Are you on the hunt for a relaxing solo beach vacation destination, one that offers the calming benefits of being near a body of water?
You’ve come to the right place.
Not only do we have lots of recommendations for you, but every single one of them was contributed by a solo traveler who went there and enjoyed time alone on or near the water.
Humans are hardwired to relax near water. At least, that’s what Wallace J. Nichols writes in Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do. He says,
We are inspired by water—hearing it, smelling it in the air, playing in it, walking next to it, painting it, surfing, swimming or fishing in it, writing about it, photographing it, and creating lasting memories along its edge. Indeed, throughout history, you see our deep connection to water described in art, literature, and poetry… We know instinctively that being by water makes us healthier, happier, reduces stress, and brings us peace.
I feel the truth of this in my bones. I grew up on a lake, spent the summers of my childhood on a boat or at a cottage on another lake, and have spent much of my adult life living a block from yet another lake. I sleep like a baby when I can hear the waves. When I’m stressed, I head to the beach to breathe the air, feel the wind on my face, and stare at the horizon. When I travel, there’s nothing better to me than accommodations that overlook bodies of water, whether the climate lends itself to jumping in or not.
I’m taking an expansive view of what constitutes a solo beach vacation. It doesn’t only mean the type of holiday where you lay on the beach all day–not that there’s anything wrong with that! In fact, if that’s your preference, check out this popular post to help you prepare: Going to the Beach Alone: How to Manage Your Stuff, Relax & Enjoy. But as Nichols suggests, just being near water has tremendous health and mental health benefits.
Water destinations are some of the best places to travel alone, relax, and find a happier you.
Best Places to Enjoy a Solo Beach Vacation in Africa and Asia
So if being close to bodies of water makes for a happier, more relaxed you, where should you go?
Most of these posts were submitted by readers. Thank you! These contributions make Solo Traveler more valuable for everyone. Enjoy perusing these places, and if you have a destination to share, please complete the form here.
Africa
Emily recommends Cape Town, South Africa.
Cape Town has it all: beaches, mountains, harbors, gardens, adventure trips, wildlife, vineyards and wine, amazing food, culture, history, gorgeous weather, and amazing nightlife.
There are a wide variety of beaches to visit, from Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town where tons of penguins run around frolicking, to the gorgeous Camps Bay Beach where sunsets will take your breath away while the Twelve Apostles mountains look on. Noordhoek Beach is a great place to go horseback riding along the water and Muizenberg Beach has sand, surf, and possible shark spotting!
Tracy recommends Sal Island, Cape Verde.
Sal Island has some beautiful beaches. I loved to watch the sun go down at Melias Dunas beach. Entertainment was also laid on at sundown, such as a classic violinist, or there were fitness classes. I took part in a zumba class on the beach, run by energetic locals.
The weather is around 26 degrees in January but still windy. I wore sunfactor fifty but still got red due to the strong sun.
An island tour is a must if you wish to see more of the island. There are many to choose from, from your hotel or locally in Santa Maria or from registered sellers on the beach. Cape Verde runs on its own time and there is no rush anywhere you go. Do not expect quick service like you may experience at home. It all adds to the Cape Verdean charm.
My favorite place on the island tour was the Blue Eye or Buracona (large hole). It has a collapsed cave which has an opening to the sea and a second opening to the surface, right off the shore. The opening allows sunlight to fall on the sea water and light it with a deep blue color. Midday is the best time to go as the sun is at its highest. There are pools you can bathe in. I would not recommend taking flips flops as the ground is rocky and uneven.
Pedra de Lume is situated on high ground and it is a salt lake inside the mouth of a long-extinct volcano. My skin felt invigorated after a soak in the salt lakes and got rid of some hard skin on my feet.
There is plenty to do for adventurers from surfing the waves to hiring a quad bike to tour the island to flying a kite on Kite Beach. You will also benefit from much rest if you prefer a quieter life by taking it easy on the array of gorgeous beaches and sampling the laid back Cape Verdean way of life.
Emily also recommends Eastern Cape in South Africa, which is her home province, so she knows it very well.
Visiting our beaches is an absolute fun experience, as the beaches are normally fairly empty, pets are allowed, and the water is warm, as a result of the warm Agulhas current in the Indian Ocean.
If you’re lucky, you’ll see some happy cows splashing around in the waves. Sugar cane plantations can usually be found around our beaches, and munching on these sticks of sugar cane is a childhood treat that I still enjoy to this day. Credit goes to Iven Scharein for the Hole in the Wall photo, he did justice to the beauty that is part of our Wild Coast! For the surfers out there, our beaches have the waves: Plettenburg Bay, Jeffries Bay, St Francis Bay… the list goes on!
Asia
Alison recommends Istanbul, Turkey.
