring excursions and authentic experiences, Dominica helps couples reconnect and create enduring memories.

On this nature-heavy island, you can river-canyon, hike volcanoes, swim in rainforest waterfalls, soak in natural hot springs or get close to the resident pod of sperm whales. Dominica is less touristy than other Caribbean islands and will appeal to couples who enjoy getting off the beaten track. For a private rainforest retreat, try six-star Secret Bay, 10 villas on a verdant hillside in the northwest.

Planning tip: Dominica is in the hurricane belt, so avoid hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to November 30.

6. CocoCay, Bahamas

Best romantic cruise stop

When searching for the most romantic Caribbean cruise, it’s worth checking itineraries to see if they stop at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean International’s private island in the Bahamas. Whether your idea of romance is daring each other to go down Daredevil’s Tower, the tallest waterslide in the world, or paddling your partner out in a kayak made for two before sipping refreshing Coco Locos from the privacy of a daybed or cabana in Breezy Bay, you’ll find a way to relish romance at CocoCay. When Royal Caribbean’s new ship Icon of the Seas launches in 2024, the cruise line will debut the island’s adults-only oasis, Hideaway Beach, with an expansive pool, private cabanas with pools and the ultimate ocean views.

Happy couple kissing and taking a romantic rafting ride down the Martha Brae River, Jamaica — A rafing ride down Jamaica’s Martha Brae River sets the scene for love © Jam Travels / Shutterstock

7. Jamaica

Best for couples-only resorts

Jamaica is known as the birthplace of reggae music, but did you know it was also the birthplace of couples-only all-inclusive luxury Sandals Resorts? This Jamaican company has cornered the honeymoon market in the Caribbean, and now operates nearly 20 resorts in beachfront properties in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, St Lucia, the Bahamas and Curaçao (open since June 2022). Seven of them are in Jamaica, including the brand-new Sandals Dunn’s River (opened in May 2023).

Each Sandals offers two people in love a romantic, all-inclusive Caribbean experience that includes dining at up to 16 specialty restaurants, unlimited premium drinks, complimentary land and water sports (including up to two scuba dives per day for certified divers) and top-notch amenities. Romantic things to do in Jamaica include bamboo river-rafting on the Martha Brae, daring jumps into the Ocho Rios Blue Hole and horseback rides in the waves.

8. Andros, Bahamas

Best for eco-conscious couples

With a marine territory of 100,000 square miles, 700 islands and 2400 cays, the Bahamas is one of the most eco-friendly destinations in the Caribbean. The sea around the islands absorbs carbon (the islands now sell blue carbon credits), and the air contains less pollution than almost any other place in the world. Eco-conscious travelers will be enamored not only with the islands’ green credentials, but its focus on nurturing nature, wildlife and community.

Couples looking to keep busy should look to the island of Andros, the largest island in the archipelago. Andros has the highest concentration of blue holes, or pools opening to underground cave systems, in the world (180). In an effort to protect these natural wonders, a 40,000-acre national park has been formed, creating a safe haven for 22 blue holes and the surrounding pine forests. Captain Bill’s Blue Hole is the most accessible, with a platform to leap into the water. Opt for an eco villa at Tiamo, a luxury resort only accessible by boat after flying into South Andros on Mangrove Cay.

Beaches

Find the best season for you to enjoy everything you want to do in Cabo

Picture-perfect Los Cabos offers a desert-meets-sea aesthetic, with gorgeous golden rock formations that tumble down to the wide-open Pacific Ocean.

Not to be confused with the West African island nation of Cabo Verde, Los Cabos is on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Its anchor cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are jam-packed with many of Mexico’s top five-star hotels, and they’re loaded with a wide array of all-inclusive resorts. With so many beautiful beaches and flashy resorts, it’s no wonder why it’s quickly become one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations.

With that said, there is much more to this town at the tip of the Baja California peninsula than sprawling beach resorts. Cabo is also known for its world-class water sports, diving, yachting, culture, and events. Still, you have certain factors to consider when deciding your best time to visit Cabo. The winter and spring high season typically provides the mildest and driest weather, but it’s also the most expensive time to visit. On the flip side, summer’s low season often sports the lowest prices for flights and hotels, but it’s also the time when you need to be the most mindful of the potential for extreme weather.

While Cabo manages to keep things fun and enjoyable year-round, we want to help you figure out when is your best time to plan your Los Cabos trip. Here’s our season-by-season, month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Cabo.

December to April: Pick the high season for perfect weather

With average temperatures that range between a delicious 77 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, most tourists consider high season their best time to visit Cabo. Thanks to cool breezes that ride in from the Pacific, visitors to Los Cabos can expect sunny and warm days with cooler desert nights. And since Cabo averages less than 1.5 inches (or under 3.5cm) of rain during these five months, you face the least risk of rain on your parade.

As Cabo is where the desert meets the sea, the cooler and drier winter weather makes this the best time for sightseeing around the region. From outdoor adventures like ATV riding and hiking, to visiting the nearby Pueblo Mágico (or Magical Town) of Todos Santos, winter is the prime time to experience the best that Cabo has to offer. If you’re into whale watching, winter is also the best time to spot pods of gray and humpback whales (and whale sharks) enjoying the warm and nutrient-rich ocean water.

But, of course, there’s a catch: The high season brings big crowds. If you come during the winter holiday season (Christmas and New Year’s) or spring break (March and April), you should expect top-shelf prices at Cabo’s resorts and restaurants. (Check our guide on where to eat in Los Cabos for some great restaurant recommendations!)

A whale shark (rhincodon typus), the biggest fish in the ocean, seen from above in the waters off of La Pas, Baja California Sur — Visit Los Cabos in high season to catch the annual migration of the gentle giants of the ocean: the whale sharks © Leonardo Gonzalez / Shutterstock

May to June: Pick the spring shoulder season for a quieter atmosphere

Cabo’s late spring shoulder season might be the destination’s best-kept secret. Not only are temperatures still perfectly pleasant (warm in the day, cool at night), but the majority of crowds have gone home. As a result, you’ll notice lower prices, and you’ll see that the frenzied, vivacious spring break scene gives way to much calmer vibes. Though the whales have left for cooler waters, the warmer sea water makes it more amenable for swimming. (Expect water temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit during May and June.)

For Los Cabos’ most swimmable beaches, head to Medano Beach near the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Lovers Beach by the Arch at Land’s End, and the Santa Maria and Chileno Bay Beaches at the Tourist Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. These beaches have the safest and calmest sea water for swimming, making them some of the best free things to do in Los Cabos.

Come May and June, temperatures start to rise with daytime highs usually reaching the upper 80s. Also during this time, Cabo hardly gets any rain. With all that sunshine, the right amount of heat, and fewer crowds, you’ll see that the spring shoulder season makes for quite a lovely season in Los Cabos.

July to September: Rainy season brings the lowest prices

Late summer into early fall is when temperatures rise well into the 90s (Fahrenheit) during the day, bringing a thick blanket of humidity and plenty of rain. While the rain makes it a bit more difficult to catch those southern Baja rays, the weather brings with it a green, lush landscape that contrasts beautifully against the otherwise rocky desert environment.

Because this is the Pacific hurricane season, you may need to keep a close eye on the weather forecast in case a major storm makes its way to Los Cabos. Though direct hurricane hits are rare, summer thunderstorms are to be expected.

For this very reason, the tourist crowds thin out making way for the cheapest hotel rates and airfares. As long as you don’t mind damper weather and reduced operating hours at some restaurants and nightclubs, the summer season is ideal for bargain hunters.

October to November: Pick the fall shoulder season for great weather and great deals

October typically marks the tail end of the Pacific hurricane season. There’s still some risk of tropical storms reaching shore, but Cabo almost always gets more rain and storms during August and September. By November, Cabo turns bone-dry all over again. Temperatures usually only reach into the mid-80s (Fahrenheit) during the day and drop to the 60s at night.

While you’ll notice prices rising in time for the Thanksgiving U.S. holiday at the end of November, you’ll find a number of great deals earlier in fall. If you don’t mind hotter temperatures and some risk of rain, book an October trip to enjoy some of the lowest prices and smallest crowds outside the summer low season. For nicer weather and more activities in and around town, go in November.

Now that we’ve given you an overview of Los Cabos’ high, shoulder, and low seasons, here’s a more detailed month-by-month guide. Keep in mind that events and details are subject to change.

January

January is the coolest month in Los Cabos, but even the coldest day here is still pretty warm. Daytime highs almost always surpass 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and nighttime lows rarely fall below 50. Expect large crowds and high hotel prices through the first week of the month, due to New Year’s celebrations.

Key events: El Día de los Reyes Magos, Todos Santos Tropic of Cancer Music & Arts Festival

February

You’ll still be enjoying plenty of sunny days in Cabo, only this time with much more space to yourself. February offers a “sweet spot” of thinner crowds and pleasant weather, as it’s after the winter holidays and before the spring break rush.

Key events: Todos Santos Art Festival, Los Cabos Half Marathon

March

Daytime temperatures begin to inch their way into the 80s during the month of March, and with the start of spring break in schools, you’ll notice an uptick in both families and younger travelers looking to party poolside by day and bar-hop by night.

Key events: Cheese & Wine Festival

April

By April, US colleges’ spring break season is winding down, and Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations are kicking up in Los Cabos. Expect high room rates and lots of people out on the beaches, in the streets, and at the bars. Since Cabo San Lucas (at the southwestern tip of Los Cabos) has more of the luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts catering to U.S. and Canadian travelers, expect a more exciting environment here. Meanwhile to the east of Cabo San Lucas and the Tourist Corridor of major name-brand resorts, San José del Cabo tends to be much more laid back. By the end of the month, the entire region begins to calm down as temperatures rise.

