In case you were looking for another reason to decamp to Croatia this summer, we’re here to give you one–or make that, two. 

On the most sun-splashed of Croatia’s islands, Hvar, the iconic Riva Marina hotel just reopened on June 1, following a complete makeover. Dating back to 1914, when it debuted on Hvar’s seafront as Hotel Kovačić, the newly reimagined boutique hotel looks more like your own Mediterranean villa. 

The property has 50 rooms, waterfront terraces, and a chic bar and restaurant for sipping cocktails, with lots of historic nods to its century-old heritage throughout the redesign. Guests here get access to the heated pool and sauna at nearby ​​Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel, although we’re the types who would be jumping into those turquoise Adriatic seas at any possible moment instead.

Hvar is one Croatia’s most spectacular islands, covered with vineyards, biking trails, olive groves, and, during the summer months, lavender fields that look like something straight out of Provence. Why not time your visit for July 15-16, when the Lavender Festival takes over the tiny 14th century town of Velo Grablje on Hvar with lavender beer and lavender chocolates among the gourmet bites on offer alongside live concerts, workshops, and plenty of sweet smelling people basking in lavender aromas.

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Local leaders and travel industry officials recently gathered in Zagreb for the Croatian Tourism 365 conference, where the (paraphrased) question on everyone’s mind was “How do we get more people to visit Croatia?” For the last few years, this European nation has seen a massive boost in tourism thanks to the use of cities like Dubrovnik and Split as filming locations for Game of Thrones; however, there’s so much more than to Croatia than King’s Landing.

For starters, there’s Hvar Island, which was recently honored as one of the Top 5 European destinations for 2018 and is already the nation’s most popular spot for destination weddings. And thanks to recent investments in preserving and promoting the region’s natural beauty and historic charm, Hvar will soon no longer be a secret.

The recent opening of Palace Elisabeth, a Hvar Heritage Hotel, is another sign that this European paradise is on the rise. The first five-star resort to open in this port town, Palace Elisabeth is set in the heart of Hvar and offers incredible views of and access to the largest main square in Dalmatia. The building’s heritage traces back to the 13th century, when it was the duke’s palace, and in 1899 it was rebuilt as the Spa Hotel Empress Elisabeth, an homage to the Austrian Empress (and noted world traveler) Elisabeth.

Today, the hotel offers 45 luxury rooms and suites, from the simple-yet-elegant Park Room to the larger Elisabeth Suite, which boasts a balcony with exceptional views of the town square, harbor and Adriatic Sea.

Palace Elisabeth’s spa offers signature treatments that draw inspiration from the region, as well as luxurious French spa treatments. A VIP treatment room offers couples massages, baths and saunas, while an outdoor spa terrace allows guests to take the treatment and relaxation outdoors. An indoor swimming pool is also surrounded by an exterior deck area, where daybeds await guests who aren’t in a rush to explore the island.

For those who are ready to explore, concierge services are available to ensure that it’s done in style. Specifically, yacht services can be arranged for day tours and general cruising. Guests can also enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling excursions, hiking and biking, paddleboards, kayaks and even a Jeep safari. For history buffs, Palace Elisabeth is just a short walk to the recently reopened Theatre of Hvar. The island is also a dream destination for oenophiles, as Hvar celebrates a long history of winemaking with several vineyard tours and plenty of tastings.

The hotel’s on-site dining options include the San Marco Restaurant, overlooking the sea and offering Mediterranean cuisine created with local ingredients. Or, if you can’t get enough of that Croatian wine, the D Bar is a stylish spot for smoking cigars, sipping wine or creative cocktails, and, of course, appreciating the stunning view of the Adriatic.

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When you are daydreaming of that much-needed vacation away from the everyday routine, what does it look like? Is it private and peaceful, with calm breezes and cerulean blue seas stretching to the horizon? Or is it a cultural immersion as you imagine walking narrow streets steeped in history and rich in artistic beauty? Perhaps it’s a bit of both?

Your perfect getaway exists, and it’s easier — and more affordable — than you think. Welcome to Croatia, the hidden gem of the Mediterranean, where the best way to explore the variety and richness of the Dalmatian coast is on the deck of your very own private yacht, of course.

