Sometimes, it can feel like, for Aussies, we’re a world away from some of the coastal retreats. But, trust us, despite it being a slightly longer journey on the plane than for most of the rest of the world, the journey to some of the coastal holidays we know you’ll love is more than worth it.
So, don’t let the flight time put you off. Let the dream of heavenly coasts and follow our guide on where Aussies should go for their next beach escape.
Portugal
Portugal is the perfect location for Aussies. There’s sun, sand, and surf – isn’t that the Australian coastal vibe?
But Portugal has something Australia lacks. The European style of taking it easy and, where possible, leaving everything to the next day. Living life in the slow lane, you can’t help but feel at peace, whether you’re relaxing around your Villa Comporta before a day of relaxing on the pristine Praia de Comporta or exploring the colourful streets of Lagos. And that’s not to mention the mouthwatering Mediterranean food – that’s enough reason alone to make the 28-hour trip (on average).
Bali
Bali to Aussies is like Spain is to Brits, or Mexico or the Dominican Republic is to Americans. You definitely don’t have to travel as far as you do to Europe to get there from Australia, and we don’t need to tell you how stunning the coastline is.
From Canggu to Seminyak, Bali is a paradise. And a relatively inexpensive one, no matter where in the world you’re travelling from. Despite the prices increasing since COVID, the cost of people here is still a few dollars for authentic Asian cuisine that will knock your socks off.
Once your socks are off and you’re ready for the beach, we’d recommend Uluwatu Beach for surfing and Seminyak for the beach clubs and relaxing. And don’t forget to stay for a Bintang and the sunsets. Kuta Beach is one of the best spots for the experience.
Mexico
Mexico is still a fair distance on a plane, 18 hours on average, but you can’t go wrong with the authentic tacos and margaritas that await you. The Yucatán Peninsula is the best area to stay. Here, you’ve got everything: Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum, Isla Holbox, and Isla Mujeres.
Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres are two stunning locations that take the meaning of ‘tropical paradise’ to another level. Incredibly white sands kiss breathtakingly blue, clear Caribbean waters.
Greece
Greece is a dream that wakes you up with a salty whiff of wind and a table that groans under olives, feta, and tzatziki.
If you want turquoise seas with a side of ancient history and Greek charm, then Greece is where your next holiday ought to be. Yes, the flight is around 22 hours, but once you are in Santorini and see the sun setting behind those blue-domed houses, you’ll wish the flight had never happened.
In short, Greece offers you layers (and not just of tzatziki and hummus dip). One moment you’re on the quad bike in Naxos with the sea to your side, but the next moment you’re discovering history inside the grounds of a monastery carved into the side of a cliff. And don’t even get started on the food. Basic, fresh, unforgettable. Consider grilled octopus, hot pita bread, and wine that was quite likely made just up the road.
If you’re after beaches, then you have Mykonos (Glyfadi is one of the best). If you’re after tranquillity, you have Milos. If you’re after a dash of both, then Crete’s your place.
The world is full of coastal escapes calling out to Aussies. And though the flight might be long, the memories are longer. You’ll bring back more than just souvenirs – you’ll carry moments, tastes, and scenes that stay with you forever.