Key events: Spring Break, Semana Santa

People enjoying a kayak ride in yellow kayak wearing life vests along the impressive landmark stone arc on beautiful turquoise waters at Cabo San Lucas under a sunny sky — As the temperatures rise in the spring, water sports like kayaking become especially appealing © Jaime RG / Shutterstock

May

May languidly rolls in on a heat wave. Yet it’s also one of the best times to visit Los Cabos because the vibe still hums with energy, especially if you’re a boater or a surfer. Surf season in Los Cabos runs from May through October, and you can expect good swells at various beaches from Todos Santos to San José del Cabo. May also brings thousands of aquatic enthusiasts to the marina to enjoy the Cabo Marine Show.

Key events: Cabo Marine Show

June

The southern tip of the Baja Peninsula is a tropical desert, and June weather will certainly remind you of that. The days stay hot, and precipitation is virtually nonexistent. But, that does not stop Los Cabos from hosting various events. From surf competitions to golf and music, Los Cabos has plenty to entertain.

Key events: Los Cabos Open of Surf, Stars & Stripes Fishing & Golf Tournament, Fiesta de la Música, Gala de Danza

July

Scorching temperatures peak in Los Cabos in July. You may see a rainstorm here and there, but precipitation is still pretty rare at the peak of summer. July begins turtle-nesting-season in Los Cabos. It’s also the peak time of year for summer vacations, which means beaches can be crowded and hotel occupancy high.

Key events: East Cape Dorado Shootout

August

Blazing temperatures and thick humidity continue. Thunderstorms start to become a more normal occurrence towards the end of the month. Still, fishing is in full swing in the Sea of Cortez.

Key events: East Cape Bisbee Tournament, Festival del Mango Todos Santos

September

Los Cabos crashes into September with a roll of thunder and heavy rain. While hurricane season is said to start in June, the roughest storms actually tend to hit in September. If you’re coming during this month, prepare for the possibility of multiple rainy days.

Key events: Mexican Independence Day

October

Storms continue into October, though they tend to taper off considerably when compared to September. October is also when Los Cabos begins to prepare for the rush of the holiday high season. Hotel rates start to climb, and the events calendar starts to pick up again, especially when it comes to fishing tournaments.

Key events: Los Cabos Billfish Tournament, Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Tournament, Bisbee’s International Black & Blue Tournament, Fiestas Tradicionales Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos Gran Fondo

November

After months of heat and humidity, the temperatures start to feel considerably cooler in November and the rain starts to fade away. Peak season is just around the corner, so it’s best to book November travel a few months in advance to secure lower prices, especially if you’re planning for a tropical (and popular) Thanksgiving getaway.

You’ll also notice a busier event calendar in November, which includes events like the San José del Cabo Art Walks and the organic market.

Key events: Day of the Dead, Los Cabos International Film Festival, Todos Santos Film Festival, VIP Summit

Fireworks at Medano Beach during a New Year’s celebration, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico — The peak of the high season, New Year’s Eve is always festive in Los Cabos © Romana Lilic / Getty Images

December

Peak season officially kicks off when the calendar flips to December. This month kicks off whale watching season and crowds start to arrive in droves. Hotel rates reach all-time highs, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Still, this is one of the most energetic times to be in Los Cabos, with holiday celebrations, foodie events, and many parties to enjoy.

Key events: Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival, Sabor a Cabo Festival, Las Posadas Christmas celebrations, New Year’s Eve Fireworks

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Beaches

North Carolina’s top 16 beaches for swimming, surfing and sea turtles

With 300 miles of barrier-island beaches and innumerable coastal towns waiting to be explored, North Carolina’s shoreline attracts millions of visitors each year – and it’s not hard to see why.

From romantic escapes to kid-friendly family vacations, and action-packed adventures to lazy days in the sun, the region offers something for everyone. Here are a dozen of the best beaches in North Carolina.

Outer Banks

Corolla Beach

Best beach for families with young kids

Just below the Virginia border on the Outer Banks, Corolla (pronounced “kuh-RAH-luh”) is a go-to choice for families with young kids, thanks to its gentle waves and 24 miles of wide, white sand.

Corolla is the only place in the region that allows four-wheel-drives directly onto the beach year round, fee-free (though you’ll need a permit if you want to park).

Interestingly enough, the 4×4 beaches are also where you’ll find Corolla’s best-known attraction: wild horses. Descended from Spanish Mustangs, these horses have had the run of the place for hundreds of years. It’s illegal to come within 50ft of the horses, but a handful of tour operators can get you close enough for a photo opp.

Duck

Best beach for families with teens

Barely 15 miles south of Corolla, the resort town of Duck has just 500 permanent residents, but its numbers swell during the summer season. It’s a hugely popular destination for families, especially those with teens.

On the eastern ocean-facing side of town, shops and restaurants are clustered around a six-mile-long trail with sidewalks and bike lanes.

On the western side, Duck Town Park covers 11 acres of greenspace, with a playground, a public canoe and kayak launch and a mile-long boardwalk that winds along the Currituck Sound. The town plays host to an annual jazz festival – typically the second weekend in October – and its beaches are private and well-kept.

Nags Head

Best beach for hang-gliding

One of the best-known towns in the Outer Banks, Nags Head is a destination for spring-breakers and multi-generational families. Its location on Bodie Island, a few miles south of Kitty Hawk and the Wright Brothers National Memorial, makes it a draw for aviation buffs.

It can get very crowded in the summer, so it’s almost better to visit during the off-season. Less crowds mean more space to yourself for fishing off the pier, hang-gliding at Jockey’s Ridge – a state park with the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern US.

Average temperatures don’t usually dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 Celsius), so a wintry stroll on a beach wouldn’t be too uncomfortable.

Ocracoke Island

Best beach for shelling

Once a hideout for the infamous pirate Blackbeard and the site of his death in 1718, Ocracoke Island is known today for its natural beauty and low-key vibe.

Located on the southern end of the Outer Banks, most of the island is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore – protected land administered by the National Park Service. Its beaches are stellar spots for shelling, with beachcombers turning up conchs, sand dollars and Scotch bonnets on a regular basis.

The waves can be turbulent this close to Cape Hatteras, but the water is warmer here than it is further north, thanks to the Gulf Stream off the coast.

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Best remote beach

With 56 miles of beach to explore along a series of undeveloped barrier islands, Cape Lookout National Seashore is the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Carolina coast.

A short ferry ride brings guests to the park where there’s something for everyone from swimming and shelling to touring the iconic lighthouse and observing local wildlife. Shackleford Banks offers ideal conditions for swimming, sunbathing and watching wild horses that live on the island.

Adventurous visitors may opt to tour the coastline via ATV or kayak. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, guests can experience spectacular stargazing during an overnight stay at the year-round primitive camp sites or seasonal rustic cabins.

There are limited facilities at the ferry landings and cabin areas. The park requests leave no trace practices for both daytime and overnight beachgoers.

Crystal Coast

Atlantic Beach

Best beach for a day trip from Raleigh

Just 150 miles southeast of Raleigh on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Atlantic Beach is an easy drive from the state capital, and it can draw a crowd in the peak summer months.

Located on Bogue Banks, a small barrier island tucked between Bogue Sound and the ocean, it’s the first stop off the causeway from Highway 70, making it an easy option for a weekend getaway or a longer escape.

With a boardwalk, a fishing pier, wide sandy beaches and offshore activities like parasailing, kiteboarding, jet-skiing and kayaking, it’s no wonder the place garners so much attention. And let’s not forget the kitschy souvenir shops and restaurants galore,

At the island’s eastern point is Fort Macon State Park, and the eponymous fort saw action in the Civil War. Tour the premises, then settle on the beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with a bathhouse, concessions, wheelchair-accessible areas and lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Emerald Isle

Best beach for upscale crowds

Not 15 miles west of Atlantic Beach is Emerald Isle, a bit sleepier than its neighbor, with fewer hotels and more condos, cottages and houses. The town is a bit more upscale, with art galleries, boutiques and fine-casual dining.

Emerald Isle may be on the quiet side, but there’s plenty to do on and off the 12 miles of beach, especially for families – everything from putt-putt and disc golf to paddleboarding, surf lessons and fishing off the pier. It’s also easy to reach from Raleigh, with its own causeway to help drivers beat the cross-island traffic.

Bear Island

Best beach for beachcombing and bird watching

Accessible by ferry and private boat only, with primitive camping and virgin beach, Bear Island is at the heart of Hammocks Beach State Park – a peaceful and secluded respite from the modern-day beachgoing throngs.

Home to shore birds and tidal pools teeming with life, the four-mile barrier island is heaven for beachcombers and birdwatchers. There’s marshland to explore via paddling trails for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards (available to rent in season).

The oceanfront campsites are open year-round, so you can sleep beside the dunes and under the stars practically any time you choose.

Topsail

Topsail Island

Best beach to observe sea turtles

North of Wrightsville in Onslow County, the 26-mile-long Topsail (pronounced TOP-sul) was once another rumored hideaway for the pirate Blackbeard. Today, its beaches are laidback and family-friendly, with waters conducive to fishing any time of the year.

Surf City is the island’s commercial hub, with well-kept beaches and a year-round population of nearly 3500. To the north is North Topsail Beach and Ocean City, a quiet community established in 1949 as the first beach destination on the Atlantic where Black people could own property, and to the south is Topsail Beach, a town with 400-some year-round residents and zero high-rise development allowed.

The island is fertile ground for nesting sea turtles, and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center offers educational programs and public releases of the loggerheads its staff has nursed back to health.

Wilmington

Wrightsville Beach

Best beach to visit all year round

Across the Cape Fear River from the port city of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a solid option throughout the year, thanks to a winning combination of urban attractions and outdoor adventures.

The mild weather and sprawling sands attract families, retirees and college crowds, while activities like surf camp, sailing school and diving classes keep them busy both on and off the water.

Get up early to catch the sunrise over the Atlantic, hit the Oceanic Pier for a magic-hour stroll, and in the summertime, catch an outdoor concert at the park. Head over the causeway for dinner at one of the city’s top-rated restaurants, followed by a show or movie at the historic Thalian Hall – a 19th-century theater on the National Register for Historic Places.

Carolina Beach

Best beach for boardwalk fun

Carolina Beach is an epicenter of family fun, nestled on the aptly named Pleasure Island between Wrightsville Beach and Bald Head Island on the Atlantic coast.