Here are just a few of the highlights that await on your journey to this uniquely beautiful destination:

A beautiful historic town set within medieval walls, Trogir was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1997. The architecture is mostly from the time of Venetian rule and is some of the best preserved in Europe. There are many shops, bars and restaurants hidden in the cobbled, maze-like streets with several archaeological attractions to explore. During the summer there is often live music in the squares, which can be enjoyed from one of the many local cafes. What a delightful way to sit back, relax, and soak up the rich Mediterranean culture.

Hvar Island offers travelers the best of both worlds—a vibrant nightlife with an impressive bar scene, and secret caves with stunning emerald- turquoise waters. The swimming at the blue and green coves is in a class of its own, plus the adrenaline-rush enthusiasts can partake in cliff jumping from the top of the caves. Incredible photo-ops like this don’t come around very often, so be sure to capture this exhilarating moment on camera.

Due to its location, Vis has remained relatively unspoiled by urbanization and tourism, making it an idyllic place to enjoy some peace and quiet paired with delectable locally-produced wines. Vis is also home to pristine and tranquil Stivina Bay, one of the best beaches you’ll ever encounter.

The birthplace of Marco Polo and one of the most historic towns in Croatia, Korčula has long been a favorite vacation spot. Over the years, this beautiful town became known as “Little Dubrovnik”, featuring a mini fortress enclosed within honey-colored stone walls and a wealth of architectural delights to discover in every street. Plus, Korčula is also dotted with several smaller villages and surrounded by lushly dense forests.

Skradin is a picturesque Dalmatian town with narrow cobbled streets and venetian architecture dating back to the 18th century. The gateway between the sea and the Krka National Park, Skradin lies at the river entrance to the park itself. As you make your way up the winding Krka river to Skradin be sure to stop at local mussel and oyster farms to pick up some fresh produce. A free ferry service takes visitors further into the Krka National Park to the breathtaking Krka waterfalls.

Experience Croatia and 14 other breathtaking destinations worldwide on an all-inclusive Crewed yacht charter vacation with The Moorings. Learn More.

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Europe is home to some of the world’s most-celebrated seas – the Mediterranean, the Adriatic, the Aegean – and its cultural mosaic makes it a top choice for beach-lovers looking to mix sun, fun, art, history and nightlife.

Windsurf in the morning, visit ancient ruins in the afternoon, and shop for the season’s hottest beachwear before enjoying sunset cocktails and partying until dawn. All this sound ideal? Read on for our list of the 9 best beach vacations in Europe.

Mykonos, Greece

Few places do charm and decadence better than Mykonos. This sunny Greek island’s calling cards are almost-anything-goes beaches (expect plenty of skin), Instagram-worthy Cycladic architecture (whitewashed buildings with brightly hued shutters and cascading flower boxes), 16th-century windmills (a must-see at sunset) and legendary discos and dance clubs in Mykonos Town.

As for the beaches, check out Ornos Bay for pretty views and excellent windsurfing, chic Psarou for celebrity spotting and Paradise and Super Paradise for hedonistic sun-worshipping and dancing until sunrise or one of the best beach vacations in Europe.

Mallorca, Spain

This beautiful Mediterranean oasis, the largest of the Balearic Islands located off the east coast of Spain, is a hot spot for northern Europeans who flock here in summer to enjoy long days of sunshine and fresh air. Once you get beyond the urban sprawl of the capital, Palma, mountainous, bay-fringed Mallorca delivers some of the region’s most amazing azure water and soft-sand beaches (there are more than 250) for one of the best European beach vacations.

The view from the water is pretty incredible, too: centuries-old hilltop villages constructed of golden stone backed by peaceful olive groves and vineyards.

Hvar, Croatia

In between swimming, sunning and windsurfing, visitors to this summer-resort island, located in the Adriatic off of Croatia’s coast near Split, can tour a 13th-century fortress and cathedral, go wine-tasting (if you haven’t tried Croatian wine, this is a must) and, in June and July, inhale the heavenly aroma of lavender, which grows in abundance here.

Hvar’s beaches are known for their intense, scenic beauty, as many are set in serene bays surrounded by cliffs and pine forests. Tempting options include Dubovica, Zavala and Ivan Dolac.

Ibiza, Spain

It helps to be young to enjoy the 24/7 frenzy that is Ibiza, the wildest isle in the Mediterranean, thanks to its world-famous clubs blasting dance music. Should you be awake when the sun’s shining, top activities on Ibiza, which is also one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, include music festivals, beach-going (Cala D’Hort has a view of the distinctive Es Vedra rock formation) and scuba-diving, since visibility here is superb at one of the best European beach destinations.

