Beaches that break the mould

Unexpected coastal landscapes, seaside activities and marine adventures

As we shrug off the winter blues, our dreams turn to seascapes and coastlines. At Travellers’ Tales we have uncovered stunning locations across the globe.

Solar Eclipse Summer - Iceland

Iceland is known for the ethereal black sands of Reynisfjara. This dramatic landscape includes sea stacks rising from the ocean, basalt towers and legendary crashing waves. Another iconic Icelandic beach is Breiðamerkursandur – known as the diamond beach. Here, broken shards of iceberg are spread over the volcanic sands, creating a dazzling display. In winter, explore ice caves by the beach. In summer, hop on a boat tour amongst the seals. 

On the 12^th of August 2026 a total solar eclipse will be visible in Iceland, and with the low light pollution it will be more brilliant than ever. Being closest to the point of maximum eclipse means you will get the longest possible viewing time here, too. Enjoy an astronomical experience at the edge of the world this Summer.

Desert Dreaming - Namibia

Namibia is known for its spectacular, unique coastline with the desert meeting the sea on the Skeleton Coast. Travellers’ Tales will arrange quad biking in the sand dunes and exploring shipwrecks in the surf.

Spot flamboyances of flamingos at Walvis Bay, watch whales and dolphins from Pelican Point and kayak with the seals. Head inland to Etosha National Park for a classic safari experience. Namibia truly has it all.

Sandbar in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the ultimate destination: culture-rich cities, stunning natural scenery, epic wildlife and beautiful beaches. Visit the tea plantations of Ella and spot wildlife in Yala and Udawalawe National Park. Sri Lanka’s south coast is filled with small beach towns rich with tradition. The stilt fishermen of Koggala rise from the shore, stood on tall stilts fishing in the waves. It is an iconic image, and here you can even take part.

One extraordinary beach is the sandbar of Nilwella. At low tide, a sandbar connects Nilwella to Blue Beach Island and provides 360-degree ocean views. Lesser known to most visitors to Sri Lanka, our Sri Lankan guides will share more local secrets and hidden places to explore.

Dive into the Maldives

Your Sri Lankan tour could extend to the ultimate beach location: The Maldives. St Regis Maldives is a seaplane ride away from Malé, with the journey taking you high above a turquoise and golden archipelago of islands.

Land gently onto the sea to a warm welcome at your overwater villa.

Explore the coral reefs which teem with marine life and dive by day or night with the marine biologist.

 Maldivian beaches are known for bioluminescence, when at night-time plankton emit a glow as the waves break and your footprints sparkle on the wet sand.

Our Inspiration

Esteemed photographers have captured classically beautiful beaches across the world, from Australia to the USA, many featured in Gray Malin’s Coastal. A unique maritime photography collection is Chris Burkard’s The Oceans, showcasing more remote locations and coastal communities globally.

Everything comes together in Wish I Was Here, a series of interviews with acclaimed coastal photographers around the globe alongside their images and personal travel recommendations, from the best surf spots, to where best to view a pod of whales, their favourite beachside restaurants and more.

Books at Travellers’ Tales serve as a reminder to protect the beaches, coastlines and oceans of our precious planet. Our travel adventures will help you see the best of them.