Still shivering from this week’s ‘spring’ equinox? We certainly are! It’s been a long winter, and with more snow forecast this weekend, we’re all looking forward to some much-needed sunshine. To help make sure you find the perfect beach holiday and have plenty of opportunities to bask in the sun, we’ve picked the best destinations for the spring, summer and autumn:
April: Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, off the north-west coast of Africa, include popular destinations Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura. With all-year-round sunshine, they’re ideal for beach holidays either side of summer, when other holiday spots may be a lot cooler. Here, families, couples or groups of friends can lie back and enjoy the beaches, build sandcastles and explore the scenery and nightlife.
May: Turkey
Turkey is split into seven different regions with varying climates, so you’re best heading for Antalya, Alanya or Bodrum for a week or two of their long, hot summers. The coastline is scattered with more than 258 Blue Flag beaches, or, if you prefer to wander around, it’s easy to find unique sights and sounds wherever you’re staying. Take a traditional Turkish bath, find a bargain at the bazaars or even try your hand at yachting off the coast of small island Kara Ada.
June: Majorca
Majorca makes a relaxing and peaceful break, and with June’s high sun, it’s ideal for topping up your tan. We love the idea of hiring a scooter for the day – be careful! – and nipping around the island to see the beautiful countryside. End your evenings with a quiet drink by the ancient Mediterranean port.
July: Greece
Greece means hot, dry summers, and with temperatures topping 30 degrees on the islands of Crete, Rhodes, Kos and Corfu, you’re in the perfect place to lie back and do nothing but chill out on the soft, sandy beaches. If you’re feeling more energetic, there are plenty of pretty seaside towns to wander round, stopping off to try traditional foods, or you could try your hand at watersports on fun-packed islands like Rhodes. Wherever you go, there’s something for families, friends and couples. If you prefer a bustling city with history and plenty of shops to explore, there’s Athens, too – but take plenty of suncream as, with temperatures often hitting 40 degrees, it’s a scorcher!
August: Costa Del Sol
As the name suggests, the Costa Del Sol is the place to be for sun lovers. Aside from ample opportunities to soak up some rays from your sun lounger, there is plenty of traditional Spanish food to try, as well as lively bars and clubs in Marbella if you’re looking to let your hair down. Don’t forget to give flamenco dancing a go if you’re feeling energetic, or to take in the stunning views from the Balcon de Europa.
September: Egypt
Egypt ticks all the boxes if you like your sunshine with a side of history. It’s warm throughout the year and temperatures can top 40 degrees in July and August, so if you don’t like things too hot, now is probably the right time to go! There’s plenty to see whenever you visit, from bustling street markets in Cairo, bars in trendy Sharm-El-Sheikh or the simple sun-kissed beaches of Hurghada. If you’re looking for a profound experience you could catch the sunrise or spend a night star gazing, or head to some of the world’s most stunning snorkelling spots at Ras Mohamed and Ras Um Sid.
Check out these destinations – and more – at onthebeach.co.uk.