Siciliy, Italy

If you’re a fan of old-school destinations – scenic, slow-paced and filled with tradition – you can’t go wrong with Sicily. This Italian island, the largest in the Mediterranean, is home to stunning beaches, yummy treats (such as ricotta-filled cannoli and meat-filled rice balls called arancini (both invented here)) and ancient Greek and Roman ruins dating back several millennia.

Sicily also boasts Europe’s most active volcano: Mount Etna. Book a beach resort for maximum access to sun and sand, or stay in charming hilltop Taormina, and day-trip to beaches, such as Isola Bella or Giardini Naxos.

The Algarve, Portugal

The hot Iberian sun shines along the southern coast of Portugal 300 days a year. In summer, the region receives very little rain, so it’s no surprise that the Algarve ranks among the top beach destinations in Europe.

It’s also incredibly pretty and quite affordable, with a variety of hotels, rental apartments and homes located in cities and villages stretching from Sagres in the east to Villa Real in the west. In between are more than 150 beaches, with Praia da Falésia near Albufeira, Praia da Camilo near Lagos and Praia da Marinha near Lagoa, featuring photogenic limestone cliffs.

Crete, Greece

As Greek Isles beaches go, Crete has some of the best. But Greece’s largest island is also its most geologically diverse, so beaches here range from sweeping and tranquil to compact and crowded.

For the former, head to Balos Lagoon near Kissamos on the west coast or Elafonisi Beach, also in Western Crete, with its pink sand. For the latter, there’s Vai Beach near Sitia in the northeast, which is backed by Europe’s largest natural palm grove, and Matala Beach on the south coast, where you can follow your swim with a seafood lunch at a local taverna.

Cornwall, England

There are hundreds of beaches along this rugged peninsula on the Atlantic in Southwest England, some ideal for surfing, others for beachcombing and others for seaside shopping and dining. It’s all incredibly wild and moody, the kind of setting that’s equally inspiring artists and adventure-lovers.

For pure visual delight, it’s hard to beat the beaches around St. Ives, especially Porthmeor, while Kynance Cove seduces at first sight with its unblemished natural beauty. Add in fishing villages, like Mevagissey and Polperro, and you’ll discover how Cornwall charms visitors with a raw authenticity that’s becoming ever harder to find these days.

Sardinia, Italy

On this vast Italian island, the second-largest in the Mediterranean, it’s possible to be a jetsetter or a backpacker: Step back in time while strolling tiny villages or channel the 21st century while sunning on a modern mega-yacht; visit ancient temples, or enjoy the latest youth-enhancing spa treatment.

Long celebrated for its talcum-soft beaches and clear aquamarine water, Sardinia’s alluring Costa Smeralda has been a summer hot spot since the mid-1960s. Yet the island also has a harsh interior landscape that has shaped the local mindset and cuisine (fava beans, sheep’s milk cheese and lamb with artichokes compete with seafood and pasta on many menus). But it’s Sardinia’s coastal beauty that has made it envied the world over.

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Yes, vineyards may be more commonly associated with valleys than islands, but plenty of great destinations that are lapped by bays and oceans also have noteworthy wine regions producing everything from refreshing Rosés to robust Cabernets. So if you love islands and wine tasting — and don’t want to choose between the two on your next vacation — check out these 10 options, some located close to home and others halfway around the globe.

Vancouver Island — Canada

While British Columbia’s grape-growing is centered in the Okanagan Valley, the 37 wineries on Vancouver Island mean there’s plenty of sips to be savored. The first winery opened here in 1992 — and only a few varietals, namely Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Merlot and Gewürztraminer, thrive in this seaside setting — but tastings are complemented by the island’s top culinary offerings. Many vineyards are in the Cowichan Valley between Victoria and Salt Spring Island, so it’s possible to whale watch in the morning and then enjoy a gourmet lunch and wine tasting in the afternoon.

Elba — Italy

This arid Italian island located off the coast of Tuscany — and best known as the place where Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled in 1814 — has been making wine since ancient times. Modern viticulture now centers on Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Vermentino and Moscato, but you can also try varietals you might not be able to taste at home, such Elba Ansonica (a golden-hued white that can range from dry to sweet) and Elba Aleatico (a deep-red fruity dessert wine).

