Sorting Out Christmas Vacation: 11 Best Places To Visit On Christmas This Year!

Dec 8, 2023

Last Updated on: Nov 13, 2025

Travel Guides

Do you have any Christmas vacation plans for this year? This article will assist you in locating the world’s top places to visit on Christmas if you are unsure of where to celebrate. 

We will transport you on a fantastical voyage to some of the most captivating places to visit on Christmas so you can truly feel the spirit of the festival.

These places offer a distinctive and remarkable way to enjoy this joyous season, from colorful festivals and customs to snow-covered landscapes. Here are the world’s best places to spend your Christmas vacation. These are the top tropical getaways for Christmas this year for an unforgettable holiday getaway!

Places To Visit On Christmas | Top Destinations For A Christmas Vacation Getaway

Christmas is the time to bond with your family and loved ones. A Christmas vacation further gives you the opportunity to strengthen your bond with your family, kids, partner, and parents. 

So, if you want to spend quality time with your people and travel to the most desired destination, this guide is perfect for you. 

Destinations For A Christmas Vacation
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Here are the top destinations you cannot miss:

  1. Mexico
  2. Philippines
  3. Australia
  4. Jamaica
  5. Puerto Rico
  6. Thailand
  7. Brazil
  8. Malaysia
  9. Vietnam
  10. Cuba

Mexico

Mexico
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This country welcomes tourists throughout the year. But when they celebrate, which is often, anyone is welcome to join in. The celebration of Christmas begins on December 12 with a festival called Las Posadas.

On January 6, the holidays come to an end in honor of Joseph and Mary’s trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Christmas Eve, Nochebuena, is a much bigger day than Christmas Day when processions through the streets are held in observance of Las Posadas.

On Nochebuena, they celebrate with a formal dinner and fireworks before heading to mass. Mexico offers fantastic tropical beaches where you can sip on a cocktail during the holiday season. You can surround yourself with soft, white sand, the Caribbean Sea, and palm trees.

In Mexico, time seems to stop for a split second as you get a very distinct Christmas vibe. And when it comes to pietas, cocktails, and festive food, Mexicans are the best.

Philippines

Philippines
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Christmas is celebrated for three months in the Philippines! They can be proud that their Christmas celebrations are among the longest in the world. All things considered, the Philippines is a beautiful country, but San Fernando, Pampanga, has the most beautiful lantern festival.

The colorful lanterns that line the festival’s streets were all handmade by the locals. During the parade, music and dancing fill the streets. Another suggestion to become the culinary center of the Philippines is San Fernando. Though it’s not your usual Christmas meal, things could be worse.

For beach lovers, Boracay is the place to go. It is known for having the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. Travelers staying in Philippine hostels are also very busy during this time as they plan a special celebration among themselves.

If you want something a little closer to home, Vigan is a great place to go. Vigan still has cobblestone streets from the Spanish era.

Australia

Australia
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Therefore, you can be certain that you won’t have a white Christmas. But one of the highlights of many backpackers’ lives is celebrating it in Australia. It qualifies as a bucket list item, in a way.

It would be possible to spend Christmas Day snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, followed by an all-day party on Boxing Day, and then take a road trip across Queensland. This year, the Christmas season falls during the summer.

Australia follows the holiday traditions of most Western cultures in a way. December 25 is still the day for Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, and so forth.

But it’s not gloomy, dark, or cold. Everyone is having a good time with the holiday spirit and summertime. One enjoys cold beer by the seaside. Barbecues light up all over the country, sometimes along with shrimp. Everywhere you look, there are gatherings in progress.

Jamaica

Jamaica
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The island of Jamaica is located in the Caribbean Sea. This is the first image you should visualize. It offers a lot to families, couples, and solo travelers in the winter months. Whether you are on a holiday or not, Jamaica is always one of the greatest Caribbean destinations.

They celebrate Christmas considerably earlier in Jamaica than it is in the majority of other countries. Though music strongly influences Jamaican culture, Christmas carols play as early as October. You could listen to the holiday songs all year long because they are so great.

They decorate with lights, decorations, and holiday touches all around! One of the traditional ornaments used in Jamaica is bright red poinsettias. Even the taxis in Jamaica are decorated for the holidays.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico
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Puerto Rico offers island life and is the perfect all-around destination for a tropical Christmas. Families, lone travelers, and even couples will find it ideal. People usually assemble at the plaza to partake in lively living, music, dancing, and delicious food, and festive drinks.

