9 Active Beach Vacations: Thrills & Sun

Family at the beach, mother, father and daughter playing, running on the shore, dressed in colorful tropical outfits
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These active beach vacations are perfect if you crave more than lounging on a beach chair all day. While beach vacations often involve indulging in drinks and relaxation, plenty of activities allow you to stay active and make the most of your destination. Engaging in hiking, biking, snorkeling, and various water sports keeps you fit and healthy during your vacation. It allows you to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and offerings of your beach destination.

To help you plan your active getaway, we have curated a list of nine incredible beach destinations worldwide that cater to outdoor adventure enthusiasts. From yoga retreats in Bali beach towns to thrilling over-water rock climbing in Thailand, from scenic hiking in Acadia National Park to exciting jet skiing in Costa Rica, these destinations offer a perfect blend of beach bliss and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you prefer the laid-back surf town of Todos Santos in Mexico or the majestic landscapes of St. Lucia in the Caribbean, there’s something for every adventure seeker.

Canggu, Bali

Aerial panorama of the Canggu beach , Bali, Indonesia
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Let’s start with Canggu in Bali, one of the newer beach towns known for its healthy eating, vibrant surfing culture, and various yoga retreats. Immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings of Canggu and enhance your well-being at The Practice Bali. This renowned yoga studio offers transformative training to strengthen and restore your body. Discover the perfect balance of relaxation and invigoration in this beach paradise.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Hidden waterfall surrounded by green trees, vegetation, rocks, leaves floating on green and clear water, Catarata La Cangreja, Rincon de la Vieja National Park,  Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Photo by Max on Adobe Stock

On the northwestern coast of Costa Rica, Guanacaste Province welcomes visitors with its stunning beaches and vibrant water sports culture. Dive into a world of excitement as you indulge in thrilling activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and diving. For the ultimate active beach experience, look no further than the W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal resort. This exceptional property seamlessly combines an active lifestyle with a happening nightlife scene, ensuring the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation during your stay. Prepare for an unforgettable beach getaway filled with exhilarating water sports and memorable moments.

Todos Santos, Mexico

Massive beach near Todos Santos, Mexico
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Head to Todos Santos in Mexico for an unforgettable surf experience. This charming surf town boasts excellent beaches ideal for swimming and snorkeling, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Whether beginner or experienced, Todos Santos offers fantastic surf lessons and opportunities to ride the waves. Regarding accommodations, boutique hotels like San Cristobal Hotel and Paradero Todos Santos provide a delightful blend of comfort and style, ensuring a memorable stay in this surf paradise. Embrace the vibrant surf culture of Todos Santos and create lasting memories in this idyllic beach destination.

Acadia National Park, Maine

acadia national park in bar harbor, maine
Photo by Elena Zarubina on Adobe Stock

Embark on a domestic adventure and discover the wonders of Acadia National Park in Maine. This pristine national park offers an array of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. With over 150 miles of scenic hiking trails, Acadia National Park provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes. Iconic routes like Cadillac Mountain and Gorham Mountain await your exploration. After a rewarding hike, unwind and soak up the serenity of picturesque beaches like Seal Harbor and Echo Lake. Acadia National Park truly combines the best of both worlds. It offers thrilling adventures and tranquil beach moments, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.