Tasmania — Australia

Famous for the endangered Tasmanian Devil as well as kangaroos and wombats, this heart-shaped island off the southern coast of Australia has also spent the past two decades developing four distinct wine trails that showcase cool climate varietals such as Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Choose from the Tamar Valley Wine Route (near Launceston and known for its gourmet dining), the Southern Wine Trail (near Hobart and offering access to artisanal cheeses, smoked salmon and fresh apples), the East Coast Wine Trail (great to combine with the scenic Great Eastern Drive) and the North West Wine Trail (near Devonport and the wildlife of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park).

Hvar — Croatia

Croatia has a wine culture that dates back more than 2,300 years and the sunny island of Hvar has a climate regulated by the Adriatic Sea that makes it ideal for growing grapes. Hvar wines are produced mostly from indigenous varietals — such as Plavac mali and Marastina — and the island now has a wine road and plenty of wine tours to make tastings at the terraced vineyards near Svirče, Vrisnik, Vrbanj, Pitve and Dol that much easier and enjoyable.

New Zealand

You’ll never run out of tasting opportunities in New Zealand — and you’ll have two islands to sip on. On the North Island near Napier, you’ll find the Hawke’s Bay region, the country’s oldest and second largest with 72 wineries producing mostly Merlot, Cabernet and Syrah. Near Wellington, the Wairarapa region has 42 wineries namely offering Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. On the South Island, a must-visit is Marlborough, which savvy winemakers put on the map in the 1980s with their aromatic Sauvignon Blanc.

Mallorca — Spain

To taste a half dozen varietals you’ve probably never heard of — such as Manto Negro, Giró Blanc, Callet and Fogonu — head to this Spanish island in the Mediterranean that has long been known for its beaches, but is also home to dozens of wine estates. Two of this mountainous island’s wine regions, Pla i Llevent and Binissalem, have been awarded the Spanish D.O. (Denominación de Origen) and visitors can opt for a variety of wine tours with transport options that include a van, train, bike or boat

Madeira — Portugal

This Portuguese island, located in the Atlantic off the coast of North Africa, has a legendary wine named after it: Madeira was used to toast the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The island has produced its namesake — a fortified wine that’s heated during the fermentation process, aged between five and 20 years and available as Dry, Medium Dry, Medium Sweet or Sweet — since 1753. Tastings in the main city, Funchal, reveal distinct differences between the categories and among the wine houses producing them.

Long Island, New York

Beyond the suburban neighborhoods and strip malls of its western counties, Long Island boasts a bucolic wine region worth visiting. Along the rural roads of its North Fork, located about 90 minutes by car from New York City, vineyards and tasting rooms in Jamesport, Cutchogue, Mattituck and Southold draw weekenders and day trippers eager to try the Merlots, Cabernets, Chardonnays and blends that its winemakers have been producing for four decades. You can also shop farm stands for local produce and dine at restaurants offering farm-to-table menus and fresh seafood.

Santorini — Greece

The Greeks have been making wine for several millennia and they’ve even managed to coax some terrific whites, reds and rosés from the volcanic landscape of this sunny but windswept island. Here, grapevines sprawl outward on the ground rather than climb upward (to absorb all the moisture they possibly can) and the result is a pleasant surprise. Tours that visit two or three wineries are popular — or you can simply sit on a terrace in the photogenic village of Oia at sunset and try a few glasses of local Assirtyko (an aromatic white) or Mavrotragano (a rich, dry red).

Sardinia — Italy

Italian, si, but Sardinian first and foremost. This postcard-perfect Mediterranean island that’s an autonomous region of Italy but has its own flag as well as cultural and culinary idiosyncrasies, also stands apart when it comes to wine. The favored white is light and refreshing Vermentino (grown mainly in the Gallura region) while among reds Sardinians adore deep-red, full-bodied Cannanou (aka Grenache), gown in Alghero, Sassari and Sorso.

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Experiencing a nude beach for the first time? Try Mirtiotissa Beach in Greece. Or, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous and are opting for more seclusion, Italy’s Acquarilli Beach requires its visitors to scale 150 feet of rock before arriving on the beachfront. Croatia’s Valalta is a combo of both a nude beach and a naturist compound, too.

Whatever your preference of culture and setting, if you’re looking for a nude beach, it won’t be difficult to find. Read on for our selection of the best nude beaches in Europe.

Mirtiotissa Beach – Corfu, Greece

If there’s a perfect nude beach for your first time, Mirtiotissa Beach would be it. A narrow dirt road leads to this sliver of golden sand hemmed in on both sides by cliffs made green by palms, pines and shrubs. The water is calm, invitingly so, making it easy for first-timers to tell themselves that they were simply inspired by the setting to skinny dip and not that they came here to try a new experience. The only downside is that this hideaway has no facilities.

