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Oceanfront Vacations You Don’t Want to Miss
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Kapalua, HI
Located on the northwest shore of Maui, Kapalua is a secluded oasis that offers visitors world-class accommodations as well as the splendor of Hawai’i’s pristine nature and rich cultural history. With the spirit of aloha, the Maui community has come together, welcoming travelers back to this corner of paradise. Tucked neatly in between the nearby beaches and bays and the many hiking trails leading back into the West Maui Forest Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is your gateway to an immersive stay in Maui. Head west and spend a day on Kapalua Beach, named “America’s Best Beach” in 2018, or head east to nearby Honolua Bay, home to winter waves that attract surfers from around the world and crystal-clear summer snorkeling, renowned as some of the best in Maui. Hike along the coast and discover spots of serenity, like the Kapalua Tide Pools and the Kapalua Labyrinth, or take on a challenge with the 20-mile round trip Mahana Ridge Trail that winds through the verdant terrain of the mountains and leads you to Maunalei Arboretum.
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort Val Des Pitons Forbidden Beach, St. Lucia
Tucked between a lush rainforest, St. Lucia's only white sand beach, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed valley of the Pitons, Sugar Beach is one of the best places to rest your head in the Caribbean. Set on 100 acres of pristine rainforest that was once a sugar plantation, this tropical getaway is a great place to sit back and relax and enjoy your very own slice of island paradise. Each room is equipped with a four-poster bed, plunge pool, custom furnishings, a butler to tend to guests' every need, and spectacular views of the volcanic spires that make up the Pitons jutting up from the pristine waters of the bay. Spend a day in Soufrière, a nearby historic town with plenty to see and do, like visiting the botanical gardens, hiking nature trails, and seeing natural wonders like waterfalls and hot springs. Indulge in Creole specialties, Asian-inspired bites, or a tasting menu at one of the onsite restaurants. Experience true bliss with a trip to the Rainforest Spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, before making your way down to Sugar Beach where you can simply lie out and tan or try out fun activities like sailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
Any experienced traveler will tell you, staying directly on the beach is an experience like no other. At Inn by the Sea, a slice of eco-luxury nestled on the sandy shores of Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, you’re right there, waking up to the sound of crashing waves. With a few accommodation options ranging from romantic to family-oriented, you’ll always be comfortable, and the on-site Sea Glass restaurant serves New England classics made with fresh ingredients alongside panoramic water views. A full-service spa and private beach cabanas complete the stay—it’s great out here.
Nestled amongst the beautiful sands of Waikiki Beach and Kapi'olani Park, Twin Fin Hotel is the perfect choice for a Hawaiian surf vacation that won't break the bank. The hotel is a playful nod at Hawaiian aloha life, with custom artwork on display throughout the hotel that pays homage to the area’s surf culture, including painted surfboards and a large-scale video wall streaming live surf conditions around the island. For the ultimate surf experience in the birthplace of surfing, catch a wave with the pros at the Jamie O'Brien School of Surf at Twin Fin, Waikiki’s premier surf school. After a day out on the water, retreat to your room featuring mid-century modern design with surf references throughout, as well as private step-out lanais, most of which look out onto the ocean and iconic Waikiki Beach.
Located in stunning Playa del Carmen between Cancun and Tulum, Viceroy Riviera Maya offers a luxurious and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens and pristine white sands, this adults-only resort offers spacious villas with private plunge pools and outdoor showers. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining experiences, relax in the tranquil spa, or simply soak up the sun on the beach. With the resort only a few miles away from the shops and nightlife of Playa del Carmen, there’s no shortage of entertainment to fill your days. Those looking to learn more about the rich history of the Yucatan Peninsula can book excursions to explore ancient Mayan ruins and UNESCO world heritage sights nearby. With its stunning natural beauty and impeccable attention to detail, the Viceroy Riviera Maya is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a much-needed escape from the everyday.
