Where will your travels take you this summer? Whether you are looking for an adventurous vacation or undisturbed beach time, our comprehensive list of Top Summer Destinations 2018 has something for you. We gathered expert recommendations, from travel industry colleagues to global travel publications and specialists. We also took into account the state of the Caribbean, as well as older destinations who are reinventing themselves.
Naxos, Greece
Take your knowledge of the Greek Isles and expand it. Greece has so much more to offer beyond Santorini, Mykonos and Athens. Naxos, friendly neighbor to Mykonos, is quickly becoming a popular destination for 2018. Naxos is booming with medieval ruins, olive groves, fruit trees and untouched beaches. The gems of Naxos are slowly being discovered. Now is your chance to get there before the tourists beat you to it. The Naxian Collection Luxury Villas & Suites brings guests the best of both worlds, stunning views and a private beach.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Nevis and St. Kitts are obvious selections when it comes to summer destinations 2018. Why go to just one island when you can go to two? The Park Hyatt recently made moves to the Caribbean, opening their first resort on St. Kitts in November 2017. The new resort offers luxury and adventure with a Miraval spa and an adults-only pool. Furthermore, the resort features a recreation hut for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and more. After your stay at the Park Hyatt, you can pop over to the Four Seasons in Nevis. The Nevis property is a quiet Caribbean retreat, situated in the midst of the beach and the rainforest.
Dominican Republic
It is important to realize that much of the Caribbean is still in a reconstructive phase from the devastating hurricane. Consequently, travelers are getting creative with their summer destinations for 2018. The Dominican Republic has something to offer everyone. Our favorite, Casa de Campo, is located in La Romana and perfect for couples and families alike. The resort spans across 7,000 acres and features three championship golf courses, tennis courts, an award-winning spa, and a pristine white sand beach. If you are looking to stay in the Punta Cana region, Eden Roc at Cap Cana is a beautiful resort with Virtuoso amenities.
Bahamas
Don’t write off the Bahamas too quickly! The Bahamas is evolving as well as bringing some new 5-star properties to the table. The 10-years-in-the-making Baha Mar is also now open! Baha Mar combines three popular hotel brands; Grand Hyatt, SLS Hotels and Rosewood Hotels. The massive luxury resort contains 30 luxury retailers, a Jack Nicklaus golf course, 11 swimming pools and a spa with 24 treatment rooms. For a quieter retreat, the Dunmore Beach Hotel and Pink Sands Resort on Harbour Island provide exceptional service and serene beach views.
Turks and Caicos
In light of airlines opening up more flights to the Turks & Caicos, getting to the island is now easier, and oftentimes cheaper. This isn’t the only reason why Turks & Caicos makes our top summer destinations 2018. Grace Bay Club, The Palms or Gansevoort are all 5-star luxury resorts with fantastic Virtuoso amenities. If your preference is seclusion, then COMO Parrot Cay is your spot. Regardless of where you decide to stay, you will encounter long white beaches and crystal clear blue water. Not to mention, some of the best diving in the Caribbean is located off the shores of Turks and Caicos.
Los Cabos
Los Cabos is home to it fair share of luxury properties such as the Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Ventanas al Paraiso, and Grand Velas. Additionally, opening in May 2018 is the newest luxury property, the Montage Los Cabos. It will feature 122 guest rooms, spanning across 39 acres of white sand beach and azure blue waters. With daily flights from many North American cities, you are just a quick skip away from Los Cabos luxury.
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is an award-winning island off the coast of Spain that is consistently voted as a top European island. It contains all of the vacation necessities, from beaches to architecture and history. As a matter of fact, the island has the royal stamp of approval and is frequented by the family each summer. Cap Rocat is a fortress turned luxury hotel near Palma. Each suite on the 88-acre property features a rooftop terrace with a daybed. For ultimate luxury and seclusion, guests can opt for the cave suites located within the mountainside. You will undoubtedly love that each suite has their private infinity plunge pool!
Ireland
Not all of our Top Summer Destinations 2018 require a bathing suit…Ireland recently topped National Geographic Traveller’s “Cool List”. The Irish people are known to be some of the friendliest you’ll find around the globe. You can rent a car and road trip throughout the country to see Dublin, Cliffs of Moher, Kylemoore Abbey, Galway and more. The best part of Ireland? Accommodations! The K Club, Adare Manor and Dromoland Castle (just to name a few) are stunning, jaw-dropping estates reflecting classic Irish culture. Not to mention, you are staying in a castle!