Its boardwalk is often called one of the best in the US. It lives up to the buzz with rides and arcade games, bike rentals, restaurants and concessions, and weekly fireworks during the summer.

On the Cape Fear side of the island, Carolina Beach State Park boasts 761 acres of nature trails, campsites and beach. It’s also a native habitat for the Venus flytrap. The wheelchair-accessible half-mile Flytrap loop provides a look at the carnivorous plants in the wild.

Kure Beach

Best crowd-pleasing beach

From history lovers to nature enthusiasts, Kure Beach offers a wide range of activities to delight every visitor.

This popular beach is brimming with things to do such as exploring exhibits at Fort Fisher, marveling at marine life in the aquarium and fishing along the pier. Kure Beach is a favorite destination for scuba divers with the remains of over 200 shipwrecks to discover including the well-preserved Civil War-era blockade runner, the Condor.

The Ocean Front Park & Pavilion and Hi-Tech Arcade entertain families with kid-friendly activities and events throughout the year.

Brunswick

Bald Head Island

Best beach to escape the crowds

A secluded, car-free retreat between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Bald Head Island can only be reached by ferry or private yacht. Once you’re onsite, bikes and golf carts are the only means of transportation.

As a result, the vast majority of the island’s 12,000 acres – including salt marshes, maritime forests, and 14 miles of beaches – remain pristine and untouched. For a solitary escape à deux, it’s tough to get better than this.

The Bald Head Woods Coastal Reserve is a prime spot for birdwatching and the Kent Mitchell Nature Trail has paths suitable for a range of abilities. The Bald Head Island Conservancy offers guided kayak tours, tidal-pool explorations and birding tours. Sea turtles – mostly loggerheads – nest here from June to August. The beaches are great for shelling, especially around low tide.

Best places to visit in North Carolina

Sunset Beach

Best winter beach

While Sunset Beach is great to visit any time of year, this coastal gem near the southern edge of the state is extra special from late fall through early spring. During this time, visitors can experience a rare phenomenon, observing both the sunrise and sunset over the water.

About 1.5 miles from the Sunset Beach Pier, visitors can add their hopes, memories and well-wishes to a journal in the Kindred Spirits Mailbox. The small mailbox sits next to a bench on Bird Island where visitors can read entries left behind by those who have stopped by over the years and add their own thoughts to the empty pages.

This quiet beach is a relaxing destination for vacationers in search of a tranquil getaway.

Oak Island

Best nostalgic beach

From the ice cream parlor and mini-golf to fishing piers and wide sandy shores, Oak Island embodies the timeless charm of a classic beach vacation.

Ten miles of shoreline become a water enthusiast’s playground for kayaking and boating as well as swimming and fishing. With bike trails for all levels, cycling is a popular way to explore the area by land. The Oak Island Lighthouse offers stunning views of the Brunswick Islands.

With plenty of pet-friendly places and activities along Oak Island, this is also one of the best beaches to bring the entire family, including furry friends.

Inland

Lake Lure

Best beach for Dirty Dancing recreations

The North Carolina coast is a beachy bonanza, but those who prefer freshwater excursions have options too. Chief among them is Lake Lure, located less than 30 miles from Asheville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The manmade lake and the surrounding area served as a backdrop for Dirty Dancing, that ‘80s classic starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. Recreate your favorite moments from the film with a stay in a themed cabin or a photoshoot at one of the movie’s exterior locations. (Superfans should visit in September for the Dirty Dancing Festival).

If that’s not your idea of fun, you can still have the time of your life fishing, boating and swimming at Lake Lure or hiking and rock climbing at nearby Chimney Rock State Park.

Discover exciting things to do in North Carolina from the mountains to the coast with adventures awaiting around every corner in the Tarheel state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nicest beach in North Carolina?

Well-kept beaches, lack of high-rises and plentiful activities on land and sea make Topsail Island a favorite choice for nicest beach in North Carolina. From sea turtles and Surf City to pirates and promenades, this beach has all the makings for an unforgettable beach getaway.

What beach has the clearest water in North Carolina?

As evidenced by its name and location along the Crystal Coast, Emerald Isle is known for its clear water and vibrant blue-green hues. Few storms and light off-shore winds create the right conditions for sediment to settle to the ocean floor, resulting in the clearest water in the state.

What is the least crowded beach in North Carolina?

The remote location of Bald Head Island accessible only by ferry or private boat makes it one of the state’s least crowded beaches. With 12,000 acres to explore, the untouched preserve and quaint neighborhoods offer a serene, spacious getaway.

What is the most affordable beach in North Carolina?

With cost-effective accommodations and plenty of cheap or free things to do in this North Carolina destination, Sunset Beach is ideal for an affordable beach vacation. Enjoy long walks along the shore, swim in the surf, browse local markets, fish from the pier or join a free event.

What are the top family-friendly beaches in North Carolina?

Outer Banks favorites Corolla and Duck feature gentle waves and spacious shores as well as natural and manmade attractions, watersports and land activities to entertain all ages, making them great places for visiting families. Wrightsville area’s Carolina and Kure beaches are some of the most family-friendly in the state with charming boardwalks and arcades in addition to beautiful coastline and peaceful natural settings.

When is the best time to visit North Carolina Beaches?

Although many of the best beaches in North Carolina are great destinations year-round, visiting from March to October is considered the most favorable for enjoying the coast. Early spring and late fall are best for avoiding crowds. Swimmers and sunbathers can enjoy warm water and pleasant temperatures from late spring until the middle of fall.

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Wildlife and Nature

The best hikes in the Hudson Valley

With its pristine forests, panoramic peaks, world-renowned bridges and historic ruins, the Hudson Valley is a hiker’s heaven. There are trails to suit all experience levels, all just a stone’s throw from New York City. If you thought New York State was all about city sprawl, prepare to be surprised.

There’s a reason Thomas Cole and the artists of the Hudson River School spent so much time recording this region in their 19th-century paintings. The highlands, forests and meadows flanking the country’s fourth-longest river are part of an American Arcadia that dazzles in all four seasons. Walking through this wondrous terrain is one of the best things to do in the Hudson Valley.

Whether you’re taking a day trip north from New York City or spending a weekend or longer investigating the area’s quirky enclaves, here are the best hikes to add to your Hudson Valley itinerary.

Two hikers in the forest in the Hudson Valley area, USA. — Hikes in the Hudson Valley can be as easy or as challenging as you like. Brook Pifer/Getty Images

1. Bull Hill Hike

Best day trip from NYC
5.4 miles roundtrip; 3-4 hours; moderate

It’s little wonder the loop around 1421ft Bull Hill (also known as Mt Taurus) is one of the Hudson Valley’s most popular treks. Starting just 50 miles north of NYC near the village of Cold Spring, this rewarding outdoor adventure is an easy day trip for hike-hungry urbanites. It’s also a visual crash course in the history of the Hudson Highlands.

The hike begins on the Washburn Trail and ends on the Cornish Trail, exploring scenic overlooks and mysterious ruins that attract eager hikers year-round. Pick up the trail across the street from Little Stony Point, a green space by the Hudson River, and climb quickly to the old Mt Taurus Quarry – an industrial stone-mining operation abandoned in the mid-20th century.

A challenging haul through areas of bare rock and patchy thickets leads to several lookout points with awe-inducing views of Storm King Mountain, the Hudson River, and on clear days, the distant NYC skyline. After the summit of Bull Hill, the hike becomes a gentle forest stroll; squirrels rustle in the underbrush, birds flit among tree branches, and a gurgling creek adds a meditative soundtrack.

Highlights of this section include the stone remains of the Cornish Estate, built in 1910 and deserted after a fire in the 1950s. Peer inside the ruins sprinkled along the trail and imagine the property’s Gatsby-era grandeur before finishing the loop. To walk here, plan for an early start – parking spaces fill fast and overflow to the road by mid-morning.

Beech trees and sugar maples in gold and brilliant yellow line the trails of the Hudson Valley. — The Hudson Valley’s trails are painted in vivid colors when the leaves change in fall. Ron Thomas/Getty Images

2. Storm King Mountain

Best starter hike in the Hudson Valley
2.4 miles roundtrip; 1-2 hours; easy to moderate

Summit Storm King’s 1300-ft-high crown to see why this mountain deserves its monarchical title. Rocky outcrops scattered around the trail act as nature-made thrones, lording it over the Hudson Valley. Take a seat by one of the overlooks and soak in views of the Hudson Highlands undulating to the east and the Catskills rising to the west. In fall, the colors can be wonderful.

The region’s eponymous river swirls like a ribbon below, while views to the north take in the century-old bones of Bannerman Castle, an abandoned artillery fort on Pollepel Island. At the end of the walk, consider heading 15 minutes north to the Storm King Art Center – a famous outdoor sculpture garden near the town of Cornwall – to make this an all-day outing.

The hike begins at the parking lot off Route 9W, located on the Hudson River’s west side, and follows orange trail markers going clockwise around the path. After a steep climb with several simple rock scrambles, yellow and blue markers lead through a grove filled with maple, oak and sycamore trees.

The first peak you’ll reach is Butter Hill, serving a taste of vistas yet to come. Continue north until the hike’s most awe-inducing panoramas reveal themselves. After admiring the kingdom laid out below, follow white trail markers through the woods and back to the parking lot. On weekends, arrive early to beat the crowds.

3. Breakneck Ridge

Best full-body workout
3.2 miles roundtrip; 3 hours; difficult

Hop on the Breakneck Ridge-bound train at Grand Central Terminal, and you’ll be in good company. On warm weekends, hordes of car-free hikers take the 90-minute trip from Manhattan to brave the East Hudson Highlands’ most challenging trail. This short but strenuous slog is best suited for experienced hikers – rocky scrambles and near-vertical ascents call for sure-footed souls who are unafraid to use their hands.

Hikers can choose from multiple trail options, but for the classic route, follow the white trail to the red trail, then continue down the yellow path to complete the loop. Keep your eyes peeled for views of Storm King Mountain’s rounded crown across the Hudson River, while Bull Hill makes an appearance to the south.

