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I Tested the New Roark Layover Pant and Short, and Found Them Perfect for Long Travel Days

Adventure travel clothing outfitter Roark drops the new Layover Traveler and Layover Utility pant and short on August 15, and the pants are updated to be more comfortable and functional for active travel days, and to address a few underlying issues from prior releases. I tested the pants on multiple travel days both flying and driving, on hikes, and during some hotel lounge time to get a feel for how the Layover series has evolved – and at the price point of $99, whether these pants and shorts are worth adding to your travel clothing repertoire.

Photo courtesy Roark

Where we tested the Roark Layover Pant and Short

The pants and shorts were tested on multi-stop flights from Grand Junction, Colorado, to Providence, Rhode Island, and from Charleston, West Virginia, back to Colorado, as well as on a bus trip from Grand Junction to Vail. In addition, the pants and shorts were worn for lounging at hotels and restaurants, and during a hike in New River Gorge National Park.

We hope you love the Roark Layover pant and short! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.

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Who do Roark’s clothes appeal to?

Photo courtesy Roark

Roark is a Laguna Beach, California, clothing and gear outfitter that targets surfers, adventure travelers, and the expansive cohort of Millennials and younger generations that never had a clean transition from the styles of their youth into a look that’s more mature yet still representative of their style and values. The company launched in 2010 as a men’s brand and in 2022 launched its first women’s line.

The brand hooked me a decade ago with its aspirational marketing – a flashy but faceless protagonist going by just one name like some sort of beach-bro Madonna, who’d fantastically figured out how to dress like an adult without sacrificing the laid-back vibes of global surf culture. “Roark” catalogued his travels and dispatched them to my mailbox every few months. I was hooked immediately. Where is this “Roark” character, and how can I be just like him?

I came of age in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s on Billabong, Blink-182, and lip piercings. I knew I needed to step it up a notch when, in 2010, I landed my first writing gig and suddenly had to have this “headshot” thing appear next to my name. Thing is, I had absolutely no clue where (or how) to begin. The surf and skate brands that had lined my closet for years hadn’t evolved to meet the moment. My fragile counter-culture ego would never let me succumb to the preppy brands I swore off in high school. I tried the mall, the polo shirts, the Kohl’s knockoffs – all of it left me feeling out of my element.

But then, around 2016, something magical happened. I was at a boutique clothing store in Denver with my wife, and I came across a button-down collared shirt with a floral-inspired surf design. The brand was Roark, and it struck me as Volcom-cum-Marine Layer. I was captivated. She approved. Within six months, nearly all of my go-to clothing was from Roark.

The brand fills the gap left by the retro (but increasingly defunct) “surf style” powerhouses because its clothing looks nice and is incredibly versatile – it’s ideal for work, travel, happy hour, and casual dinners – but isn’t overly formal. I’ve come to call it “coastal crossover” clothing, meaning that it fits just about any needed purpose.

Photo courtesy Roark

Shop Roark Layover pants and shorts

Summary of our Roark Layover Pant and Short test

Pros:

No belt, no problem — easy through TSA checkpointsPassport protection at hand — zipped pockets for passport, phone, and moreThird time’s the charm — our editor has owned three pairs of Layover pants, each one better than the lastAll-weather versatility — the Layover pant can be insulated for cold travel days, while the shorts work for warmer onesMulti-day functionality — easy to wipe clean, the pants can handle multiple wears between washes

Cons:

Elastic waist — it’s tough to feel professional in an elastic-waist pantBaggier fit — The “straight fit” Layover pant is super comfortable, but my grandpa butt doesn’t quite fill it out.

The evolution of the Roark Layover Travel Pants

Photo courtesy Roark

Layover 1.0

My first pieces of Roark clothing were button-down shirts, but I also bought the first edition of Layover pants in the late 2010s. The pitch was that these pants were ideal for travel because they’re flexible, can secure valuable assets like a passport and wallet in zippered pockets, and are easy to clean (and therefore, can be worn for multiple days between washes). Additionally, the drawstring eliminates the need for a belt, making these pants ideal for airport security and long flights (tighten for the walk through the airport, loosen for the extended sitting session). Beyond these metrics, what classifies a pair of pants as “travel” pants seems to come down to whether or not the wearer is traveling.

I promptly wore them on a few flights and found them to be awkward. It was as though the brand had simply wrapped a pair of sweatpants in some Durastretch and sent them out the door. Passing through the airport felt weird because they didn’t have a back pocket, which meant I had to load my wallet, passport, keys, phone, and anything else into the front zippered pockets. When I walked, I had stuff constantly bumping or rubbing against my leg. They generally reminded me of something I would sleep in on a cold-weather camping trip – I actually began using them as such because I couldn’t find another productive use case for the pants.

Layover 2.0

A few years later, I acquired a new pair following an update. This second pair, the Layover Pant 2.0, was a vast improvement. They looked like normal pants, but retained the stretchy flexibility that was the saving grace of the older pair. But, this version had an insulation layer on the inside that, while soft and pleasing to the skin, made the pants incredibly warm. They were fantastic on a long-haul flight from San Francisco to Istanbul and were also great for snowboard trips in winter. I’d wear them on the drive as well as while lounging in a hotel room or Airbnb.

Roark Layover Pant and Short SpecsEmbarq stretch twill fabricCertified Organic CottonNo-Show elastic waist, internal/external drawstring beltBelt loops for added adjustabilityZip front and back pockets, cell stash back pocketBack Ventilation Panel, including a laser-perforated back panel15″ leg opening on the pants — straight fit, 8″ inseam,18″ outseam, customizable fittingAvailable colors: Black (BLK), Military (MIL), Dark Khaki (DK)Layover 3.0

Arriving at the hotel after a 14-hour travel day, the Roark Layover Pant 3.0 looked crisper than the rest of my outfit. Photo: Lynn Wenger

With the new release of the Layover 3.0, the brand has addressed every issue with its previous versions. The pants have sealable front and back pockets. The 15-inch leg openings fall over the top of the shoes easily, while the fit is comfortable but not overly tight. I’m a thin-build guy who’s 5’7″ — if you’re curvier or taller than me, the pants will fit you quite well. Belt loops are included if you want to wear a belt, but wearing one is not necessary as the drawstring remains intact. They look cool, too – after a recent travel day, I kept them on for dinner out. I ordered the pants in the tan DKH coloring. I paired them with a navy blue button-down while on the move and a white button-down for dinner. I’ve also worn them with a grey sweater and felt comfortable and presentable.

I appreciate that the Layover pants are built with certified organic cotton. The stretch twill and elastic waist are exceptionally functional and not visible on the outside – over a long day, I never had to tighten the waist, even after multiple bathroom stops.

The Roark Layover Short was perfect for a happy hour sail after a day on the move. Photo courtesy Tim Wenger

The shorts are equally durable and utilitarian. I like that they hang above the knees and pair well with t-shirts or button-downs. The same grey sweater looks good, though I’ve been hesitant to do anything beyond these casual options with a pair of shorts. As with the pants, I wore the shorts for multiple days on the road and was able to wipe off light dirt as well as food and drink spills with ease.

Shop Roark Layover pants and shorts

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Mint Tea, Music, and Mistaken Arabic: A Week in Morocco for First Timers

When my friends learned I was traveling to Morocco, the most common piece of advice was, “don’t get scammed.” None of them had been to Africa or knew anyone from the country, and were basing their jovial warnings on fairly limited knowledge of the country. Yes, there have been some recent stories about unfair taxi pricing and common tricks merchants use to earn a couple extra dirhams. However, according to the US State Department, Morocco has only a “Level 2” travel warning — the same rating as countries like Sweden, Kenya, France, and even Antarctica. Unfortunately, many travelers rate countries considered foreign (a.k.a., non-Western) inherently less safe, whether or not the data backs it up.

After chatting with my friends more, I learned that they were confusing the customs and culture of Morocco — a country in North Africa, and a shorter flight time from New York City than Paris, France — with completely unrelated Middle Eastern countries. But since I’d not yet been to Morocco, I didn’t have personal experience to convincingly refute their impressions.

In June, I took a small group trip to Morocco, landing at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport. Over the next week, we visited Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier with a hired driver, and even spent a few days at Mawazine Rabat, the largest music festival in Africa.

The author visited Marrakech, Rabat, Casablanca, and the Agafay Desert Photo: Museum of Jewelry, Rabat

While having a dedicated driver made our trip easier than trying to arrange our own transportation, I was still surprised by the relative ease of travel in the country, and general friendliness of nearly everyone we met. No one would say Morocco is as easy to visit as a country more similar to the US, like Canada or Ireland, but I returned from the country with more than just my spoils from the markets (a cool oil print, and jars of turmeric and saffron). Just a week of travel gave me a good sense of what it’s like to visit Morocco, helped me better understand the fascinating blend of cultures throughout North Africa, and showed me just how friendly locals can be when you open yourself to connections.

For travelers keen to dip their toes into the culture of North Africa, Morocco is a warm and welcoming place to start.

It’s easy to feel like family

Morocco’s art, culture, and architecture reflect a diverse range of ethnicities and heritages. Photo: Morad.onto/Shutterstock

As a white American, I expected to feel a little adrift in an unfamiliar Arab-speaking country. But it’s tough to feel lost in a place as culturally multifarious as you are, and I felt as at home in Morocco as I have in any other country. That’s probably because, like me, Morocco is a blend of cultures and ethnicities.

Throughout its history, the country has been a crossroads of several civilizations, ruled by Romans, Arabs, and Amazigh (formerly called “Berbers”), and colonized by the French and Spanish.. As the first inhabitants of North Africa, Amazigh are considered Morocco’s Indigenous people, and today, Arab-Amazigh make up the largest ethnic group. Between the 15th and 17th centuries, after the Christian conquest of Spain, Muslim and Jewish exiles poured into Morocco, bringing Andalusian influences to the country’s architecture, music, and food. There’s an intriguing history lesson around every corner, if you’re looking for it.

I quickly learned that the diversity in the country means fewer people feel like outsiders, and most people I met seemed eager to both introduce me to their multi-textured cultural tapestry, and learn about mine.

I arrived at the airport in Casablanca on a Monday morning, and went outside to meet Ibrahim, our driver and guide.