Istanbul is fascinating, culturally and historically, and an absolute visual feast. One of the world’s great waterfront cities, it has the Bosphorous, the Golden Horn & the Sea of Marmara on three sides. There is great shopping, a plethora of historical sites, a rich live music & night club culture, and wonderful food.
You can tour palaces and museums – Hagia Sophia (once a church, then a mosque, now a museum), the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace – and get a glimpse into the opulent life of the Ottoman Empire. Cruise up the Bosphorus to the Black Sea or out into the Sea of Marmara to the Princes Islands.
The Roman mosaic museum and the nearby Rasta Bazaar are full of beautiful silks, embroideries, leather goods, and carpets, carpets, carpets! Check out Kumkapi for freshly caught seafood, Haci Abdullah for classic Ottoman dishes, or take a ferry ride to the Eastern side for fabulous regional foods at Ciya. Visit Yanothererebatan cistern or the hamam for a turkish steam bath and a good scrub down and massage. If you have more time to spare head to Cappadocia for a balloon flight, or the Turquoise coast for a gulet cruise.
Lia recommends getting out on the water for a boat cruise in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
When in Vietnam, you cannot miss a visit to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its spectacular sea of limestones. The best way to see the bay is by a traditional junk boat cruise. You can either go for a full day, or book multiple days spending the nights onboard. I recommend taking at least a 2-day, 1-night cruise if you have time, as Ha Long Bay is a 4-hour drive from the capital city of Hanoi, and it can get exhausting.
Once onboard your journey will begin with a view of the amazing scenery of the sea of limestones. You’ll have Vietnamese lunch served on the boat, just before stopping for a kayak or bamboo boat cruise around some of the limestones and caves. The widest cave in Ha Long Bay is the Cave of Surprises (Sung Sot Cave), located on Bo Hon Island, an array of linked limestone islets. Upon arrival, climb the hundred stone steps to the mouth of the cave, explore its paths inside, and admire the hanging stalactites.
You will have time for some sunbathing and swimming as well before returning to the boat in time to get ready for dinner. I promise you a sunset to remember, with all those thousands of limestone peaks rising from the emerald waters of the ocean. An unforgettable view, indeed.
Wake up early in the morning for a Tai Chi class on the boat, and catch the sunrise over the bay.
There is much more to do and see in Ha Long Bay, including Cat Ba, the largest island in Halong Bay, Quan Lan Island, Bai Tu Long Bay, as well as hiking or kayaking the tranquil lake at Ba Be National Park.
Madhurima says that Gili Air, Indonesia is the little tropical escape we are all looking for.
The uncountable beach cafes and restaurants offer great food and an extremely chilled vibe that draws visitors from all around the world. My favorite part of the day was just strolling on the beaches then sitting in some area where I was the only living soul. The evening was spent sipping a mocktail from a mini beach hut as the sun slowly made its way behind the hills and the clear green water reflected its rays. I spent nearly 4 hours reading a book in one of these mini huts – an experience I will never forget.
The island is also famous for its coral life. So, take a dive or snorkel trip in the morning, gorge on delicious meals in the afternoon, and then laze away at the sunset point in the evening–that would be my tip for a perfect day! You don’t have to break the bank to find a tropical paradise, it can be done within a budget and in Asia!
Leah recommends Maldives.
Maldives is known to be one of the best honeymoon destinations to celebrate love, but Leah says it was her dream come true solo beach vacation destination.
Maldives is a tropical paradise with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 30°C throughout the year. It is more than just palm trees, turquoise reefs, sun-kissed white sand beaches, and deep blue seas.
The country is made up of 1,190 coral islands, and 99% of the Maldives is made up of sea. There are about 200 inhabited islands. About 105 islands are developed as tourist resorts and the rest are uninhabited or used for agriculture and other livelihood purposes.
Excursions like Virgin Island hopping, night fishing, and local island hopping are must-try activities. Hotels in Maldives arrange daily excursions or day trips to other sand beaches, picnic islands, or resorts.
For those who are snorkeling enthusiasts like me, I would recommend the full day island hop & snorkel activity at a cheaper price. My favorite activity is the drift scuba diving. The best part of it is that I don’t have to be a professional diver to enjoy it. The dive center gave me basic to advanced training using well-monitored diving facilities of a high standard. Even the most reluctant diver can enjoy the beauty of Maldivian underwater life on a drift dive with the guidance of experienced instructors.
Aside from sightseeing and food tripping, there were a lot of activities in Maldives that I didn’t get the chance to try due to time constraints. You can experience submarine rides, whale watching, stingray feeding, and dolphin watching.
Water Destinations in Europe and the United Kingdom
There are so many destinations in Europe and the UK that would be relaxing places for a solo beach vacation. This is just a small selection based largely on posts that were submitted by readers of Solo Traveler and members of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook.