If you’re reasonably fit, this Hudson Highlands hike won’t break you, but you’ll break a sweat. To minimize the chance of mishaps, wear closed-toe shoes with proper grip and don’t hike in wet or icy conditions. Carry water and snacks to refuel throughout the adventure.

The Walkway Over the Hudson – the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge. — The Walkway Over the Hudson is the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Jay Gao/Shutterstock

4. Walkway Over the Hudson

Best ADA-compliant trail
1.28 miles one way; 1 hour; easy

Stroll or roll across the bridge connecting the towns of Poughkeepsie and Highland for New York State bragging rights. At 6768ft long and 212ft high, the Walkway Over the Hudson is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. It’s also one of the region’s most accessible trails, accessible via a 21-story-high glass elevator from Poughkeepsie, leading to a smooth path. Audio tours are offered in multiple languages.

The bridge began its life as part of a bustling train network built in the late 19th century, but the declining use of commercial railroads and a 1974 fire turned it into a ghostly reminder of the Hudson River’s industrial golden age. Today, it’s hard to imagine the years of disuse – in summer, dog walkers, joggers and families with strollers glide across the cement while boats and barges race cormorants in the water below.

The atmosphere changes with the seasons. In spring, dogwoods sprout delicate petals along the riverbank, and in autumn, a blaze of color ignites the surrounding woodlands. Even a winter visit is worthwhile – the bridge offers expansive vistas of the Hudson Valley’s snowy scenery. If you want a more challenging journey, consider following the 4.4-mile Walkway Loop Trail, which crosses the bridge before winding through historic villages and handsome parks along the waterfront.

A woman in a tower with an American flag, looking out over the Hudson River, greenery and mountains — The breathtaking hike to the Mt Beacon Fire Tower is the highlight of a trip along Route 9D. Michael Duva/Getty Images

5. Mt Beacon Fire Tower

Best for 360-degree views
4 miles out and back; 3 hours; moderate

The breathtaking hike to Mt Beacon Fire Tower is the best-kept secret on Route 9D. While the crowds clamor to climb nearby Bull Hill and Breakneck Ridge, in-the-know locals take this less-congested path for the region’s best 360-degree views over the Hudson Valley scenery.

Scale the 1600ft summit of Mt Beacon to see the Catskills, Shawangunks and Hudson Highlands rolling out in all directions. On clear days, the Manhattan skyline appears like a distant mirage. Graffiti scribbled atop the 60-ft fire tower says it best: “This sight is beyond a dream.”

The hike is easily divided into two sections. The first follows a 200-step staircase and a rocky path, tracing the route of the former Mt Beacon Incline Railway – once the world’s steepest passenger funicular – which operated from 1902 to 1978. Ruins from the railway and an early 20th-century casino await, with splendid views of the town of Beacon below.

For even better views, continue upward to the fire tower. In summer, birch, hemlock, oak and maple trees create a shady canopy as the track traverses the fern-filled forest. If the final climb to the mountain’s rocky ridge doesn’t make your heart race, the fire tower ascent certainly will. Pack snacks and plenty of water and enjoy the bird’s-eye view as falcons and eagles soar overhead.

6. Brace Mountain

Best hike in the eastern Hudson Valley
3.6 miles out and back; 3-4 hours; difficult

Join the paragliders who flock to the highest peak in Dutchess County, and you can watch daredevils swoop above the Hudson Valley’s eastern border. Brace Mountain – a 2311-ft peak in the southern Taconic Range – is a great vantage point for taking in the Hudson Valley vistas.

The rugged hike to Brace Mountain begins on Quarry Hill Rd, north of Millerton. Weave between red oak trees, bound over boulders and pass creeks feeding photogenic waterfalls. Upon reaching the cairn-marked summit, spin around to see the Berkshires, the Catskills and miles of Hudson Valley farmland below.

Keep your eyes peeled for a diversity of wildlife along the way. Skittish black bears and curious deer occasionally make an appearance, and timber rattlesnakes are common in summer. In July, blueberry bushes near the top provide a sweet treat after a challenging trek.

If this heart-pumping trail isn’t enough of a workout, include Mt Frissell as part of the journey. This combined hike traverses the borders of New York, Massachusetts and Connecticut, and it passes a stone pillar identifying the tristate marker.

A river winds through lush fall foliage with a bridge in the distance — With more than 50 trails catering to all types of hikers, it’s easy to find a perfect Bear Mountain hike. Tony Shi/Getty Images

7. Bear Mountain State Park

Best for hiking variety
3.8 miles; 3 hours; easy to moderate

Bear Mountain State Park is a 5205-acre antidote to New York’s urban sprawl, which makes seeing the Manhattan skyline from its 1303ft peak even more mind-boggling. NYC might be 50 miles south, but this sylvan landscape seems light-years away.

With more than 50 trails catering to all types of hikers, you’ll be spoilt for choice on Bear Mountain. If you want to see the Big Apple’s silhouette, follow the scenic route from the Major Welch Trail to Perkins Memorial Tower (erected in 1936) and descend on a section of the Appalachian Trail. This counter-clockwise loop is less daunting than the Appalachian through-hike from Georgia to Maine, but it’s still a remarkable journey.

The hike begins along Hessian Lake before turning into an oak forest and mounting rocky terrain lined with blueberry bushes. At the peak, ascend the Perkins Memorial Tower for unobstructed views in all directions. Finish the circuit by descending more than 1000 hand-cut granite steps and zig-zagging along a well-maintained woodland trail.

If nature’s Stairmaster sounds stressful, consider driving to the summit instead. Cars can access the same vista along Perkins Memorial Drive between April and November. Turn this into a full-day event by taking advantage of the park’s seasonal activities. You can boat, swim, cross-country ski, visit the zoo, or dine at the rustic Bear Mountain Inn – there’s something here for all tastes.

8. High Falls

Best waterfall hike
1.4 miles roundtrip; 1 hour; easy

Nature newbies will fawn over the hike to High Falls; this short trail offers sizable rewards for minimal effort. On weekends, a mix of young families, Brooklyn hipsters and flannel-wearing locals from nearby Hudson town trek through the shady hemlock forest searching for Columbia County’s tallest cascade.

High Falls drops an impressive 150ft, and the trails winding through this conservation area lead to two must-see viewpoints. Begin by heading to the overlook for a picture-perfect shot of the waterfall. From here, it’s possible to see a dam at the precipice – a 19th-century remnant of the area’s milling history. Next, weave down to Agawamuck Creek and walk upstream. A smaller waterfall appears a few minutes from the main cascade’s base.

This hike is open year-round, but High Falls is most impressive in early spring or after a storm. The path is often muddy, so don proper footwear and be ready to get grimy.

Romance

7 of the best Valentine’s Day destinations for every kind of couple

Chocolates, petal-strewn suites, sandy beaches – yawn. Your love is unique, so dodge the cliches with a Valentine’s Day break that caters to the quirks of your coupledom.

From obvious romantic destinations littered with proposals to those spots that you might not have considered for spending time with your beloved, be inspired by these top places to visit on Valentine’s Day.

1. Adrenaline seekers will love Krabi, Thailand

If the thought of a candlelit meal or spa treatment has you tapping your feet with boredom, bond over a shared challenge this Valentine’s Day. Krabi on southern Thailand’s west coast has adventure rippling through its every limestone cliff. In the space of a few days, you can scale caves, zip line through forests, go canoeing, trek jungles and try quad biking. Start with a climb up the karst with views of Railay beach (for those who dare to look down) or explore the forest trail towards Tiger Cave Temple. After all that activity, you can always flop onto a beach at the end of the day, and Krabi’s Hat Tham Phra Nang is the perfect place to do just that.

An older smile as they sit at an outside table at a cafe in Carcassonne — Carcassonne is like something from a fairy tale © Strauss / Curtis / Getty Images

2. Find medieval romance in Carcassonne, France

Would you and your lover have been better born in another era, when corsets were tight, armor was polished and the likelihood of death by bubonic plague was… never mind. Step over a drawbridge and back in time to fairy-tale Carcassonne in southern France. In summer armies of tourists storm this fortified city; but mid-February is well out of high season so free your imagination as you and your beloved roam its medieval turrets. Carcassonne sprawls well beyond the old town, so choose your hotel location carefully – luxurious Hôtel du Château is just at the entrance of the medieval city, and sure to meet the expectations of Valentine’s lovers.

3. Craft-beer lovers will be satisfied in Portland, Oregon

If roses and red wine leave you cold, head to Portland, the heartland of amber nectar. Proudly eccentric Portland has been a craft-brew capital for decades, and with the highest concentration of breweries in the world you won’t be short of choice. Take a brewery tour if you want to sip a whole bunch. But if boozy bus rides take the fizz out of your couple’s getaway, Portland’s haunts are easily discovered on foot.

A night trail scene on Hawaii's Mauna Kea volcano — Let love take you to dizzy new heights on Hawaii’s Mauna Kea volcano © JTSorrell / Getty Images

4. Gaze at the stars from Mauna Kea, Hawaii

The universe is vast, but somehow you found each other. Hawaii’s clear skies are ideal for gazing upwards at a sky blanketed in stars and contemplating your place in the cosmos, whether you’re dreamers or devoted astronomers. Head to the sacred hill of Mauna Kea where the summit is so high, dry and dark that it’s possible to gaze deep into the universe and enjoy some of the world’s most inspired starry skies.

5. Keep conversations lively in Cambridge, England

If your love bloomed over torrid prose and pub philosophy, then you need a vacation with intellectual clout. Where better, then, than one of England’s most historic university cities? Cambridge nurtured intellectuals and major talents, including Isaac Newton, Stephen Hawking, Emma Thompson and Naomie Harris, over its 800-year history and scholarly debates continue to echo off the walls of every pub. Snuggle up in a punt for a guided boat tour past university icons like King’s College chapel and under the Bridge of Sighs, with a commentary by one of Cambridge’s modern brainiacs (many of the guides are current students).

