Our specialists make regular trips to the best beach destinations around the world, returning year after year so they can find the quietest stretch of sand, the best spot for a sunset view and hidden coves for snorkelling. Our travel guides are the result of these visits, written from our specialists’ first-hand experiences. We hope they help you get the most out of your trip, whether you’re looking for a private island where you won’t see another soul or a great location for diving among tropical reefs.
Using our guides to spark your imagination, you could start planning a trip that sees you island-hop in the Caribbean, enjoy a truly private honeymoon in the Maldives or discover a sunny, sandy destination somewhere you didn’t expect.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our destination specialists
Our beach specialists regularly travel to discover new experiences and explore untried areas. They love nothing more than sharing their ideas and experiences to help you plan your ideal beach holiday. We've written these travel guides based on our own first-hand beach experiences to help inform and inspire your next trip.
Travel Index — best winter sun destinations
Discover the best winter sun destination for your lifestyle. Read the full winter sun travel index here to help you decide your next travel destination.
Head to head: Mauritius VS The Seychelles
World renowned as idyllic beach escapes, these two Indian Ocean islands are quite distinct: here's how to choose between them.
Head to head: Zanzibar vs Mauritius
Zanzibar and Mauritius are both popular options for those who want time on the beach to unwind after a safari. But there’s more to these destinations than just sun and sand. Discover which one is best for you.
Honeymoons in Tanzania
Tanzania offers a variety of private, secluded experiences, which make it a stand-out honeymoon destination. Country specialist, Georgia, explains how you can combine time on safari with relaxation on a palm fringed beach in Zanzibar.
Honeymoons in Mexico
Famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise sea and Maya ruins, Mexico makes an ideal destination for your honeymoon. Plan your trip with Audley and we'll recommend the most suitable accommodation to make your stay a memorable one.
Malaysia family holidays: exploring Peninsular Malaysia
Malaysia specialist Katie explains why she feels Peninsular Malaysia is an ideal destination for a family holiday, recounting her own journeys there. She pinpoints some of the best experiences for children, from jungle quests to inner-city adventures.
Where to go in the Seychelles
Beach specialist Savina explains why you shouldn’t limit yourself to just one base, in this island-by-island guide to the Seychelles. If you extend your reach, there’s trekking on Silhouette, turtle encounters on Denis Island and long walks along Cote D’Or Beach, just for starters.
Best beaches in Indonesia
Indonesia has so much to offer: history, culture, scenery and diverse wildlife. After seeing so much, you might want to end your trip relaxing on an idyllic beach. We look at some of the best beaches in Bali and Lombok.
Summer honeymoon ideas
Summer honeymoon hot spots include Canada, where you can explore the national parks and spot grizzly bears; Tanzania, when the great migration of the herds is at its peak; and Indonesia, home to over 17,000 islands.
Mumbai and Goa: An Indian trip of contrasts
Goa’s relaxing beaches are a welcome contrast after spending time exploring chaotic Mumbai, according to our India specialists Nick and Louisa. They share their experiences including waking before dawn in Mumbai and delving into south Goa’s secluded beaches.
French Polynesia honeymoons
Country specialist, Lisa, offers her expertise on getting the most out of your honeymoon in French Polynesia. Swim in clear lagoons with manta rays, stay in an overwater bungalow and take a guided walk in a rainforest.
What to do in French Polynesia: our highlights guide
See our recommendations for what to see and do in French Polynesia, from which food you should try to the best hotels to stay in.
What to do in Saint Kitts and Nevis: our highlights guide
Our Caribbean specialists have put together some of their top places to visit and things to do on the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Highlights include hiking on Saint Kitts, following the Nevis heritage trail, and exploring Brimstone Fortress and Basseterre.
Spring honeymoon ideas
Spring is a great time to tour South Africa and its Winelands, combine beach time with activities such as diving and whale watching in French Polynesia, or head to Malaysia for secluded islands, white sand beaches and culture.
What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide
One of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, Costa Rica attracts nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. Country specialist, Nik, picks out some of the country’s highlights, from white-water rafting to wildlife spotting in the cloudforest.
Luxury holidays in the Maldives
Opulent hotels, indulgent spas, world-class dining, crystal-blue waters and white sand beaches — Audley’s Ludo explains what makes the Maldives a top luxury destination. As an avid diver and snorkeller, he also discusses the island’s thriving coral reefs and exceptional water sports.