Have you traveled solo to a water destination you loved? Consider submitting your story and photos via our easy online form.
Europe
Solo Travel Society member Geoff rented a car and explored six of the Faroe Islands over the course of a week, encountering beauty around every corner. You can read more about his trip and see more of his wonderful photos in Solo Travel Destination: Faroe Islands, Denmark.
Chen-Chi recommends this trip she took to Hallstatt and Gosausee in Upper Austria.
Hallstatt, sometimes called “The Real Paradise on Earth,” is a lovely village located on the shore of Hallstätter See (a lake in the Alps) in Upper Austria. Like most parts of this country, it’s very safe for solo travelers. I went to this little paradise from Salzburg by bus in mid-September, a season with rain from time to time, but fewer tourists.
During my stay in Hallstatt, I spent one day in Gosausee. I took a bus and transferred at Gosaumühle. Within one hour, I was transported to another dreamlike location. I had my lunch at the only restaurant in Gosausee and walked around the lake, which was an easy hike, about 1.5 to 2 hours. The water was crystal clear, with a stunning view of Dachstein mountain and glacier in the background. I enjoyed the freshness and tranquility, and watched the lake change from misty to shiny.
Kay created an itinerary to visit as many fjords as possible before reaching the hauntingly beautiful Lofoten Islands in Norway. You can read about her trip in Solo Travel Destination: Lofoten Islands, Norway.
“Stresa, Italy is my ‘go-to’ de-stress destination after a long journey of solo touring,” says Sandra. “Stresa energizes the shores of Lago Maggiore and there are beautiful views in all directions from the picturesque Borromean Islands dotting the shoreline to the Italian Alps as a backdrop. Ferries offer convenient shuttle service to each of the three islands and beyond. Read more about Sandra’s favorite things to see and do, and where to eat and stay in Solo Travel Destination: Stresa, Italy.
Catherine fell in love with Santander, Spain.
Santander is a place that truly has something for everyone. For those who love to soak up the sun, the city has wonderful beaches that don’t seem to be as crowded as those popular destinations elsewhere in Spain. You can grab a spot on the sand or snag a wooden lawn chair just off the promenade. Another option for a beachy day out is to hop on one of the small ferries which take passengers over to the Playa del Puntal where you can enjoy pinchos and a drink at the Chiringuito El Puntal and take in sweeping views of the city.
I love knowing that the beach is there. I love the fresh air and sitting down for a meal overlooking the water. However, I have no interest in spending all day sitting on a beach. For those like me, who love exploring a city, taking photographs, visiting museums, and practicing Spanish with locals at a bar, Santander also offers lots of options.
You can read more about Cat’s trip in Santander: A Sweet, Surprising Destination.
Looking to let your hair down, take a dip in turquoise waters, enjoy a picturesque setting? Geetika says Mallorca is the place for you.
“Enjoying the crystal-clear waters is one of the favorite activities for visitors. Whether sunbathing on the beach, taking a refreshing dip in the sea, or witnessing the exotic wildlife is your interest, Mallorca has a lot to offer. You could spend weeks in this city alone, and still uncover fresh joys every day.”
United Kingdom
If you enjoy experiencing coastlines of water destinations by hiking or walking along their edges, check out Janice’s posts about doing just that in England and Northern Ireland.
It is not only possible but also enjoyable to explore the spectacular landscapes and coast of Scotland’s Isle of Skye without renting a car. Janice shares how she did so in The Spectacular Isle of Skye Without a Car.
Su recommends a road trip on the North Coast 500 to anyone who loves nature and remote places with a bit of a rough spirit. She says, “On the way to Lochinver I took walks on beaches, which you wouldn’t expect in northern Scotland. Crystal blue waters, white sand – sometimes I thought I was in the Caribbean. Amazing! I always planned to have enough time to get out of the car and go for long walks or hikes, often along the coastline, enjoying the wind and fresh air coming in from the sea. You can read more about her solo trip in North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland.
Solo Beach Vacation Destinations in the Americas
Central America
Gemma recommends soaking up the laid-back vibe of Hopkins, Belize. A perfect place to enjoy the beach, nature, and the local culture.
Hopkins is a small, friendly, seaside town. The local lagoon is a beautiful place to go kayaking, meandering down mangrove tunnels, keeping your eyes peeled for sunbathing crocodiles. Visit at night to see the magic of bioluminescence, take a night time dip, and glow in the cool waters.
Visit the Mayflower Reserve to do some short hikes, swim in the natural pools to cool off, and, if you’re lucky, have a free fish foot spa (it’s a scratchy, tickly feeling). Or, if you prefer something a bit cooler, take a tour to St. Herman’s Cave and try out cave tubing, which is by the far the best way to explore underground caverns.
