Phuket, Thailand
Interestingly, most of Phuket is mountainous. But the shoreline around Thailand’s largest island does boast more than 30 beautiful beaches — Patong, Kata Noi, and Freedom among them. And there’s no better time to be there than February through late April, when temperatures are cooler, the waters of the Andaman Sea are their calmest, and sunny days are rarely interrupted by rain.
In addition to all the standard water activities, Phuket is well known for its beach bars and clubs, where people-watching and being pampered replaces bodyboarding and parasailing. Spend an afternoon indulging in the infinity pool, cabanas, and spa treatments at Catch Beach Club on Bangtao. For an exciting treat, enjoy the fire show at Pine beach bar and the music and dancing at trendy Café del Mar — both on Kamala Beach.