Discover the Beauty of Seaside Villages
There’s something magical about coastal towns—the salty breeze, the rhythmic crash of waves, the colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. Whether you’re craving a serene seaside escape or an adventure-filled getaway, these five charming coastal towns offer the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and stunning scenery. Pack your bags, and let’s get away to these picture-perfect destinations!
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1. Portofino, Italy
Tucked away on the Italian Riviera, Portofino is a dreamy fishing village known for its pastel-hued buildings, luxury yachts, and breathtaking coastal views. This charming destination is ideal for those who love good food, scenic hikes, and a touch of glamour.
Fun Facts
Fun Facts| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~500 |
| Language Spoken | Italian |
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Fast Fact | Portofino was once a small fishing village before becoming a celebrity hotspot! |
| Cultural Tip | Dress elegantly if dining in upscale restaurants—Italians love stylish attire! |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay- Budget: Hotel Nazionale – Cozy and affordable, right in the heart of town.
- Mid-Range: Eight Hotel Portofino – A stylish boutique hotel with modern charm.
- Luxury: Belmond Hotel Splendido – A five-star hillside retreat with panoramic sea views.
Best Things to Do
Best Things to Do- Stroll around Piazzetta di Portofino and admire the harbor.
- Hike to Castello Brown for breathtaking views.
- Take a boat tour to San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem tucked between cliffs.
Best Restaurants
Best Restaurants- Da U Batti – Famous for its divine seafood pasta.
- Trattoria Concordia – A cozy, family-run spot serving Ligurian classics.
- Ristorante Puny – A celebrity-favorite with waterfront views.
Must-See Attractions
Must-See Attractions- Portofino Lighthouse – A scenic walk along the coastline leads to this lighthouse with panoramic sea views.
- Paraggi Beach – A beautiful, crystal-clear bay perfect for a refreshing swim.
- Church of San Giorgio – A historic church perched on a hilltop with incredible views.
- Portofino Marine Park – Ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
Amazon Travel Essentials for Portofino
Amazon Travel Essentials for Portofino- Stylish Sun Hat – Perfect for that elegant Italian Riviera look. Buy here
- Portable Translator Device – Now if you don’t have a translator app on your smartphone. Another great option portable translators, handy for navigating small-town Italian. Buy here
- Luxury Travel Tote Bag – Chic and practical for a day of sightseeing. You can always find beautiful Italian leather bags in Italy although I honestly love Marc Jacobs tote bags too. Buy here
2. Biarritz, France
Biarritz is a blend of laid-back surf culture and sophisticated French charm. Once a playground for European royalty, today it attracts surfers, foodies, and those seeking coastal beauty.
✨ Fun Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~25,000 |
| Language Spoken | French, Basque |
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Fast Fact | Biarritz is one of the best surf destinations in Europe! |
| Cultural Tip | A polite “Bonjour” before speaking goes a long way in France. |
🏨 Where to Stay
- Budget: Hotel Saint Julien – A charming, affordable boutique hotel.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Windsor Biarritz – A beachfront hotel with stunning ocean views.
- Luxury: Hôtel du Palais – A regal palace turned five-star hotel.
🌊 Best Things to Do
- Try surfing at Grande Plage.
- Visit the Rocher de la Vierge, a dramatic rock formation accessible by bridge.
- Explore the Les Halles Market for Basque delicacies.
🍽 Best Restaurants
- Le Bar Jean – Tapas, seafood, and a lively atmosphere.
- L’Atelier Alexandre Bousquet – A Michelin-starred restaurant with exquisite dishes.
- Le Sin – A trendy, modern spot with fantastic ocean views.
🌟 Must-See Attractions
- Biarritz Lighthouse – Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Basque coastline.
- Côte des Basques Beach – A famous surf spot with golden sand and stunning cliffs.
- Les Halles Market – A lively marketplace offering fresh produce, cheese, and Basque specialties.
- Aquarium de Biarritz – Home to marine life from the Bay of Biscay.
