Tag: beaches

The best beaches in the Southwest

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When the sun is shining and the air is still and warm, where do you dream of being? Me, well I dream of being at a beautiful beach, soaking in the sun on the sand, getting that sun kissed tan that so many people crave to have then cooling off in the ocean. Fishermen may dream of casting a line and getting a personal best catch off the beach, a mighty big pink snapper or several whiting perhaps. When the conditions are right surfers may want to rush off from their daily grind and catch a few waves or perhaps you’re not interested in getting wet and simply just want to enjoy the views and hope to catch a glimpse of some marine life thriving and living wild and free.

No matter what your hopes and anticipations are, here in Australia’s Southwest you will find there is more than 1000km of awe-inspiring coastline with a significant number of bays and beaches that will help you make your beach dreams come true. Here’s my list of some of the best beaches in the Southwest.

Fishery Beach, Orcas Bremer Bay

This one is for the wildlife enthusiasts, have you ever heard about the Bremer Bay Killer Whales? Let me tell you a bit about them. Killer Whales otherwise known as Orca congregate 20 nautical miles offshore from Bremer Bay. You can join a tour from January – April with Naturaliste Charters who are the founders of what is called the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale (Orca) Expeditions. The expeditions are 8 hours long and depart from the Bremer Bay Boat Harbour, which is located at Fishery Beach, Bremer Bay. Not only is Fishery Beach a good location to join a tour but you can find some people fishing off the wharf and swimming in the beach. Fishery Beach is a 10–15-minute drive from the Bremer Bay town centre.

Busselton Foreshore, Busselton

Busselton Foreshore is an amazing hub for all, it is just a small stroll from the Busselton town centre and is home to Busselton’s newest brewery Shelter Brewing Co. The foreshore also hosts a great restaurant The Equinox, or if you are after some fish and chips to enjoy on a picnic table or one of the many great grassed areas then the Beach Shack also has a great menu. However amazing eats is not what this place is known for, it is the view of the world-famous Busselton Jetty, the white sand, turquoise water and a swimming zone with shark nets in place that helps make this place as phenomenal as it is. You will find families enjoying the chill atmosphere down on the foreshore, as well as professional athletes training, it is a destination for all and worth the visit.

Elephant Rocks and Green Pools

Elephant rocks and Green Pools are located within a few hundred metres of each other down on the Denmark coast. Elephant rocks are just like the name suggests, it’s a cove full of rocks that look just like elephants! Not only can you enjoy the view from above, but you can also make your way down the staircase into the cove itself, here you will find a nice stretch of sand to lay your towel out and head into the water for a refreshing swim!

Once you have finished admiring the Elephant rocks it’s time to make your way over to Green Pools which is just a ten-minute walk away. Green Pools is a must-see destination and is one of Western Australia’s most iconic beaches. It is famous for its turquoise green water, white sand and the large granite boulders that surround it. These boulders are ideal, it protects the bay from some of the harsh conditions that the Southern Ocean can provide making it an enjoyable destination for swimming for everyone including families. There are many varieties of fish here at Green pools including zebrafish, leather jackets and sea stars making it an ideal location for snorkelling. Both Elephant Rocks and Green Pools are easy to access, you only need a 2wd.

Hamelin Bay – Margaret River Region

Ok so Hamelin Bay ticks a few boxes, wildlife, fishing and swimming. Hamelin Bay has become quite famous for…. Sting Rays! Something you wouldn’t quite expect but it is a spectacle to experience at least once in your life. During the summer months when the Indian Ocean is calm, the seaweed has been cleared and you can expect to find many Sting Rays close to shore, generally between 9-10 in the morning, or later in the afternoon as the fishing boats arrive back in. The Hamelin Bay Sting Rays have a reputation of being friendly and curious and it is nice to be able to get a closer look at them by heading in the water, but it is always best to proceed with caution and please remember they are a protected species so please treat them with respect.

Some great fishing can be had in Hamelin Bay, you can either head out on your boat or cast a line from the shore. When fishing from shore the usual catch normally consists of herring, whiting and skippy, when fishing from your boat a bit further offshore you may be able to land yourself a dhu fish, pink snapper, queen snapper, kingfish and more! Just be sure to check out the local fishing regulations and don’t take more than your legal limit.

Which slice of paradise will you choose?

Australia’s Southwest is the region to visit for your dreamy beach day and how amazing that unless you are joining a tour you can experience all these slices of paradise for FREE! Whether you are in Bremer Bay Whale Watching, looking at Sting Rays with amazement, making out shapes of elephants out of rocks, or enjoying a locally brewed beer on the Busselton Foreshore just be sure to indulge in the fact that you are at one of the best beaches in the mesmerising Southwest.

Top Travel Ideas If You’re Flying Solo

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Are you a singleton looking for a great adventure without necessarily having to recruit friends or family to tag along? Or maybe you really want to get away but can’t find anyone to go with. If you’re like most people who are single and travel, you probably have noticed by now that when you try to get a group of friends or family together, inevitably people begin to drop out one by one until it’s only you still left standing, heading out on the road solo anyway. Maybe you’re through with all that and you’re ready to hit the highway on a cool singles trip to meet new friends along the way. Check out these hot holiday ideas for solo travellers like yourself.

