Sunshine and Shorelines

Stone villages spilling down cliffsides, winding roads hugging the Med – few coastlines are as iconic as this one. The Amalfi Coast has long provided a backdrop for summer adventures, with deep-blue waters for swimming and sailing, mountains for hiking, and lavish Italian gastronomy for wining and dining.

Immerse in history with a stay at Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, a 13th-century convent transformed into a luxury abode, complete with its original chapel and cloisters. Wake up to incredible panoramas from a sea view room and sip espresso on your private terrace. Swim in the cliffside infinity pool or walk down to the port for a dip in the sea. Stroll to the little town of Amalfi for gelato and limoncello at an al fresco cafe.

An emerald jewel dropped in sapphire seas, Sri Lanka is fringed by spectacular shorelines. Surf towns scatter along the south and southeast coasts, while much of the island is ringed by wide, golden beaches. April is a peak time to spot blue whales on their migratory route – one of 10 different whale species that pass through nearby waters.

Stay at Anantara Kalutara Resort on the southeast coast for whale watching and excursions to UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Or explore the iconic architecture of Jeffrey Bawah, father of Tropical Modernist design, whose creations form the historic heart of the hotel. Or head farther south to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, set in biodiverse grounds, with its own beach, mangroves and farm. Head to Rekawa Beach to watch turtles come ashore to lay eggs, go on a local “surfari” road trip, or tap into the sun’s energy with a seaside yoga class.    

In the west Mediterranean, the Costa Del Sol shines with long, sandy beaches and hidden coves. When you’re not exploring the coastline, visit historic Andalusian townships or hike the majestic Sierra de las Nieves mountains. Have a round of golf in scenic countryside then soak in the restorative waters of a lavish Roman bath.

At Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benehavis Marbella Resort, nestled in rolling hills between Benehavis and Marbella, there’s ample opportunity to explore the beaches and the mountains. Discover local culture with flamenco dance or a boutique opera in the resort’s 1,200-year-old amphitheatre. Tour an olive farm, an Andalusian horse ranch and the historic town of Ronda with its soaring Puente Nuevo bridge. Unwind on the shoreline at By the Sea Beach Club, with fresh seafood, local wines and sunbeds steps from the water.

There are few more famous beach destinations in Asia than Bali. Visit the southern shores of the island for spectacular shorelines with black volcanic sands, historic Hindu temples, and breezy beach clubs for long, languid days.

On the island’s southern cliffs, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort offers panoramic ocean views and immersive culture and spirituality. Discover Balinese lore with a trip to nearby Uluwatu Temple, where Kecak performances are staged every night. Then retreat to the new Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, with Javanese healing journeys in a lush rainforest setting. Explore the jungle with a naturalist, tour iconic temples and rice terraces, and discover secret waterfalls on a rainforest trek.

The shorelines of Samui are some of Southeast Asia’s most idyllic. Framed by coconut groves, its white-sand bays and calm turquoise waters offer a year-round paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days swimming and sunbathing and take long sunset strolls – no matter which beach you visit you’ll find blissful tropical seas.

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort puts you on the beachfront, steps from the lively Fisherman Village enclave. While away your days by the seaside pool, revitalise with a signature moringa spa treatment, then stroll to the night markets for local art and crafts. Or retreat to the tucked-away Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort in Chaweng, with Michelin-awarded dining and a freshly renovated beachfront pool deck that opens up to crystalline seas.