A mountain in the distance glows with setting sun. — Have a ruggedly romantic holiday in Tasmania © offlines / Getty Images

6. Escape to Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Many of us would gladly lace up our hiking boots to escape the Valentine’s frou-frou. Isolationists should seek out the rugged wilderness of Cradle Mountain National Park in Australia’s island state. Even a half-day hike allows a glimpse of Tasmania’s remote beauty; but if you’re experienced hikers, take on the challenging Overland Track. Against Cradle Mountain’s forbidding silhouette, with nothing around you but miles of brushland and mirror lakes, you’ll feel like the only two people on Earth.

7. Add some mystery at a masked ball in Venice, Italy

For lovers who like to mix things up, nothing can match the frisson of a masked ball. The world’s most decadent carnival takes place every February among the gilded domes, palaces and canal-lined piazzas of Venice. Don a Venetian mask, dress to the nines and submit to the hedonistic atmosphere: you’ll see gondola processions, elegant period costumes and outdoor theater, including the traditional Flight of the Angel – a zip wire performance above Piazza San Marco – all in the lead up to the unmissable Grand Masked Ball (Gran Ballo delle Maschere).

Adventure Travel

12 great ski destinations for every month of the year

It’s a big world out there. It’s surely snowing somewhere no matter the time of year.

Indeed, thanks to the alternating winters in the northern and southern hemispheres, skiers and snowboarders are able to hit the slopes at any time. If you prefer fresh powder to sand and surf – and you’re willing to travel from Scandinavia to Australia and beyond – here’s a list for chasing winter all year long.

January: Salt Lake City, USA

Skiers and boarders discuss Utah’s voluminous powder snow in rapt tones. State license plates have bragged about “the greatest snow on Earth” since 1985 – and the hype is well founded. Few North American winter-sports hubs enjoy as much snowfall – around 550 inches per season – as the four main resorts clustered around Salt Lake City.

Cold, dry weather gives the snow a buoyant quality, ideal for off-piste antics (not to mention very soft landings). Skiers will revel in the breathtaking views around Alta, while the top pick for snowboarders (who are not allowed at Alta) is vast Snowbird. Meanwhile, wide-open Solitude has a web of challenging black (advanced) runs that will keep even the most experienced skiers engaged.

Snowy volcano with cap cloud viewed from a ski resort (Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan) — Locals flock to the powdery slopes of Niseko in Hokkaidō. Shutterstock

February: Hokkaidō, Japan

In Hokkaidō, cathedrals of ice and snowy beasts aren’t hallucinations induced by too much sake. Each February, sub-zero sculptures are unveiled at Sapporo Snow Festival. On the mountains, nature crafts its own surreal display: juhyō (snow monsters), formed when trees are blasted with snow and ice, are at their most impressive in February.

Ski past battalions of juhyō at crowd-pleasing resort Sapporo Kokusai, one hour’s drive west of Sapporo city – or (if you’re a pro), thunder across legendary backcountry. Still yearning to face-plant in fluffy snow? Continue southwest to powder capital, Niseko.

A snowboarder in the air on a mountain in Whistler Blackcomb — Whistler-Blackcomb is still busy with keen snowboarders in March. Juana Nunez/Shutterstock

March: Whistler, Canada

When the dreaded spring melt sets in at resorts across Europe and North America, skiers in British Columbia continue merrily on the mountains. The 32-sq-km (12 sq-miles) Whistler-Blackcomb groans under 12 meters (39ft) of snowfall each year, which means it’s still at its prime in March.

More than 200 well-groomed pistes wend across the two mountains, with a mile of skiable vertical that dwarfs other North American resorts. To leave fresh tracks in pristine backcountry snow, grab some avalanche gear and a local guide to explore the lonely snowfields of Garibaldi Provincial Park.

April: Obertauern, Austria

Think quaint chalets and pillowy snow are for wimps? Winter travelers who crave wild, windswept terrain should head to Obertauern, 90km (56 miles) south of Salzburg, Austria. From its dizziest heights – around 2350m (7701ft) – you can survey the towering Austrian Alps as you zoom across 100km (62 miles) of pistes; just be sure to bring a balaclava to fend off the biting winds. Obertauern was one of the filming locations for Help!, should that inspire you to belt out Beatles tunes from the bubble lift.

Wood sticks peek out of large mounds of snow on a heavily snow-covered forest — Go off-piste to discover Riksgränsen’s frost-rimmed forests and snowy landscapes. Mats Lindberg/Getty Images

May: Riksgränsen, Sweden

Lying 200km (124 miles) above the Arctic Circle is Sweden’s northernmost winter resort, Riksgränsen. The ski area’s vertical drop, at under 400m (1312ft), can’t compete with other European resorts, but expansive off-piste trails, winding among cloud-like snowdrifts and frost-rimmed forests, more than compensate.

Mix it up by snowshoe trekking around Lake Vassijaure or commanding a fleet of sled dogs, then watch professional shredders in Scandinavia’s Big Mountain Championships. At the end of May, when the sun barely touches the horizon, you’ll need steely willpower to hang up your skis and (try to) sleep.

June: Cardrona, New Zealand

When Europeans and North Americans mournfully shelve their gear for the season, New Zealanders are busy waxing their skis. Cardrona, where the winter season kicks off in mid-June, is nestled prettily in the Southern Alps. Half of its 345-hectare (852-acre) pisted area suits novice and intermediate levels, while seasoned snowheads can somersault around the southern hemisphere’s biggest half-pipe and park facilities. Just 20km (12.4 miles) south, Cardrona Distillery is the perfect place to stock up on après-ski refreshments.

A skier descends a very steep mountain in Las Leñas, Argentina — Luxurious Las Leñas offers epic views of the Andes. Christian Aslund/Getty Images

July: Las Leñas, Argentina

Luxury is best served with a sprinkling of powder snow. Premium ski resort Las Leñas gleams out from the Argentine portion of the mighty Andes mountain range. Its slopes climb from 2200m (7218ft) to a vertiginous 3400m (11,155ft), which means you should start slowly to avoid altitude sickness. (There’s no more enjoyable way to adjust than in a lavish spa hotel; Hotel Virgo is the fanciest.) Best of all, you’re in Mendoza wine country, where après-ski involves swishing an inky malbec around your glass while eyeing a menu of succulent steaks.

August: Perisher Valley, Australia

Dispel images of foaming surf and sail-shaped opera houses: New South Wales is home to a small but hardy community of skiers, who make an annual pilgrimage to Perisher, the southern hemisphere’s biggest ski resort. A valley carved among Australia’s Snowy Mountains, Perisher has an altitude (and more than 200 snowmaking machines) to ensure it’s blanketed in the white stuff each August. Snowboard or ski across its 12 sq km (2965 acres), or clamp on some snowshoes to roam the scenic Rock Creek track.

Snowboarders tramp across a vast, flat expanse of pristine snow, carrying their snowboards — You’ll practically have the place to yourself in low-key Lonquimay, Chile. Mateo Villota/Shutterstock

September: Corralco, Chile

Compared to busier ski hubs closer to Santiago, this friendly resort on the southern slopes of Chile’s 2865m-high (9400ft) Lonquimay is blissfully low-key. After the stormy first half of the ski season, August and September in Corralco bring bluer skies and fewer crowds. Its 18 sq km (4450 acres) of snow-lashed terrain is superb for newbie or intermediate skiers and boarders. Only 10km (6 miles) southwest of the resort, the natural hot springs in Malalcahuello beckon to sore limbs.

October: Whakapapa, New Zealand

Fancy snowboarding on an active volcano? Of course you do. Splayed across the northwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu, Whakapapa is simply superb for groups of mixed ability. There’s a huge area dedicated to learners called Happy Valley, as well as 24 steep “Black Magic” runs for advanced boarders, skiing pros or show-offs with robust travel insurance. Together with sister resort Tūroa, Whakapapa forms New Zealand’s biggest ski area, and boasts the country’s loftiest chairlift, the High Noon Express. Just don’t look down.

Two cross-country skiers in a snow-covered forest, Ruka, Lapland, Finland — Skiers will find themselves among Narnia-like landscapes on Ruka’s frosty fell. Borisenkov Andrei/Getty Images

November: Ruka, Finland

As southern hemisphere resorts shutter their chalets, northern ones wait anxiously for snowfall: November is the cruelest month for skiers. Luckily, far northern Ruka, a frosty fell in eastern Finland, has 200 days of snow per year, plus snowmaking machines to keep the hills downy and white. Most thrilling are Ruka’s 500km (311 miles) of cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, threading among forests and frozen lakes.

December: Val Thorens, France

Finish out the year with a flurry of snow in Val Thorens, Europe’s highest ski village. Posing from a 2300m (7546ft) perch in the French Alps, this purpose-built winter-sports retreat accesses the largest linked ski area on the planet, Les Trois Vallées (Three Valleys). Glide down 600km (373 miles) of slopes, schuss more than 300 cross-country trails, and dip into villages like pretty Méribel and low-key Le Praz for hot chocolate. As steam curls from your chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) and you look out on a panorama of mountains piercing the clouds, you might find yourself dreaming ahead to another full year of wintry adventures.

Romance

Beaches and beyond: the best reasons to visit Zanzibar

The allure of Zanzibar is timeless. White sands and turquoise waters ring the island, and African, Indian, Arabic and Persian influences intertwine in Stone Town to form a rich cultural backdrop. If it is your first time visiting Tanzania’s most famous island, here are some tips to get started.

1. Beaches

Zanzibar’s beaches are justifiably famous. Fine white sands edge clear turquoise waters, traditional Arabic dhows sail into the dawn, silhouetted against pastel-tinted skies. Coconut palms wave gently in the breeze. Whether as post-safari relaxation or as a stand-alone destination, the beaches on Zanzibar’s east coast and around its northern tip offer a quintessential tropical island paradise. Each beach has its own personality. Paje is known for its kitesurfing. Matemwe has a more chilled vibe, and entices with its powdery sands and glimpses of village life. Nungwi, in northern Zanzibar, sees tradition mix with contemporary life. Fishing boats launch from the beach and dhow builders ply their ancient craft against a backdrop of western-style hotels and partying. Nearby Kendwa shares some of Nungwi’s buzz, but everything is more spread out, and the beach here has the advantage of being swimmable around the clock. Quiet Pongwe is more isolated, and good for getting away from the crowds. Jambiani, with its impossibly turquoise waters and sun-bleached coral-rag houses, is an ideal spot to gain insights into local life.