Playa Es Trenc – Mallorca, Spain

Like a zero-entry pool, this white-sand beach on the southern tip of Mallorca slopes so gently that it’s perfect for lounging in the shallows and relaxing with a beverage. Plus, it’s huge — spanning just shy of two miles — and has goodies like umbrellas and sun chairs for rent, making this one of the best European nude beaches.

Alteirinhos – Zambujeira do Mar, Portugal

Even if you have no intention to show skin, this quiet beach is worth the trek down several flights of steps, especially at sunset, given that this spot faces due west. If you do want to lose the tan lines, visit during low tide, or else the ocean won’t give you much room to lay out a beach blanket.

Kampen Beach – Island of Sylt, Germany

The island of Sylt is to Germany what Cape Cod or Nantucket is to the Northeast: Grass-covered dunes serve as a backdrop to the long ribbon of latte-colored sand. But, because this is Germany, a country with a long history of accepting nudity, it’s perfectly natural to go suit-less at one of the best nude beaches in Europe.

Playa La Tejita – Tenerife, Spain

Of Tenerife’s dozen or so nude beaches, this is one of the biggest and most scenic, next to the red volcanic peak that is La Montana Roja headland. But guests aren’t here to hike. Sportier types can take advantage of conditions ideal for bodysurfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing, but most visitors come for sun. Day beds are available, as are snacks. A short walk from the ocean leads to Chiringutio Pirata, uncapping cold beer and dishing up paella, sandwiches and tapas.

Alberoni – Lido de Benezia, Italy

Between the canals of Venice and the Adriatic Sea lies the island of Lido, a massive beach with umbrellas and sun chairs planted in rows like corn. And on the southernmost stretch, find the area known as Alberoni, where nudism is “de rigueur.” Summer-weekend crowds diminish the numbers of naturists, but weekdays and off-season bring them out.

Acquarilli Beach – Tuscany, Italy

There’s no white sand here, just black sand and pebbles. And Acquarilli Beach is physically a bit tricky to access, asking that visitors negotiate 150 feet of rock down to the water’s edge. But therein lies the appeal: Because this beach is a “no” for so many, those who say “yes” gain a lot of privacy for frolicking.

Bellevue Beach – Klampenborg, Denmark

This is a best-of-both-worlds beach: close to the city yet wildly natural. Find it north of the capital of Copenhagen, reachable by train. And, like Robert Moses State Park in New York, Bellevue Beach has that urban feel — mainly because it’s a constant party, especially among the Danish twenty-something set.

Red Beach – Crete, Greece

This gem is not at all easy to reach, thus its reputation as one of Europe’s secret nude beaches. Find it 42 miles west of the town of Heraklion on Crete’s north coast. Hand-painted signs lead to the two starting points. Both require about 25 minutes of hiking. From the south side of Matala Bay, follow the path that leads up to the red cliffs, then down to this Eden. The reward: a sanctuary-like outpost, offering naturists a true communing experience.

Valalta, Croatia

This isn’t just a beach — it’s a compound. On the coast of the Adriatic Sea across from Venice, Italy, the Valalta Naturist Camp is nonstop action, with tennis courts, a pool, campground and resort. Of course, the golden-sand beach, protected from waves by a rock wall, is the main draw. For non-naturists, there’s a separate facility offering the same amenities immediately adjacent.

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Warning: spoilers for the first six seasons ahead.

Dubrovnik, Croatia – King’s Landing

It’s easy to see why the “Pearl of the Adriatic” was chosen as the setting for King’s Landing. The old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with buildings dating back to the 13th century. The churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles, along with a postcard-worthy seaside location, lend themselves perfectly to the fictional southern metropolis that’s fit for a king. In the final episode of season 6, Cersei Lannister looks out over the iconic orange-tiled roofs while she waits to burn all her enemies to the ground.

Essaouira, Morocco – Astapor

The Marrakech medina can be a sensory overload. For a more laid-back experience, head to this hip beach town instead, where you’ll find a similar shopping experience within the whitewashed medina walls — and without the pressure to buy. Grab lunch at the fish stalls for a fresh (and cheap) catch of the day, or ride a camel on the beach. Don’t miss the Portuguese Fort: this is the spot in the fourth episode of season three that Daenerys orders her new Unsullied army to kill all the slave masters, and commands her dragon Drogon to burn Kraznys mo Nakloz.