“Welcome, brother,” he said. “Let’s go, let’s go. Ibrahim is never late.” Never mind that he had been 10 minutes late picking me up. And yes, he referred to himself in the third person.

A Amazigh guide originally from a Saharan desert village called Merzouga, Ibrahim was constantly adjusting his black-framed glasses, and regaling me with his best American accent. On my first full day, after driving to Marrakech, he dropped me off on the outskirts of the Medina: the old part of town famous for its sprawling souk (market).

Overcoming preconceived notions in the Marrakech Medina

Photo: Min Jing/Shutterstock

The labyrinthine souk of Marrakech dates back to the 11th century, but it doesn’t feel like stepping back in time so much as stepping sideways, into a stone-laid bazaar with timeless rules and newly crafted wares. In an enthralling blend of ancient and modern, visitors will have to keep an eye out for locals whizzing down the narrow lanes on motorbikes, as well as donkeys meandering by with loads of produce piled on their backs.

When a handmade oil drawing of a minaret at sunset caught my eye, I felt a rush of nerves. I wasn’t sure I had the skill to haggle. The sheer volume of products felt overwhelming, as did the prospect of a tense back-and-forth with a skilled haggler. I knew the close quarters and crowded souks of the Medina meant travelers sometimes get overcharged and pressured, and my friends’ concerns rang in my ears. But it turns out, haggling can actually be fun.

The artist was a middle-aged man in a blue robe, who shook my hand and gave me his price. My spontaneously-devised strategy was to act aghast at the initial price and pretend to leave, wait for his counteroffer, and go from there. I was nervous, but the seller actually seemed like he enjoyed the back and forth. As I prepared to leave, oil drawing and 50 percent discount in hand, he touched my shoulder and asked where I was from.

Photo: Maria Albi/Shutterstock

When I told him I was from Boston, he said, “Boston Celtics!” and pretended to dribble and shoot a basketball. “World champions!” I asked, surprised, if he watched NBA games.

“Some,” he said. “I like LeBron James. He must retire soon, I think. He is older than me, but has a better slam dunk.”

It was an encounter that made me rethink what had been stressing me out about visiting the souks. When he touched my shoulder, I thought at first it’d be to try to sell me another painting. But he was merely curious about what brought me to Morocco, and eager to talk basketball with another fan.

Later that day in the market, a dyer spent 30 minutes indulging my questions on how the fabric dyeing process works and how colors are made, while simultaneously asking me questions about how clothes are colored in the US (I embarrassingly had no idea). He was a scarf maker from a long line of scarf makers, and proudly showed off his products while also sharing a hearty helping of family history. We chatted, as he was curious about my job, and thought it was unusual that more American children don’t go into the same business as their parents.

“You made a good deal,” Ibrahim said when I returned to the car and told him about my oil print. “Now you are ‘ayela’ here in Morocco. That means family.”

While “family” felt like an exaggeration, I certainly appreciated the shopkeepers’ conversation and welcoming energy. The souk will be different for every traveler – that’s part of its centuries-old mystique – and I certainly can’t responsibly suggest that every experience will be positive. The shopkeepers want to make money, and are fairly aggressive in their pursuit of it. But in my wanderings through the souk, merchants had a genuine curiosity about foreigners and were eager to make a connection.

I felt truly welcomed at hotels and restaurants

Photo: Mykola Ivashchenko/Shutterstock

If you think you need to be in a major US or European city to take advantage of five-star luxury, you haven’t experienced Marrakech or Rabat’s extravagant hotels and six-star service (if six stars are even possible). Both at the palatial Oberoi Hotel on the outskirts of Marrakech, and the Fairmont Residences La Marina Rabat-Sale in Rabat, it felt like the staff must have studied index cards of every guest. They immediately knew our names and greeted us warmly whenever we walked in. At the Oberoi, the staff even left little personalized touches around our rooms during the cleaning service: they noticed a book on my bedside table and gifted me a bookmark, while a woman traveling with me returned to her room one afternoon to find a fresh tube of toothpaste beside her nearly empty one. They were every bit as luxurious as pricier hotels in trendy destinations like Ibiza or Bali.

Photo: The Oberoi Marrakech

It wasn’t just hotels where hospitality felt natural, but in many restaurants, too. I actually felt the most at home in Morocco whenever I entered a restaurant, because the chefs and hosts made me feel like I was at a friend’s house, with that friend excited to cook their family recipe for me.

In my experience, Moroccans seemed to love serving their guests food as much as this particular guest loved eating it. In asking why that was, I learned for many Moroccans, it stems from the link between food and community. Dishes are often served family-style, set on the table in large portions guests can scoop onto their plates. Eating meals is an excuse to be social in Moroccan culture, making it easy to feel at home.

I noticed an intentionally welcoming atmosphere outside of traditional restaurants and hotels, too. During a dinner at The White Camel, a tented camp in the Agafay Desert, I doubt even a professional eater could finish all the food served to my table. That night, we enjoyed tagine, an assortment of salads, and lham bel barkouk (beef and prunes). Other dishes commonly served include briouats (crispy pastries often filled with meat), taktouka (a salad of tomatoes and peppers), and lentil soup, not to mention couscous and mint tea, which always seem endless. If the impressive spread wasn’t welcoming enough, the troupe of Amazigh musicians playing Moroccan-inspired blues music in the background helped, as they were clearly happy to be putting on a show.

Photo: Bruno M Photographie/Shutterstock

“How was everything?” the waiter asked at the end.

“Wonderful. Especially the lham bel badook,” I said, in a horrible mispronunciation of “barkouk.” Confused, our waiter looked at me, then to Ibrahim, who was doubled over in laughter at my poor attempt to speak Arabic.

Thankfully, we were interrupted by a fire dancer, who ushered us outside. He stood on a plateau overlooking the vast desert, skillfully twirling flaming batons closer to his body than should be legal and sending embers flying into the black desert night.

At this point, I had a sudden realization that it wasn’t just the food that exemplified the culture of hospitality, but also, the way in which locals were enthusiastic about sharing Moroccan culture with guests. This probably explained why dinners were often leisurely three or four hours long. That was even true at luxury restaurants like La Grande Table Morocaine inside the opulent Royal Mansour Marrakech. Unlike some American restaurants, which rely on quick turnover and maximizing the number of meals served per night, the focus seems more to be on a slow pace and connecting with the people around you (and trying as much food as possible).

People in the tourism industry seemed happy to connect everywhere I went

Photo: muratart/Shutterstock

I ended my trip in Rabat, Morocco’s capital city about a three-hour drive from Marrakech. In the middle of the city’s white-and-blue-hued Medina, evocative of Santorini’s whitewashed Cycladic aesthetic, I found Riad Dar Chrifa, a modern and opulent riad (a hotel centered around a courtyard) inspired by traditional, luxurious design.

A birdcage with an African Grey parrot sat in the corner, drawing most people’s curiosity, but the light illuminating my chicken b’stila from the skylight was capturing my attention. The dish certainly deserved the spotlight. A pie stuffed with savory chicken and cinnamon, and lightly coated with powdered sugar, it’s a dessert that masquerades as a hearty entrée. It’s one of the many reasons I didn’t feel guilty eating what felt like two pounds of it.

During the meal, the waiter came up to me. “You look like my cousin, Ismail,” he said with a nudge. “He likes b’stila, too.”

“Well,” I replied between bites, “he must be a handsome guy.”

“No,” laughed the waiter. “Not really.”

The author (right) and driver Ibrahim (left) with a pet parrot at Dar Chrifa. Photo: Eben Diskin

We both chuckled, and he spent the next 10 minutes telling me about his cousin and trying to convince me we looked alike, showing me a photo of a parrot sitting on his cousin’s shoulder. As though struck by a brilliant idea, he suddenly opened the birdcage and transferred the parrot to my shoulder, where it squawked some unintelligible remarks at me.

“I bet even he can say ‘lham bel barkouk,’” Ibrahim teased. He told me African Grays are extremely intelligent, and can reach the cognitive level of a 5-year-old human.

I appreciated that Dar Chrifa didn’t take itself too seriously, giving me another chance to experience meals the way Moroccans do: as a time to be present with family and friends, and take pleasure in conversation, fun, and diversion.

Even major social events felt more welcoming

Photo: Mawazine Music Festival

One thing you definitely don’t want to be late for is Mawazine Rabat, Africa’s largest music festival by attendance. Past headliners include world-renowned artists like David Guetta, The Weeknd, and Travis Scott, as well as homegrown Moroccan artists, spread across six stages throughout the city. That means no matter where you are in Rabat, you can’t escape the thumping beats or festival vibes (not that you’d want to).

Though I wasn’t able to catch 50 Cent or Will Smith (yes, that Will Smith) at this year’s festival, I did manage to see Lost Frequencies, who drew a crowd every bit as lively as those at Tomorrowland, one of the largest EDM festivals in the world.

What makes Mawazine stand out from events like Tomorrowland, however, is that all the acts are completely free. In a world where seeing your favorite artists usually costs three months’ rent, Mawazine does away with ticketing. Rather than waiting in line for hours and enduring the indignities of security only for nosebleed seats that require binoculars, guests just wander into the park or onto the beach, and find a spot in the crowd. It seemed like another decision designed to ensure that all feel welcome. Crowds are made up of people from all kinds of economic backgrounds, all gathered to enjoy music from around the world.

In my case, I was able to join a huge crowd of Moroccans on the beach, losing myself in the jumping, chanting masses without for a moment feeling out of place.

Finding connections outside of the tourism scene

Photo: /Shutterstock

A Moroccan friend of mine once told me that whenever she returns to Morocco for a quick visit, she finds what she calls a “Moroccan boyfriend:” someone she casually meets at a bar or other social situation. She’ll spend the week hanging out with that person most days, usually in groups with a collection of siblings or friends. The ease with which she was able to do that inspired me to try to make my own personal connection, and while in Rabat, I started swiping on Hinge.

