Unusual bucket list beach destinations: Reunion Island

With the summer months coming to a close it is time to start dreaming of next years’ beach holiday. It is all to easy to head back to the same destination year on year, as one of the most difficult components of booking a holiday is finding the inspiration of where to head to next. After all, beaches come in all shapes and sizes, but how many of them leave us with a truly magical experience?

The first beach you need to experience is Reunion Island, a remote island located between the equally idyllic Madagascar and Mauritius. The main beach is volcano-made in the town of Piton Sainte-Rose, which was created in the 70’s when the Piton de la Fournaise volcano erupted. The sand is black and green in colour with the green deriving from ground up precious gems, called olivine, in the rock. The best time to visit this well kept secret is between May and June, where you can expect temperatures of between 26°C and 28°C.

A little closer to home, with only a 3 hour flight time, is the remote beach of Isola dei Conigli or “Rabbit Island” situated 105 miles away from mainland Italy. This beach is for those who really want to escape everyday life for a while and experience the tranquillity of breath-taking crystal clear water and super soft sand. The island is protected dues to the loggerhead sea turtles that lay their eggs here and if the tide is permitting you may even catch a glimpse of them.

Feeling slightly adventurous for your next trip? Then Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is definitely one to consider. Here you can take a leisurely cruise or hop in a helicopter for a ride over its limestone formations and floating villages, but the bay is also perfect for diving, snorkelling, kayaking and a whole host of other water sports. For the explorers out there this bay is littered with deserted coves for you to get stuck into.

Commenting on unusual beach destinations around the world Naomi Wilkinson of Travel Republic commented “The world is peppered with breathtaking beaches that are unfortunately often over-looked, whether it is long-haul or a little closer to home, we can guarantee there is a beach out there that will stir a little curiosity beyond the norm.”