Summer vacation time is almost here! If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience this summer, then look no further. I’ve gathered some of the most extraordinary experiences around the world for you.
From opulent beach resorts to serene spa retreats and adventurous yacht cruises, you’re sure to find something grand for your next trip. So, let’s explore the finest luxury summer vacations you can take, plus some tips on how to make your dream getaway a reality.
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How to Go On Luxury Summer Vacations
So, you dream of going on a luxury trip, but don’t know where to start. Well, you should definitely start with booking your flights and accommodations (once you pick the destination, of course). It’s best to start searching for these as early as you can, and watch the prices to get the best deals.
Luxury trips don’t have to mean spending all your money! It’s all about knowing how to maximize what you’re spending and get the most out of every experience. Here’s a few tips for how to book your luxury summer vacations:
- Use Daily Drop Pro to search for travel deals and filter by airline and hotel loyalty programs.
- Book flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best options and rates.
- Utilize travel rewards credit cards to accumulate points for upgrades and perks.
- Explore house-sitting opportunities through TrustedHousesitters (use my discount code ABUNDANT25 for 25% off a new membership!).
- Invest in a Priority Pass membership to gain access to premium airport lounges worldwide.
Luxury Beach Vacations
Who doesn’t want to lounge on a gorgeous beach in ultimate luxury? I know I do! If you want sun-soaked relaxation, these luxury beach vacations offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and high-end amenities.
Saint-Tropez, French Riviera
Saint-Tropez is a jewel of the French Riviera, known for its glamour and air of luxury. This chic coastal town offers pristine beaches, world-class dining, and exclusive beach clubs. You can indulge in designer shopping, explore charming cobblestone streets, and mingle with the wealthy jet-setters at iconic establishments like Le Club 55.
Stay in the luxurious Château de la Messardière with panoramic views of Saint-Tropez bay and Pampelonne beaches. Amenities include a Valmont spa, gourmet restaurants, and a luxury concierge service to help you plan activities. The hotel’s shuttle service to its exclusive beach club means you don’t have to worry about finding parking or a spot to lounge on the beach.
Looking for equally luxurious activities to do while you’re there? Try a private yacht charter to explore hidden coves along the French Riviera or an exclusive wine tasting at local vineyards featuring rare vintages.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Los Cabos, located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is popular with luxury travelers. With its stunning beaches, championship golf courses, and ultra-luxurious resorts, Los Cabos is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. You can enjoy sport fishing, whale watching, and indulgent spa treatments while basking in the warm Mexican sun!
The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is an oceanfront resort with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean meeting the Sea of Cortez. Rooms feature a private plunge pool, personal concierge, and complimentary bottle service. The resort’s spa, Luna y Mar, has unique treatments inspired by the lunar cycle, the sea, and authentic Mexican folk healing.
For activities, go on a private whale watching and snorkeling tour or dinner and drinks with a chef on a luxury yacht with sunset views. One of my favorite destinations is Cabo San Lucas, and I’ve written a list of the top 10 things to do there.
Luxury Yacht Vacations
If you prefer to explore the seas in style, luxury yacht vacations are the way to go! Experience unparalleled freedom and opulence while you hop from place to place. This is one of my favorite ways to travel.
Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands offer a unique blend of natural wonders and luxury experiences. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site aboard an exquisite luxury yacht, like the ones available to book through LiveAboard. They plan amazing experiences for you, so you don’t have to worry about where to stay OR what to do!
Cabins on the Infinity Cruise Ship all include balconies, storage space, and ensuite bathrooms. Enjoy a 4, 5, or 8-night adventure, snorkeling, hiking, and learning about the local culture and wildlife. You can relax on the top deck when not exploring the islands or playing in the water.
The Galaxy ship is a first-class yacht only has nine cabins and is committed to reducing the negative impacts on the environment. You can explore the islands on a 4, 6, 8, or 15-day cruise, getting up close and personal with tortoises, penguins, sea lions, and more.
The Solaris Galapagos can hold up to 16 guests and has state-of-the-art amenities and modern comforts. It also allows solo travelers without a single-traveler fee, which is pretty rare! With this cruise, you’ll visit at least two sites every day, making the most of your time in Galapagos.
Croatia
Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline and picturesque islands make it an ideal destination for luxury yacht vacations. LiveAboard also has cruise options here, so you can experience the beauty of Croatia aboard one of their luxurious vessels! Again, they plan everything for you and have a chef on board, so you hardly have to lift a finger.
The Ambassador includes a daily breakfast buffet, wine tasting, and a rooftop Jacuzzi! Go on an 8-day cruise exploring the Dalmatian Coastline and all it has to offer. Relax on pristine beaches and explore local villages while you learn about Croatian culture and history.
I personally cruised on a Katarina Line Deluxe ship and had the best time (you can see more on that here)! This is a fleet of 13 ships cruising the Adriatic coast, holding up to 38 passengers. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the crystal clear waters and check out the coastal towns and hidden ports in Croatia.
The Diamond is a small luxury ship with gourmet dining, a large sun deck, and a hot tub on the roof. You’ll stop on the island of Biševo to see the famous Blue Cave and swim in the beautiful bays of Korčula before taking a walking tour through Dubrovnik.
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Luxury Spa Vacations
When you think of luxury vacations, do you think of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation? Well, then luxury spa vacations are for you! You can experience world-class treatments and holistic wellness experiences at some of the best spas and resorts around the world. Here are a couple to peak your interest!
