If glamping is the new camping, then beach camping is superior to them both. Across the world, forests and fields are being abandoned, as everyone hitches up their tents and makes for golden dunes and waves gently crashing on the shore. Don’t get left behind – take inspiration from our top places to sleep on the beach.
Dakhla Spirit Tent Camp, Dakhla, Morocco
Renowned as one of the best kitesurfing destinations on the planet, Dakhla Spirit Tent Camp offers more than world-class sporting opportunity. This place is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, where the desert meets the Atlantic Ocean and the land rolls into the sea. Whether you want to windsurf and kitesurf, or simply soak up the scenery, this is an excellent spot to hang out on the expansive lagoon beach and snow-angel in the sand. If camping under canvas seems a little too rustic, sleep in one of their Ocean Vagabond bungalows instead, which are nestled discreetly among the towering sand dunes.
Kosrae Village, Kosrae, Micronesia
The beaches of Micronesia are nothing short of paradisal, and don’t the owners of Kosrae Village know it. Their dive and eco adventure lodge takes advantage of the idyllic natural surroundings, as guests are encouraged to participate in world-class diving tours of the fringing coral reef. The lodge consists of 10 traditional palm-thatched cottages directly on the sand, all of which have electricity and water, and some even have Wi-Fi (not that you’ll need it).
Ruckle Park, Saltspring Island BC, Canada
The best thing about Ruckle Park is the stark contrast between the dense mossy woodland of Saltspring Island, and the beautiful tropical beaches that spill out around the edges. The second best thing is that it’s completely free and legal to camp here all year round, thanks to the technical ‘campsite’ status of the beach, and bohemian-spirited locals.
Lichnos Camping, Parga, Greece
Be sure to request one of the beach tents when you arrive at Lichnos, since not all of their pitches enjoy such a prime position. Relax on the golden sands during the day or bathe in the sapphire waters, and spend your evenings enjoying ouzo and calamari in the hotel’s beachfront tavern. The only downside will be getting sand between your toes, but we think we could live with that.
Calgary Bay, Isle of Mull, Scotland
To describe Calgary Bay as isolated or desolate would be an understatement. Situated on the northwest corner of the beautiful Isle of Mull, there’s nothing much here besides the earth, the sky, and the sea. Caravans and motor homes are not allowed on this free wild campsite, so you can enjoy the unspoilt tranquillity of pure white sands on the glassy bay.
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