When the siren call of a beach
vacation whispers in your ear, your mind likely conjures a familiar gallery of
postcard-perfect scenes: the dazzling white sands of Bora Bora, the vibrant
throngs of Copacabana, or the dramatic, sun-kissed cliffs of Santorini. And
while these iconic destinations are undeniably magnificent, their allure often
comes with a significant premium—both in terms of cost and the sheer volume of
fellow sun-seekers.
But what if I told you that a
parallel universe of equally stunning, yet far less-trafficked, coastal
paradises exists? These are the world's most underrated beaches, clandestine
jewels where serenity, breathtaking vistas, and genuine local charm converge,
all without the need to elbow your way to a prime spot on the sand. Forget the
guidebooks that funnel you to the same well-trodden shores; it's time to
venture off the beaten path and discover where true tranquility lies.
Here are a few of our top picks for
beaches that are criminally overlooked and unequivocally deserve far more
recognition:
Playa Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica (Beyond the
Main Entrance!)
Yes, Manuel Antonio National Park is
a jewel in Costa Rica's crown, and for very good reason. Its pristine beaches
within the park are famous, but also famously crowded. However, a savvy
traveler knows that true magic often lies just beyond the obvious. Venture
slightly outside the main park entrance, particularly if you explore the
coastline south of Quepos, and you'll uncover a series of smaller,
less-frequented coves. These hidden stretches offer the same breathtaking
rainforest-meets-ocean beauty without the throngs. Seek out public access
points a little further along the coast, or better yet, consult local guides
for tips on beaches only accessible by foot at low tide. Here, you can truly
feel like an explorer, spotting a sloth in the trees or a mischievous capuchin
monkey, all while basking on your own virtually private slice of paradise.
Copyright by
JNM Miles

0 Comments