Expérience ultime

A recent comprehensive analysis has shed light on the most coveted coastal escapes across the United States, indicating a strong preference among American travelers for readily accessible destinations. The study underscores that while the allure of new landscapes remains potent, practical considerations such as travel duration and expenditure significantly influence vacation choices. This trend is particularly evident in the overwhelming popularity of beach towns offering a blend of natural beauty and visitor-friendly amenities.

Myrtle Beach Emerges as America's Premier Coastal Gem in Recent Study

In a compelling revelation from a recent PrivacyJournal report, the vibrant shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, have been crowned the most desired beach getaway by American residents outside its home state. This prestigious accolade, derived from an extensive analysis of 2025 search volume data spanning over one hundred prominent beach locations, spotlights a key insight into current travel inclinations: a strong inclination towards destinations that marry scenic beauty with convenient accessibility.

Mauricio Preuss, the Chief Executive Officer of PrivacyJournal, emphasized this fascinating trend, noting, “It’s truly remarkable how even when Americans venture beyond their state borders for beach vacations, the emphasis remains on ease of access. This suggests that while the pursuit of novel experiences is a significant driver, the practicalities of travel time and associated costs continue to play a pivotal role in their decision-making.” The rigorous methodology employed by researchers involved scrutinizing commonly searched keywords linked to specific beach locales to gauge interest levels from out-of-state residents.

Myrtle Beach's preeminence as the top choice for an impressive eighteen states, particularly resonating with travelers from the Northeastern states including Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Vermont, is hardly a surprise. Its strategic location along the East Coast, coupled with its long-standing reputation as a beloved beach community, positions it as an ideal retreat. The area boasts an iconic boardwalk, a plethora of attractions extending beyond its sandy expanses, and a breathtaking sixty-mile stretch of coastline, offering an abundance of recreational opportunities for every visitor.

Beyond Myrtle Beach, the study further identified other highly sought-after coastal havens:

1. Clearwater Beach, Florida, captivated visitors from nine states.
2. Virginia Beach, Virginia, secured its spot as a favorite for eight states.
3. The picturesque Cannon Beach, Oregon, drew significant interest from six states.
4. Orange Beach, Alabama, rounded out the top five, being the preferred choice for four states.

These findings collectively paint a picture of a travel landscape where practicality and the promise of a well-rounded vacation experience guide the choices of discerning travelers seeking their next sun-soaked adventure.

The findings of this study offer valuable insights for both travelers and the tourism industry. From a traveler's perspective, it reinforces the notion that convenience and a diverse range of activities are paramount when planning beach vacations. It encourages individuals to consider destinations like Myrtle Beach, which consistently rank high due to their accessibility and abundant offerings. For the tourism sector, this report highlights the importance of promoting not just the natural beauty of a location, but also its logistical advantages and the variety of experiences it provides. Investing in infrastructure that enhances accessibility and developing comprehensive visitor experiences can significantly boost a destination's appeal. Ultimately, understanding these preferences allows for more effective tourism strategies and helps travelers discover their ideal escape.

Indonesia, a sprawling archipelago of over 17,000 islands, boasts an unparalleled collection of coastal wonders. While Bali has long captivated visitors with its charm and vibrant culture, countless other islands offer equally, if not more, stunning stretches of sand and sea. This report delves into seven extraordinary beaches scattered across Indonesia, each promising a unique and unforgettable encounter with nature's pristine beauty.

A Journey Through Indonesia's Mesmerizing Coastlines

For those seeking to explore beyond the popular shores of Bali, a world of pristine beaches awaits in Indonesia. A seasoned traveler, deeply familiar with the archipelago since 2014, shares an exclusive insight into some of the most captivating coastal retreats, many of which remain wonderfully off the beaten path.

On the enchanting island of Lombok, located a short distance from Bali, lies the exquisite Mawun Beach. This secluded haven, a mere 15 to 20-minute drive from the bustling tourist village of Kuta, presents a horseshoe-shaped bay framed by gentle hills. The waters here shimmer with an electric turquoise hue, almost luminous, contrasting beautifully with the soft, powdery sand. Visitors to Mawun are often greeted by local children, who charmingly offer freshly cut pineapples and mangos, adding a touch of authentic island life to the serene landscape. Nearby, the Pullman Lombok Merujani Mandalika Beach Resort offers a comfortable stay for those wishing to explore this idyllic area.