Honeymoons in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a small island, yet for its size it offers a remarkable array of attractions from ancient temples and grand colonial cities to diverse national parks and powder-soft beaches. For honeymooners, that means lots to see and do as well as plenty of time to relax between destinations.
Honeymoons in Mozambique
A tailor-made honeymoon in Mozambique not only allows you the chance to relax on white-sand beaches, it also offers you the opportunity to snorkel and dive among kaleidoscopic fish, visit timeless fishing villages, and toast the sunset aboard a traditional dhow.
Luxury holidays in Thailand
Our Thailand specialist Harriet has had the tough job of vetting some of Thailand’s most luxurious properties and exclusive experiences. Sharing her expertise, she’s picked out some of the best, including a sojourn in a 100-year-old rice barge and time in an opulent tented jungle camp.
Family holidays in the South Pacific
A warm Pacific island welcome and laid-back atmosphere, combined with reefs and lagoons to explore, and traditional bungalow-style accommodation make the South Pacific an ideal location for a family holiday.
Luxury holidays in the Seychelles
A tropical idyll known for its luxurious hotels, the Seychelles can leave you wondering where to start. A true sybarite, Hidden Beaches specialist Vicky has hand-picked island retreats where your experiences can range from tailor-made spa treatments to private helipad dining.
Honeymoons in Mauritius
Audley Mauritius specialist Lucy explains what makes this the ideal honeymoon destination. White sand beaches and superb hotels make it the perfect place to unwind and relax. You can also combine your honeymoon in Mauritius with a safari.
Choosing your ideal South Pacific Island
A cross-island guide to the South Pacific. Drawing on their own experiences, our travel specialists discuss the lure of French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, Fiji and Samoa with the aim of helping you decide which island is right for you.
The Great Barrier Reef: find the right experience for you
The Great Barrier Reef is somewhere we’ve all pictured, but your experience there can vary depending on where you stay. Australia specialist Louise shares her favourite spots to help you find the right option for you.
The best beaches in Mexico and Central America, country by country
Thinking of including some beach time in your Central America trip? We outline the best beaches in each country and why we’re especially drawn to them — whether it’s for their sand, their snorkelling, or their ambiance.
Honeymoons in Thailand
Combine culture, beaches and delicious food on a honeymoon in Thailand. We can advise on the best places to stay and how to make your visit extra special depending on your interests and preferences.
What to do in Indonesia: our highlights guide
Active volcanoes, exotic wildlife and outstanding beaches; the Indonesian archipelago has so much to offer. Spend time with the Taroja people and discover their traditions or explore the many Buddhist temples.
What to do in the Maldives: our highlights guide
Dive with turtles and whale sharks, take a dolphin cruise, and find out where to stay and eat some of the best seafood the Maldives has to offer. Maldives specialist, Francesca picks her favourite things to see and do when visiting this collection of islands in the Indian Ocean.
Cambodia's best beach holidays and island resorts
Lauren from our Cambodia team shares five of her best-loved Cambodian beach and island resorts. From luxurious to eco-friendly, she explains what resonates with her about each beach and suggests the best activities and places to stay on each island.
Discover the real French Riviera
Look past the super yachts and movie stars to discover the authentic French Riviera. Stroll through hillside villages that overlook the Mediterranean, tour a century-old perfume factory and discover the paintings that Picasso produced while staying here.
The Top End: 3 essential experiences in Australia’s Northern Territory
Stay in a luxe Outback lodge-cum-working cattle ranch, boat through red-rock canyons, try Indigenous dot painting and view Australia’s finest rock art in remote Arnhem Land — all experiences that lead you into the true heart of Australia’s Northern Territory.
What to do in Mauritius: our highlights guide
Mauritius is renowned for its sand-rimmed lagoons and cobalt-blue seas, but head inland and you can trek volcanic mountain ranges, explore painted temples and spot rare wildlife. Mauritius specialist, Natalie Jenkins, shares her knowledge of the island.
Autumn honeymoon ideas
As the weather starts to turn, feel Morocco's warm glow on a honeymoon in Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains. Enjoy a wildlife honeymoon in Borneo, home to orangutans, or travel to Japan as the maple trees turn it gold and red.
Honeymoons in Fiji
Plan your perfect honeymoon to Fiji with Audley. Discover some of the beautiful beaches and properties on offer and how you can make your honeymoon in Fiji extra special.