The classic holiday dish is pig roast, which isn’t very vegetarian-friendly, but then again, neither is turkey, right? If you choose to spend Christmas in Puerto Rico, don’t miss the San Sebastian festival in Old San Juan.

Over the four days, a large number of vendors will be selling food and drinks. There are also a lot of artists and musicians.

Thailand

Thailand
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Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist country, so Christmas is not a public holiday. To locate Christmas celebrations, make friends with expats and other travelers. For single vacationers looking for some company, this is ideal. It’s easy to find travel companions in Thailand.

Traditional Christmas roast options are available at many hotels and restaurants. Better yet, try dining somewhere new and local. Christmas is not a holiday, so things continue as normal. If you choose to spend Christmas vacation in Thailand, you can be sure of fantastic weather. December is Thailand’s peak season. It is usually dry and can reach temperatures above thirty degrees Celsius.

Brazil

Brazil
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Brazil is an unforgettable destination for a tropical Christmas getaway. With a big dash of spice and lime, Christmas comes with warm, sunny weather throughout December. Brazil celebrates Christmas as a religious holiday, which is marked by enjoying local food and drinks and quality time with loved ones.

Since it is a Catholic country, a lot of people go to the Missa do Galo, or midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Brazil is decked out for the holidays with lights and Christmas trees, and fireworks are lit every night. Brazilian carols abound, nativity scenes are on display, and Santa Claus—known as Papai Noel in Brazil—is occupied with giving the kids presents.

Malaysia

Malaysia
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Even though Muslims make up the majority of the population, Malaysia observes Christmas as a public holiday. It is a rather unique interpretation of Christmas and the ideal beach vacation. If you want to get the most out of your tropical Christmas vacation, you should go to Malaysia’s stunning white-sand beaches.

Take up water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, or simply cool off by jumping into the glistening clear water. Plenty of family-friendly activities and roomy accommodations are available on the island.

Have fun island hopping and discover what’s going on on the other islands. There is live entertainment and delicious food. Take some time to embark on strenuous jungle treks so you can explore the rainforest and see waterfalls.

Vietnam

Vietnam
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Vietnam is a Buddhist country. Thus, Christmas is not a national holiday there. Despite this, Vietnamese people celebrate Christmas with a variety of festivals and gatherings.

Nevertheless, Vietnamese people value Christmas Eve celebrations more than Christmas Day celebrations.

The massive statues of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in the nativity scenes demonstrate how strongly French culture has impacted Christmas customs.

For a taste of vibrant Vietnamese culture, head to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is brimming with street food vendors, charming coffee shops, and clothing stalls. After placing your order, you can people-watch from the sidewalk.

Cuba

Cuba vacation
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Cuba celebrates Christmas in a less festive manner than other nations. Christmas was outlawed in Cuba from 1969 until 1998, so the people there became accustomed to not celebrating it. Their past has been quite challenging.

If you are looking for a place to spend your Christmas vacation that isn’t overly commercialized, look no further. Christmas trees and decorations may still be found in hotels built with tourists in mind, but you won’t see them as much when you are out and about. Have fun on your Caribbean Sea voyage.

Havana will undoubtedly be on your itinerary when visiting Cuba. Salsa music and culture are widely accessible. Get a real mojito from the place where it originated.

Bruges, Belgium 

Bruges Belgium

During Christmas and winter holidays, Bruges in Belgium exudes the quintessential charm of a medieval town. It is also one of the best places to visit on Christmas for dark academia fans, as its cobblestone streets and the cafes serving the best Belgian chocolate coffee have an unmatched allure. 

Moreover, when you choose Bruges as one of the best places to visit on Christmas this year, you can follow the Winter Glow light trail. The trail will take you to at least 10 of the city’s iconic historical destinations. 

Moreover, if you have the budget, you can find your accommodation at the Grand Hotel Casselbergh near the market. It has the vibe of a 16th-century cellar, and rooms look quaint with exposed wooden beams. 

You can even warm yourself up by the fireplace. 

Wrapping Up

So, where will you be going for your Christmas vacation? When organizing your next trip, don’t forget to take into account the top Christmas celebration locations around the globe, as listed above.

Take advantage of these incredible worldwide holidays and experience the celebration like never before. By putting together your preferences, you can also have your itinerary customized.