Dating apps can be a great way to meet local people, whether it’s to grab a drink, have some company while visiting a tourist attraction you’ve always wanted to see, or even finding a cool sight usually limited to just locals. Given the cultural proclivity for spontaneity, and openness to meeting new people, I guess I wasn’t too surprised when Samira from Hinge agreed to meet me at the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rabat. I can’t pretend I fully understood the artwork, but I enjoyed a great afternoon.

While there, I thought of my friends, sitting at home and wondering if I had gotten “scammed” in Morocco. I wasn’t sure if they were going to believe me when I told them about what felt to me like authentic connections with the people I met. I wondered if they’d be surprised to hear that it took less than a week for a Moroccan to tell me I was like family – even if I still can’t pronounce lham bel barkouk.

If you go: Morocco trip planning tips

Photo: YASTAJ/Shutterstock

Though Morocco might feel culturally distant for many US travelers, there are several nonstop routes from the US with a flight time of under eight hours. United Airlines flies between NYC and Marrakech, and Royal Air Maroc flies from NYC, Miami, and Washington, DC, to Casablanca.

Ubers and rideshares aren’t available in Morocco (yet), but taxis are available in all major cities at a reasonable price. Just make sure the cab is marked with a taxi company logo, and fare is calculated via the meter. Concierges at most hotels will also be happy to call a taxi for you from a reputable company. Most travelers doing cross-country trips arrange drivers for the longer segments, as Moroccan drivers tend to be a bit more aggressive than most Americans are used to. That said, you can rent cars at the airport, and most roads are in good condition and easily navigable.

Trains are also a great way to get around Morocco’s major cities while seeing more of the country. Thanks to the new high-speed Al Boraq train, you can get between Rabat and Tangier in just under an hour and a half. It’s a journey that used to take five hours.

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This Punta de Mita, Mexico, Resort Proves You Can Do Luxury With a Toddler

I couldn’t tell you the number of times I looked at Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection‘s Instagram account before arriving, but I can tell you it was a lot. My excitement was palpable — the two-bedroom, oceanfront cliffside residence we’d be staying in was bigger than my house in California.

I was eager to arrive, albeit a bit nervous. This was my family’s first vacation with our 2.5-year-old son, Spencer, and I’d seen all the memes about traveling with toddlers — it’s just parenting in a new location. However, the moment we pulled up to the resort in Punta de Mita, Mexico, I felt optimistic about our trip.

How could I not? Susurros del Corazón is surrounded by lush jungle. Less than three years old, the property was designed with features that highlight the surrounding environment and seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a natural flow. The grounds have been meticulously maintained, with shrubbery, palm trees, and native plants lining every pathway.

I was struck by the property’s warmth — both literally (we visited in July, the area’s off-season due to the extreme heat and humidity) and in the smiling faces that greeted us upon arrival, including that of our cuate, or buddy, for the duration of our four-day stay.

Spencer was immediately offered a choice of toys from a basket, all of which were authentic to Mexican culture. All three of us were handed a welcome drink. There’s no check-in desk, but rather, your cuate is there to answer any questions and help you get situated. Throughout the trip, you can text your cuate for anything you may need. Having wasted a considerable amount of time checking in at other resorts, I noted how quickly our dedicated team escorted us to our residence, allowing our vacation to begin.

Immaculately designed residences are Susurros del Corazón’s calling card

Photos: Dyana Lederman

Susurros del Corazón has 30 oceanfront residences ranging from two to five bedrooms, plus one signature seven-bedroom suite. There are also 59 studios, casitas, and suites. Every single accommodation offers a private terrace, and several have either a hot tub or a private plunge pool.

I’ll never forget the feeling of opening the door to our two-bedroom residence for the first time. Sunlight poured into the open-plan living room and kitchen, immediately drawing us to the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Stepping out onto the balcony, we took in the oceanfront views and could hear the waves crashing against the cliffs on each side. Around the corner from the wraparound terrace was our private hot tub.

Inside, there was a small guest bathroom, a laundry room, and a massive walk-in closet. Within our master bedroom, which had doors leading out to the hot tub, there was a king bed, two closets, a double vanity, and a shower and bathtub that was an entire room in itself. My son slept in the second bedroom, which had two queen beds and a similar bathroom layout to ours.

As a parent, finding the diaper pail in Spencer’s room was a surprise and a relief. A crib with an adorable stuffed turtle had also been set up in his room, next to a handwritten note addressed to him. Throughout our stay, nightly gifts and personalized notes continued to flow. On our last day, a letter addressed to Spencer saying, “We know how much you love music” (he does), accompanied a hand-painted maraca, which brought literal tears to my eyes.

Our residence felt like a living museum — the more we explored, the more thoughtful details we uncovered. Mexico’s rich craft culture is celebrated throughout the space. Vibrant, colorful paintings are juxtaposed against natural wooden furniture. A stone-tiled shower floor, rattan lighting sconces, and a textured rock wall that runs from the living room to the terrace all incorporate elements of the surrounding environment. A telescope sits in the living room for stargazing. A bag containing a yoga mat, Bala bands, weights, and blocks welcomes morning sun salutations. The little details — Mexican cookbooks, a mancala set, ponchos for in-room use — are everywhere you turn.

A pool for every traveler and activities for all ages

Photos: Dyana Lederman

The resort’s centerpiece is its three cascading infinity pools, all overlooking the private beach. From top to bottom, there’s the Acapulco adults-only pool, the family pool, and the relaxation pool. Although sipping cocktails at the Acapulco pool’s swim-up bar sounded tempting, we spent most of our time at the family pool. I could join him and pop in and out as we pleased. However, getting to hear Spencer yell out, “We’re having so much fun,” as we splashed in the shallow wading portion of the pool, was another core memory of this trip.

Cozy lounge chairs, as well as cabanas available for rent, surround each pool. Throughout the day, little treats and bites are offered — Spencer’s favorite being the daily popsicles.

The beach also has lounge chairs and rental cabanas, and the soft sand and calm waves were framed by breathtaking cliffs. Surfboards, boogie boards, and paddleboards are available for rent, and the resort facilitates surf lessons for those interested.

At the beginning of our stay, our cuate shared the week’s daily activities, featuring food-focused classes like the “aguachile and ceviche cooking class” and the “alchemy of tequila.” The schedule also included morning fitness classes. I signed up for Surf Fitness, which was held inside the movement studio and involved balancing on a surfboard over three stationary balls. The class, taught by an ebullient Argentinian man, challenged my whole body and ended with a peaceful meditation. With the sliding glass doors open on both sides, it was another example of the integration of indoor and outdoor space. (For exercise on your own time, there’s a fitness center with up-to-date, state-of-the-art equipment.)

Since we were traveling as a family, I spent more time perusing the daily activities available at Morritos Kid’s Club. The brightly colored space is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. While Spencer was too young for me to drop him off (kids must be 5-12 years old), I was able to pop in and out with him. The escape to some A/C was welcome, and like most toddlers, the chance to play with toys that were not his own was exciting. Activities at Morritos span a broad range, and most of them aim to incorporate aspects of Mexican culture, like piñata-making or Huichol beadwork. We took Spencer to Super Sandy Goop where we made our own slime (and maybe enjoyed it just as much as he did).

Photo: Dyana Lederman

I had a few moments to check out the resort’s boutique, Coqueta, which featured curated, upscale luxury brands — several of which I recognized, such as Schutz and Montce, and several that were new to me. The housewares and jewelry drew my attention; many of those pieces were crafted by leading Mexican designers.

ONDA, an Auberge Spa, allowed me some time for reflection and self-care. It’s the largest spa in the area, with 11 treatment rooms and facilities that integrate the jungle into its design. A serene water feature divides the walkway to the spa, featuring floating decks where guests can lounge. It leads to the relaxation room, which has plush papasan chairs and a central table with healthy snacks and beverages. The treatment options are plentiful and vary from massages and facials to more spiritual and mindfulness-focused practices, such as sound baths and cacao circles.

I opted to try the Cielo, a Reiki energy session. The intent is to release negative energy and restore ease. My therapist, Ana, placed her hands lightly over me as I lay on a cozy elevated bed. She led me through some meditative practices, and at the end, I pulled a Tarot card (the Cancer card). I later spoke with the spa manager about how powerful this treatment has been for other guests, and I could certainly believe it. Truthfully, I was already in such good spirits — soaking in time with my family in this oasis — that a simple massage might’ve suited me better. Travel is meant for new experiences, though, and the Cielo certainly was one.

Dining at Susurros del Corazón

Photo: Susurros del Corazon

The resort has two main restaurants, both of which are open-air and beach-facing (although the hotel’s general manager, Christian, also shared with me that two new culinary pop-ups are planned for this November). Every evening, we were treated to a spectacular sunset.

We began our mornings at Casamilpa, the Mexican farmhouse, which focused on using locally sourced ingredients. A pastry basket makes its rounds at the start of the meal. The freshly squeezed juices were a must-have alongside our daily coffee. Classic Mexican options, such as chilaquiles (fried tortilla chips smothered in sauce) and huevos rancheros (eggs served on tortillas in sauce), dominate the menu.

For lunch upon our arrival, we visited the second restaurant, La Boquita, which also serves Mexican fare. We particularly enjoyed the tacos, served on soft, handmade tortillas. We also dined here one evening, and given the variety of taco options, we had to try some more. The volcan boquita (featuring pork pastor, carne asada, and chorizo) was a standout. As for Spencer, he ate more chicken quesadillas this trip than he has in his two years on this earth. But as I can attest, they were delicious.

Our other lunches were poolside. The menu included traditional Mexican fare, poolside staples like cheeseburgers and fries, and sushi. The sushi surprised me with how perfectly it was executed.

The rest of our dinners were at Casamilpa. The dinner menu integrated Mediterranean fare, and every dish we had, I’d order again. The waitstaff was accommodating and friendly, and by day two, they’d already prepared Spencer’s high chair, kids’ plate, and utensils upon our arrival.

One option we did not participate in but is worth noting is the dine-at-home offering, where a chef comes to your residence and cooks for you. There are various multi-course menu options, and all of these can be arranged with your cuate.

Getting to Susurros del Corazón

We flew direct from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR). It’s about a 30- to 40-minute drive from the airport, and the resort can arrange transportation for you, like they did for us. We were picked up in a black SUV provided by Punta Mita Luxury Transportation.