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
Switzerland is known for luxury and rejuvenation experiences. The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, in the foothills of the Swiss Alps, is a renowned five-star luxury resort with a comprehensive approach to wellness and relaxation. Its therapeutic thermal waters, sourced from the nearby Tamina Gorge, date back to 1242.
Here, you can book hyperbaric oxygen therapy to encourage improved skin and faster regeneration. They’re known for offering the NEWYOU Method®, based on the six pillars of a healthy lifestyle. They also have deep spa treatments, body relaxation massages, and facials designed to relax the body and the mind.
The region around the resort has hiking trails, gorgeous scenery, and the village where “Heidi” is based, complete with Heidi’s house and mountain hut. The resort can help arrange wine tours, shopping excursions, and more for you.
The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Famous for its mineral-rich geothermal seawater, the Blue Lagoon in Iceland offers a unique and immersive spa experience. Take your pampering experience to the next level by staying at their luxury hotel, The Retreat, which also has a subterranean spa.
Expect luxurious accommodations with private lagoon access and exclusive spa treatments utilizing the healing properties of silica and algae. You can also book morning yoga sessions with views of the volcanic landscape.
In nearby Reykjavik, you can book a private hike to a volcano eruption site, a day trip to the beautiful Icelandic South Coast, or a private tour by horseback to explore Lake Hafravatn.
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Luxury Adventure Vacations
If you want more excitement mixed in with your high-end trips, then luxury adventure vacations offer the unforgettable experiences you’re looking for. Like exciting African safaris and glamping in the beautiful jungles of Thailand! These are the kind of luxury vacations at the top of most people’s bucket lists.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park is world-renowned and ranked as one of the best parks in Africa. It’s a popular spot for incredible safaris, as it’s home to nearly 150 mammals, over 500 bird species, 100 reptiles, and an array of trees and flowers. It’s also the largest game reserve in South Africa, protecting all the animals and plant life.
The Leopard Sands all-inclusive safari resort is located in the park and features 18 opulent suites with their own private splash pool. They even have bathtubs with luxurious views of the Sabie River and Kruger Park! Go on game drives to see the amazing animals up close, enjoy dinners with traditional African entertainment, and get a thrill going white water rafting.
You can also book safaris outside of the resort, including at sunrise or sunset. Or take a guided tour of the nearby Panorama Route, a 100-mile drive that winds its way through stunning mountains, dramatic canyons, and tumbling waterfalls.
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Chiang Rai is located in the mountains in the north of Thailand, close to Myanmar and Laos. It’s known for Wat Rong Khun, a beautiful temple with fascinating white architecture. You can find hidden temples, hot springs, and tea plantations in the surrounding mountain range.
Stay at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, an all-inclusive luxury camp with 15 tented accommodations in the jungle. It has open-air showers, handcrafted furniture, and a free-form pool overlooking the Ruak River. Hang out with rescued elephants, hike mountain trails, or gather ingredients for your dinner from the natural surroundings (with help from their chef, of course!).
Take a small group tour of the Golden Triangle area, including a river cruise on the Mae Khong River. Walk through a market and learn how to make authentic local dishes, or go on a Tuk-Tuk tour of Chiang Rai and the night markets.
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Other Luxury Vacations
If the destinations above aren’t the right fit for you, then here are some other luxury summer vacations to inspire your next trip.
Tuscany, Italy
Experience the epitome of Italian luxury in Tuscany, with its rolling hillsides, delicious food, and world-famous wines. Tuscany truly has a beauty like nowhere else in the world, and a trip here can rejuvenate your soul. Visit restored medieval castles and opulent villas surrounded by olive groves and vineyards for an unforgettable Italian getaway.
For a unique stay, check out the Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, a restored 10th-century castle on 4,200 acres of Tuscan countryside in Siena. It was restored with original materials found on the estate, so it has that authentic feel. There’s an infinity pool, a world-class spa, and farm-to-table dining experiences.
Indulge in morning hot air balloon rides over picturesque Tuscan hillsides, enjoy private vineyard tours and wine tastings, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture. You can even tour the Ferrari museums and take one for a test drive!
Cusco, Peru
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is an interesting blend of colonial architecture and Incan heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the gateway to the legendary Machu Picchu and an opportunity to immerse yourself in Peru’s rich history and culture. High in the Andes Mountains, Cusco’s cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and stunning archaeological sites create an enchanting atmosphere.
The Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel, stands as a pinnacle of luxury in Cusco. This meticulously restored 16th-century convent mixes historical charm with modern indulgence. It has Cusco’s first outdoor heated infinity pool with breathtaking views of the city. Book a rejuvenating treatment inspired by Inca traditions at the Hypnôze Spa, or dine at the Mauka restaurant, serving exquisite cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Aside from visiting Machu Picchu, you can take a private tour of the Sacred Valley with an expert guide to see Inca ruins and traditional markets. Get a different perspective of Cusco at night, stargazing at the planetarium and enjoying a traditional dinner. Or shop the high-end boutiques for exquisite Peruvian textiles, jewelry, and art.
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Where will you go this summer?
Luxury summer vacations offer more than just opulent accommodations and exclusive amenities. True luxury lies not just in material comforts, but in the richness of experiences and the quality of moments shared!
Whether you choose to unwind on a pristine beach, explore the world’s wonders aboard a luxury yacht, rejuvenate in a world-class spa, or embark on an adventurous journey, the key is to immerse yourself fully in the experience.
Where will you go this summer? Let me know in the comments below!
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