Posted: 05/03/20235,118 Views

If you’re planning to take a beach vacation this summer, you aren’t alone. The desire to enjoy some fun in the sun while overlooking blue waters and taking in the sea breeze make beaches one of the most popular summer holiday destinations.

But maybe you’re looking for something beyond just white sands, lounge chairs, and surf lessons. If your tastes are a bit different than standard beach fare, consider one of these interesting beach destinations instead. 

Dune of Pilat, France

Not all beaches are flat ribbons of sand. The Dune of Pilat is the tallest sand dune in all of Europe, stretching over 100 meters above the water below. From these heights, you can enjoy dramatic long-range views of the water and the surrounding forests. However, keep in mind that this dune is visited by over two million tourists annually, so it can get quite busy. Luckily, Bordeaux is just 38 miles away, so you’ll have plenty of other attractions to experience.

Glass Beach, California

You won’t want to go barefoot on this beach, as the “sand” is actually broken glass. The beach was once a dump site for garbage, and was closed in 1967. A major cleanup effort began in 1998, and Glass Beach today is a major tourist attraction in Northern California. Of course, the highlight is the beach’s namesake. It’s made up of thousands of broken glass bottles, rounded by the surf over a period of decades. Just don’t try to take any souvenirs home, as removing glass from the beach is prohibited.

Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico

It’s hard to get much more picture-perfect than Flamenco Beach. The lush vegetation gives way to a perfect cove with white sands and turquoise waters in a quiet lagoon. What makes this beach interesting is why it has remained so undeveloped. It’s a former gunnery range for the US military. Don’t worry; all of the ordinance was removed long ago, but you can still find an old Army tank rusting away in the sand.

Yyteri Beach, Finland

It’s understandable if you don’t think of Finland when you think of beaches. However, the waters of the Baltic Sea are actually quite warm in the summer, and the sand of Yyteri Beach is as soft as a pillow. Spend a day surfing and paddleboarding here, or explore the surrounding pine forests. It might not be your main reason to visit Finland, but it can be a welcome summer vacation surprise for sun lovers.

Amanohashidate, Japan

This two-mile-long sandbar forms a thin strip of land across Miyazu Bay in Kyoto Prefecture. With a name that translates to “Heaven’s bridge,” Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s three scenic views; the most celebrated sights in the country. Over 7,000 pine trees dot Amanohashidate, with white sand and blue water on each side. While most tourists simply walk the length of the sandbar towards other attractions, do yourself a favor and spend some time here. It’s an incredible geographic wonder that has been revered for centuries. 

Beach Vacation Travel Insurance

While we all hope that your beach holiday will go off without a hitch, Murphy’s law can sometimes come along for the ride. You need to be prepared for any mishaps with proper travel insurance.

Sometimes, you can’t even make it to the beach before vacation woes strike. An extenuating circumstance could leave you canceling your trip. But what about the money? You’ve already paid for your flight and hotel room, and these charges aren’t refundable. Will you be forced to pay for a trip you can’t take? Not with travel insurance. It can reimburse you for eligible prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason.

Did you know?

Prices are regulated by law.

You cannot find a lower price anywhere for the same product.

Why buy insurance from us?

One stop shop.

Instant Quotes & Purchase for Student, Travel & Visitors Insurance.