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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What Are The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? An Ultimate Guide To Hiking Trails On Aotea Great Barrier Island

BY  Sibashree Nov 7, 2025

Hiking the Aotea Track up to the summit view of the Hirakimata Peak was one of the most rewarding experiences I had on the Great Barrier Island. The view after reaching the top took all our fatigue away.  However, the Great Barrier hiking trails are not just about panoramic summits. Hiking here also means walking along the rugged coastline, through the native forests, and to the geothermal springs. To cut a long story short, the best hikes on Aotea Great Barrier Island, New Zealand are the best routes for exploring its dramatic island.  Furthermore, you can be a beginner or a seasoned hiker. Great Barrier Island has trails that can accommodate all. So, this guide is about the trails you can explore for the perfect eco adventure. Why Is The Great Barrier Island A Hiker’s Paradise?  Cultural exploration, stargazing, off-grid living, exploring the biodiversity of the island, and the dramatic geothermal features make the Great Barrier Island a hiker’s paradise.  1. Dark Sky Sanctuary “Ecotourism is extremely important to Great Barrier Island and this International Dark Sky Sanctuary status will not only provide further tourism development and economic growth opportunities but also ensure the preservation of our exceptional starry skies." Izzy Fordham, Great Barrier Local Board Chair.  The designation of the Great Barrier Island as a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017 was not about getting a label to boost tourism. The island’s 60% area is a conservation park, and the local Maori people believe that the protection of the sky is important for the health and well-being of the local community.  Also, if New Zealand becomes a Dark Sky Nation, as aimed by the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand, the Great Barrier Island will have a pivotal role to play.  Nevertheless, as an activity, stargazing seems the most surreal experience during a multi-day hike on the Aotea track. Just relax and prepare for the next day after completing your day’s hike.  2. Off-Grid Living Sustainability is a choice or a way of living on the Great Barrier Island. So, there is complete reliance on solar power, and people here use composting toilets. Rainwater harvesting is another sustainable practice followed by the people of this island.  Nevertheless, thanks to the island's off-grid living, it has minimal to no light pollution and air pollution. Also, because of off-grid living, life on Great Barrier Island is deeply connected to nature. So, you can be the biggest homebody, but here you will feel the urge to experience the outdoors more intimately.  3. Biodiversity Of The Island “Great Barrier is at an exciting point in its history where the future of the islands flora and fauna looks bright.” - Go Great Barrier Island. The fact that 60% of the island is a conservation park speaks volumes about the island’s biodiversity. Furthermore, it is home to countless endangered species, including 13 species of lizards, the North Island Kaka Parrot, the Black Petrel, the Banded Rail, and the Pateke.  In addition, the native forest here is getting replenished quickly with the island authority being particular about pest control.  4. Geothermal Features Located within the Hauraki Rift, the Great Barrier Island has the Taupō Volcanic Zone and the Kaitoke Hot Springs. These geothermal zones, along with being natural spectacles, are also home to unique ecosystems where you will find New Zealand pigeon or kererū, fernbird, etc.  