Whether it’s claustrophobia, the seasonal blues, or just cold toes, most of us are past winter when March rolls around. And, even if the days end up getting longer where you live, it might be time for a sun-soaked escape. That said, the planet is full of exciting places waiting to be explored, so it can be difficult to know when and where to travel. Ready to escape the winter chill early this year? If some warm weather and world-class beaches start to sound good, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn about 10 incredible destinations that will be in their prime this March. This list has something for every type of traveler, from mild to wild, cultural, food, party hotspots and more!
10 Maldives
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Most suitable:
pristine beach -
Know Before You Go
: Dress modestly when visiting cultural and religious sites
The island nation is a paradise for ocean lovers, with some of the best beaches in the world, a thriving coral reef ecosystem and plenty of surf spots. Every adventure here starts in the capital, Male, and its museums, parks and markets are well worth spending a day exploring. Each Maldivian atoll has different activities and facilities, from quiet guesthouses to some of the most luxurious private island resorts on the planet. Other options for exploring the area include yacht charters and liveaboard safaris, which include scuba diving or snorkeling.
Importing alcohol into the Maldives is absolutely illegal and travelers caught face heavy fines and penalties.
9 costa rica
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Most suitable:
romantic getaway -
Know before you go:
If you plan to hike in the bush, bring strong insect repellant
This storied destination offers something for every traveler, with lush rainforests, stunning white-sand beaches, and even some of Costa Rica’s epic surf breaks. For the ultimate jungle experience, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its secluded beaches and cool wildlife, including sloths and monkeys. Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is home to an astonishing array of seaside resorts, ranging from lively backpacker hubs like Puerto Viejo to calming Cahuita and Manzanillo. In addition to beautiful beaches, the area is also known for great snorkeling and scuba diving.
8 Thailand
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Most suitable:
budget travel -
Know before you go:
Dress appropriately when entering temples and Buddhist sites
Thailand is home to hundreds of tropical islands, each with its own attractions and distinct characteristics. On the west coast, the Andaman Sea lures tourists with its beautiful azure waters, lush jungles and the sheer limestone cliffs of Phi Phi Island, in stark contrast to Phuket’s wild party scene. In the east, visitors can find excellent scuba diving, beautiful beaches and many affordable destinations such as Like Island. Head north to the famous nightlife hotspots of Koh Tao and Koh Phangan to revel.
7 Riviera Maya
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Most suitable:
beach party -
Know before you go:
Bring a sweater or scarf for a breezy evening by the sea
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a legendary spring break destination, hosting some of the biggest and craziest parties on Earth for college students every March in Cancun and Playa del Carmen. But in this multidimensional area, visitors can do much more than drink and dance. Culture buffs can experience authentic Mayan culture by visiting Tulum’s seaside ruins and the region’s mysterious Mexican cenotes. Or, for an adrenaline rush, head to Isla Cozumel for scuba diving, windsurfing and pristine beaches. Inland, Bacalar Lagoon is one of the most photographed attractions in the country due to its stunning blue hue.
6 Sri Lanka
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Most suitable:
exotic escape -
Know before you go:
Dress appropriately when visiting Buddhist and Hindu sites
This tropical paradise is like no other, offering all of India’s culture, natural attractions, wildlife and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Therefore, it does not take months or even weeks for tourists to fully understand. An extensive and easy-to-use train system also makes the country very easy to navigate, even for inexperienced explorers. The beaches of southern Sri Lanka are some of the best on the island, with fine sand and turquoise sea. Head north to explore inland lakes and savannahs, tea plantations, towering peaks and nature reserves, home to the country’s most famous wildlife – the elephants.
5 St. Barth’s
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Most suitable:
luxury resort -
Know before you go:
Bring a nice dress or 2 for an evening meal and drink
For travelers who like to enjoy the finer things in life, this tiny French-speaking Caribbean island ticks all the boxes. It’s the perfect place to indulge in fine dining, designer boutique shopping, strolls through yacht-filled harbors, and lazy beach days that happen to include 5-star service. While lounging on the pristine powder-white sands, visitors can explore the island’s natural pools and hike lush green hills and historic sites. Visit Wall House and Kalborg to learn about Sweden’s colonial era and how it shaped the history of the area.
4 hawaii
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Most suitable:
family vacation -
Know Before You Go
: March is the golden season for whale watching
This archipelago of 8 main islands and dozens of islets and atolls is known for its lush tropical green landscapes, breathtaking Pacific beaches and abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike through the volcano, try paragliding or zip lining, or go surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. No island trip is complete without at least one authentic luau. Visitors who want to learn more about the Kingdom of Hawaii and its history can also visit the Polynesian Cultural Center and Ioni Palace. For a more modern lesson, visit the sombre but charming Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
3 Seychelles
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Most suitable:
adventure travel -
Know before you go:
Hop from island to island with a fast ferry service
This island chain has some of the most beautiful scenery on Earth, including beaches strewn with pink boulders, deep mountain jungles teeming with wildlife, and thriving coral reef systems. Mahe is a hotspot for tropical hiking, rock climbing and water sports. It’s also home to the country’s capital, known for its Creole culture, architecture, and cuisine. A garden paradise, Praslin is beloved for its palm-fringed shores, rugged rock formations and intimate resorts. For a real walk in the wild, visitors can head to the southern atolls. These remote islands feature world-class scuba diving and a fascinating ecosystem with giant tortoises.
2 Colombia
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Most suitable:
adventurous explorer -
Know before you go:
Leave room in your luggage to take a bag of coffee home
Colombia’s Caribbean coast is home to a vibrant culture, lively nightlife and pristine nature. The vibrant seaside city of Barranquilla hosts one of the largest Carnival celebrations in the world. It’s also a great spot for tacos, salsa dancing and a romantic museum visit. Visitors who don’t mind getting their boots muddy can head south along the coast to Tayrona Park, home to monkeys, capybaras, poison dart frogs and even jaguars. It also has some of the most beautiful (though not swimmable) beaches in the area. Before heading home, plan to wander the romantic streets of the famous walled city of Cartagena for a few days.
Not everyone in Columbia is a fan of the show drug lord. Be sensitive when discussing topics related to drugs and cartels.
1 Dominican Republic
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Most suitable:
Resort accommodation -
Know before you go:
Do not leave home without a mask and fins
Travelers looking to pamper themselves at the best all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic look no further. DR has some of the most comfortable options in the Caribbean, along with some of the most competitive rates in the region. While you’re at the beach, don’t miss out on water sports for all types of guests, from glass-bottom boat tours to jet skiing. Day trips around the island are easy, and visitors will find plenty to see, from caves and cenotes to bushland and wetlands. Those feeling adventurous can take a waterfall hike, try downhill mountain biking, or even take a white water rafting trip.
