For fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the sun and sand, consider these underrated beach destinations around the world.

Many Canadian travellers are ditching the typical overtourism spots and searching for flights to underrated beach destinations. Whether you choose San Sebastian over Barcelona or Fort Lauderdale over Miami, these beach destination dupes offer fewer crowds and more immersive experiences.

Fort Lauderdale offers a comparable coastal experience to Miami but at a more appealing price point and with less tourism congestion. Located an hour north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale offers the same warm Atlantic waters, vibrant nightlife, and expansive beachfront, but at a more easygoing pace than Miami.

Whether you’re in town for a bachelorette party or for a family beach vacation, Fort Lauderdale is an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the sunshine. Find a hotel with a swim-up bar, or head down to one of the many wide stretches of sandy beaches. Explore Las Olas Boulevard, a 4km walkable stretch between the beach and downtown that's lined with boutiques, cocktail bars, and waterfront restaurants.

Cancun is a long-running travel favourite for Canadians and handles the highest proportion of tourism to México, but Puerto Vallarta is a close second. Located in the Jalisco state along the Pacific Ocean, Puerto Vallarta offers amenities similar to those in Cancun, including exotic beaches and boutique hotels and hostels at more budget-friendly rates. Several major Canadian cities offer direct flights to Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta offers easy access to outdoor experiences showcasing the tropical landscape, where exotic jungles and the Sierra Madre mountains meet the Pacific coastline. Check out Colomitos Beach, take a boat tour to Yelapa, or join a surfing day camp in the nearby town of Sayulita. When you’re not day tripping, spend your afternoons exploring the mercados in the Old Town and sampling tacos, esquites, and fresh ceviche.

Bonus: Puerto Vallarta is considered México's LGBTQ+ capital, especially in the Zona Romántica neighbourhood, and it hosts an annual Pride celebration every May.

While Mykonos and Santorini dominate social media feeds and travel wish lists, lesser-known Greek islands offer a quieter and more affordable experience. Consider islands like Naxos, Paros, or Milos, where you’ll still find crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches, and whitewashed villages without the overwhelming crowds or inflated tourist prices. These islands provide an authentic experience, with boutique accommodations, local tavernas, and scenic beaches.

Spend your days swimming in secluded coves, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying long, leisurely meals by the Aegean or Ionian seas. Ferries make it easy to island-hop, so you can explore multiple destinations in one trip.

If you’re drawn to Barcelona but want fewer crowds, San Sebastián offers a refined alternative along Spain’s northern coast. Known for its world-class food scene, this Basque city has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants and pintxo bars. Wander through the Old Town to sample small plates, then take in panoramic views from Monte Igueldo.

Featuring a promenade along the white sand, La Concha Beach is widely regarded as one of Europe’s best urban beaches. Throughout the year, travellers can enjoy fireworks displays, festival stages, and regattas.

We know we just sent you over to Fort Lauderdale a couple of paragraphs ago, but this one is for the family travellers out there. If you’re looking for a Florida hotspot for a fun summer vacation that’s even more affordable than Fort Lauderdale, check out the historic coastal city of Melbourne. No, not the one in Australia.

Melbourne offers nature escapes and parks, like Turtle Creek Sanctuary and Archie Carr Wildlife Reserve. Since Melbourne shares the sandy Atlantic coastline with Fort Lauderdale and Miami, you can expect the same balmy weather but for an even better price point.

To get here, you can fly into Orlando or whichever airport is cheapest. Then, rent a car to get to Melbourne.

The Hague may not be the first place that comes to mind for a beach vacation, but its coastal district, Scheveningen, offers a refreshing alternative to more crowded European seaside destinations. Located along the North Sea, this underrated European beach destination combines an 11km sandy shoreline with a lively boardwalk, beachfront cafes, and a historic pier. In addition to sunbathing, many travellers try out surfing, sailing, and kiteboarding during their stay.

As a political and cultural center of the Netherlands, The Hague offers world-class museums, art exhibitions, and Gothic and Art Deco architecture. Visitors can easily transition from a morning at the beach to an afternoon exploring galleries or dining in the city center. The cooler climate makes it ideal for long walks, cycling, and relaxed seaside dining.

For those seeking an off-the-grid beach experience, El Hierro is one of Spain’s most secluded destinations. Part of the Canary Islands, El Hierro is less developed than its neighbouring islands, and it offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, clear seas, and an emphasis on sustainability.

El Hierro's rugged beaches are more often made of lava rock than soft sand, creating natural swimming pools and diving spots. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it ideal for eco-conscious travellers interested in hiking and snorkelling in mostly untouched areas.

Feeling inspired? Start planning your beach vacation 

Travelling somewhere under the radar is better for your wallet and gives you the opportunity to explore somewhere new. Get inspired by these underrated beach destinations—start looking for flight deals and plan your next beach escape.

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