So, hiking through these geothermal zones is an exciting outdoor activity in the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  A Brief Comparison Table Of The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails  Trail NameDurationDifficultyHighlightsAccessibilityAotea Track2–3 daysModerateForest, summit, hutsDOC huts, remoteKaitoke Hot Springs1.5 hrsEasyGeothermal poolsWheelchair-friendlyWindy Canyon1 hrModerateCliffs, panoramic viewsCar park accessHarataonga Coastal Walk4 hrsModerateBeach, forest, birdsTrailhead parkingPalmers Track2–3 hoursModerateStream crossings, dense bushNot recommended for people with fitness or mobility issuesWarren’s Track30–45 minutesEasyFamily-friendly loop near Tryphena, Kid-friendlyIt is not wheelchair-accessible. Whangaparaoa Beach Walk1–2 hoursEasyDune ecology, remote beachIt is not wheelchair-accessible due to a steep loop-walk area. Glenfern Sanctuary1–2 hrsEasyConservation, native birdsGuided tours available What Are The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? (Brief Overview) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) Most of the hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island come with an easy to moderate difficulty level. Also, the Aotea track here is the only multi-day hiking trail on Great Barrier Island and the entire Auckland Region.  Let’s find out more about the Aotea track and other Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  1. Aotea Track (Multi-Day Circuit) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kristina | New Zealand travel, hiking & outdoors (@kristinamonts) Aotea track allows you to experience the ultimate fusion of history and natural beauty. Here, you will find the surviving trees and a unique wildlife of Kahikatea, Rimu, and Kauri.  The plants you will come across here are the cabbage tree, Horoeka or lancewood, Mānuka, Kānuka, etc. Furthermore, you will spot birds like Riroriro (Grey Warbler), Kererū (Wood Pigeon), etc.  2. Mount Hobson / Hirakimata Summit Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Walking Legends Guided Walks (@walkinglegendsnz) This hiking route allows an encounter with the remnants of the ancient native bush, such as lancewood and cabbage tree. Also, while walking, you can meet the endangered Chevron Skink, a symbol of the rich biodiversity of the Great Barrier Island. 3. Kaitoke Hot Springs Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland) This easy hiking track continues along the Kaitoke Swamp to the Kaitoke Hot Springs. You can continue your walk and continue on the Peach Tree Track to reach the Hirakimatā peak.  Kererū or wood pigeon and Kōtare or kingfisher are the most popular birds here.  4. Windy Canyon Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland) The Windy Canyon track is one of the most popular short hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island. You have to climb up the steps through rock walls, which look dramatic thanks to the rampage of the ancient force of nature.  As you reach the top of the canyon, you will see the wonderful views of the Okiwi Basin, Whangapoua Beach, Medlands Beaches, and Kaitoke.  5. Palmers Track After completing the Windy Canyon Track hike, you can continue on the Palmers Track. Here you will walk along the steep ridgeline, and it is the shortest route to Mount Hobson.  Furthermore, on your way, you will spot the endemic kānuka plants, and the wooden horse here is a telltale of the logging history of the island.  6. Harataonga Coastal Walk It is one of the easiest hiking trails in Harataonga. It is associated with the history of transportation on the island, as it used to be the connecting route between the northern and southern parts of the island.  7. Warren’s Track It is a beautiful hike to a waterfall with a gently graded climb. Once you reach the waterfall, you can take a swim in the stream beneath. The food passes through the Kauri plantation before it joins the Bridle Track.  Here, you will walk through an exotic forest. However, the last lap of the trek is a little difficult with a rocky surface.  8. Whangaparaoa Beach Walk View this post on Instagram A post shared by Working In New Zealand (@workinginnewzealand) This peaceful route takes us to the Stanmore Bay Beach through the Rata Road walkway. Most of the walk continues on a paved road. However, some sections have a boardwalk and gravel.  This road is ideal for a pram walk. However, the stretch between the Rata Road Reserve and Whangaparāoa town centre is steep enough, and you will have to cross a few roads.  9. Glenfern Sanctuary Walks View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenfern Sanctuary (@glenfernsanctuary) The Glenfern Sanctuary is a family-friendly loop track that continues along the Aotea Stream. You have to walk through a stretch of regenerating bush and climb around 100 meters.  