All the beaches are within a one to two hour drive of Stone Town. Transport in private minivans or public dalla-dallas is frequent and affordable, and it is quite feasible to base yourself at the beaches and explore Stone Town on a series of day trips.

An ariel view over Stone Town and its adjacent beach, with boats floating in blue waters; the town is a jumbled collection of buildings with red, pink and grey roofs. — Backing Forodhani Gardens and beneath the canopy of colourful rooftops is Stone Town’s intriguing maze of alleyways. MariusLtu / Getty Images

2. Stone Town

Zanzibar Town is the island’s main settlement, and the historical old Stone Town is its heart and soul. It’s also a wonderful spot to get immersed in island rhythms. Start exploring at Forodhani Gardens, a lively stretch of seafront where Zanzibaris of all ages gather in the early evening to watch the sun go down and enjoy the passing scene. Young men jump from the thick stone seawall into the harbour waters below, children play and women in bui-bui (black shawls) gather to chat. Food vendors hawk sizzling skewers of grilled pweza (octopus), steaming bowls of urojo (a tasty coastal soup) and hot mkate wa kumimina (a filling rice-flour bread).

Just opposite the gardens is the massive Old Fort, built by Omani Arabs when they seized Zanzibar from the Portuguese in 1698. Also here is the imposing House of Wonders, which boasts what are said to be the largest carved doors in East Africa. From the House of Wonders, wind your way through Stone Town’s maze of narrow alleyways, stopping en route at the Palace Museum, with its displays on the Omani sultanate in the 19th century. Other worthwhile stops include the beautiful Aga Khan and Ijumaa mosques, Hamamni Persian Baths – Zanzibar’s first public baths – and the Anglican Cathedral, with its moving Slave Memorial and the East Africa Slave Trade Exhibit. Finish up at lively, crowded Darajani Market, where sellers offer a colourful assortment of textiles, fruit, plastic ware and more. Along the way are plenty of small shops for browsing, packed with curios and fragrant with cloves, cinnamon and other spices.

3. Jozani-Chwaka National Park

Jozani is the largest area of indigenous forest on Zanzibar, and offers a glimpse of the vegetation that once covered much of the island. It is famous for its Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, an endangered species found only here. The forest is also home to other monkey species, plus duikers, bushbabies and over 40 species of birds. Jozani can easily be visited as a day trip from Zanzibar Town, or as a stop en route from town to the beaches. Allow a couple of hours to walk the forest trail and enjoy the nature.

4. Spice tours

In bygone days, spices dominated the economy of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Today, the trade has faded, but going on a spice tour to the plantations that dot the island makes for an enjoyable and informative half-day excursion. On these tours, you will get to see, taste and smell many of the spices, herbs and fruits that grow on Zanzibar, including cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, jackfruit and lemongrass. Tours can be arranged through hotels and local tour companies, and usually include lunch. Some also offer visits to local schools or village cooperatives.

A lone bottlenose dolphin swims above colourful corals in rich blue waters — Wild dolphins and rich corals are some of the rewards of diving off Zanzibar. kjorgen / Getty Images

5. Diving and snorkelling

The waters off northeastern Zanzibar offer excellent diving, with rich coral reefs, wall and drift dives and a wonderful array of fish. There is also rewarding diving off-shore from Stone Town, with soft and hard corals and wreck dives. There are many dive companies to choose from in all of the major beach destinations, inluding Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe and Paje, as well as in Stone Town. Expect good visibility and water temperatures averaging about 27°C.

Make it happen

Flights to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam are frequent and fast, taking about 30 minutes and costing between US$45 and US$80 one-way. There are also daily ferry connections to and from the mainland, taking about two hours and costing US$35 one-way. Once on the island, you’ll need to go through (usually brief) immigration formalities. Whether arriving by air or by sea, it’s a good idea to take advantage of the advance-arrangement pick-up services offered by most hotels, so that a taxi will already be waiting for you.

Zanzibar offers a wide selection of accommodation. In Stone Town, budget travellers can try Jambo Guest house or Lost & Found. Mid-range options include Beyt al-Salaam and Tembo House Hotel, while top-end travellers can try Kisiwa House or Emerson Spice.

On the beaches, try Demani Lodge in Paje or Seles Bungalows in Matemwe for budget accommodation; Mnarani Beach Cottages in east Nungwi or Bellevue Guesthouse, just north of Paje in Bwejuu, for mid-range; and Pongwe Beach Hotel in Pongwe or Matemwe Lodge in Matemwe for top end.

Adventure Travel

9 Switzerland hikes that offer views you have to see to believe

In Switzerland, the mountains call. One look at this ravishing land of skyscraping peaks, glaciers, forests and lakes of piercing blue will have you itching to sling on a backpack, zip up to the heights and hit the trail.

You certainly won’t be alone. The Swiss seem to be born with one leg up a mountain – which means hiking is the fast track to the nation’s nature-loving soul. This being Switzerland, even the trails leading you deep into the country’s wildest, remotest corners are diligently marked, and almost every inch of the country is precisely mapped.

Switzerland? Little? Not for hikers it isn’t. As the Swiss delight in reminding you, the country’s 62,500km (38,836 miles) of trails would be enough to wrap around the globe 1.5 times. Alpine hikers fall hard for the high-level trails in the Bernese Oberland and Graubünden, which notch up the challenge and floor you with phenomenal scenery. Yet lowland areas like the vineyards of Valais and the gently rolling hills of Appenzell are equally atmospheric and accessible virtually all year long.

Picking Switzerland’s best hikes is kid-in-a-candy-shop stuff. Still, here are nine favorites to whet your appetite.

Three people stand in front of Bachalpsee during a hike on the Faulhornweg in Switzerland — Admire lakes and Alpine summits on Switzerland’s Faulhornweg hike. Moritz Wolf/Getty Images

1. Faulhornweg

Best day hike
15km (9.3 miles) one way, 5 hours, moderate

Mother Nature pulled out all the stops in the Bernese Oberland, and the Faulhornweg might be the best day hike to take it all in. This moderately challenging ridge hike throws you in the scenic deep end. Beginning and ending on a high, you’ll take in the full glittering sweep of Lakes Thun and Brienz as you trudge from Schynige Platte to First, and colossal peaks like the dagger-shaped Wetterhorn and the big three of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Navigation-wise, the trail is easy enough to follow. From Schynige Platte, the walk eases you in gently, heading over rolling pastures before rising more abruptly to scree slopes, boulder-strewn passes and high moors. You’ll make a steeply rising traverse along a broad ledge between stratified cliffs to the ridge of Winteregg, before turning off to the summit of 2681m (8796ft) Faulhorn. Here you’re in for a treat, with 360-degree views reaching across a sea of mountains to the Black Forest in Germany and Vosges in France on clear days.

Local tip: Keep an eye out for marmots as you descend to the grassy basin of the Bachalpsee, where a steel-blue lake contrasts starkly with the ice-shrouded peaks of Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn.

2. Lakes of Macun

Best hike in a national park
22km (14 miles) one way, 8 hours, moderate

For a glimpse of the Swiss Alps before the dawn of tourism, there’s no place like the nature-gone-wild Swiss National Park in The Engadine in Graubünden, where Switzerland muscles its way into Italy. Squished into a remote corner of the country’s southeast, this off-the-radar national park punches high on every level. It’s often so silent that the only sound you’ll hear is that of your own footsteps.

Of all the trails threading through the wilds, this demanding full-day hike from Lavin to Zernez has the edge, weaving up to the glacial cirque of Macun, necklaced with almost two dozen lakes of sapphire, azure and turquoise blue. The snow-capped Bernese, Silvretta and Ortler Alps hog the horizon. Ibex are in their element in these peaks, and with luck and patience you might spot them. The trail becomes tougher, rockier and more exposed as you ascend steep slopes to Fuorcletta da Barcli, a gap in the range at 2850m (9350ft), with top-of-the-world views. The descent to Zernez leads through avalanche grids to meet an Alpine track, twisting through forest to reach Zernez, where you can either stay the night or take the train back to Lavin.

Planning tip: Getting an early start is essential. The walk requires sure-footedness and a good head for heights because some sections are lofty and exposed. Snowfields can linger into summer on the upper reaches.

The Alpine village of Kandersteg with its stone bridge and Swiss houses. — Shutterstocl.

3. Gemmi Pass

Best hike over a mountain pass
13km (8 miles) one way, 5 hours, challenging

If you think hiking the Gemmi Pass is tough today, spare a thought for those first intrepid travelers who crossed it as part of Thomas Cook’s first forays into the Swiss Alps in 1863. Linking the Valaisian spa resort of Leukerbad to the cute-as-a-button Alpine resort of Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, the hike is easily doable in a day, but nevertheless presents a proper challenge, as it involves 1050m (3445ft) of ascent through stark, rocky and at times steep and exposed mountains.

Your reward for the effort to reach the pass is bleakly beautiful lake Daubensee at 2205m (7234ft) and a clifftop lookout platform next to Wildstrubel Restaurant, floating 900m (2953ft) above the valley and affording top-of-the-beanstalk views of the high, perennially snow-frosted mountains of Valais, which hover around the 4000m (13,123ft) mark. At lower elevations, the trail weaves through flower-freckled pastures. Afterward, hop back on the train to Leukerbad to give your feet a soaking in its thermal hot springs, which have views out to the peaks.

Planning tip: While the path is safe and well maintained, be sure to check the forecast before you venture up.