Portstewart Strand, Northern Ireland – Dorne

Owned and managed by the National Trust, this 2-mile golden strand on County Derry’s northern coast is one of the country’s best beaches. You might recognize the 6,000-year-old sand dunes from a scene in episode six of season five, when Jamie Lannister and Bronn arrive in Dorne. The scenes where they are discovered by Dornish guards, and the fight where the duo kills them, were also filmed in this area.

Ballintoy, Northern Ireland – Iron Islands

“What is dead may never die” in the quaint seaside village of Ballintoy. Located in County Antrim, the town has served as the backdrop for several Iron Islands scenes throughout the series. The Ballintoy Harbour was featured in season two, when Theon Greyjoy sails back from Winterfell and meets his sister Yara. Scenes were filmed in the surrounding areas for exterior shots of Pyke and the Kingsmoot.

Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland – Kingsroad

Straight out of a fairy tale, one of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland served as the Kingsroad. It’s shown in episode two of season one, when Ned Stark agrees to become the Hand of the King and rides south with Robert Baratheon. (If only we could tell him to turn back!) The beech trees were planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century to impress visitors as they arrived to Gracehill House.

Alcázar of Seville, Spain – Dorne

Seville’s royal palace was the perfect setting for House Martell in Dorne. Built in 712 as a fortress, the UNESCO World Heritage Site became a royal residence in the 13th century. The Moorish-built castle and its surrounding formal gardens with pools and fountains served at Dorne’s Water Gardens, where gout-ridden Doran Martell, confined to a wheelchair, spends most of his days. Several scenes for season five were filmed here, including Myrcella Baratheon walking with Trystane Martell, Ellaria Sand confronting Doran Martell to avenge Oberyn’s death, and the fight between the Sand Snakes and Jamie Lannister and Bronn.

Thingvellir National Park, Iceland – Various

This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site was used for several Game of Thrones filming locations. The Almannagjá gorge served as the road to the Eyrie, where Catelyn Stark took Tyrion Lannister in season 1. In season 4, episode 1, Tormund Giantsbane and Ygritte made camp along the rocky canyons in the park, and were soon introduced to the Thenns. But it’s probably most recognizable as the backdrop to the fight scene between Brienne and the Hound in season 4, episode 10.

Downhill Strand, Northern Ireland – Dragonstone

“The night is dark and full of terrors” on this scenic beach in County Londonderry, where the Red Woman, Melisandre, and Stannis Baratheon burned the Seven Gods in season 4, episode 2. Mussenden Temple, built in the 18th century and one of the most photographed icons in the country, presides over the shore.

Grjotagja, Iceland – Cave Beyond the Wall

In season 3, episode 5, Jon Snow and Ygritte steal away to a grotto to, ahem, you know. The gorgeous filming location is Iceland’s Grjotagja, a natural hot spring heated by volcanic activity that is a frequent bathing spot for locals.

The post ‘Game of Thrones’ Filming Locations You Can Visit appeared first on Islands.

1. Rangiroa Island, Tahiti

Sadly, we can’t be in Tahiti as much as we’d like — but we’re often daydreaming about the overwater bungalows and thatched-roof, beachfront digs. This photo was taken at Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa on dreamy Rangiroa Island.

2. Aerial View of the U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are always gorgeous, but the islands are especially lovely from above. From here you can see all of the natural beauty that St. John has to offer.

3. Tobago Sunset

One thing we never get sick of: the perfect island sunset. (We’ve even offered our best sunset photo tips.) This lovely setting was snapped at Castara Beach in Tobago.

4. Floating in Oahu, Hawaii

Ahhhh, few places are as beautiful as the Hawaiian Islands. We wish we were there now, floating our cares away.

5. Hidden Waterfall

Sometimes hikes lead to caves, and sometimes those caves contain hidden waterfalls, just waiting to be discovered. This photo was captured in Queensland, Australia.

6. Swimming with Sharks

Have you ever had the chance to snorkel with sharks? Shark Ray Alley, a day trip from Ambergris Caye, Belize, gives the chance to do just that.

7. The Perfect Beach Spot

We love Caribbean beaches, especially those on lesser-known islands like Guadeloupe. This serene spot is Plage de la Grande Anse.

8. Boating Around Croatia

A scene from the stunning Adriatic Sea, off the coast Hvar Island in Croatia.