After climbing up, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the Hauraki Gulf. On the stretch, you will be able to spot black petrel and kaka nesting. Also, you will find here the Chevron skink, the rarest and largest reptile in New Zealand.  How To Reach The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nicole Marinkovich (@nicoolemarinkovich) You will have to take a Great Barrier Flight or a ferry ride to reach the Great Barrier Island. Upon reaching the island, you will have to take local transport to reach the following trail heads.  Great Barrier Island Hiking TrailsTrail HeadAotea TrackWindy Canyon/Whangaparapara RoadMount Hobson / Hirakimata Summit TrackBrownlee AvenueKaitoke Hot Springs TrackWhangaparapara RoadWindy Canyon TrackOkiwi-Claris RoadPalmers TrackWindy CanyonHarataonga Coastal WalkHarataonga CampsiteWarren’s TrackOpposite the Akapoua Campground EntranceWhangaparaoa Beach Walk1.5 Km up from Okiwi AirfieldGlenfern Sanctuary Walks20 Glenfern Road What Are The Best Family-Friendly Trails On Great Barrier Island? Best for Seniors• Kaitoke Hot Springs• Glenfern SanctuaryBest for Kids• Warren’s Track• Harataonga Beach WalkFacilities• Toilets at Major Trailheads• Picnic Areas• DOC Signage What Is The Best Time For The Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julia Cole (@juliagoesglobal) The hiking trails of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for all-season hiking. However, the hiking trails offer a unique experience in each season.  SeasonWhy Visit The Hiking Trails?Summer (December to February)• Pleasant Weather Conditions• Clear VisibilityAutumn (March to May)• Cooler Temperature• Fewer CrowdsWinter (June to August)• Wet and Muddy• Fewer CrowdsSpring (September to November)• Active Birdlife• Blooming Flora Sustainable Hiking Tips For The Trails On Great Barrier Island Leave No Trace Use Cleaning Stations for Kauri Dieback (A Deadly Disease of Local Kauri Trees) Prevention Use Bio-Degradable Soap Use Reusable Water Bottles Follow Local Guidance and Signage to Remain Respectful to Wildlife and Sacred Sites What To Pack For Hiking The Best Trails On The Great Barrier Island?  Your packing list will depend on whether you are going for a single-day hike or a multi-day hike.  Day Hike EssentialsMulti-Day Gear• Water (2L+)• Snacks• Sunscreen & hat• Rain jacket• Map or GPS• Sleeping Bag• Cooking Gear• First Aid Kit• Headlamp• Extra Layers Guided Hikes And Local Tours: Enhancing Your Hiking Experience On The Great Barrier Island  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenfern Sanctuary (@glenfernsanctuary) Glenfern Sanctuary Tours and Māori Cultural Tours are the two most popular guided tours on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Glenfern Sanctuary Tours The Guided Loop Track tour of Glenfern Sanctuary is an amazing experience as you walk through the native bush. Here, you will spot the magnificent kauri tree and the resident black petrel.  The tour is 1 hour and 30 minutes, and a group must have at least five members. The tour's charges are $50 per person.  2. Māori Cultural Tours Whangaparapara Harbour Historic Treks, Harataonga, and Aotea Track are some of the best hiking trails to learn about authentic Māori culture and tradition.  The Whangaparapara Harbour Historic Treks take you to places of Kauri logging and whaling in ancient times. On the other hand, at the Harataonga DOC Campsite, you will find the old settlement sites of the Māori tribe.  Moreover, the Aotea Track has Māori archaeological sites, and Hirakimata Peak itself reflects local Māori spiritual beliefs and significance.  Where To Stay Near The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails?  DOC huts, eco-lodges, hostels, and camping are the best accommodation options near the best Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  Trail NameNearby AccomodationAotea Track• Mt. Heale DOC Hut• Kaiaraara DOC HutKaitoke Hot Springs• Barrier Beach Cottage• Wiltshire ManorWindy Canyon• Aotea LodgeHarataonga Coastal Walk• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront LodgePalmers Track• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront LodgeWarren’s Track• Medlands Beach Backpackers and VillasWhangapoua Beach Walk• Aotea LodgeGlenfern Sanctuary• Glenfern Sanctuary Things You Don’t Know About The Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails: (Unearthing The Secrets) From housing, the only multi-day hike in Auckland, to being the home to many endangered species, the Great Barrier Island has many secrets to share.  