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This Punta Mita, Mexico, Resort Proves You Can Do Luxury With a Toddler

I couldn’t tell you the number of times I looked at Susurros del Corazón‘s Instagram account before arriving, but I can tell you it was a lot. My excitement was palpable — the two-bedroom, oceanfront cliffside residence we’d be staying in was bigger than my house in California.

I was eager to arrive, albeit a bit nervous. This was my family’s first vacation with our 2.5-year-old son, Spencer, and I’d seen all the memes about traveling with toddlers — it’s just parenting in a new location. However, the moment we pulled up to the resort in Punta Mita, Mexico, I felt optimistic about our trip.

How could I not? Susurros del Corazón, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, is surrounded by lush jungle. Less than three years old, the property was designed with features that highlight the surrounding environment and seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a natural flow. The grounds have been meticulously maintained, with shrubbery, palm trees, and native plants lining every pathway.

I was struck by the property’s warmth — both literally (we visited in July, the area’s off-season due to the extreme heat and humidity) and in the smiling faces that greeted us upon arrival, including that of our cuate, or buddy, for the duration of our four-day stay.

Spencer was immediately offered a choice of toys from a basket, all of which were authentic to Mexican culture. All three of us were handed a welcome drink. There’s no check-in desk, but rather, your cuate is there to answer any questions and help you get situated. Throughout the trip, you can text your cuate for anything you may need. Having wasted a considerable amount of time checking in at other resorts, I noted how quickly our dedicated team escorted us to our residence, allowing our vacation to begin.

Immaculately designed residences are Susurros del Corazón’s calling card

Photos: Dyana Lederman

Susurros del Corazón has 30 oceanfront residences ranging from two to five bedrooms, plus one signature seven-bedroom suite. There are also 59 studios, casitas, and suites. Every single accommodation offers a private terrace, and several have either a hot tub or a private plunge pool.

I’ll never forget the feeling of opening the door to our two-bedroom residence for the first time. Sunlight poured into the open-plan living room and kitchen, immediately drawing us to the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Stepping out onto the balcony, we took in the oceanfront views and could hear the waves crashing against the cliffs on each side. Around the corner from the wraparound terrace was our private hot tub.

Inside, there was a small guest bathroom, a laundry room, and a massive walk-in closet. Within our master bedroom, which had doors leading out to the hot tub, there was a king bed, two closets, a double vanity, and a shower and bathtub that was an entire room in itself. My son slept in the second bedroom, which had two queen beds and a similar bathroom layout to ours.

As a parent, finding the diaper pail in Spencer’s room was a surprise and a relief. A crib with an adorable stuffed turtle had also been set up in his room, next to a handwritten note addressed to him. Throughout our stay, nightly gifts and personalized notes continued to flow. On our last day, a letter addressed to Spencer saying, “We know how much you love music” (he does), accompanied a hand-painted maraca, which brought literal tears to my eyes.

Our residence felt like a living museum — the more we explored, the more thoughtful details we uncovered. Mexico’s rich craft culture is celebrated throughout the space. Vibrant, colorful paintings are juxtaposed against natural wooden furniture. A stone-tiled shower floor, rattan lighting sconces, and a textured rock wall that runs from the living room to the terrace all incorporate elements of the surrounding environment. A telescope sits in the living room for stargazing. A bag containing a yoga mat, Bala bands, weights, and blocks welcomes morning sun salutations. The little details — Mexican cookbooks, a mancala set, ponchos for in-room use — are everywhere you turn.

A pool for every traveler and activities for all ages

Photos: Dyana Lederman

The resort’s centerpiece is its three cascading infinity pools, all overlooking the private beach. From top to bottom, there’s the Acapulco adults-only pool, the family pool, and the relaxation pool. Although sipping cocktails at the Acapulco pool’s swim-up bar sounded tempting, we spent most of our time at the family pool. I could join him and pop in and out as we pleased. However, getting to hear Spencer yell out, “We’re having so much fun,” as we splashed in the shallow wading portion of the pool, was another core memory of this trip.

Cozy lounge chairs, as well as cabanas available for rent, surround each pool. Throughout the day, little treats and bites are offered — Spencer’s favorite being the daily popsicles.

The beach also has lounge chairs and rental cabanas, and the soft sand and calm waves were framed by breathtaking cliffs. Surfboards, boogie boards, and paddleboards are available for rent, and the resort facilitates surf lessons for those interested.

At the beginning of our stay, our cuate shared the week’s daily activities, featuring food-focused classes like the “aguachile and ceviche cooking class” and the “alchemy of tequila.” The schedule also included morning fitness classes. I signed up for Surf Fitness, which was held inside the movement studio and involved balancing on a surfboard over three stationary balls. The class, taught by an ebullient Argentinian man, challenged my whole body and ended with a peaceful meditation. With the sliding glass doors open on both sides, it was another example of the integration of indoor and outdoor space. (For exercise on your own time, there’s a fitness center with up-to-date, state-of-the-art equipment.)

Since we were traveling as a family, I spent more time perusing the daily activities available at Morritos Kid’s Club. The brightly colored space is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. While Spencer was too young for me to drop him off (kids must be 5-12 years old), I was able to pop in and out with him. The escape to some A/C was welcome, and like most toddlers, the chance to play with toys that were not his own was exciting. Activities at Morritos span a broad range, and most of them aim to incorporate aspects of Mexican culture, like piñata-making or Huichol beadwork. We took Spencer to Super Sandy Goop where we made our own slime (and maybe enjoyed it just as much as he did).

Photo: Dyana Lederman

I had a few moments to check out the resort’s boutique, Coqueta, which featured curated, upscale luxury brands — several of which I recognized, such as Schutz and Montce, and several that were new to me. The housewares and jewelry drew my attention; many of those pieces were crafted by leading Mexican designers.

ONDA, an Auberge Spa, allowed me some time for reflection and self-care. It’s the largest spa in the area, with 11 treatment rooms and facilities that integrate the jungle into its design. A serene water feature divides the walkway to the spa, featuring floating decks where guests can lounge. It leads to the relaxation room, which has plush papasan chairs and a central table with healthy snacks and beverages. The treatment options are plentiful and vary from massages and facials to more spiritual and mindfulness-focused practices, such as sound baths and cacao circles.

I opted to try the Cielo, a Reiki energy session. The intent is to release negative energy and restore ease. My therapist, Ana, placed her hands lightly over me as I lay on a cozy elevated bed. She led me through some meditative practices, and at the end, I pulled a Tarot card (the Cancer card). I later spoke with the spa manager about how powerful this treatment has been for other guests, and I could certainly believe it. Truthfully, I was already in such good spirits — soaking in time with my family in this oasis — that a simple massage might’ve suited me better. Travel is meant for new experiences, though, and the Cielo certainly was one.

Dining at Susurros del Corazón

Photo: Dyana Lederman

The resort has two main restaurants, both of which are open-air and beach-facing (although the hotel’s general manager, Christian, also shared with me that two new culinary pop-ups are planned for this November). Every evening, we were treated to a spectacular sunset.

We began our mornings at Casamilpa, the Mexican farmhouse, which focused on using locally sourced ingredients. A pastry basket makes its rounds at the start of the meal. The freshly squeezed juices were a must-have alongside our daily coffee. Classic Mexican options, such as chilaquiles (fried tortilla chips smothered in sauce) and huevos rancheros (eggs served on tortillas in sauce), dominate the menu.

For lunch upon our arrival, we visited the second restaurant, La Boquita, which also serves Mexican fare. We particularly enjoyed the tacos, served on soft, handmade tortillas. We also dined here one evening, and given the variety of taco options, we had to try some more. The volcan boquita (featuring pork pastor, carne asada, and chorizo) was a standout. As for Spencer, he ate more chicken quesadillas this trip than he has in his two years on this earth. But as I can attest, they were delicious.

Our other lunches were poolside. The menu included traditional Mexican fare, poolside staples like cheeseburgers and fries, and sushi. The sushi surprised me with how perfectly it was executed.

The rest of our dinners were at Casamilpa. The dinner menu integrated Mediterranean fare, and every dish we had, I’d order again. The waitstaff was accommodating and friendly, and by day two, they’d already prepared Spencer’s high chair, kids’ plate, and utensils upon our arrival.

One option we did not participate in but is worth noting is the dine-at-home offering, where a chef comes to your residence and cooks for you. There are various multi-course menu options, and all of these can be arranged with your cuate.

Getting to Susurros del Corazón

We flew direct from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR). It’s about a 30- to 40-minute drive from the airport, and the resort can arrange transportation for you, like they did for us. We were picked up in a black SUV provided by Punta Mita Luxury Transportation.

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More like thisTravelAn Insider's Guide to Punta Mita, the Exclusive Mexican Peninsula You Need to Visit

Google Maps Now Turns Your TikTok and Instagram Screenshots Into a Custom Travel Map

Google Maps added dropped a feature that can save your group chats from screenshot chaos every time you’re trying to plan a trip together. If you’re the type to hoard screenshots of must-visit cafes, Google Docs travel itineraries, or TikTok-recommended spots, Google can now take those screenshots, scan them, create pins on Google Maps, and organize them all into a dedicated list right in the Maps app.

Now, every screenshot — whether from Instagram, a friend’s text, or your favorite travel publication like Matador — can automatically be turned into a pinned map spot whether you have Android or iOS. Gemini AI pulls names and addresses, matches them with Google listings, and lets you quickly swipe through suggestions to save, favorite, or share.

Screenshots: Matador Network’s Instagram, left; Google Maps, right

There are two ways to go about which screenshots Google analyzes. The first is to enable auto-scanning of all of your screenshots in your camera roll. That can raise some eyebrows about privacy for some since that means Google has full access to your photo library, and the convenience factor doesn’t override the privacy concerns. Alternatively, you can stick to manually choosing screenshots by changing the permissions on your phone’s setting. Then you can select the screenshots for Google to read when you go back to Maps.

How to use screenshots to create a Google Maps travel list

Open Google Maps and head to the “You” tab at the bottom. There, you’ll find a new “Screenshots list” — the first time you tap it you’ll get a quick how-to walkthrough to learn the ropes. You’ll then get prompted to grant Maps access to your photos (or go with the manual upload option if you’re not into full access).

