Sandy beaches, crystal blue waters and sunshine… what more could you want on a long haul escape?
Adult-only escape, Mauritius
Embark on a long-haul venture to Mauritius and fly direct to the eastern coast of Africa to explore lush landscapes and immaculate white beaches.
The 800-metre high mountains and forests in the island’s interior are home to some of the world’s rarest animals – you can spot geckos and tropical birds in Poste Lafayette National Park. The island is also surrounded by one of the largest unbroken barrier reefs in the world, so the scuba diving opportunities are on a par with the Maldives.
Stay at the adults-only Veranda Paul & Virginie from £1156pp for seven-nights, all-inclusive, flying from Heathrow in March 2025 with britishairways.com
Totally tropical Puerto Rico
Looking to ditch the morning frost and soak up some rays? Head to the Caribbean for a dose of Vitamin D. Nicknamed the ‘Island of Enchantment’, Puerto Rico is a tropical paradise, bursting with natural beauty.
In Culebra, head to Flamenco Beach, known for its crystal blue waters lined with miles of white sand. Switch the beach for the colourful capital of San Juan where you can explore the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fort built on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
Stay at the Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza Hotel, from £1,159pp for seven nights, room only, flying from London Heathrow in February 2025 with travelbag.co.uk
Gorgeous Goa
Baga Beach is one of Goa’s most popular, with beach shacks and vibrant nightlife, while Palolem Beach offers a more laid-back retreat and a stunning view – ideal if you want to escape from the bustle of the busier resorts.
Away from the beaches, Anjuna Flea market has handicrafts and souvenirs, or Dudhsagar Falls is one of India’s tallest with a four-tier cascade.
Stay at the Resort Lagoa Azul for seven nights, bed and breakfast, from £986pp, departing Manchester airport in January 2025 with tui.co.uk
The sunshine state, Florida
It's not all rollercoasters and Mickey Mouse in Florida! Pensacola is a hidden gem and thriving coastal city along the Gulf Coast in Northwest Florida that offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich history and fabulous culture. It has two islands – Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key – which are the ideal setting for beach time, swimming or water sports, such as paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling.
For culture vultures, America’s First Settlement Trail is a must. Local cuisine is a hot mix of Cajun spice and home cooked southern soul food that will tantalise your taste buds.
Stay at the Pensacola Beach Resort, from £1,399pp for seven nights, room only, flying from Heathrow in February 2025, with haystravel.co.uk
Explore Sri Lanka
Sea turtles, river safaris, Buddhist temples and beautiful gardens await you on a long-haul beach holiday to Sri Lanka. This 11-night escape to Kalutara Beach, staying at the Tangerine Beach Hotel, ensures you get to experience the local culture while relaxing and enjoying the laid-back lifestyle on offer against a backdrop of palm trees and blue skies.
The bespoke itinerary includes visits to a bustling fish market and cooking demonstrations, the beauty of the Kalutara Temple, and a lazy river cruise on the Madu River, searching for exotic wildlife.
11 Night all-inclusive holiday from £1499pp, including transfers, excursions and return flights from Gatwick in May 2025, with justgoholidays.com