1. Aotea Track: The Only Multi-Day Hike On The Island The 25–30 km loop of the Aotea Track is the only multi-day hiking track in the Auckland region. It passes through volcanic terrain, native bush, and summit views.  It’s a rare wilderness experience so close to a major city.  2. You Can Rejuvenate And Soak In Hot Springs In The Middle Of A Hike As you walk through the Kaitoke Hot Springs track, you will find geothermal pools, offering you a natural spa experience.  These pools, hidden in bushes and set in an underdeveloped setting, offer the purest connection to nature.  3. The Summit Of Mt Hobson Is A Breeding Ground For An Endangered Seabird Black petrel (tāiko) is one of the rarest seabirds of New Zealand. Hirakimatā / Mt Hobson is the home ground of these birds.  So, hikers have to continue on the boardwalks to protect the nesting areas of the birds.  4. The Island Is Free Of Possums, Stoats, And Deer Because the Great Barrier Island is free of Possums, Stoats, And Deer, you will be able to spot more birds such as kākā, kākāriki, and pāteke, and different types of wildlife.  5. You Can Hike Along Historic Logging Tramlines Some parts of the Aotea Track pass through the old tramlines used during the kauri logging era. In these pockets, you will find the ruins of machinery and dams that were used in carrying the logs.  6. The Island’s Trails Pass Through Regenerating Forests Much of the forest you hike through is regrowth from early 20th-century logging, dominated by manuka and kanuka, with pockets of ancient kauri, rimu, and kahikatea still surviving. 7. There’s a Track Named After A Gold Prospecting Legend The Te Ahumata Track to the White Cliffs was a popular site of gold prospecting. The locals still believe that gold may be hidden in the mountain. Thus, the hike has an element of myth.  8. The Island Has A Rare Endemic Plant: The Great Barrier Tree Daisy On many trails of the Great Barrier Island, especially on the Mt Heale Hut route, you will find the endemic species of the Great Barrier Tree Daisy.  This plant grows nowhere else in the world.  9. You Can Build Your Own Loop Adventure You can customize your Aotea Track hiking route based on your interests and fitness level. It has feeder tracks such as: Palmers Track Peach Tree Track Tramline Track 10. The Island’s Māori Name Means “Light Striking the Cliff” The Great Barrier Island has geological and spiritual significance in the Māori tradition. Mount Hobson is called Hirakimatā in the Māori language.  It means the “lightning striking the cliff face.” Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  1. Do I Need A Permit To Hike On The Great Barrier Island? No, if you are on a day trek on any Great Barrier Island trail, you do not need a permit. However, if you are trekking the Aotea Trail, you will need to book the huts of the Department of Conservation well in advance. You can contact the booking office at +64 7 867 9080 or the DOC Customer Service Centre at 0800 275 362. The last time I checked, the huts were under maintenance. So, confirm the availability of these huts.  2. Is It Safe To Hike Solo On Great Barrier Island? Yes, hiking solo is safe on the Great Barrier Island trails. However, the trails are in remote locations, and mobile coverage is limited in these areas. So, you must keep someone informed about your hike, and carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and an offline map.  3. Are Dogs Allowed On Hiking Trails? No, dogs and pets are not allowed on the hiking trails on Great Barrier Island. The trails here are ideal for wildlife spotting. So, dogs are not allowed on these tracks to protect native wildlife. In addition, dogs are not allowed on these trails to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease. 4. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island From Auckland? Taking a flight is the easiest option to reach the Great Barrier Island from Auckland. Barrier Air operates this flight service from the Auckland Domestic Terminal to the Claris Airport. Also, you can take a Sealink ferry from Auckland’s Wynyard Wharf to Tryphena. It is an unforgettable journey of 4.5 hours.

