13 Vacation Spots That Are Equal Parts Beach and Culture
Barcelona, Spain
From Park Güell to the Picasso Museum, there’s plenty to take in between beach breaks.
Cartagena, Colombia
Walk along the many cobblestone streets to admire the colonial architecture (and snap some ’grams along the way).
Cape Town, South Africa
They don’t call it the design capital of the world for nothing.
Miami, Florida
Home to the Wynwood Walls and all things Art Deco. (Oh yeah, and the best Cuban sandwiches outside of Havana.)
Le Marche, Italy
Think white cliffs and lush mountainsides along the coastline—and a smorgasbord of art and history from the Renaissance as you make your way inland.
Sydney, Australia
Start the day off with an exhilarating climb across the iconic Harbour Bridge and then catch your breath with a leisurely stroll through the Museum of Contemporary Art afterward. (Before or after your photo sesh with the opera house—your call.)
Jeju Island, South Korea
Just off the coast of South Korea lies a magical island filled with flower fields as far as the eye can see, pristine beaches and museums dedicated to teddy bears.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
First, sip a coconut. Then take time to appreciate the intricate street art that spans the city.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Beautiful beaches are practically synonymous with Puerto Rico, but it’s also a melting pot of Taíno, Caribbean and North American cultures (which can be seen in everything from their food to their architecture).
The Hamptons, New York
So much more than a swanky summer getaway spot, the Hamptons have hidden pockets of museums, sculpture gardens and even Jackson Pollock’s former house and art studio (which is open to the public).
Cienfuegos, Cuba
This waterfront city is like a vignette from the ’50s—virtually untouched and filled with old-world charm. (Just maybe brush up on the travel requirements now that it’s open to Americans.)
Santa Monica, California
Street performers serenade you as you mosey down the glittering pier and promenade. Grab a kombucha and duck into one of more than 90 art galleries and museums along the way. (Day trips to other famous SoCal beaches encouraged.)
Singapore
If cleanliness is next to godliness, Singapore just may be your favorite city. With spotless streets and manmade beaches (using imported sand, natch), it's a mecca for people of, ahem, particular taste.