September 3, 2019 | 5 Minutes

3 Continents, 3 Beach Destinations

3 Unique Beach Destinations

Imagine yourself lounging on soft sands, feeling the sunlight against your eyelids, hearing the waves lapping against the shore. It’s no wonder the tranquility of the seaside soothes your senses and makes for a relaxing, rejuvenating vacation.

As a Marriott Vacation Club Member, you can choose from diverse beach experiences. Each of these popular coastal getaways offers plenty of sun, sand, scenery and water sports — plus a unique local flavor all its own.

Phuket, Thailand

A lush tropical island amid the crystal-clear blue waves of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is a Southeast Asian paradise offering gorgeous beaches and vibrant culture. You’ll find your ideal coastal experience, with offerings ranging from the lively white beach at Patong, Phuket’s party capital, to the pristine and quiet Kata Noi beach, with its turquoise waters and coral sand.
For more fun on the water, you can embark on a ferry or speedboat to notable neighboring islands like Koh Phi Phi (one of “The Beach” film locations) or Koh Khao Phing Kan, also known as James Bond Island for its appearance in 1974’s “The Man With the Golden Gun.”

With more than 30 beaches to choose from, you can spend your entire vacation hopping from one beautiful stretch of sand to another — but you may also want to do some sightseeing in between. Phuket’s history as a trading hub has created a melting pot of cultures featuring Indonesian, European and Chinese influences. Explore the island’s numerous wats (Buddhist temples), or take a cooking class to learn how to make your favorite Thai dish. You’ll also want to visit Phuket Town and admire the Sino-Portuguese architecture in the colonial-style Old Town and shop for souvenirs at the bustling night market.

Marriott's Phuket Beach Club

Choose from two fantastic Marriott Vacation Club resorts: Marriott’s Phuket Beach Club and Marriott’s Mai Khao Beach – Phuket. Each offers spacious villas with easy access to the unspoiled, 17-kilometer Mai Khao Beach. The on-site dining, spa services and cultural activities will immerse you in the local lifestyle while providing contemporary comforts.

The Big Island, Hawai‘i

This Hawaiian paradise is home to multicolored sand beaches, serene sea coves, stark lava fields, lush rain forests and cascading waterfalls. The Big Island offers the perfect balance between relaxation and recreation, luxury and adventure. The white-, black- and green-sand beaches showcase plenty of opportunities for kayaking, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding or simply relaxing.

Hike down the Pololū trail to a scenic black-sand beach with breathtaking island views, or search for sea turtles among the tidal pools at Kīholo Bay. Trek across lava fields to the secluded Makalawena Beach, or go snorkeling at the beautiful and popular Hāpuna Beach.

Between beach excursions, head inland and explore jungle trails on foot or horseback. Wander through colorful, authentic Hawaiian towns and try a malasada (Hawaiian doughnut). Or, for an unforgettable expedition, set your sights even higher and watch the sunset from above the clouds at the summit of stunning Mauna Kea.

At Marriott’s Waikoloa Ocean Club, you’ll be surrounded by beaches, lava fields and spectacular amenities. You’re just steps away from the white sands of ‘Anaeho‘omalu Bay, three swimming pools, two championship golf courses, an ancient Hawaiian fish pond, petroglyphs and more. Learn more about the local culture with on-site activities like lei-making, watch a lū‘au or simply relax poolside under swaying palms after a day of exploring.

Marbella, Spain

A chic Mediterranean gem, Marbella is teeming with coastal charm. Known for its historic Spanish villages, vibrant nightlife and championship golf, this Costa del Sol hot spot features more than 20 beaches spanning 17 miles of coastline.

Lounge on golden, sunbaked sands and enjoy a fruity cocktail and Mediterranean cuisine at one of the area’s chiringuitos (beach bars). Stroll along a beachside promenade like Paseo Marítimo, where you can enjoy lovely views of the sea and sunset. Marbella’s beaches are ideal places to unwind and enjoy the good life.

Marriott's Marbella Beach Resort

While you’re in Marbella, head off the beaten path and explore the cobblestone streets and historical architecture of Old Town, where you’ll find tapas restaurants and eclectic boutiques and galleries. Shop for designer goods on the city’s high street, or stroll through leafy Alameda Park and along Avenida del Mar, a pedestrian walkway featuring bronze sculptures designed by the 20th-century surrealist Salvador Dalí. You can even take a ferry to Northern Morocco or the Rock of Gibraltar.

During a stay at Marriott’s Marbella Beach Resort, you’ll be immersed in the romance of southern Spain while enjoying beachfront access and breathtaking ocean views. You can also take advantage of thoughtful on-site amenities including sparkling pools and lush gardens, all in close proximity to world-class golf courses, spas and cultural attractions.

Reserve Your Stay

  • Members of Marriott Vacation Club, Asia-Pacific and Marriott Vacation Club Destinations, Australia may use Club Points to reserve a vacation at this destination by contacting Member Services.
  • Marriott Bonvoy™ Points may be redeemed at dozens of hotels in these destinations. To search for availability and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points, log in to Marriott.com. Remember when you reserve five consecutive nights, you’ll only be charged for four.