Luxury escape: 5 incredible beach destinations and when to visit them

By MiNDFOOD

Seminyak, Bali at sunset
Seminyak, Bali at sunset
Planning a luxury escape that involves vitamin sea and D? Here's where you need to go and the best times to visit.

We all like a luxury escape now and again, and what better way to indulge than by leaving behind the demands of daily life and heading to sunnier climes. It’s not often that affordable and luxury go hand in hand, but the clever travel experts at Booking.com have done some calculations, cross-referencing pricing data with genuine guest reviews, to create a curated list of dreamy beach destinations along with the most affordable time of year to visit.

So whether you want to fill your days with activities or simply lounge on the sand soaking up vitamin D, there’s a luxury escape to a beach that’ll allow to forget your worries and slip into holiday mode.

Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia

Seminyak is a dream for travellers who want the beach experience but also want the opportunity to stay outside of resorts and immerse themselves in a more secluded atmosphere. Easily the most fashionable part of Bali, Seminyak has a wealth of hip dining spots, boutique shops, spas and art to accompany its beautiful beaches.

Where to stay: While there are plenty of villas to choose from, we recommend Villas Sabbia due to its proximity to the beach and relaxed vibe.

Best time to visit: If you’re travelling on a budget, try Seminyak in the fourth week of January. Although it’s technically winter, the average temperature is still 26°C and prices are 59% lower than in summer.

Luxury escape: Bali

Ao Nang Beach, Thailand

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular budget beach destinations and it’s not hard to understand why. Thailand’s beaches are all beautiful but Ao Nang epitomises serenity, allowing travellers to relax in calm bays enclosed by cliffs.

Where to stay: Try Railay Village Resort and Spa for the ultimate relaxing experience, ending each day in a private villa with an on-site restaurant and spa.

Best time to visit: For the best deals throughout Ao Nang plan your escape to Thailand around the second week of May, with average prices 61% lower than they are in the most expensive week of the year.

Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Gold Coast is a quick 3-hour flight from NZ, making it an extremely accessible and affordable destination. The most celebrated area is Surfers Paradise, known for its eclectic energy and bustling beaches, a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment. Gold Coast offers a unique opportunity to have an entire holiday experience within one destination, offering shopping and dining alongside beaches, amusement parks and beachfront markets.

Where to stay: If you want to stay right on the beach, head to Burleigh Beach Tower Resort, or venture a little further to relax away from the action at Ruffles Lodge and Spa.

Best time to visit: The first week of June brings sunny and dry weather, but most importantly a 50% reduction on the compared to the most expensive week of the year.

Luxury escape: Gold Coast

Playa de las Americas, Canary Islands, Spain

If you’re looking for somewhere lively to spend your beach break, Playa de las Americas is the place to be. Whether you’re spending the day at Siam water park, hitting the Los Christianos Beach bars or taking the plunge at Aqua-Marina dive center, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Where to stay: Unsure where to stay in such a bustling spot? Try Europe Villa Cortes GL for the perfect retreat after a long day, with luxurious rooms and all the amenities you could wish for.

Best time to visit: The most affordable time to go is the first week of June, with prices 55% cheaper than peak weeks. 

Luxury escape: Canary Islands

Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is a small island in the central Philippines, famous for its crowd-pleasing beaches and resorts. While White Beach is the tourist hub of the island, boasting views straight out of a postcard, those seeking a quieter experience will love Diniwid Beach. 

Where to stay: For a luxury escape on a budget try Monaco Suites de Boracay, offering stunning views of the southeast coast from an outdoor infinity pool.

Best time to visit: The most affordable time to go to Boracay is early December when prices reach as low as 50% of what they are during peak season.

Looking for a wellness luxury escape? Try one of these 10 radiance-giving getaways.

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