Next time you’re screenshotting the hottest new spot or dreamy travel rec, pop into Google Maps afterward. If Maps recognizes a location, it’ll prompt you to review and save the place. Simply tap “review,” decide if you’re feeling it, and save it straight to your Screenshots list or to other custom lists later.

Whether you choose to add screenshots manually or go with the full auto-scan, all of your saved places will be easily spotted on your map with a camera emoji and organized in the “You” tab.

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Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Frankenmuth, Michigan’s Little Bavaria

When I first drove under the Willkommen banner in downtown Frankenmuth, I felt like I was visiting Epcot at Disney World. “Michigan’s Little Bavaria” is not a theme park, but like the Disney pavilions I’ve strolled, Frankenmuth charmed me with its cuisine, scenery, and shopping. The city’s history is integral to its traditional dining experiences and year-round festivals.

Only eight years after Michigan became a state, Frankenmuth was founded in 1845 by 15 missionaries from Neuendettelsau, Germany, who sought to convert Indigenous Ojibway (or Chippewa) people. The word “Frankenmuth” means “courage of the Franconians.” This perspective is seen in the town’s St. Lorenz Church, Frankenmuth Historical Museum, and Frankenmuth Woolen Mill.

Known for its holiday magic and German heritage today, Frankenmuth is worth a trip for Michiganders or travelers from out of state. On my first-ever visit, Main Street kept me occupied with hours of experiences, including the world’s largest Christmas store.

Things to do in Frankenmuth

Photos: Photo: Michael Deemer/Shutterstock and Allison McClain Merrill

Frankenmuth’s proudest claim to fame is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. I couldn’t grasp its vastness until I set foot in the 80-year-old establishment. Bronner’s gets wildly busy as the holidays approach, but for Christmas in July, the crowd was manageable.

On a tour with Autumn Bronner, I learned that Wally Bronner started the business in his parents’ basement at age 16 in 1945. He saw a need for Christmas signs and decorations, and the business expanded immensely from there. Some of Wally’s original artwork is still on view in Bronner’s today. Ornaments, nativity scenes, toys, trees, lights, stockings, and Christmas villages abound in the store, which I perused for a couple of hours during my Frankenmuth stay.

“Every ornament that you could possibly think of, we have,” Autumn Bronner says.

Glittering lights and life-size displays extend toward the ceiling with backdrops painted by in-house artist Eileen Boone. I’m a Christmas person through and through, and I bought two ornaments in complementary colors, one Romanian and one hand-painted by Odawa Nation artist James Jacko. I eyed a wintry Dickens village and a large Fontanini nativity scene. There were even Halloween villages that would delight Disney and Harry Potter fans.

Bronner’s Silent Night Chapel is open during store hours.

“It’s an exact replica of the Silent Night Chapel in Obendorf,” says Bronner. “Wally actually got special permission to do that replica here. He had to go through the Austrian government.”

Photos: Allison McClain Merrill

Frankenmuth is known as a faith-based community, so it also made sense to visit St. Lorenz Church, the town’s founding church, to see its stained glass windows that tell a story of Frankenmuth.

One wall of windows is about “beginnings,” says Frankenmuth expert Herb Zeilinger. A rendering of St. Lorenz Church in 1880 commands attention with its vivid hues of red and magenta. Dorothea Craemer, the congregation’s first schoolteacher, is shown below instructing Chippewa children.

The opposite wall features a theme of “proclamations.” The Franconian settlers aimed to convert Native Americans to Christianity. As seen in a window, August Craemer proclaimed his Christian faith, and Chief Bemassikeh said in response, “Teach my people the truth,” says Zeilinger. It’s important to continue examining both the Indigenous and Franconian history of this destination city.

Across from the Frankenmuth Historical Museum is Michigan’s oldest woolen mill, the Frankenmuth Woolen Mill, which has been making products on-site since 1894. Cotton is washed in bathtubs in 180-degree water and spun in an extractor, then dried and processed naturally. The carding machine now in use was built in the 1870s and put into production in the 1930s. Clients can have their comforters laundered in-store on Thursdays.

Comforters, pillows, socks, dryer balls, furniture dusters, coasters, “woozies” (wool coozies), and more are on sale at the shop. Smaller groups can see production through a glass window while they shop, and an interactive tour is available on the main floor.

Where to eat in Frankenmuth

Photo: Allison McClain Merrill

A long-standing tradition in Frankenmuth is the family-style chicken dinner, which is associated with the Zehnder family. William and Emilie Zehnder bought the New Exchange Hotel in 1928 and started serving their chicken on Mother’s Day in 1929. In 1950, the Zehnder family purchased the Fischer Hotel across the road.

The New Exchange Hotel became Zehnder’s restaurant, which now seats 1,500 people in its dining room, and the Fischer Hotel became the Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn. But before that, in the late 1800s, Margaretha Kern reportedly became the first person in Frankenmuth to serve such a chicken dinner for a party. Hotelier Theodore Fischer then specialized in the meal.

The chicken dinner is a revered custom in the area today. When I went to Zehnder’s, I decided to go off the beaten path and try the chicken in phyllo dough. I asked for both of the sauces, parmesan and raspberry coulis. The latter was my favorite. The meal came with noodle soup and bread, and I somehow had some room for a baked potato. I grabbed a delectable butterhorn pastry from the downstairs bakery for the road.

Elsewhere in Frankenmuth, my mornings revolved around the Michigan operation Creation Coffee. I enjoyed a honey lavender latte and avocado toast on multi-grain with hot honey. I had no idea the hot honey would blow my mind.

I had lunch at Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie, an intimate eatery with nice bar seating for a solo lunch. My appetizer, the honey-whipped ricotta and ciabatta, was like a decadent dessert. Tomato and sweet corn risotto provided a good savory counterpoint. Pair all this with the sparkling wine if you fancy a non-alcoholic drink.

That evening, the Frankenmuth Brewery had another fun alcohol-free offering: a blueberry ginger beer mocktail, which I drank between bites of a pulled pork sandwich and kale slaw. The brewery was founded in 1862 and overlooks the Cass River, so outdoor seating is especially pleasant when the weather allows.

If you think you’ll want a nightcap, book the Frankenmuth FunShips Chocolate and Wine Tour, which pairs five chocolates with five wine samples. The hour-long boat ride on the Cass River was a chance to unwind at the end of the day as ducks swam around and the large Bavarian Belle tourist ship sailed by.

Where to stay in Frankenmuth

Photo: Allison McClain Merrill

There are several chain hotels within walking distance of a true Frankenmuth experience, along with the Bavarian Inn & Lodge (home to Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark). Visitors who want a more elevated experience will appreciate The Mill at Zehnder Park, a four-room boutique hotel which is slated to open in 2026. Until then, I hope to make a day trip in the winter for some fudge, chicken, cheese, clocks, wool, and even a Christmas reindeer.

Getting to and around Frankenmuth

Photo: Robert Koernke/Shutterstock

The closest airport to Frankenmuth is MBS International Airport (MBS) in Freeland, Michigan, about 35 to 40 minutes away by car. Though small, MBS has daily nonstop flights via Delta or United Airlines to and from two major hubs, Chicago and Detroit. This may be convenient for some travelers. However, Michiganders may find it easier to drive. I came in from the Detroit area and drove under two hours. For more flight options, Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is also a little under two hours away.

Once in Frankenmuth, getting around is easy. The downtown area is highly walkable, with shops, restaurants, and attractions clustered along Main Street. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available but may have limited service during off-peak hours. During festivals and holidays, visitors can enjoy trolley rides or horse-drawn carriages, while some hotels also offer shuttles for guests.

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From Piha to The Split: Matador’s 11 Favorite Beaches Around the World

Ask 10 people what the “best beach” is and you’re likely to get 10 different answers. Sure, there are big-name best beach lists, but “best” is inherently subjective when it comes to beaches around the world. Sometimes it’s a spot far off the beaten path, other times it’s a popular beach that has under appreciated aspects many people miss.

From Scottish coves to Vietnamese shores, this list reflects the Matador Network team’s favorite beaches based on collective decades of travel — places that we find ourselves referencing time again when we’re asked for where to go. These aren’t ranked, and they’re not always the most famous stretches of sand in their regions. What they share is that they particularly stand out in our memories, and you may find the same.

Ang Bang Beach | Emerald Bay State Park | Beaches of Lizard Island | Parc National des Calanques | Achmelvich Beach | Cathedral Cove | The Split | Miami Beach | Mission Beach | Tajiguas | Güvercinlik Beach

Ang Bang Beach in Hoi An, Vietnam

Photo: Chris Howey/ShutterstockPhoto: Likee68/ShutterstockPhoto: Ryasnik/Shutterstock

At Ang Bang Beach, the sand is golden, the water a deep turquoise, and the vibe unapologetically old-school. The setting embodies the fairytale charm of Hoi An’s historic town center, where brightly burning paper lanterns float down the Thu Bon River at sunset and cyclists make their way down canal-lined corridors, bike baskets filled with fresh banh mi. Here, on the coast of the East Vietnam Sea (don’t irk the locals by calling it the South China Sea), fishermen push off from the shore in the iconically circular thúng chai boats, and street vendors hawk snacks and drinks to guests relaxing on umbrella-covered wooden lounge chairs.

My wife and I honeymooned in Hoi An and spent our days in this manner, a sweating bottle of Bia Saigon never far from our hands. Occasionally, we’d wander into the water that felt warm on our skin and pushed waves softened by the barrier islands just visible on the horizon. Neither of us is a “water person” (we’re from Colorado) but Ang Bang Beach has become our reference point for judging beaches when we visit them. Ten years on and we’ve yet to find one as unique, as memorable, or as beautiful. — Tim Wenger, transactional content editor

Emerald Bay State Park near Lake Tahoe, California

Photo: Suzie DundasPhoto: Hakan Ozturk/ShutterstockPhoto: RandomHartz/Shutterstock

Despite being a pretty avid scuba diver, I actually don’t like swimming in the ocean much. I’d rather float around in calm water with no waves and no sea creatures flittering around my feet. So I’m lucky to live close to one of my favorite beaches: the shoreline at Emerald Bay State Park, on the southwestern side of Lake Tahoe. It sits in a gorgeous, pine-lined cove surrounding Tahoe’s only island: Fannette Island, a boulder-covered land mass rising from the blue-green water. Reaching the beach involves hiking down a one-mile trail with a 400-foot drop, which means you also have to hike 400 feet to get back out. That doesn’t keep the crowds down much, but it does mean the beach is surrounded on all sides by tree-covered forest ridgelines.