What to do in Saint Lucia: our highlights guide
Arguably the most beautiful of all the Caribbean islands, Saint Lucia is a vibrant cultural melting pot of European and African influences.
What to do in St Vincent and the Grenadines: our highlights guide
Our Caribbean specialists choose their top things to see and do on a trip to St Vincent and the Grenadines. Highlights include exploring Bequia and St Vincent, sailing to the Tobago Cays, staying on a private island and walking the coastal path on Union Island.
Honeymoons in Brazil
Plan your perfect honeymoon to Brazil. Country specialist, Tom, picks some of the country’s highlights, from exploring the Brazilian Amazon and spotting wildlife in the Pantanal to spending time on Brazil’s beaches and experiencing Iguaçu Falls.
Santorini to Nafplio: The best Greek islands, beaches, and coastal towns
Greece’s many islands and seaside towns offer a plethora of options for you to choose from: hiking, sailing, kayaking, exploring ancient excavations or just lolling on a glamorous beach under the Aegean sun. Greece specialist Laura explores five sunny, coastal destinations.
What to do in Grenada: our highlights guide
Utterly charming and laid back, Grenada is known as the ‘Isle of Spice’. This little island at the southern tip of the Grenadines is an alluring balance of lush rainforest, sparkling waterfalls and powdery white beaches.
Honeymoons in Malaysia
Southeast Asia specialist Jess shares her suggestions for a honeymoon in Malaysia that balances private-island relaxation with history, wildlife-spotting in the jungle, and the buzz of city life.
Honeymoons in Myanmar
Myanmar is not your archetypal honeymoon destination but that's why you should consider it. An Audley tailor-made Myanmar honeymoon will leave you with lingering memories of stunning temples, smiling faces and a wonderfully laid-back way of life. It also has some beautiful beaches.
Luxury holidays in Malaysia
Fine-dining in a cave, private cooking classes, and your own geothermal hot spring... Malaysia specialist Robert shares his suggestions for the most comfortable stays and exclusive experiences in the country, from inner-city Kuala Lumpur to the beaches of Langkawi.
Family holidays in Mauritius
Plan your family holiday in Mauritius with country specialist Natalie. Her highlights include snorkelling in Blue Bay National Marine Park, trying the activities on offer in Casela Nature and Leisure Park, and spotting wildlife in the Vallée de Ferney.
Winter honeymoon ideas
Swap the harshness of winter for long sunny days on a joint honeymoon to the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Thailand's beaches stand out at this time of year but are matched by the culture you'll experience inland.
Palm-fringed paradise: honeymoons in the Maldives
The Maldives might just be the honeymoon destination you’ve been dreaming of. With some of the world’s whitest sands, clearest waters and most extravagant hotels, it’s an obvious choice, but not all islands are created equal. Hidden Beaches specialist Vicki picks her top honeymoon islands.
A seasonal guide to Mauritius
When to sample the sweetest fruits, surf a reef break or swim in the calmest waters. We share our insights into the best times to visit, whether you’re interested in the natural world, seasonal food or water sports.
Honeymoons in Malawi
Whether you want fine beaches, luxury accommodation, activities galore or good safari opportunities on your honeymoon, Malawi offers all of this and more. Our country specialists have also hand-picked a number of exquisite properties for you to choose from.
Boutique hotels of the Caribbean
You can opt for an intimate experience in the Caribbean by staying at boutique properties. Hidden Beaches specialist Annabel picks out some of the best hotels, from a cocoa plantation in Saint Lucia to one of Nelson’s beloved spots on Nevis.
Where in the Caribbean? Our island guide
Caribbean specialist and former resident Ludo has sailed across the archipelago. In this guide he explains why each island is distinct, helping you to choose your ideal Caribbean getaway. Explore the historic Nelson’s Dockyard on Antigua, eat in one of Barbados’s fine-dining restaurants or escape to a private island in the Grenadines.
Self-driving in Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its powdery beaches and swaying palms, but the islands of this tropical archipelago have much more to offer. One of the best ways to experience Hawaii away from the crowds is on a fly-drive tour, giving you the flexibility and freedom to immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Aloha state at your own pace.
What to do in Hawaii: our highlights guide
There’s more to Hawaii than just beaches, according to USA specialist Gillian. With six main islands to discover, you can spend your days exploring ever-changing volcanic landscapes, snorkelling with manta rays, taking a helicopter flight over cliffs, and soaking up the Polynesian culture.