Further southeast, on the tranquil island of Sumba, a dramatic coastal spectacle unfolds at Mbawana Beach. This secluded gem, a stark contrast to Bali's developed tourist hubs, can be reached after an hour's journey from the elegant Cap Karoso resort, featured in Travel + Leisure's 2024 It List. The journey itself is an adventure, passing through cornfields where local communities prepare traditional 'nasi jagung' (rice with corn), before a rewarding descent down a steep cliff. To fully appreciate Mbawana's otherworldly rock formations and expansive sands, a visit during low tide is highly recommended.

The Komodo National Park, famed for its ancient inhabitants, also hosts one of the most visually stunning beaches in the world: Pink Beach (Pantai Merah). Its striking rose hue is a natural marvel, created by microscopic fragments of red coral mixing with the white sand. Accessible primarily by boat, a trip to Pink Beach is often part of a larger excursion from luxurious accommodations like Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, or Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach on Flores. These tours also offer the thrilling opportunity to encounter the legendary Komodo dragons, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and wildlife adventure.

Near Padar Island, a lesser-known but equally spectacular destination exists: Padar Kecil. This hidden jewel, so secluded it's virtually unsearchable online, offers an unparalleled beach experience. During a recent voyage on the luxurious phinisi charter Vela, the captain expertly navigated to this pristine spot, allowing guests to disembark into crystal-clear, topaz-hued shallows. The unbelievably soft, shallow sandy bottom provides an ideal setting for swimming and unwinding, while the beach itself feels like a private, undiscovered paradise, perfect for a leisurely picnic amidst breathtaking panoramic views after a 40-minute hike up Padar Island.

Also on Sumba, the legendary Nihiwatu Beach, part of the world-renowned Nihi Sumba resort (a T+L World’s Best Hotel), offers an iconic spectacle. Beyond its private surfing waves, the beach is famous for its wild horses—sandalwood ponies and other majestic equines—that freely roam, frolic, and even bathe in the shallow waters each afternoon. This unique interaction between man and nature provides a truly awe-inspiring backdrop to any beach day, with the unforgettable option of horseback swimming for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

For the adventurous spirit, Suwehan Beach on Nusa Penida, a separate island accessible by fast boat from Bali, presents a challenging but rewarding journey. A 20-minute stair climb leads to this postcard-perfect scene, where radiant aquamarine waters are cradled by towering cliffs and a distinctive conical rock formation graces the bay's center. Morning visits during lower tides are ideal for optimal lighting and enjoyment. Nearby Atuh Beach, with its own impressive 166-stair descent, offers similar dramatic scenery.

Finally, in the remote Anambas archipelago, the private island eco-resort of Bawah Reserve is home to Coconut Beach. Among its 13 untouched beaches and sparkling lagoons, Coconut Beach stands out for its raw, unspoiled perfection. Guests must hike to reach this north-facing shoreline, but the effort is richly rewarded with blindingly white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush mangroves. This secluded paradise is perfect for private picnics, offering an unparalleled sense of escape and natural serenity.

These Indonesian beaches, each with its unique charm and allure, beckon travelers to explore beyond the familiar and discover the true, untamed beauty of this remarkable island nation. From dramatic cliffs and vibrant pink sands to wild horses and serene, hidden coves, Indonesia's coastlines offer an endless tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be experienced.

As a journalist and avid traveler, encountering these hidden coastal marvels across Indonesia has been nothing short of transformative. It reinforces the idea that true beauty often lies beyond the well-trodden paths, in places that require a little more effort to reach but offer immeasurable rewards. The raw, untouched landscapes, combined with unique cultural encounters, remind us that the most profound travel experiences are often found in authentic discovery. It's a powerful invitation to embrace exploration, step out of our comfort zones, and connect with the world in its most pristine and captivating forms.