🎒 Amazon Travel Essentials for Biarritz
- Waterproof Phone Pouch – Essential for those beach days. This Case Mate one is my go to. Buy here
- French Phrasebook – A great way to impress the locals. THese phrasebook also comes has a Kindle version. Buy here
- Travel-Friendly Sunscreen – Stay protected while exploring. Living in Hawai’i I always wear this sunscreen, and this comes in a travel size. Buy here
3. Sagres, Portugal
For rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and an off-the-beaten-path vibe, head to Sagres in Portugal’s Algarve region. This small town is a haven for surfers, nature lovers, and history buffs.
Fun Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~2,000 |
| Language Spoken | Portuguese |
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Fast Fact | Sagres is known as “the end of the world” because of its dramatic cliffs. |
| Cultural Tip | Try Pastéis de Nata—Portugal’s famous custard tarts! |
Where to Stay
- Budget: Mareta Beach House – A cozy guesthouse near the beach.
- Mid-Range: Memmo Baleeira Hotel – A stylish hotel with ocean views.
- Luxury: Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort – A five-star beachfront resort perfect for relaxation.
Best Things to Do
- Visit the Fortaleza de Sagres, a historic fortress with stunning ocean views.
- Surf at Praia do Tonel.
- Watch the sunset at Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s southwesternmost point.
Best Restaurants
- A Tasca – A local favorite for fresh seafood.
- Terra – Delicious vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Vila Velha – A charming, rustic eatery with authentic Portuguese flavors.
Must-See Attractions
- Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse – The most powerful lighthouse in Europe, perched on dramatic cliffs.
- Fortaleza de Sagres – A historic fortress with breathtaking ocean views.
- Praia do Tonel – A stunning beach ideal for surfing.
- Miradouro da Atalaia – A spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Atlantic.
Amazon Travel Essentials for Sagres
- Microfiber Travel Towel – Dries fast after a dip in the ocean. This is a great option (and comes with 2 sizes and travel bag). Buy here
- Collapsible Water Bottle – Stay hydrated on those coastal hikes. I love my collapsible water bottle. I take this one on all my hikes and travels. Buy here
- GoPro Camera – Capture epic surf and cliffside moments. I love my GoPro. Buy here
4. Byron Bay, Australia
A bohemian paradise on Australia’s east coast, Byron Bay is all about sun, surf, and laid-back vibes.
Fun Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~10,000 |
| Language Spoken | English |
| Currency | Australian Dollar (AUD) |
| Fast Fact | Byron Bay is Australia’s easternmost point! |
| Cultural Tip | Respect the town’s eco-conscious and sustainability-focused mindset. |
Where to Stay
- Budget: The Surf House – A trendy and affordable stay for backpackers.
- Mid-Range: Byron at Byron – A peaceful rainforest retreat.
- Luxury: Elements of Byron – A stunning beachfront resort.
Best Things to Do
- Go surfing at The Pass.
- Hike up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse.
- Visit the Byron Bay Markets for local crafts and organic food.
Best Restaurants
- The Farm – Fresh farm-to-table dining.
- Bayleaf Café – The best brunch spot in town.
- Rae’s on Wategos – Upscale dining with an ocean view.
Must-See Attractions
- Cape Byron Lighthouse – Wake up early for a magical sunrise over the Pacific.
- Wategos Beach – A hidden gem perfect for a relaxing swim.
- Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens – A tranquil retreat with giant amethyst geodes.
- The Farm Byron Bay – A working farm with organic dining and picturesque scenery.
Amazon Travel Essentials for Byron Bay
5. Oban, Scotland
Oban is a quaint Scottish harbor town known for its seafood, whisky, and gateway to the Hebrides Islands.
✨ Fun Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~8,500 |
| Language Spoken | English, Scots Gaelic |
| Currency | British Pound (£) |
| Fast Fact | Oban is home to one of Scotland’s best whisky distilleries! |
| Cultural Tip | A dram of whisky is a must—sip slowly and savor! |
🏨 Where to Stay
- Budget: Oban Backpackers – A cozy, friendly hostel.
- Mid-Range: The Perle Oban – A stylish waterfront hotel.
- Luxury: Isle of Eriska Hotel – A five-star country house hotel.
🌊 Best Things to Do
- Visit McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views.
- Take a ferry to the Isle of Mull.
- Tour Oban Distillery for a whisky tasting.
🍽 Best Restaurants
- Ee-Usk – Fresh seafood with harbor views.
