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It sounds “too good to be true”, right? No big resorts... miles of remote beaches... turquoise water... no crowds. The coastline of Cambodia is truly a tropical paradise! There are signs that things are changing, but today Otres Beach, just outside the Cambodian town of Sihanoukville, is untouched by commercial tourism. The beaches are empty and clean. Decent marijuana can be purchased legally (although the law is grey in this area as it is only legal to consume and NOT smoke!) at a number of hip bungalow bars set up along the beach. Drinks are cheap and very easy to come by, and your toes never have to leave the sand. Everything is rustic here, but there is a lot of charm in the dozen establishments along this remote stretch of beach on the Gulf of Thailand. The roads are still dirt. It’s off the beaten path. Air-conditioning is pretty much nonexistent here, and even electricity is hit or miss. Some describe the vibe here like Thailand 20 years ago before tourism was that country’s biggest industry. It’s what all of us beachcombers are looking for, and I found it at Otres Beach, Sihanoukville, Cambodia!

North Florida’s beaches hardly get the attention of those farther south or on the Gulf of Mexico. But there’s a lot to love about this laid-back surf community just north of St. Augustine’s busy historic district. The beach’s steep drop-off makes little waves jack up nicely, so Vilano is a favorite with surfers—especially on the incoming tide, when the waves are best. And Porpoise Point, on the southern end of the beach, is a great place to cast a line into the surf and fish. Facilities at the beach include parking, showers, pavilions that can be rented for gatherings, and picnic areas.

The Redwood National and State Parks cover 139,000 acres, which can be a lot of ground to cover. Hit up these highlights to find the tallest trees, greenest groves, and best beaches.

The islands off the coast of Panamá—white-sand beaches, hammocks rocking between palm trees, clear emerald waves lapping the shore—are the stuff of vacation fantasies but, in truth, are dangerously close to your reality. Head offshore and take off your shoes. You’ve discovered the undiscovered.

The best strips of sand under the Caribbean sun are the ones less traveled. The ones away from the throngs of tourists and all-inclusives. Here are a few of my favorite secluded beaches throughout the West Indies.

Here’s your chance to ride on a hands-free Segway, where you can tour the boardwalk on a 30-ft promenade over three miles long. The Hollywood Beach Boardwalk is one of the best beachfront paths. You’ll see all kinds of restaurants, the gorgeous emerald waters of the Atlantic, and plenty of locals. You’ll pass historic hotels, volleyball courts, and shuffleboard players. You’ll hit top speed going north for a full mile. The wind hits your hair as you cruise the intracoastal waterway going south. It’s truly the best way to fly across the boardwalk.

Nazaré is a colorful fishing village with an awesome view from the Sitio of Nazaré, up on the cliff and reached via an 1889 funicular. Admire the traditional costume of fishermen and women, with their colorful shirts and petticoats. Another bright element is the small beach cabanas, striped and colorful. And enjoy the fresh fish!

Located in southwestern Greece, Messenia sits on the beautiful Ionian Sea, with a rich history stretching to the bronze age. Visit to experience a more authentic side of Greece, with impressive ruins, pristine beaches, and cultural activities like olive harvesting.

Located in southwestern Greece, Messenia sits on the beautiful Ionian Sea, with a rich history stretching to the bronze age. Visit to experience a more authentic side of Greece, with impressive ruins, pristine beaches, and cultural activities like olive harvesting.

Located on seven-mile-long Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach is precisely the sugar-sand playground you come to Florida’s Gulf Coast to enjoy. Named among the best in America, the beach is long and wide, making it perfect for a stroll or bike ride—especially at low tide. Vendors here sell everything from umbrella and chair rentals to parasailing adventures and eco tours. There are also accommodations, including hotels, inns, and small, family-run motels to fit nearly every budget.

Every Thursday evening from 6-9pm there is a “happening” in Downtown Jensen Beach on Jensen Beach Boulevard. Local artists display their works, jewelry is laid out, chainsaw sculptures are available, there are hats, clothing, household goodies, soaps, candles, and many more choices for you to select. While you peruse the offerings, bands are playing and the lines for the local restaurants are long. (Try CrawDaddy’s (New Orleans style) or Mulligans). Don’t forget to end the evening with an ice cream from Jan’s or Baskin Robbins at Dunkin’ Donuts. Other places to eat would be Peter’s Steak House, 11 Maple Street, Kona Cafe. Jensen Beach is a small Florida town and Jammin’ Jensen gives that “old Florida” feeling. There are many regulars when I go to Jammin’ Jensen but the “snow birds” really enjoy the fun and entertainment, too. The weekly “Jammin " makes Jensen Beach a fun spot. Kids young and old love it. Try it some Thursday night.

Most travelers kick off their Thai adventure in the country’s capital, Bangkok, an exhilarating place where tradition and modernity collide. Away from the big city, Thailand supplies the whole spectrum of travel experiences. The country’s north offers mist-shrouded mountains, its south some of the world’s best beaches. With beautiful landscapes, amazing food and friendly people, the “Land of Smiles” continues to capture the hearts of visitors.

The name Punta Cana conjures images of endless white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, seaside sundowners, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe. What many folks don’t realize, however, is that there is also plenty to explore, and that nearby Bavaro is a hub of activity.

Forget about generic buffets and cheesy nightlife options, or destinations solely located in a region’s tourist zone. Today’s best all-inclusive resorts can be mega but still feel intimate—thanks to fine dining restaurants with a la carte menus and perks like designer fashion shows and top shelf liquor. Our list also highlights some less traditional, boutique picks both on and off the beach, offering eclectic and exclusive all-inclusive adventures.

How to spend one week in Jamaica? Combine the west and south coasts for an ideal first timer’s look at the island. Start with the white sands of Negril, bathe in nearby rivers and waterfalls, and continue on to the charming Jamaican fishing villages of Treasure Beach before arriving back in Montego Bay.