If you haven’t heard by now, there’s a virus that’s sweeping over South America, Mexico, and parts of Asia. The Zika virus, which is carried by mosquitoes, is believed to cause growth problems in undeveloped babies, making it a threat to women who are or may become pregnant.
Right now, there are several Zika cases that have been documented in the U.S., but with more and more being found every week, it can be tough to plan a beach vacation without having to worry about being bit. Here are some places you can go that haven’t been affected by the virus:
Head to the small island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean and its sister island, Nevis. You’ll find lush green hills, white sand beaches, and a local culture that’s not only unique, but inviting. Surrounded by beautiful blue waters, the majority of St. Kitts is a national park boasting beautiful rainforests, massive beds of coral, and wildlife in every corner. A short boat ride away is the hidden gem of Nevis, where you can hide away and relax on a beach, scuba dive, or discover the island’s rich heritage.
With 15 different inhabited islands to choose from, you can find your perfect beach vacation in the British Virgin Islands. Head to the largest island of Tortola for a variety of lodging experiences or check out Anegada for some great diving and wildlife. You can also check out one of the many galleries, museums, or historic sites on the islands or take a hike through sandy trails or lush hillsides. Plus, you’ll find endless water sports, from surfing to fishing to kiteboarding and more.
If Europe is on your list, the northern coastline of France is filled with beach opportunities. The Normandy region is famous for its invasion during World War II, but you can find plenty of little seaside towns that are both charming and old-fashioned. Head to Omaha Beach for a huge dose of history, or settle in on the island of Mont-St.-Michel and enjoy the stunning monument built in the early 1500s. For a harbor feel, check out Honfleur, which is bobbing with boats and lined with beam-fronted houses. Or, explore sunny sand and medieval cathedrals and buildings on Bayeux.
From five-star resorts to secluded bungalows, Bermuda has something to offer everyone. Kick back on the Caribbean island’s pink sand beaches and enjoy abundant sunshine and crystal clear turquoise waters. There’s plenty to do, including a wide variety of historical offerings, from the Royal Naval Dockyard to churches, forts, and gardens. If you love water activities, you can enjoy boating, waterskiing, kayaking, scuba diving, and more. And don’t forget the abundance of coral reefs, marine life, and abandoned shipwrecks.
The 700 islands of the Bahamas is a popular beach destination for travelers of all styles. For an upscale getaway complete with high-end shops and resorts, head to the capital of Nassau; for a romantic experience, the secluded island of Eleuthera offers horseback riding, snorkeling, and couples’ massages. For a great fishing spot, you can travel to Bimini and discover massive tuna, swordfish, and marlin. Or, head to Andros to check out the third-largest barrier reef in the world. If you don’t want to pick one, you can always get a taste of a variety of islands by booking an island-hopping boat tour.
This island off the coast of Valencia, Spain is not only rich in history, but it’s also a beautiful place for a beach getaway. Boasting cliffside coastlines and aquamarine waters, Ibiza is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean not often considered when planning a vacation. If you’re a lover of bustling nightlife, the island it’s home to some of the best nightclubs in the world. It also boasts plenty of shops, monuments, and restaurants with a cultural flair.
No matter where you decide to take your beach vacation, skip the parking at Newark Airport and park with us instead. We’ll get you to the airport quickly and effortlessly and make sure your car is taken care of while you’re gone.