Touring in the Caribbean: trips to get you out of the resorts
Known for beach holidays, the Caribbean is often overlooked as a multi-stop destination for wider exploring. Caribbean specialist Annabel picks out her top three trip ideas to give you an idea of what’s possible, if you want to get beyond your resort.
Belize honeymoons: ideas for exploring the rainforest, ruins and reef
Travel specialist Leticia shares her ideas for the best places to honeymoon in Belize, Central America’s only English-speaking country. She suggests focusing on exploring the rainforest, Maya ruins and the barrier reef, before relaxing on the beaches of Ambergris Caye.
What to do in Bali: our highlights guide
With beaches accessible only through caves, and Hindu dances at cliff top temples, Bali is characterised by the spirituality of the people and the variety of cultural and environmental experiences it has to offer.
Honeymoons in the Seychelles
White sandy beaches and crystal clear waters where you can snorkel with turtles and tropical fish make the Seychelles an ideal choice for a honeymoon. Seychelles specialist, Hannah, highlights some of her top places to stay, what to see and do, and the possibility of including a safari in Africa.
Family holidays in the Seychelles
Though a popular honeymoon destination, don’t overlook the Seychelles for a family holiday. Hidden Beaches specialist Jack explains why he wants to encourage families to explore these tropical islands.
Thailand's best beach holidays and resorts
The beaches of Thailand have always been alluring to travellers. We highlight some of the best beaches (and where to stay on them), all of which you can incorporate as a relaxing end (or start) to your journey in Southeast Asia.
Asia's best city & beach combinations
Twin a beach stay with time in a city and you’ve got a trip of real contrasts. Asia’s mix of high-rise metropolises and swathes of beach lends itself to some particularly intriguing combinations. Our Hidden Beaches specialists have chosen their top coastal locations to pair with Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong.
The best luxury holidays on Mauritius
Mauritius’s pearl-white beaches are backed with luxurious hotels, where the restaurants are world-class and nothing’s too much trouble. Our specialists have come together to suggest the best of the best, from a pampering spa retreat to a laid-back boutique stay, from a destination that’s popular among the Audley team.
What to do in the British Virgin Islands: our highlights guide
Experience the highlights of the British Virgin Islands including Tortola Island, Virgin Gorda and Guana Island. Our Caribbean specialists look at spending time on a private crewed yacht, wreck diving, and exploring old pirate trails.
What to do in the Seychelles: our highlights guide
Although renowned as a honeymoon destination, the Seychelles offers a wonderful beach break experience for both families or those seeking to unwind with that little bit of extra luxury in mind.
What to do in Antigua: our highlights guide
Antigua is best known for the many beautiful beaches that line her shores, as well as the islanders' fondness for cricket. There are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as diving and sailing. Here we highlight just a few.
From beach to beach: island-hopping in the Indian Ocean and Caribbean
Sail around the Caribbean, catch a local ferry in the Seychelles or watch the Maldives spread out below on a scenic flight. Our beach specialists reveal how journeying between islands is as interesting as the destinations themselves, and suggest their top island-hopping combinations.
In-depth Barbados: best experiences beyond the beach
Though it’s known for its bright-blue waters and soft-sand beaches, there’s more to Barbados than Caribbean pleasures, says our specialist Annabel. You can eat with the locals on Friday night, wander in a botanical garden and discover its rum-soaked colonial history.
What to do in Thailand: our highlights guide
To travel to Thailand and only see the beaches is to miss a magical and enthralling experience. This guide delves more deeply into what you can see and experience in this diverse country.
Luxury holidays in Borneo
Southeast Asia specialist Shannon explains how to thread luxurious experiences through a trip to Borneo. From personally guided wildlife tours to jungle lodges with spas and private plunge pools, she shares her top recommendations.
Vietnam's best beach resorts
Bounded by the warm South China Sea, Vietnam’s sandy beaches are equal to any in the region. Add to this a range of sophisticated beach resorts and the scene is set for a quiet break in understated comfort. Vietnam specialist Mark picks his best of the bunch.
Which island? An Indian Ocean comparison guide
Deciding between the Indian Ocean’s Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius can be a challenge. Our specialists compare the trio in this guide, concentrating on what sets each destination apart, as well as tips for couples, honeymooners, families and those eager to snorkel or dive.