- The Waterfront Fishouse – A must-visit for seafood lovers.
- Cuan Mor – A cozy pub with hearty Scottish dishes.
🌟 Must-See Attractions
- Oban Distillery – One of Scotland’s oldest and most famous whisky distilleries.
- McCaig’s Tower – A hilltop monument with stunning views over the bay.
- Ganavan Sands – A peaceful beach with scenic walking trails.
- Dunollie Castle – The ruins of a historic Scottish stronghold.
🎒 Amazon Travel Essentials for Oban
- Warm Waterproof Jacket – Scottish weather is unpredictable! (Men’s Jacket) – Buy here. (Woman’s Jacket) – Buy here
- Whisky Tasting Journal – Keep track of your favorite drams. Buy here
- Binoculars – Spot seals and sea birds along the coast. Buy here
Bonus Coast Town (Personal Favorite):
6. Costa Brava, Spain
6. Costa Brava, Spain
A stunning stretch of coastline in northeastern Spain, Costa Brava is home to hidden coves, medieval villages, and vibrant Catalan culture. Whether you’re looking for artistic inspiration (Salvador Dalí lived here!), breathtaking beaches, or incredible Mediterranean cuisine, Costa Brava has it all.
Fun Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | Varies by town (~100,000 for the region) |
| Language Spoken | Spanish, Catalan |
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Fast Fact | The name Costa Brava means “rugged coast” in Spanish, referring to its dramatic cliffs and coves! |
| Cultural Tip | Locals appreciate when visitors attempt to say a few words in Catalan! |
Where to Stay
- Budget: Hotel Aiguaclara (Begur) – A charming boutique hotel with vintage decor.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Calella de Palafrugell – A family-run hotel just steps from the beach.
- Luxury: Hostal de La Gavina (S’Agaró) – A 5-star Mediterranean paradise with stunning sea views.
Best Things to Do
- Walk the Camí de Ronda, a scenic coastal path with breathtaking views.
- Explore the medieval town of Pals, with its cobbled streets and ancient watchtowers.
- Relax on the beaches of Tamariu, Aiguablava, and Sa Tuna, known for their crystal-clear waters.
- Visit Cadaqués, a whitewashed fishing village beloved by artists like Salvador Dalí.
Best Restaurants
- Compartir (Cadaqués) – Run by former chefs of El Bulli, serving modern Catalan cuisine.
- Els Tinars (Llagostera) – A Michelin-starred gem offering traditional dishes with a twist.
- Can Bonay (Palafrugell) – A cozy, family-run spot for classic seafood paella.
Must-See Attractions
- Salvador Dalí House-Museum – Visit the surrealist artist’s former home in Portlligat.
- Cap de Creus Natural Park – A rugged, beautiful landscape perfect for hiking and photography.
- Tossa de Mar’s Old Town – Explore medieval walls and a castle overlooking the sea.
- Empúries Ruins – Ancient Greek and Roman ruins with breathtaking coastal views.
Amazon Travel Essentials for Costa Brava
- Packable Beach Blanket – Perfect for those hidden cove beaches. Buy here
- Spanish/Catalan Phrasebook – Show appreciation by learning a few local words! (Spanish Phrasebook) – Buy here — (Catalan Phrasebook) – Buy here
- Waterproof Hiking Shoes – Ideal for the Camí de Ronda trail. (Men’s Shoes) – Buy here. (Womans Shoes) – Buy here.
🌎 Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Visit These Coastal Gems
Each of these coastal towns has its own unique charm, from the elegant harbors of Portofino to the rugged cliffs of Sagres, the surf culture of Byron Bay, and the historic charm of Oban. Whether you’re in the mood for luxury, adventure, or a laid-back escape, these destinations have something for every traveler.
Imagine starting your day with a croissant by the beach in Biarritz, hiking to the lighthouse in Byron Bay, or indulging in fresh seafood while overlooking Oban’s harbor. Picture yourself soaking in the Mediterranean sun in Portofino or surfing the Atlantic waves in Sagres. These towns are not just places to visit; they are experiences waiting to be lived.
So, where will you go first? Let’s get away and make unforgettable memories in these stunning seaside destinations!
Which coastal town is calling your name? Drop a comment below and let’s start planning your next adventure!