From Emerald Bay, you can chill in the water all day, relax on the beach, rent kayaks (summer only) from the on-site rental shop, or hike the 8-mile Rubicon Trail. At the other end are the almost-as-beautiful beaches of DL Bliss State Park. The shore-hugging trail to get there shows off Tahoe at its finest.

Emerald Bay State Park doesn’t offer much in the way of amenities, so bring your own food, drink, towels, and anything you may want (though washrooms and drinking water are available in the summer). Traffic around Emerald Bay is some of the worst in Tahoe, and you need to get there by 7 AM or so to get a parking space. Fortunately, local conservation group Keep Tahoe Blue just introduced a reservable round-trip shuttle to Emerald Bay, running every day from the start of summer to mid-October. You can jump on in South Lake Tahoe, or from the north near Tahoma. The shuttle makes accessing the park any day you want – and any time you want – much more convenient, and eliminates the headache of sitting in traffic and circling until you can find a spot. — Suzie Dundas, commissioning editor

Beaches of Lizard Island in Australia

Photo: Darios/ShutterstockPhotos: Suzie DundasPhoto: Darios/Shutterstock

If you want to feel like a celebrity for a few days, start planning a trip to Lizard Island, on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The private island has sequestered stretches of white sand accessible primarily to guests of Lizard Island Resort, its research station, and a small campground. The island’s beaches offer a sense of privacy and isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere on the reef. Guests can hike to secluded coves, snorkel around rocky reefs just off the main beach, or even post up at a sprawling beach used as a filming location for David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. Nearly every beach is flanked by granite boulders and lush, tropical vegetation.

Getting there isn’t easy or cheap. Lizard Island Resort is considered one of the most private and exclusive resorts in the country, with just 40 rooms and suites that open to the beach. You’ll have to arrive by charter boat or charter flight, unless you have your own boat and can make your way to a buoy near the island’s laid-back Marlin Bar. If you’re not staying at the resort (and you’re not affiliated with the research station), the only option is to camp. You’ll need a permit from the Queensland National Park Booking Service, and must be totally self-sufficient. The only amenity is the Marlin Bar, which is open just two days a week. — SD

Parc National des Calanques near Marseille, France

Photo: Andre Quinou/ShutterstockPhoto: marako85/ShutterstockPhoto: marako85/Shutterstock

Some parts of the Côte d’Azur feel like a supermodel — eye-wateringly beautiful but a little superficial. Then there’s Marseille. Marseille has opinions. It’s the pixie dream girl of the south coast: gritty, gorgeous, and wild. It’s also a short drive away from France’s first peri-urban national park, Parc National des Calanques. The Calanques begin less than eight miles from the Vieux-Port but feel like another planet.

The calanques are a chain of steep, narrow inlets carved into the limestone coast. Some are wide enough for little fishing boats to moor in the turquoise shallows. Others are slivers of pebble beach reachable by dusty, steep trails strewn with pine needles.

One of my favorites is Calanque de Marseilleveyre — one of the easiest to reach if you don’t have a boat. That said, you still need to trek in. The hike starts in Callelongue, a sleepy fishing hamlet with a handful of old cottages and a tiny port. From there, the stony path dips and climbs along the edge of the sea. It takes about an hour without stops, but the indescribable views make that hard.

When you finally drop down into the calanque, it’s just a small arc of pebbles and clear water where you can cool off. Bring cash for grilled fish and a cold glass of rosé at Chez Le Belge, a relaxed beachside shack. Most people make a day of it — partly because of the effort to get there, but also because the cliffs shift from pale gray to warm gold as the sun moves across the sky. — Katie Gavin, editor

Achmelvich Beach in Scotland

Photo: organtigiulia/ShutterstockPhoto: Attila Vanyo/ShutterstockPhoto: Alexisaj/Shutterstock

Many Scots words translate easily into English, but dreich – meaning dull, gloomy, or dreary weather – captures a spirit no English word quite can. And dreich my country is. It’s one of the wettest places in Europe. The west coast, where some of our finest beaches are, is particularly prone to a downpour. But when we do have blue skies, the white sand and glassy turquoise water along Scotland’s coastline rival the Mediterranean.

Fortunately for those relying on tourism, this is no longer a secret to our neighbors down south or visitors from overseas (thanks, TikTok). However, as a local trying to make the most of a rare sunny day by the sea, it can be frustrating to find crowds of visitors navigating huge RVs down the single-track roads to our now not-so-secret beaches.

One of the prettiest is Achmelvich Beach, located near Lochinver in Sutherland, about 40 miles north of Ullapool. Achmelvich is a sheltered bay on the remote west coast. The main beach is a wide crescent of soft white sand, broken up by granite outcrops. The water here is crystal clear. I usually bring my paddleboard, and when the sea is calm, it’s worth paddling out for a stunning view of the hills rising behind the dunes. Get here early to beat the selfie-stick crowd and to appreciate just how spectacular Scotland is when the sun comes out. — KG

Cathedral Cove in New Zealand

Photo: superjoseph/ShutterstockPhoto: Filip Fuxa/ShutterstockPhoto: superjoseph/Shutterstock

Born and raised in Mexico City, I always took pride in Mexico’s beaches. They were the standard by which I measured every stretch of coastline I visited — and they almost always stand out. That perspective shifted completely the moment I arrived in New Zealand.

The coastline of Aotearoa is far from the postcard version of paradise that has coconut palms and beach huts selling ice-cold drinks. Like the rest of the country, New Zealand’s beaches are wild and imposing, offering experiences that feel anything but ordinary: the black-sand stretches of Piha and the wild surf of Muriwai, the wind-sculpted coves of Wharariki and the geothermal sands of Hot Water Beach.

Yet every time I think about the New Zealand coast, I think of the same spot: Cathedral Cove. Located on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula, north of Auckland, you get to the beach via a 45-minute hike through coastal forest filled with towering tree ferns, pōhutukawa trees, and dense native undergrowth that feels almost prehistoric. The views along the trail offer a preview of what’s waiting at sea level: soft white sand, turquoise water, and massive limestone formations that wouldn’t look out of place in Avatar’s Pandora.

The beach’s most iconic feature is a towering limestone arch that splits the shoreline and perfectly frames the cliffs and ocean beyond. Its Māori name, Te Whanganui-A-Hei (“the great bay of Hei”), refers to a Polynesian navigator and spiritual leader who arrived in Aotearoa and claimed this bay for his descendants, recognizing its abundance and spiritual significance.

There are no services beyond the parking lot — except for a set of mid-trail toilets — so plan ahead and bring everything you’ll need for the day. It’s a bit of a journey, but the reward is one of the most unforgettable beaches you’ll ever visit. — Rulo Luna, photo editor

The Split near Caye Caulker, Belize

Photo: Aleksandar Todorovic/ShutterstockPhoto: Kelsey WilkingPhoto: JC Cuellar/Shutterstock

The Split is a narrow channel cutting through the middle of Caye Caulker, stretching about 180 yards across and connecting the north and south sides of the island. Legend has it that a fisherman first carved a path through the mangroves in the 1950s to improve boat access, and the channel was later widened by Hurricane Hattie’s damage in 1961. Since then, it’s evolved into one of Belize’s most iconic swimming spots. The sea-glass water is calm through the strait, bordered by white sand and anchored by the low-key bar The Lazy Lizard. Half-submerged plastic chairs, a jump-off platform, and weathered picnic tables make it easy to spend all day doing nothing. This is a place that invites you to slow down — something rare in a world that’s always rushing to be first in line. It’s not glamorous or pretentious, and it doesn’t try to be. And that’s the point. Like all favorite places, it’s how it makes you feel that sticks.

Outside of floating through the channel and sipping brightly colored cocktails, there’s plenty to explore within walking distance of The Split. Snorkel tours to the world’s second-largest barrier reef offer the chance to swim alongside lemon sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and schools of brilliantly colored fish. Just a barefoot walk away is Stingray Beach, where, unsurprisingly, rays glide right up to the shoreline for a gentle pet and a photo op. After sunset, take a seat at a picnic table at Wish Willy’s, where a local grills fresh conch in his backyard and serves cold beer from the cooler. For something more adventurous, book a night snorkeling tour to see the bioluminescent glow in the water and spot the after-dark activity of lobsters, octopus, and squid. — Kelsey Wilking, email marketing specialist

Miami Beach in Florida

Photo: Gino Santa Maria/ShutterstockPhoto: Sean Pavone/ShutterstockPhoto: Fokke Baarssen/Shutterstock

As a Miami Beach local, I think to myself “I already have this in my backyard” anytime I head to pristine beaches in the Caribbean. On a perfect beach day, Miami’s waters are crystal clear, with schools of fish darting to and fro — all set against a backdrop of Art Deco boutique hotels framed by swaying palm trees. The key is to catch that perfect day. A good start is avoiding the tourist crowds on weekends, holidays, and during annual events like Art Basel, Ultra Music Festival, or Spring Break. Try a morning bike ride on the boardwalk to spot a low-key area to lay your towel down and take a dip. — Keven Gungar, Matador Creators manager

Mission Beach in San Diego

Photo: Keven GungorPhoto: Spearhead Media LLC/ShutterstockPhoto: KishoreJ/Shutterstock

Time to visit: Anytime except winter
Atmosphere: calm, surfy, youthful, family-friendly
Best thing to do: go for a boardwalk stroll & watch the sunset

The most gorgeous sunsets I’ve ever seen were in San Diego. In Mission Beach, sunset-watching is a ritual. Families, friends, and couples nestle up on the beach or bike down the boardwalk to catch stunning solar hues. Beyond the sunsets, Mission Beach always feels like something out of an early 2000s music video: a quintessential American beach town with surfers on one side and beach volleyball players on the other, and kids racing off to the local amusement park, Belmont Park. The one catch is people don’t really swim casually in the ocean off Southern California the way they do in warmer waters like the Caribbean. If you’re someone who loves everything about “beach culture” except for actually getting in the water, then this is the kind of place for you. — KG

Tajiguas Beach near Goleta, California

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Growing up on the California Central Coast meant having no shortage of beaches to choose from any time of year. That said, the popular ones like Refugio, Avila Beach, and Pismo were always too popular — even 15 years ago before “overtourism” became a common term. Even Jalama Beach, tucked away behind a 30 minute windy drive on a small road with no service, had enough people that parking was a nightmare in almost any season. Tajiguas has built in crowd control that shot it to the top my favorite beach list then and now: just a handful of unmarked parking spots on the side of the Pacific Coast Highway, then a short hike past railroad tracks and down a cliffside that’s unfriendly to anything with wheels.