An alpine marmot watching carefully among wildflowers with mountains behind — Look out for wildlife like the Alpine marmot when hiking in the Swiss mountains. Simon Weber Santos/Shutterstock

4. Via Alpina

Best multi-day hike
390km (242 miles) one way, 20 days, challenging

The Via Alpina is the big one: an epic 20-stage trek that takes you from the castle-topped principality of Liechtenstein in the east to Montreux, dreamily set on the shores of Lake Geneva, in the west. Embarking on the whole thing is a serious undertaking: you’ll need to be sure-footed, have a head for heights and experience in navigating using a map and compass because you’ll be grappling with 14 Alpine passes. The highest of these is Hohtürli at 2778m (9114ft) in the Bernese Oberland, reached via a steep wooden ladder hacked into the rock face and secured with iron chains.

The descent is no less dramatic, dropping more than 1000m (3281ft) to Lake Oeschinen above Kandersteg, a celestial vision of cerulean blue ringed by snow-streaked mountains and fed by the glacial waters of the Blüemlisalp peaks.

Via Alpina is a proper journey into remote wilderness, with nights spent camping beneath starry skies or at rustic mountain huts, plentiful chances to spot wildlife like chamois, ibex and golden eagles, wild swims and entrancing sunrises and sunsets.

Planning tip: The route requires some advance planning and is best hiked from June to September, dodging the snow and wet or foggy conditions with bad visibility.

Climber on rock face over Aletsch Glacier in Switzerland — One of the more challenging routes on the Aletsch Glacier. Lost Horizon Images/Getty Images

5. Aletsch Glacier route

Best hike on a glacier
17km (10.5 miles) one way, 6 hours, challenging

Switzerland bombards you with out-of-this-world scenery, and few places leave you speechless like the Aletsch Glacier, a moraine-streaked, deeply crevassed 23km(14-mile)-long superhighway of ice powering through some of the highest mountains in the country. You can’t quite suppress the gasp of wonder while hiking alongside the largest glacier in the Alps, particularly on a sunny day when great daggers of peaks razor 4000m (13,123ft) above the ice into a searingly blue sky.

Hands down one of the most astonishing day hikes in Switzerland, this route takes you from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp, with front-row views of the Aletsch Arena peaks. The Fieschergletscher is the prelude to the big one. Snaking down from the eastern flank of Grosses Fiescherhorn, a razor-edge peak at 4049m (13,284ft), this 16km (10-mile) swirl of eternal ice is the second-biggest glacier in the Alps. From here, the route winds around slopes and up through a rock-strewn gully, gradually steepening as it negotiates switchbacks up to a remote valley, its mountain hut and Märjelensee, a milky turquoise splash of a lake buttressed by immense mountains and the rim of the Aletsch Glacier.

The Aletsch Glacier is now your constant companion, as the trail skirts the deeply crevassed ice. Swiss stone pine forest and glittering tarns soften the Alpine picture as you continue along a ridge to the grassy slopes of Moosfluh, where a strategically placed bench offers staggering glacier views. Soon after, you’ll reach the glass-blue lake of Blausee. From here, it is just a stone’s throw to Bettmeralp.

6. Rigi Panorama Trail

Best accessible hike
7km (4 miles) one way, 2 hours, easy

JMW Turner was so smitten by Rigi that in 1842 he painted the mountain in three different lights to reflect its changing moods. Flinging up above fjord-like Lake Lucerne, the 1797m/5896ft-high peak still has a magic touch today, especially when seen in the pink blush of sunrise or sunset. On a clear day you can see all the way to Mt Titlis, the glacier-encrusted Jungfrau Alps and Lake Zug.

Following a wide path that shadows the old Scheidegg Railway, this wheelchair- and stroller-accessible ridge trail from Rigi First to Rigi Scheidegg beautifully opens up the surrounding lakes, cow-grazed pastures and mountains, with plenty of options to pause for a picnic or barbecue en route.

Planning tip: Some sections are steep for wheelchairs (you’ll need good brakes), but there are options to shorten the trail should you so wish.

Two hikers hike Zermatt's Grindjisee Alpine Lake in Switzerland with the peak of Matterhorn mountain in the background — Höhenweg Höhbalmen hike embodies all that is unique about the Swiss Alps. Gaspar Janos/Shutterstock

7. Höhenweg Höhbalmen

Best hike at altitude
18km (11 miles) round trip, 7 hours, moderate

Matterhorn is the mountain you can’t stop gawping at – and this circular hike in Zermatt gets you up close and personal to the beauty.

The trail threads up through larch forest on the ascent, making broad switchbacks above the Triftbach Gorge. From here, it’s a stiff uphill march to Berggasthaus Trift, at the foot of its namesake glacier, where you stay overnight to split the hike into two days if you wish.

The onward hike takes you over flower-flecked Alpine meadows, zigzagging up grassy slopes to climb onto the high balcony of Höhbalmenstaffel, where a riveting panorama unfolds. Heading west, the route traverses narrowing ledges that get astonishingly close to the north face of Matterhorn to reach Schwarzläger, the walk’s highest point at 2741m (8993ft).

From here, it’s a steady descent over the sparse mountainsides of Arben. The path winds down to meet a more prominent walking track alongside the high lateral moraine wall left by the receding Zmutt Glacier. Follow this down in zigzags through glacial rubble and continue along gentler terraces to the photogenic hamlet of Zmutt and then back to Zermatt.

Planning tip: Pick a good-weather day and get an early start for this full-day trek, which embodies all that is unique about the Swiss Alps, leading you into another world of glittering streams, crevassed glaciers and 4000 peaks. Weather permitting, Höhenweg Höhbalmen is hikeable from June to October.

Man resting on a hike overlooking Fälensee lake in Switzerland — Lake Fälensee in the Appenzell Alps is a great destination for families. Shutterstock

8. Kronberg Treasure Hunt Trail

Best hike for families
7km (4 miles) round trip, 3 hours, easy

Rippling across northeastern Switzerland, the under-the-radar Appenzell Alps are a surefire winner with families. You’ll walk to the backbeat of cowbells through rolling dairy country and flower-freckled meadows. The mountains are easily accessible for those with small legs, and the towns look freshly minted for a bedtime story, with their timber-framed, prettily muralled houses.

A cable car swings up from Jakobsbad to the 1663m (5456ft) summit of Kronberg, the trailhead for this terrific family hike, which skips back down the mountain and presents challenges and clues leading to the “treasure.”

Planning tip: If you want to make a day of it, you can ramp up the adventure in the valley at the water park, adventure playground, zip-line course and bobsled run.

9. Bisse de Clavau

Best hike through vineyards
8km (5 miles) round trip, 4 hours, easy

Gentle walking trails tread quietly through staggeringly steep terraced vineyards in Valais, producer of Switzerland’s most feted wines, with many vignerons throwing open their cellar doors for tasting and buying. There’s no better place to walk, taste and appreciate the grape than Sion, with its cinematic twinset of castles and raft of gourmet addresses.

And there’s far more to hiking around Sion than enticing strolling between grape-heavy vines. What makes trails in this part of the Rhône Valley unique are the bisses, miniature canals built in the 13th century to irrigate these vertiginous terraced vineyards hemmed by stone walls. This half-day hike between Sion and St-Léonard is a treat, shadowing the Bisse de Clavau, a 550-year-old irrigation channel that carries water to the thirsty, sun-drenched vineyards and commanding grandstand views of hilltop chateaux, the snaking River Rhône and the not-so-distant Alps.

Pause to sample Valaisian Dôle (red) and Fendant (white) wines, perhaps over lunch at Le Cube Varone, an old winegrower’s hut. The hike is never lovelier than on a golden fall day when the grape harvest is in full swing, when you can enjoy a brisolée, the traditional harvest feast built around chestnuts, cheese, cold meats and vin nouveau (new wine).

Beaches

11 places around the world for an inexpensive tropical vacation

It doesn’t have to cost the earth to soak in some sun this winter.

Whether you want to catch some waves, try out water sports, hike through the rainforest or just lie out in the sun, you can find numerous tropical destinations that appeal to budget travelers. And with some careful advance planning, you can reap huge savings on a dream getaway – no last-minute deals required.

From white-sand shorelines in Southeast Asia to scuba diving in Central America and beyond, here are 11 tropical destinations that will give you a taste of paradise – without breaking the bank.

Beams of sun illuminate the water spray hitting the land after strong waves splash on the rock at sunset, Ragged Point, Barbados — Every beach in Barbados is open to the public, no matter their travel budget. Shutterstock

1. Barbados

When it comes to the best tropical vacations on a budget, Barbados is one of the most affordable all-around destinations in the Caribbean. All of its sugar-sand beaches are public – even along the flashy Platinum Coast in the west. Strolling distance from its architectural treasure of a capital, Bridgetown, you can snorkel with seahorses, turtles and rays from Brownes Beach, or paddle out on an SUP or kayak.

Surfing is epic off Bathsheba on the wild Atlantic-facing east coast; Freights Bay, in the south, has gentler waves. The south and east are typically the most economical places to base yourself. Save money by picking up fresh produce at markets and seeking out cheap bites like cutters (filled salt-bread sandwiches) from roadside stalls and rum shops.

Reggae bands play free gigs all over the island. Next to the fish market, diving into mountains of grilled fish and sides accompanied by ice-cold beers and DJ tunes at Oistins Fish Fry is an unmissable island experience. Barbados’ location outside the hurricane belt gives you a bigger window to visit: mid-April to June and November to mid-December hit the sweet spot for great weather outside the peak Christmas-to-Easter period.

A young woman snorkels underwater over a coral reef off of Vanua Levu Island, Fiji in the South Pacific — Both in Vanua Levu’s rugged interior and off its shores, you can get up close to nature. Getty Images

2. Vanua Levu, Fiji

Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu is a postcard-worthy paradise of pristine beaches, coconut palms and fragrant frangipanis. Underwater, dive sites such as Rainbow Reef and Namena Marine Reserve have kaleidoscopic corals that attract all manner of marine creatures, including hawksbill and green sea turtles. Vanua Levu’s rugged interior contains waterfalls, swimming holes and highland villages.

