Top unexpected sunshine destinations around the world

You don’t have to follow the crowds to the usual beachside haunts; there are plenty of unexpected sunshine destinations around the world to tick off your bucket list. From white-sand beaches to charming coastal towns, these sunshine-filled getaways cater to both adventure-seekers and those craving a little R&R. Bask in the sunshine at these off-the-radar destinations for a refreshing change of pace, far away from the usual tourist spots. These exciting destinations are sure to surprise and inspire even the most seasoned traveler.

Unexpected sunny destinations around the world

Uganda

Once you’ve delved deep into Uganda‘s fascinating array of wildlife and your legs are weary from gorilla trekking, take some time out to relax on a sunny beach in the Ssese Islands or to enjoy the serene views over Lake Bunyonyi. No fewer than 84 islands make up the Ssese archipelago, accessible by ferry from Entebbe. The most popular island is Bugala, where most of the tourist facilities are found, along with the best beaches of the archipelago. The sand is white, the views are stunning, and it’s a great place to soak up some sunshine. Alternatively, find a Lake Bunyonyi hideaway to admire the terraced green shores, the scattered islands and the serene watery panorama.

Peru

Drinking in the history of the Inca sites and exploring the Amazon jungle are two of Peru’s many highlights, and can easily be combined with some hammock time too. The coast that runs alongside the northern desert zone of Sechura has a number of appealing beaches, most offering a combination of broad sand and good surf breaks. The best known resort is Màncora, which has become a favorite destination for the surf aficionado in recent years, but quieter beaches stretch up and down the nearby coastline. Punta Sal and Zorritos are notable for their lovely shores.

Burma

Known primarily for the plains of Bagan,  dappled with thousands of stupas, and the stilted villages of Inle Lake, Burma can also offer a great selection of beaches. Ngapali one if the most popular coastal destinations, with decent facilities for visitors, a string of beaches under rustling palms, and a very relaxed vibe. For sunshine hangouts off the tourist circuit there are not many places finer than the Dawei Peninsula down in the southern ‘tail’ of Burma – a backwater of fishing villages, green hills and dazzling white beaches almost untouched by tourism.

Georgia

Exploring the beautiful hiking trails of the Svaneti mountains or soaking up the culture in Tbilisi is a tiring business. So when you are weary of discovering inland Georgia, why not head west to the Black Sea coast for some downtime? There are several resorts, from vibrant and bustling to quiet and unassuming. Grigoleti is a small village nestled between the Black Sea and the great pine trees that line the shores. It is also close to the  stunning grasslands of the Kolkheti National Park, making it the perfect place to enjoy a quieter pace of life. Beaches along this coast tend to be pebbly with black sand washed down from the mountains, and the best beach to test the curative properties of this mineral sand is Grigoleti.

Guatemala

Though the Pacific coast beaches in Guatemala tend to be somewhat underwhelming, the same cannot be said of Lago Atitlán. This stunning lake lies in the Sierra Madre mountains at almost 5,000ft (1,500m) altitude not far inland. Sparkling water ringed with volcanoes and atmospheric shoreside villages are sure to tempt you to linger for a few days. Apart from the captivating surroundings, it’s an ideal place to absorb some indigenous culture. The lakeside communities are predominantly Maya in origin and they maintain strong cultural traditions. Beaches in the traditional sense are thin on the ground, though there are earth beaches at Jucanya and a good sandy stretch with an incredible view at San Marcos La Laguna. As well as lazing by the lake, there are plenty of opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, boat trips, diving and swimming.

Madagascar

Madagascar is an island known for its incredible biodiversity and ecosystems, which range from lush rainforests and arid deserts to pristine beaches. Nosy Be, located off the country’s northwest coast, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque ylang-ylang plantations. It’s home to a string of beautiful beaches, particularly Andilana Beach. This tropical paradise is beloved by beachgoers for its soft sands and calm waters that are perfect for swimming. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, take a boat to nearby islands like Nosy Iranja. You can take a break from exploring the coast to explore Madagascar’s rainforests and spot lemurs in their natural habitat.

Jordan

Jordan is famous for its ancient UNESCO-listed ancient ruins and vast desert landscapes, but it also offers a surprisingly captivating seaside escape. Located on the Red Sea, the city of Aqaba enjoys warm weather almost year-round. This port city is ideal for relaxing by the water or diving underwater to explore its vibrant marine life, with snorkelers and scuba divers around the world captivated by the coral reefs filled with colorful fish. After a day basking in the sun, visit Aqaba’s lively local markets or dine on fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. One of the biggest perks of Aqaba is its prime location, which is about an hour from the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and just four hours from the capital city of Amman.

Nicaragua

Nicaragua is one of the most underrated beach destinations in Central America, home to stunning beaches that will appeal to all types of travelers. A hotspot for surfers, the Pacific coast town of San Juan del Sur features golden sands and a laid-back vibe. If you’re after a more luxurious beachside experience, head to the nearby Emerald Coast to find upscale resorts and secluded beaches. While you’re there, you can explore some of Nicaragua’s most fascinating colonial cities, like Granada, before heading back to the coast for sunset viewing.

Morocco

Morocco is best known for its bustling markets and historic cities, but it also offers unexpected sunshine destinations along its coast. Essaouira is a charming beach town with nearly year-round sunshine, offering the perfect combination of a sandy shoreline and a rich history. Beach lovers can also visit Agadir to experience its golden beaches and modern resorts. In Agadir, you can spend your days strolling along the scenic seaside promenade, exploring the lively Souk El Had market, or hiking up to the Kasbah for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Beyond the coast, the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert are a must-see.

Cambodia

While most travelers head to Cambodia to snap photos of the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat, the southern coast offers pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat. Koh Rong is a tropical paradise off the mainland with powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. A perfect destination for outdoor lovers, it offers excellent snorkeling and kayaking. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, Kep boasts tranquil beaches perfect for lazy days in the sunshine. The town is also famous for its fresh seafood markets and the opportunity to explore Kep National Park, home to scenic trails that lead to stunning viewpoints.

Oman

Oman’s mix of picturesque coastlines and golden deserts make it an unexpected destination for sunshine lovers. Located in the Dhofar region, Salalah has a postcard-worthy landscape with a long, sandy beach fringed by towering palm trees. Visit during the dry season (October to May) to enjoy perfect beach weather. Al Mughsail Beach is a standout in Dhofar, known for its white sands and mountain backdrop. Before you leave Oman, take a trip into the Empty Quarter to see the orange-colored sand dunes featured in famous films such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Make it happen

Which sunshine destination appeals to you the most? Explore our destination pages to find out more and get your plans underway. You can contact our local experts in each country who will happily design a bespoke itinerary around your requirements.