Tajiguas doesn’t have any facilities or infrastructure, and the sand is clean outside of the occasional pile of earthy smelling kelp (always pack out what you pack in). The waves and riptide can get strong, so swimming should be limited to people confident in the water, but the cold Pacific is refreshing on a hot day. Keep an eye out for gray, blue, and humpback whales that can be spotted from the shore depending on the season. At low tide, you can walk until your legs wear out. One side has rocks and a smattering of tidepools that lead to a wave break wall you can balance across — just keep an eye on the water. Speaking from experience, it’s a rough swim around rocks to get back to the sand below the parking area if you get caught by the encroaching high tide. Tajiguas isn’t a “hidden gem” or secret beach, but it does scratch the itch for anyone wanting a public beach that feels hyper-local and private. — Nickolaus Hines, managing editor

Güvercinlik Beach, Türkiye

Photo: Nickolaus Hines

I’ve made plenty of memories on the Mediterranean beaches of Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. Few stick with me as much as the the stretch of beach in the town of Güvercinlik in a small bay. I drove there from Istanbul on a family trip in early fall, and stayed at a stunning Airbnb with access to the water. During the hot days, I would take my toddler and jump off the dock into the refreshing water clear enough to see down to the sand more than 10 feet down (and all the fish in between the surface and sand). The water is calm enough for the most casual of kayaking most of the day. When we wanted a change of scenery, my wife and I would stroller our kid the short walk past the sand beaches and umbrellas to the strip of restaurants where we picked our locally caught fish from a pile of ice and ordered a bottle of Turkish white wine to leisurely sip at our own pace as the flood of meze filled the table before the main course. (Favorites included Balıkçı Hasan Restaurant 1985, Doy Doy Balık Restaurant, and Ziyafet Pide Recep Usta’nın Yeri.) Sunsets are as stunning as the sunrise, and the crowds are small and tend toward being more local. — NH

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Paris Cafes Charge Tourists More Than Locals, French Investigation Finds

Every country around the world has its stereotypes, but among Americans, one that seems to persist is the way Americans think of the French. The country’s fabulous food, world-famous landmarks, and sparkling Mediterranean beaches are perennial favorites for American travelers each summer. But despite this, the country has a reputation in American media for being less-than-welcoming to English-speaking travelers. The perception that the French (especially Parisians) look down on American travelers is generally a misconception based on different social norms. But one major French newspaper just complicated the conversation, announcing that its recent investigation found that some Parisian restaurants were regularly overcharging tourists—particularly Americans.

In July 2025, Le Parisien conducted a sting operation to expose hidden and unfair pricing in tourist restaurants, motivated by frequent complaints and mentions in reviews on social media platforms. In the investigation, two journalists visited the same unnamed cafes near the Eiffel Tower. One posed as a local Parisian, while the other dressed and acted like a stereotypical American tourist, complete with an Eiffel Tower T-shirt and baseball cap. Both ordered the same meal (lasagna, a Coke, and water), but received vastly different treatment and pricing.

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The “local” was given a small Coke for 6.5 euros and a free bottle of tap water, while the “American” was served a larger Coke for 9.50 euros and was only offered a paid bottle of water, not tap water. At a different restaurant, the bill for the “local” included a 10 percent service charge, while the American was incorrectly told service charges weren’t included and was asked to tip. When the “American” attempted to leave a 10 percent tip, the waiter changed it to 15 percent and covered the credit card machine’s screen so the customer wouldn’t notice. Across all restaurants, the “American” visitor was charged nearly 50 percent more than the local counterpart. Further reporting by The Telegraph found that waiters were actively instructed to treat local and foreign visitors differently, almost always at the expense of the international visitor.

These tactics sparked outrage from French dining professionals, with one restaurant owner calling the scams “a disgrace to the profession.” Still, it’s unclear how widespread the deception really goes, as the reporters didn’t mention how many restaurants they visited total. However, it’s not the first time in recent memory French establishments have been caught taking advantage of tourists: Earlier this year, several restaurants were found to be switching wines by the glass, serving cheaper wines when tourists ordered premium glasses.

The exposé highlights the need for travelers to be informed. Tourists should always ask for “une carafe d’eau” to receive tap water, double-check whether a service charge is included, and understand that tipping is not expected in France. The story underscores how cultural misunderstandings can be exploited for profit—and how awareness is the best defense.

How to avoid getting overcharged in France

You’re more likely to find fair pricing at restaurants at least a few blocks removed from major tourist attractions. Photo: PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

As with any country, most people in the tourism industry are helpful and friendly. The reputation that France is less welcoming is based on a few long-lasting cultural norms, both within the US and in France. For many Americans, anything seen as being fancy and European, such as the French language, can be misconstrued as being elitist or “snooty.” And in France, there’s more of a social norm toward privacy, formality, and personal space, which may feel standoffish to friendly and overly friendly Americans.

That means that in most cases, the perceived dislike of American travelers is more of a cultural clash than any kind of judgement against Americans (or anyone else). But as the newspaper investigation revealed, occasional scams can happen. Here’s what you can do to try to avoid getting overcharged.

Franck Trouet of a major French hotel and restaurant management group, told The Telegraph, “You should know that in France, water and bread are free. One can refuse a bottle of water. The tip is to express thanks for the service if one is very satisfied. Above all, it is not compulsory. This is not the United States.”Check if the service fee is included: In France, most checks have a 15 percent service charge called “service compris.” You don’t need to tip extra, though it’s okay to leave small change (one or two Euro) if the service is exceptionally goodAvoid restaurants near major attractions: Walking even two or three blocks from major tourist attractions will usually result in lower prices and more honest pricing. Cafes next to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, or Notre Dame will often have inflated prices (for locals and tourists alike)Look for menus with prices: French laws require that restaurants display menus with prices outside their entrances. If prices aren’t posted, or the waitstaff hands you menus without prices, that’s a bad sign and you should consider going elsewhere.If anything arrives unrequested, ask if there’s a charge.Always check the payment screen. Credit card machines are extremely common in France.Check the credit card machine: When paying by card, don’t let the server hide the screen. In some Paris restaurant scams, staff may add extra tips or items without your consent. Make sure to see the total amount on the screen before you tap or insert your card. More like thisTravel SafetyUS Gov't Warns Travelers to Look Out for These 5 Spring Break Travel Scams

Least-crowded beaches in Portugal

Half of Portugal’s outline is defined by the ocean. Spain sits to the east and north, sharing the Iberian Peninsula, while Portugal’s southern and western borders make one long scenic string of Atlantic coastline. There’s no shortage of beaches along this ocean-facing edge, yet it’s the same few that get swamped summer after summer.

The Algarve, way down south, bears the brunt of this seasonal tourism while the beaches closest to Lisbon get their fair share of traffic, too. In between, Alentejo’s coast is starting to get the recognition it deserves, while the beachgoing crowds up north by Porto vary. Whichever area you decide to call home while in Portugal, these are the beaches you need to know about — because not everyone else does.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Traveling to Portugal? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides: The Finest Hotels in Lisbon Within Walking Distance to All Major Attractions 14 Lisbon Airbnbs From Penthouses With Cathedral Views to Cottages in the Historic Center These Airbnbs Showcase the Best of Porto for Your Portugal Trip The 10 Dreamiest Islands in the Mediterranean, and Where to Stay on Each This Chic Hotel Brings a Dose of Luxury to Portugal’s Laid-Back Algarve This Portugal Resort Blends Wellness With Breathtaking Views

The Algarve’s lesser-known beaches

Praia da Bordeira
Photo: DaLiu/Shutterstock

Praia da Bordeira: A few minutes from Carrapateira, a village on the Algarve’s west coast, Praia da Bordeira is framed by the scenery of Costa Vicentina Natural Park. It’s a wide-open beach often passed over by sunbathers, though it’s a hit with surfers who seek out its wild waves. Coastal hikers also enjoy excursions to the Aljezur region’s beaches, including the roughly 45-minute hike south from Praia da Bordeira to Praia do Amado, which is even better known as a surfing beach that hosts international competitions.

Praia do Carvalho: Though small, Praia do Carvalho is surrounded by tall cliffs that give the beach a dramatic presence. It’s about 15 minutes south of Lagoa, a quiet town nestled between the Algarve’s most crowded destinations. Praia do Carvalho is rarely empty during summer, attracting cliff jumpers and snorkelers who live nearby, but it’s one of the few beaches located between Lagos and Faro that maintains manageable crowds when the weather heats up.

Praia da Salema: Salema is a small, secluded fishing village situated midway between Lagos, one of the Algarve’s busiest beach resorts, and Sagres, the region’s southwesternmost point. Praia da Salema is a half-mile-long Blue Flag beach, meaning it’s clean, clear, and swimmable for all ages. It stays calmer than most beaches in the Algarve but is not devoid of activity: fishermen hoist their boats ashore, selling their catches to waterfront restaurants. Families pitch umbrellas in the sand. Lifeguards monitor the beach all summer. And some even venture into the surrounding cliffs to track down the dinosaur footprints discovered there.