READ MORE Best Beaches in Croatia

Why Should You Visit Croatian Beaches By Boat? Which Are The Top 10 Best Beaches To Visit?

BY  Sibashree Oct 24, 2025

Croatia is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Moreover, tourists can see crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and pristine silver sand beaches. Statistica reports suggest that almost 20 million arrivals were recorded in Croatia,  Therefore, a large number of tourists from around the world visit Croatia. This often makes several spots and destinations very crowded.  However, many travellers do not like being in highly crowded places. Thus, people often prefer to visit beaches that remain untouched by people and are clean. Moreover, Croatia’s coastline is home to hundreds of breathtaking beaches. The list of attractions includes things like hidden coves and pebbly bays to soft sandy lagoons. However, we will inform Tour and Travel readers about the less crowded beaches accessible by waterways.   Therefore, the best way to explore all these beaches is by boat or yacht. Moreover, tourists can anchor in crystal waters and explore every hidden corner of the Adriatic. Which Are The Top 10 Best Beaches in Croatia To Visit By Boat? Croatia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, we have sifted out the names of some of the best beaches in Croatia for you to visit. All these beaches are best visited by boat. Thus, let us know in detail about these beaches. 1. Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) – Brač Island Zlatni Rat is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Moreover, the beach stretches out into the sea like a golden horn. However, the golden-stretching beach constantly changes shape with the wind and ocean currents. Zlatni Rat is located on the island of Brac. The island is one of the most significant geomorphological wonders in the world. Moreover, the Island offers some of the most incredible scenery. The water surrounding the Island becomes turquoise blue to dark blue within just 20 metres. The Island also houses decades-old pine trees that were once planted by the locals to create natural shade around the place. Therefore, the white pebbles and turquoise water turn the Island into a dream stop for sailors.  Thus, the tourists can simply drop anchor nearby with a Split yacht rental and relax in the blue waters.  Moreover, tourists can spend the afternoon swimming, participating in other watersports such as windsurfing, or enjoying the lively Bol promenade. Zlatni Rat is one of the best beaches in Croatia for spending some time alone. 2. Stiniva Beach – Vis Island The island of Viz serves as the home to Stinava Beach. Stinava Beach is one of the best beaches in Croatia.  Moreover, Stinava Cove is popular among tourists for its high cliffs that form the entrance to the sea.  Furthermore, the Tourism Organization European “Best Destinations” considers the beach as the most beautiful beach in Europe. Vis attracts people from all over the world because of its mild Mediterranean climate. The beach remains hidden between the cliffs. Hence, the tourists can only reach the place by a short hike. However, the boat serves as the more scenic path to reach the place. The tiny pebble beach and emerald-green water make it one of the most photographed places in Croatia. Arrive early in the morning for calm seas and perfect light. 3. Dubovica – Hvar Island Tourists should take a short sail from Hvar Town. Moreover, they will reach Dubovica Beach. The beach is one of the most peaceful coves, framed by stone houses and olive trees.  The tourists visiting the place will witness calm, transparent waters. Moreover, the tourists should go prepared for water sports activities.  The place provides ideal spots for swimming and snorkeling right from their yacht.  Moreover, the rustic beach bars onshore also add to the island's authentic charm. 4. Pasjača Beach – Konavle, Near Dubrovnik The place is carved beneath towering cliffs. Hence, Pasjača is one of Croatia’s most dramatic beaches.  Moreover, the beach is a mix of fine sand and pebbles. However, the beach remains accessible only via a steep path from the cliffs above. Thus, tourists find it difficult to reach the place. However, the travellers can always reach the beach by sea. Moreover, people should anchor their boats offshore and enjoy the untouched beauty and serenity. Moreover, the place remains a hidden paradise. Far away from the chaos and crowded places. Thus, it is one of the best beaches in Croatia. 5. Sveti Jakov – Dubrovnik Travellers who sail near Dubrovnik should definitely visit Sveti Jakov Beach. Moreover, the place is located just outside the Old Town. Therefore, people can enjoy stunning views of the city walls and Lokrum Island from the spot.  Moreover, the pebble-and-sand beach offers a very relaxed vibe. Hence, the beach provides ideal conditions for swimming. Travellers can also take in the historic skyline from the comfort of their yacht. 6. Sakarun Beach – Dugi Otok People know Sakarun Beach for the rare sandy beaches on the Adriatic. Moreover, Sakarun feels almost Caribbean with its shallow turquoise bay and soft white sand.  The place is surrounded by a pine forest. Moreover, the yachts cruising the Zadar archipelago find the place to be a popular destination. The anchorage is calm, making it ideal for a lazy day in paradise. 7. Lubenice Beach – Cres Island Perched below the medieval village of Lubenice, this hidden cove offers a wild, natural setting and crystal-clear water.  Lubenice Beach is difficult to reach by land, which makes arriving by boat the perfect option. It’s quiet, pristine, and ideal for a refreshing swim far from the crowds. 8. Nugal Beach – Makarska Riviera Nugal Lies between cliffs and pine trees. Hence, Nugal serves as one of Dalmatia’s most peaceful beaches.  The beach has gained popularity for its privacy and naturist-friendly atmosphere.  However, travellers can access the beach only on foot or by boat. Hence, the place remains a true hidden gem for those seeking peace while sailing. 9. Pupnatska Luka – Korčula Island Korčula, Pupnatska Luka is one of the most beautiful bays in Croatia. Moreover, the beach features smooth pebbles, crystal-clear water, and lush green hills in the background.  Therefore, the Sailors often stop here for swimming and lunch, thanks to the small local konoba (tavern) nearby. The sheltered bay offers safe anchoring and a perfect island escape. 10. Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach) – Lopar, Rab Island Rajska Plaža boasts long stretches of fine sand and shallow, warm water. Moreover, most of the Croatian beaches do not offer this. Hence, these conditions remain ideal for families and others.  Moreover, the beach is one of the few where you can anchor nearby and swim ashore easily.  The 2-kilometer sandy bay is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, making it a lively stop on your northern Adriatic route. Things To Remember While Visiting The Best Beaches In Croatia  Croatia houses several beaches. Moreover, people can access several beaches by hiking trails as well. However, the route to several hiking trails involves steep hills and cliffs.  Thus, the waterways serve as the best way of transportation to visit the best beaches in Croatia.