Backpacking

There’s nothing like heading out on an extended trip backpacking while solo. It’s no secret that you meet far more travellers and people when you’re travelling on your own than with a friend or a group. Backpacking holidays are likewise a great idea if you don’t have a timescale or a really solid plan. Many people choose several countries that are near to each other by land and just take off for anywhere from three to six months. Popular areas include South East Asia, South America and often working holidays in the likes of Canada, Australia, New Zealand or working for NGOs in Africa.

Ski Holidays

Do you love the powder, the rush, the adrenaline of shooting down the slopes at speed while the icy cool wind blows across your face? Well, a singles ski holiday might just be what you’re looking for. You can book a singles ski holiday to many different resorts through Europe, a great option if you’re planning to travel solo as there is often no single supplement when you book a singles specific holiday. That means you can spend more on going out and meeting other solo travellers, or going on excursions, taking on activities and more.

Cruises

Cruises are a great idea for solo travellers, especially shy and unsure travellers as the cruise company takes care of almost literally everything. All you have to do is show up on time to things like meals, excursions, shows and other events. Everything you could possibly need and more is found on board the ship and so you can rest easy knowing everything is being taken care of for you so you can spend more time on the top deck relaxing in the sun or enjoying the scenery as it passes by.

Beach Fun

Solo beach holidays sound like they could be boring, but nothing is further from the truth. When you book a singles beach holiday you will be in the same area as other solo travellers, meaning you can meet new, great people to hit the sand with. What could be better than hanging out with new friends, sharing a picnic on the sand and going on new and wonderful excursions together, creating memories to last a lifetime?

So there you have a couple of fantastic suggestions and ideas for great holidays that you can enjoy solo. Who ever said you must definitely have friends along for the ride when you can just meet the friends as you go? Sometimes it’s better that way anyway! So what are you waiting for? Get those bags packed and hit the open road.

White Sand And Blue Sea – What To See And Do In The Maldives

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The Maldives – just the name conjures up images of white sand beaches, turquoise blue waters that stretch on for as far as the eye can see and decadent coconut drinks, all enjoyed simultaneously as you kick back on the vacation of a lifetime. Sounds pretty fantastic, doesn’t it? But aside from beaches, what else is there to do in the Maldives? A surprising amount you will be excited to know! Here is a roundup of some of the island’s most favourite, famous and enjoyable activities and excursions that will have you beaming from ear to ear as you while away your days in this exotic island locale. We can almost guarantee that after reading this you will be rushing off to book your ultimate Maldives holiday.

Beaches

This one probably goes without saying, but beaches are probably the biggest draw as to why people come from around the world to visit the Maldives. With stretches of white sand beaches that seem to go on for miles coupled with the seclusion that some of the country’s most remote islands provide it’s no wonder that this is one of the most ideal locations for honeymooners looking to get away for some alone time. The beaches all across the Maldives offer both white sand and turquoise seas, almost reminiscent of those images conjured up by such classic tales as ‘Treasure Island’. One of the most popular activities for visitors to any of the islands in the Maldives is to arrange a private picnic on one of these secluded beaches, usually available from your hotel if you ask. Aside from picnics, the beaches in the Maldives are generally ideal for just kicking back with a good book and sunbathing with the occasional dip in the beautiful waters of the Indian Ocean to cool off.

Sunset Cruises and Other Boat Trips

Nothing quite beats the feel and experience of taking a traditional Maldivian boat, known as a Dhoni, on a sunset cruise over the open Indian Ocean. Watch as the turquoise of the waters and the white of the sand give way to twilight shades of oranges purples and deep hues of pink. If you’re lucky, you may catch the sight of a pod of dolphins swimming alongside your boat. Some cruises may come with dinner options, so check ahead to see what suits you and your budget best. This is ultimately one of the most luxurious and enjoyable experiences you can have in the Maldives – just you and the open waters as the day gives way to the shades of night.

If boats are really your thing, you can also get away and out on the water with fishing trips to try your hand at a little deep sea fishing. This enjoyable sport will see you possibly landing some great catches including tuna, wahoo, sailfish and barracudas. Oftentimes you will get to barbecue up your catch with the fishermen once back on shore for a truly enjoyable experience. Nothing quite beats whiling away the hours on the deck of a beautiful boat out on the Indian Ocean with like minded people all hoping for a taste of the fish that call these pristine waters home. Snacks, drinks and the like are normally included in the price of a fishing trip and most can be arranged through your hotel.

Diving and Snorkelling

Beaches mean diving and snorkelling and often the two go hand in hand. Even if you aren’t a diver you can often catch a ride on diving boats to dive sites to snorkel at with a slew of divers looking for adventure. Qualified divers will find that the Maldives have a huge array of underwater delights to see and experience including turtles, moray eels and even shipwrecks. Yes, shipwrecks! There are a number of wrecks that you can dive that are found at a variety of depths so if you want to experience all of the wrecks you should be qualified to descend to around forty to fifty metres for best results, with most wrecks being at a depth of around twenty metres plus. The Maldives Victory and Kuda Giri are two wrecks that are located off the Male atoll and have good coral with decent fish life. For better fish life, check out the wrecks of the Liffey and Utheemu 1 and 2 off the coast of Kudahuvadhoo Island.

