Any day at the beach is likely to be a good one, but there is magic to be discovered on some shores.
In the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii, coastlines sculpted by volcanic eruptions, fierce currents and sweeping winds unveil geologic wonders and one-of-a-kind ecosystems you truly have to see to believe.
The Swimming Pigs of Pig Beach, Bahamas
Like a farm that has pleasantly gone to seed, the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay is home to several dozen wild, friendly pigs, as well as a few goats and cats. No one knows for sure how the pigs ended up out there, but they have become good swimmers and proficient at seeking out snacks from visitors. You can access the island by boat or by plane and interact with its bovine residents on the shore.
Dream Getaways
Save on vacations to Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean. Book by Oct. 31 for travel through June 30, 2026.
Book NowPuerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bays
Bioluminescent bays are filled with plankton which give off a blue-green light in the water at night when disturbed. Puerto Rico offers three great opportunities for viewing this technicolor phenomenon. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is believed to have the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Laguna Grande in Fajardo, though not a bay, is popular and just a little over an hour’s drive from San Juan. La Parguera in Lajas is the only bioluminescent bay off the island that allows swimming and motorboats. See if you can pick a moonless evening to see the glow.
The Crystal Caves of Bermuda
Just a half mile from the ocean is a magical subterranean kingdom, with two caves of majestic white limestone formations. Crystal Cave, the easier to navigate of the two caves, offers stunning views of both stalactites and stalagmites reflected in azure water. The steeper Fantasy Cave offers dramatic, dense rock formations that can resemble waterfalls frozen in time. There is a restaurant on site, and a picnic area.
A short walk from the Crystal Caves, AAA Three Diamond Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa also has two caves on its property. Visitors are invited to take a dip in the cool water of Cathedral Cave, and Prospero’s Cave is home to Grotto Bay’s Natura Spa.
Fly to Bermuda direct from Boston under one hour with Bermudair. Contact a AAA travel advisor to learn more.
Sian Ka’an, Mexico
This expansive nature preserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows the biological richness that can occur when a terrestrial ecosystem meets the ocean. Located along 75 miles of coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, Sian Ka’an is home to more than 300 species of birds and many dolphins and manatees. Visitors may even be able to spot jaguars, pumas and ocelots. Sian Ka’an is a sought-after ecotourism destination where you can explore tropical rainforest, mangroves and coral reefs.
Hanauma Bay State Park, Hawaii
This pristine, calm bay was formed from a volcanic cone and is protected by crater walls and a reef. The geologic combination provides the perfect canvas for swimmers and snorkelers to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and the island of Oahu. This bay was restored to its splendor after years of overuse and was voted by Forbes as the Best Beach of the United States in 2016. Reservations are required to visit.
Napali Coast, Hawaii
There are few coastlines as dramatic as this 17-mile stretch of Kauai Island, which features vertical cliffs, sea caves and dramatic waterfalls. This coastline, which has been featured in several movies, might best be explored by sea, but some visitors may opt for a helicopter tour. Prepared hikers may find opportunities for secluded camping, as well.
Start planning your beach vacation with a AAA travel advisor online or call 866-423-5585.
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