You can feast cheaply on dishes like kokoda (raw fish marinated in coconut cream, tomato and lime, accompanied by rice) and banana-leaf-wrapped fish, meat and vegetables cooked in a lovo (underground oven). It doesn’t cost a fortune to experience Fijian hospitality in a traditional bure (thatched hut), local guesthouse, hotel or budget resort. Prices are lowest during the warm November-to-April wet season.

Two people in helmets ride a zip-line over a canopy of tropical trees toward the shoreline with bright blue water — Outside of peak season, Palawan is filled with tropical adventures that won’t cost you much. Igor Tichonow/Shutterstock

3. Palawan, the Philippines

With 7641 islands in total, the Philippines offers countless options for a reasonably priced tropical escape. And the archipelagic province of Palawan has 1780 islands alone. The region teems with thundering waterfalls, huge caves and sunken WWII-era wrecks ideal for snorkeling. Want even more? Go swimming with whale sharks in turquoise waters, and enjoy some of the cheapest scuba diving anywhere in the world. Idyllic El Nido is the jumping-off point for island hopping aboard a bangka (motorized outrigger) to translucent lagoons and hidden beaches framed by karst limestone cliffs.

The crystalline waters offer up a natural bounty of prawns, crab and other seafood; danggit lamayo (dried rabbitfish marinated in vinegar, crushed garlic and peppercorn) is a particularly tasty regional specialty. Staying in a bahay kubo (thatched bamboo shack with woven rattan walls), homestay, hostel or budget hotel are all low-cost options; you can also get good deals on resorts outside peak season (March to May), though some activities close during the June-to-October wet season.

Many people enjoying the crystal clear water of an artificial lagoon in Cairns, in the Far North region of Queensland, Australia — The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon offers a beach-like experience…for free. iStock

4. Far North Queensland, Australia

World Heritage rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland. Its gateway city, Cairns, is the launching pad for reef trips, such as to coral cay Green Island, and hinterland excursions including nearby village Kuranda, where you’ll find artsy, hippie markets beneath the rainforest canopy.

Cairns makes a great, budget-friendly base for an Australia trip. Travelers will find a lively hostel scene, family-friendly motels and resorts, and bargain drinking and dining options – including tropical-fruit-filled market Rusty’s and high-spirited happy hours at Cairns’ bars and pubs. For a beachside stay, try Trinity Beach and Clifton Beach, both just north of the city. April to May and September to October, either side of the peak dry season, are ideal times for an affordable tropical holiday.

A tropical beachfront with a cluster of tall palm trees under a sunny blue sky with fluffy clouds, overlooking colorful beach huts and a tranquil sea. — Getting to hard-to-reach Providencia Island, Colombia, is half the fun © DC_Colombia / Getty Images

5. Providencia Island and Playa Blanca, Colombia

Closer to Nicaragua than mainland Colombia, Providencia Island isn’t easy to get to (you’ll need to hop on a tiny 20-seater plane or take a 3-hour catamaran journey to get to this remote Caribbean island; both cost around US$100). But it is one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world.

Its remoteness means that its golden curls of sand are mostly footprint-free. The palms here lean over like the limbs of yoga enthusiasts. The waters are both turquoise-blue and gin-clear. Most people are here to snorkel or dive the coral reefs – or just sunbathe for days. Being a duty-free island makes Providencia even cheaper still, especially at the beach bars.

If you want paradise to be a little more accessible, mainland Colombia has options, too. Try Playa Blanca, close to Cartagena, which offers beach huts, bars and hammocks for staying overnight along its sugary, white beach.

Trees grow over a white-sand beach, with islands visible in the distance on the blue water — Remote Koh Wai island offers a taste of what Thai beaches were like before mass tourism. Shutterstock

6. Ko Wai and Bang Saphan Yai, Thailand

For decades, a vacation in Thailand involved remote, little-visited beaches with basic waterfront bamboo bungalows on fluffy, white sands – and little else. Then, in 2004, a catastrophic tsunami hit, sweeping away swathes of Thailand’s southwestern coasts. Hotels replaced bungalows. Travelers poured in.

Still, even with new all-inclusive resorts on some islands, Thailand is one of the cheapest tropical places to travel. To find that Thailand vibe of old, head for Ko Wai, a tiny fleck of white in the Ko Chang archipelago that still has dirt-cheap beach huts, budget guesthouses and pure turquoise waters. Alternatively, Bang Saphan Yai on the upper gulf mainland has a halo of golden beaches, traditional bamboo huts and sublime sunsets. The quietest months to visit are April to June: so if you fancy an early summer vacation, you might have your reasonable accommodations and coral reefs all to yourself.

Aerial view of traditional boats sailing during low tide through clear waters along the coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania — Zanzibar is one of the most relaxing places to visit in all of Africa – or the world. Roberto Moiola/Sysaworld/Getty Images

7. Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Zanzibar

Africa punches well above the rest when it comes to tropical vacations – but few will knock your sunglasses off quite like Zanzibar Island (officially Unguja). Cinematic coral reefs surround Tanzania’s Indian Ocean crown jewel, as colorful nudibranchs, leaf fish and flutters of seahorses pack the waters just off the shoreline.

Zanzibar’s beaches are some of the world’s best, with sand as soft as quilts, swaying coconut palms, beaming sunshine and very little else. Swimmable Kendwa, the widest beach on the island, is the main draw. Yet for crowd-free coastlines and sublime shades of turquoise, seek out Pongwe on the east coast, or sweltering Jambiani to the southeast – two of the most laid-back tropical places to visit in all of Africa.

People walk by brightly colored fishing boats on the sand underneath palm trees on a beach in Goa, India — Beaches such as Palolem in the southern part of tiny Goa offer great value and fewer crowds. Jon Chica/Shutterstock

8. Goa, India

Think budget travel, and India will often come to mind. And the continent-sized country’s smallest state, Goa is a delicious blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, and great values. Seek out its less crowded and cleanest beaches in the south, such as Palolem and secluded Butterfly Beach. Water activities include kayaking, parasailing and dolphin-spotting trips.

In the dense interior jungle, wildlife sanctuaries such as Cotigao are home to civets, gaurs, pangolins, leopards, monkeys and giant Indian squirrels, while cashews and spices like turmeric, pepper, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon grow at plantations. Colorful markets sell these and other local specialties such as the cashew-based feni spirit, as well as dishes such as seafood thali (with rice, fish curries, fried fish, pickles and flatbread) and garlicky, vinegary, fiery pork vindaloo.

Guesthouses, hostels, beachside bungalows and resorts all offer affordable rates. Much of Goa’s beachside accommodation closes completely between May to September during the monsoon; March to April and October to November are prime times to avoid peak-season prices and crowds.

Waves lap a beach with huts in the distance at Playa Maguey, Oaxaca, Mexico — The beautiful beach at Maguey lies within the boundaries of the Parque Nacional Huatulco, which has numerous options for adventures outdoors. Antwon McMullen/Shutterstock

9. Bahías de Huatulco, Mexico

Forget Cabo San Lucas or Playa del Carmen: in southeastern Oaxaca on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Bahías de Huatulco is a unique and affordable place for an eco escape. Its nine bays are home to 36 glorious beaches. Santa Cruz’ emerald-green waters are just south of commercial hub La Crucecita, where you can arrange sailing and scuba excursions, and rent equipment including Jet Skis and kayaks. La Bocana is renowned for surfing and pre-Hispanic mud baths. Maguey has gorgeous white sand and snorkeling amid coral, rays and turtles. It’s part of the Parque Nacional Huatulco, where you can go hiking, biking and horse riding, and observe abundant wildlife including black iguanas, armadillos and dwarf porcupines. Up in the mountains, you can visit waterfalls and coffee plantations.

Minimize costs by dining on super-fresh seafood and local specialties like tlayudas (corn tortillas topped with black beans, pork fat and cheese) from rustic comedores (food stalls or basic dining rooms). For accommodations, stay in rooms in private homes, simple hotels, or low-rise resorts and villas in the November-to-April dry season (outside the peak-season holidays of Christmas, New Year and around Easter, that is). Prices drop to their lowest in the wet season (May to October), though some places close in September and October.

Two people ride bicycles down a dirt path through a glad of palm trees — A cheaper alternative to neighboring Bali, Lombok offers adventures both on shore and off. Manuel Sulzer/Getty Images

10. Lombok and the Gili Islands, Indonesia

Ringed by pearl-white, coral-pink and black volcanic-sand beaches, Lombok is a fantastic place for an active tropical vacation. In the south, reefs, inlets and bays such as Pantai Mawi provide world-class surf breaks. Climbing through the jungle to sacred Gunung Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, is a multiday adventure; easier treks include spectacular waterfalls such as Air Terjun Sindang Gila. Between Lombok and its famous (and pricier) neighbor Bali, the Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan (“Gili T”), a backpacker favorite for its moonlight parties; traditional Gili Meno; and laid-back Gili Air – are blissfully free from motorized transport.

On both Lombok and the Gilis, you can eat cheaply and deliciously at warungs (small, simple eateries) that serve up sizzling skewered-meat satays and fish grilled over coconut-shell charcoal. Beach huts, hostels and bungalows all offer affordable accommodations. The wet season, from October to April, is the cheapest time to go, especially if you skip the busy Christmas holidays.

A lone traveler standing on a vast sandy beach, observing the tranquil blue-green waters merging with the sky at the horizon, with footprints trailing behind in the sand. — Mozambique’s glorious Bazaruto Archipelago attracts deluxe travelers and backpackers alike. Getty Images

11. Southern Mozambique, Mozambique

Ribbons of pink-blushed sand weave around the forested edges of southern Mozambique, one of the least expensive tropical vacations in Southern Africa. Visitors have appreciated this tropical paradise for centuries – from the early spice traders and pirates to backpackers and now high-end tourists who chill on resort sun loungers along the Bazaruto Archipelago.

Between Tofo and Barra, Mozambique has some of the most startling stretches of pillowy-soft sand on the entire continent. With snorkeling safaris around coral reefs, cheap fishing charters and affordable day boat rentals that glide through the iridescent Indian Ocean, this is a country that slows the heart rate and helps the worries of life subside – which is all you want from a tropical vacation, isn’t it?

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