Where to stay

An Airbnb in Bordeira works well for anyone heading to the nearby beaches but wanting a base in the village itself. This four-bedroom stay ($232 per night) unfolds over staggered half-levels and has two rooms with their own terraces. It’s walking distance to a café, a lookout over the hills, and the market square where vendors stop during the week. Down by Praia do Carvalho, an opulent three-bedroom Airbnb in Carvoeiro ($329 per night) is about five minutes from the sand. It has a pool, garden, barbecue, and sits close to the Hanging Valley Trail. For a luxe hotel option near the southern coast, the W Algarve in Albufeira has both standard rooms and full residence-style suites, plus a rooftop bar, spa, and a pool deck where DJs play during high season.

Quiet beaches just outside Lisbon

Portinho da Arrábida
Photo: Kathia Tamanaha/Shutterstock

Praia do Portinho da Arrábida: Across the Tagus from Lisbon lies the South Bay, home to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park. Located within the park near the fishing village of Setúbal, Praia do Portinho da Arrábida is a small beach that remains relatively quiet, as it’s not accessible by public transportation. Come to swim, snorkel, or even scuba dive. Then, fill up on fresh seafood and hike around Arrábida. There are other beaches to discover, including Praia dos Galapinhos, as well as other secluded sunny spots perfect for a day outdoors.

Praia do Guincho: After Sintra, Cascais is the side trip most visitors to Lisbon are encouraged to take. The stretch between them belongs to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where you’ll find Praia do Guincho on the west end, just a few miles outside Cascais. It’s a well-known beach, having hosted several surfing, windsurfing, and bodyboarding competitions over the years, and it even appeared in the 1969 Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Far from a secret, this beach still manages to keep crowding to a minimum, attracting mostly water sports enthusiasts.

Praia da Ursa
Photo: Igor Tichonow/Shutterstock

Praia da Ursa: The minute you touch down in Lisbon, you’ll start getting recommendations for a day trip to Sintra. This picture-perfect town is located about an hour west by train, close to the coast and Cabo da Roca, mainland Europe’s westernmost point. Praia da Ursa is a stone’s throw from Cabo da Roca, though it’s not nearly as easy to access. Beachgoers need to strap on their hiking boots and scramble down a steep, winding dirt path to reach the beach. Once there, however, they’re rewarded with a quiet cove and stunning views of the Atlantic. Note that due to its seclusion, rumor has it some treat Praia da Ursa as an unofficial naturist beach.

Where to stay

If you’d like to stay near Portinho da Arrábida, this Airbnb perched above the bay ($1005 per night) places you high above the water, with panoramic views from nearly every room and a wooden chalet design that blends into the slope of the mountain. The house is accessible on foot or by a transport service that helps guests with luggage during check-in and checkout. Each of the four bedrooms faces the ocean, and guests consistently highlight the peaceful setting, the well-equipped kitchen, and the garden filled with fruit trees. It’s quiet and close enough to the beach to walk down for a swim. Or about an hour north, near Praia do Guincho, a three-bedroom home ($589 per night) sits between the sea and the Sintra mountains. The garden has a hammock, the terrace catches the afternoon light, and there’s a fire pit for relaxing evenings.

Porto’s off-the-radar beaches

Praia do Cabedelo
Photo: cantfindnickname/Shutterstock

Praia de Moreiró: About a half-hour’s drive north of Porto, Praia de Moreiró strikes a nice balance between being lively and low-key. Tourists have yet to descend on this rural beach, though it’s a popular choice among families. There’s not much in the way of amenities, but a beach bar at one end will keep you fed, relaxed, and with a drink in hand. You can rent an umbrella on the north side, but if you venture south, you’ll find a cluster of rocks that form a natural border and typically attract fewer sunbathers. Set up there for more peace and privacy.

Praia do Cabedelo: The farther north you travel in Portugal, the less likely you are to run into other travelers. Some of the wildest, most remote landscapes are located up north and are easily reached by car from Porto. Praia do Cabedelo is one example. The beach is about an hour from Porto in Viana do Castelo, one of the loveliest cities in the Minho province. It begins just across the Lima River and is enclosed by sand dunes and pine forests. Join the beach’s dedicated surfers or check out nearby campsites if you’re in the mood for a quiet, nature-filled weekend away. And before you go, be sure to explore neighboring Praia de Luz Mar, too.

Praia do São Pedro de Maceda: Another sweetly forested beach, Praia do São Pedro de Maceda sits roughly 40 minutes from Porto by car. It’s a rugged beach with big waves. Though lifeguards keep an eye on it during the summer, Praia do São Pedro de Maceda is better for water sports and beach hikes than it is for swimming. Some sunbathers visit to avoid tan lines, although the beach is not strictly for nudists. After a long day, wander around the charming nearby city of Ovar and grab a meal before heading back to Porto.

Where to stay

Near Praia do Cabedelo — where there’s a high concentration of rentals and an easy drive to other beaches along the coast — this three-bedroom Airbnb ($276 per night) sits just a seven-minute walk from the sand. The duplex has a private terrace for rinsing off or drying gear, and the layout works well for families or small groups: a mix of double, single, and bunk beds split across two floors, plus two bathrooms and a small kitchen if you plan to cook. A bit farther inland, a two-bedroom stay ($195 per night) in Viana do Castelo gives you quick driving access to Praia do Cabedelo, and other wild beaches up the coast. There’s space for five across two levels, and while it’s quieter than the duplex near the beach, you’re still within a short walk of restaurants and shops in town.

Underrated beach escapes in Alentejo

Praia da Samoqueira
Photo: LuisPinaPhotography/Shutterstock

Praia da Samoqueira: Not far from Porto Covo, which loosely neighbors Vila Nova de Milfontes between Lisbon and Lagos, Praia da Samoqueira was made for adventurers. It’s full of rocks to climb, hidden coves and caverns to explore, and tide pools well worth poking around. There’s more than enough sand to lay out a few towels, though you won’t have the shore to yourself — this is a local-favorite beach. Hike around the area to soak up the Alentejo’s rugged scenery, and don’t leave until you’ve found Praia da Samoqueira’s very own waterfall.

Praia da Franquia: Praia da Franquia stretches out near Vila Nova de Milfontes, a popular resort on the Alentejan coast. It’s a relatively busy area by Alentejo’s standards, but this is one of the quieter beaches, thanks to its position on the banks of the Mira River. The relaxed pace makes it a perfect spot for SUPs and canoes, as well as a top choice for families. Keep an eye on the tide, though, as the beach can feel somewhat crowded when the water inches up the shore.

Praia da Zambujeira do Mar
Photo: Ze Fontes/Shutterstock

Praia da Zambujeira do Mar: Access to both the coast and countryside is one of the best reasons to include Alentejo in your itinerary. Zambujeira do Mar is a small seaside town located within Southwest Alentejo and St. Vincent Coast Nature Park, which offers the best of both. Its namesake beach is Blue Flag certified and ideal for surfers looking to avoid long lineups. The beach’s clear waters and high-rise cliffs are no secret to Alentejo residents, but like much of the region, it remains free of most tourists all summer long.

Where to stay

Near Porto Covo, there’s a spectacular Airbnb overlooking a small natural harbor ($276 per night) sits just above the cliffs, a short walk from both the town square and the beaches that edge the Rota Vicentina. The two-bedroom apartment has ocean-facing windows in nearly every room and a wide terrace where you can hear the waves and watch fishing boats come and go. From here, it’s easy to reach Praia da Samoqueira and other coves along the nearby trails. In Vila Nova de Milfontes, a two-bedroom townhouse ($195 per night) is three minutes from Praia da Franquia and sits inside a quiet, four-house complex with a shared courtyard and small pool. The house has a kitchen and fireplace downstairs, bedrooms upstairs, and a few thoughtful extras — like beach towels and a breakfast basket on arrival.

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This 20% Off Wellness Escape in San José Del Cabo Is All About Stillness, Not Schedules

Tropicana Los Cabos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is bringing a new dimension to the Baja wellness escape In San José del Cabo’s historic Art District. Here, palm-fringed streets curve past galleries, haciendas, and sun-bleached courtyards. This and more can be reached for a bargain with Tropicana’s “Savor the Stillness” package. It’s less about itineraries and more about intention: a three-night, slow-travel stay that invites guests to reset rather than race.

Available for bookings through September 30, the offer includes 20 percent off a three-night stay (no more, no less) and includes roundtrip airport transfers and daily breakfast at El Patio, the property’s garden-side restaurant specializing in Baja-Mediterranean fare. Unlike typical wellness retreats, there’s no pressure to “opt in.” Instead, the property encourages guests to let stillness emerge naturally through yoga on the terrace, sound bath sessions with Tibetan singing bowls, or quiet mornings by the heated pool and jacuzzi.

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Opened to guests in late 2024 after a full reimagining of the 1956 Tropicana Inn, the 70-room boutique property retains its original hacienda architecture while introducing contemporary comforts: a six-seat craft cocktail bar overlooking Mijares Boulevard, an expansive wellness center with three massage cabins and a rooftop yoga deck, and thoughtful design elements nodding to regional craft and culture.

Accommodations range from Courtyard King rooms with pool access to Tropicana Suites with private terraces, artisan hammocks, and in-room bars. Amenities include 55-inch HDTVs, Nespresso machines, and complimentary high-speed internet, though guests are just as likely to spend their screen-free hours in the game room, work lounge, or shaded courtyard.

Photo: Tropicana Los Cabos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Dining is a central part of the experience. Cocina de las Californias celebrates the culinary heritage of the Baja and Alta Californias with dishes like machaca de langosta and San Francisco crab cioppino. Upstairs, Misiones Bar nods to Baja’s missionary past with herbal liqueurs and reinterpreted monk-inspired cocktails. El Patio serves a lighter menu, focused on wheat, wine, olive oil, and daily catch — which can also be ordered poolside.

Photo: Tropicana Los Cabos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Beyond the hotel, curated excursions through trusted partners allow guests to further unwind. There’s whale watching with Cabo Adventures (seasonally from December 15 to April 15), for example, or lounging in a private cabana at Veleros Beach Club with complimentary mocktails and food-and-beverage credits.

Photo: Tropicana Los Cabos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

But for many, the draw is simply this: a quiet, art-filled enclave just 20 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport, designed for travelers who’ve traded bucket lists for breathing space.

How to book: The Savor the Stillness package must be reserved between July 1 and September 30, for stays through September 30, 2025. Three-night stay required.

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