With so many activities available, you won’t be bored but Hopkins is also a good place to do nothing, head to the beach with a good book, or just chill out in a hammock. It’s easy to see why so many people stay here longer than intended; it’s a great place to recuperate and get away from the more touristy side of Belize.
Heather describes Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica as “a place to chill, relax, and find yourself again-a place that will stay in your soul.”
She says, “There is plenty to do, like swim or snorkel the blue waters of the reefs, visit the local animal sanctuaries, volunteer to help at the schools or organizations for the indigenous people, take a hike to a jungle waterfall, float the rio (river) border to Panama, or my favorite, snuggle in a hammock listening to the rain hit the canopy above and swinging to the rhythm of the waves.”
Jessica recommends La Fortuna and especially the La Fortuna Waterfall. “The 70m high waterfall leads into a shallow swimming hole filled with green-blue waters that is safe for swimming. Being able to swim in such close proximity to natural untouched beauty and feel the great strengths of the cascading water is an unforgettably surreal experience.”
Solo Beach Vacation Destinations in North America
Joanne spent Christmas on a solo beach vacation in Barbados, snorkeling, swimming with sea turtles, and relaxing on the beach. You can read more about her holiday here: Solo Travel Destination: Barbados.
Lisa recommends Negril, Jamaica.
Negril or Seven Mile Beach is a beautiful stretch of white Caribbean sand, dotted with stalls, resorts, and cafes. By day I soaked up the sun, bought some locally made beaded jewelry (great gifts to take home) and sipped fresh fruit punch – white Jamaican rum optional! This was followed by viewing the peach and pink hues of a Jamaican sunset.
I also stayed one night in a cozy Georgian-style guest house in Port Antonio, chilled on a deserted surf beach at nearby Long Bay, and took a boat ride and swim in the Blue Lagoon (yes, where the famous movie was shot).
Bermuda is visually stunning. I couldn’t stop staring at the water, which ranges from aquamarine to sapphire, or the pastel painted buildings in various shades of pink, yellow, blue, and green. Topped with blindingly white roofs, set against impossibly clear blue skies, surrounded by lush greenery, and dotted with pink sand beaches, Bermuda’s palette is captivating.
A solo summer road trip to Killarney, Ontario in Canada is a beautiful thing, from the scenic drive there and back to cruising on Georgian Bay to dining on fresh local food. If, like me, you have trouble tearing yourself away from technology, you might benefit from a resort that deliberately provides no phones, television, alarm clocks or Wi-Fi in their rooms.
The highlight of my summer road trip to Killarney–and any trip to Georgian Bay, I would say–is getting out on the water. It is a gorgeous part of the world. This was when I finally relaxed. I could have stayed on that boat all day, breathing in beautifully fresh air, staring at the landscape, feeling the contrast of the hot sun against the spray of cold water on my face, swaying with the movement of the boat as it cut through the waves, chatting with my fellow passengers about our travel experiences. Alas, it had to end at some point. But those two hours made the 14 hours of driving there and back entirely worthwhile.
You can read about the rest of my trip in A Solo Summer Road Trip to Killarney.
Do you really need a reason other than warm salt water and hot sun to visit the Florida Keys?
Spending time snorkeling and swimming, fishing and sailing seems imperative to a visit to the keys. The salt air fills your lungs and clings to your skin in an almost transformative manner.
The sea and the mangroves are wild and beautiful and are not to be missed. The most tranquil moment you can have is on a quiet kayak tour through a mangrove forest. Here you can spot herons and tree crabs crawling along the roots of these mystical salt-trees and escape the busy nature of the shore. They hold paddle board yoga classes in the mangroves and I can hardly imagine anything more peaceful.
Grace
You can read more about her trip here: Solo Travel Destination: Florida Keys, USA.
Ellie recommends finding accommodation close to the beach in Jacksonville, Florida “so you can wake up every morning to that saltwater air smell. There is nothing like the stunning vista of the ocean to get your day started. Next, spend some time just enjoying the sunshine and the 22 miles of beaches the city has to offer. Read a book, relax, and sprawl out because chances are you won’t be fighting for a spot to lie down.”
South America
Jenell loved her solo trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Copacabana Beach, a popular image brought to you by movies and documentaries about Brazil, is a stretch of 4 kilometers offering you a view of Copacabana Fort on the right and of the famed Sugarloaf Mountain on the left. All along the sand there are kiosks where beach chair rentals are available and they also sell fruit drinks, water, soda, beer, and margaritas! Bringing your own chair and blankets to lay on is perfectly acceptable as the entire beach is public.
If you would like to contribute a post about a destination you would recommend for those wishing to enjoy solo beach vacations, you can find our online submission form here.
Last updated: 1st December, 2023