Not qualified? No problem. Many dive centres and resorts can take you on fun or introduction dives which means you have a qualified instructor/guide with you the whole time to check up on you and ensure you’re safe, so you just have to sit back, relax and watch the imagery float on by.

Snorkelling on the other hand is an easy activity even the kids can do if you’re travelling with family. All you need is snorkel equipment in the form of a mask and breather and away you go. Some people use fins but they aren’t necessary. In many cases you can rent this equipment from your hotel for a nominal fee for day use (or longer) or some may provide it free of charge on snorkelling trips and the like. Snorkelling is a great way to explore the reefs and marine life without needing to get deeper in the water on a dive or feeling pressured to get qualified just to enjoy the things the sea has to offer.

As a general rule of thumb, the Banana Reef in the North Male Atoll is one of the best reefs for beginner divers as well as snorkelers of all levels. It’s rich with sea life and corals and is just an all around great spot for those who want a lazy snorkel with lots to see.

The Cultural Side

Even if you’re on a luxury holiday at one of the Maldivian prestigious resorts it can be a great opportunity to get off the resort for awhile and explore the real life side of this unique, beautiful and welcoming island chain. There are a number of so-called “home islands” or “local islands”. It’s on these islands you will find the real heart beat of the country, set amid working towns and villages with real people who make this place their home. It’s in these places you will find great dining opportunities to try dishes of all kinds from breakfast to dinner and beyond. Dance the night away to the Boduberu – a traditional local musical experience that can be found in amongst those who live here.

So if you’re looking for the ultimate island experience with lots to take in amid luxury resorts offering everything from boating trips to fishing, beach picnics to spa days, you can rest assured that you will have the experience of a lifetime exploring this gorgeous part of the world for whatever reason brings you here be it a family vacation, a couples getaway or a honeymoon.

 

Fantastic Florida – Not Just For Summer Anymore!

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Have you been looking for the perfect place to vacation this winter with the family? Are you stuck on where to go and what to do and you’re trying to make sure everyone stays happy? For the best in winter sun as well as a whole host of things to do, consider hitting up the southern state of Florida. Known as the Sunshine State, and for good reason, Florida is one of the best places to head for those who want to soak up the sun while having fun as well. Check out some of the top things to do in this vast and enjoyable state.

Amusement Parks

If Florida has one thing in spades, it’s amusement parks. Whether you want to while the day away alongside your favourite characters at Disney World or you want to hop on some impressive TV and film themed rides at Universal Studios, the world is your oyster. You can grab tickets and head to Universal Studios easily online and don’t forget to check out other options such as SeaWorld as well as the whole host of waterparks on offer too.

Miami

There is a reason Miami, FL is one of the country’s top spring break destinations. And it’s not just spring, or summer that make Miami a great Florida travel destination, but winter and fall too. Starting with the obvious beautiful beaches, amazing nightlife, and renowned international food scene, Miami has become a virtual mecca for celebrities and any American who wants to enjoy perfect weather year-round. While Miami is not known for being a thrifty town, there are all sorts of family-friendly activities that don’t have to break the bank, including walkable architectural tours,  people-watching on Ocean Drive, or cozying up to a good book at one of Miami’s bookstores.

Daytona

Daytona isn’t just a beach city in Florida. It’s also home to the international Daytona Speedway which is home to the internationally acclaimed Daytona 500 which takes place each February, typically on President’s Day (18th). Be sure to book tickets in advance if heading down around this time as tickets and hotels sell out fast. A great day out for the family, especially the kids, so pack the sunscreen and hats and head to Daytona for a day to remember forever.

Florida Keys

For families and couples alike there is no place quite like the Keys. Located in Florida’s deep south, this string of pearlised islands in the deep blue Caribbean sea are perfectly located to have beach weather nearly all year round. Book in at one of the luxury resorts and hit the sand for some sun and relaxation with great views and calm seas.

Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Centre

A great day out for anyone in the family, the Kennedy Space Centre is ideal for learning about America’s race to the moon. Featured are some of the most unique and awe-inspiring artefacts from these days including space suits that have been on the moon itself, still covered in moondust. Come see the remnants of the rockets that took man past the earth’s atmosphere and if you’re lucky, book in to see a rocket launch in person at Cape Canaveral.

The Everglades

Deep in the south of the state you will find this vast area of marshy wetland known as the Everglades. Considered to be one of the most unique areas of wildlife habitation in the state, you can get tours around the area on hovercraft to see some of the residents of the area such as crocodiles and the mass numbers of birds that call this region home. A perfect way to spend a few days, especially with kids who have a penchant and love of animals and wildlife.

So if you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your holidays this year, look no further than Florida. The Sunshine State is always open for business and ready with open arms to welcome you and yours to her sandy shores.