9. A Bar with a View

Beach bars in the Caribbean are one of the main draws, and the view from this one at Bohio Dive Resort on Grand Turk is pretty sweet.

10. Sunrise Surfing

It’s worth it to wake up before dawn to surf on Queenland’s Gold Coast, especially when you get the beach all to yourself!

Want to have your photo featured? Follow @Islands on Instagram and tag your pics with #SurroundMeWithWater.

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ABC’s The Bachelor and The Bachelorette may not have always led to lasting relationships, but they have done wonders for the dreamy honeymoon destinations featured on the shows. Here are eight featured resorts where you can indulge in some TV-style romance.

Anantura Si Kao Resort – Krabi, Thailand

The Bachelor, Season 17

Bachelor Sean Lowe took his ladies to the Andaman coast, next to the Hat Chao Mai National Park an hour from Krabi. On one date to Koh Mook Island, the couple enjoyed a swim and picnic on the beach; on another, a private candlelit dinner in the garden. The Bachelor package includes both dates, a three-night stay, breakfast, transfers and daily bottles of wine.

The Buccaneer – St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

The Bachelor, Season 17

Sean took six gals to this pink-hued hideaway, a circa 17th century landmark and one of the Caribbean’s longest-running resorts. The Bachelor package perks include a private island tour, a full-day Jeep rental, a picnic for two on Whistle Beach, a half-day trip to the Buck Island reefs and your own bag of swag.

CuisinArt Golf Resort – Anguilla

The Bachelor, Season 15

Brad Womack whisked his ladies to this celeb-favorite spot for private garden dinners and beach strolls. Bonus: One-bedroom suites come with outdoor showers. The popular seven-day Sea of Love package includes a chef’s table, wine tasting, spa services, a one-day car rental and more.

Sandton Kura Hulanda Hotel – Willemstad, Curacao

The Bachelorette Season 8

Emily Maynard gave her final rose at this 18th- and 19th century colonial-style spot on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao. The 80-room hotel‘s proposal package offers an island tour (like Emily took), dinner in the Sculpture Garden (scene of a rose ceremony), a visit to an herbalist for a “love potion,” and more. Sister property Kura Hulanda Lodge & Beach Club‘s Bachelorette Experience includes private snorkel trips and beachfront dinners.

Radisson Blu Resort Sun Gardens – Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Bachelorette Season 8

Set on the Adriatic Sea, picturesque Dubrovnik has long attraced tourists — and more recentlym crews for TV shows like Game of Thrones and The Bachelorette. On the latter, Emily and six suitors strolled around the historic center, played medieval-style games and relaxed on scenic boat trips. The gang also enjoyed perks like spa treatments, a sports center and an array of restaurants at this village-style resort with views of the sea and Elafiti Islands.

Rosewood Tucker’s Point – Bermuda

The Bachelorette Season 8

Thirteen eligible guys joined bachelorette Emily at this deluxe 88-room resort, set ina secluded part of the island and featuring a top-notch spa, gourmet restaurant and extensive private beach. Guests today can easily re-create the dates, which include a trip around historic St. George, sailing lessons, a private dinner in Bermuda’s oldest cave, cliff diving and plenty of beachside snuggling.

W Scottsdale – Scottsdale, Arizona

The Bachelorette Season 7

Ashley Hebert married J.P. Rosebaum in an event that was (of course!) televised. Included were scenes from the couples’ joint bachelor and bachelorette parties at the stylish W Scottsdale. There, the ladies indulged in poolside mani-pedis, the boys bonded over whiskey tastings, and the happy couple met up on the hotel’s rooftop hybrid ice-skating rink — which morphs back into the pool in the summer.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – Banff National Park, Canada

The Bachelor, Season 17

Sean wooed with a trip to the Canadian Rockies and a stay at this legendary 550-room resort. Thrilling activities around the UNESCO-protected Banff National Park include canoeing and mountain climning; romantic dinners took place inside a tepee and in an “ice castle,” near the ice rink. Book a trip in the winter months and enjoy this cool hideaway for yourself.

The post 8 Most Romantic Resorts from The Bachelor & The Bachelorette appeared first on Islands.

Read more in our Ultimate Best Islands to Live On Guide.

Tonga

Vancouver Island

Tuvalu, Fiji

Lombok

Hvar, Croatia

Roatan, Honduras

Palau

Dominica

New Zealand

Florianopolis, Brazil

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