6 Beach Vacations That Are Trending in 2026
From Puerto Rico to private islands, these sun-drenched getaways are booming — and bookable with rewards.
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Updated · 3 min read
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Assistant Assigning Editor If your ideal vacation includes ocean breezes, turquoise waters and a lower travel bill, good news: There's still time to plan a beach escape in 2026 — and use your points and miles to do it.
Beach destinations continue surging in popularity as travelers seek sun-soaked getaways that offer both relaxation and cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for an island steeped in history, a glamorous resort you can book with a free night certificate, or even a private Caribbean island, there are more ways than ever to stretch your rewards.
Here are six hot beach destinations — and smart ways to use your points and miles to get there.
1. San Juan, Puerto Rico – A cultural hub with Caribbean vibes
Puerto Rico tops the list of fastest-growing beach destinations, and it’s easy to see why: no passport required for U.S. travelers, vibrant culture and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. For U.S. citizens, Puerto Rico offers the convenience of domestic travel without sacrificing that island getaway feeling — you can use your driver's license and U.S. dollars while enjoying Caribbean culture and scenery.
For a true San Juan experience, book a stay at the Caribe Hilton, the birthplace of the piña colada. Located between Old San Juan and Condado, this beachfront resort offers direct ocean access and sweeping views. Rooms can often be booked with Hilton Honors points or a Hilton free night certificate.
2. Oceanside, California – A car-free beach escape with laid-back adventure
Oceanside has emerged as one of Southern California's most accessible beach destinations — and you don't even need a car to enjoy it. From San Diego International Airport, catch a shuttle to downtown San Diego and hop on the Coaster train for a scenic ride north along the Pacific coastline. The views alone make the journey worthwhile.
Once you arrive, World of Hyatt members have two excellent beachfront options: The Seabird Ocean Resort and Spa and its sister property, Mission Pacific Hotel. Both properties are part of the Fine Hotels + Resorts program and offer premium amenities while keeping you steps from the sand.
What makes Oceanside special is the perfect balance of adventure without intensity. Rent bikes and cruise the flat coastal bike path, kayak in the calm harbor waters (ideal for beginners) or simply stroll the downtown, which has diverse and unique eats.
Allmine takes a fresh, healthy and local approach to the concept of a local pizza joint with its mocktail-forward drink list, plus natural wines if you want the real stuff), as well as locally-sourced vegetables (do not miss the pickle medley). For a fancy (but unique) meal, head to Dija Mara, which serves an elegant take on Indonesian Food.
And whatever you do, make sure to stop by the iconic "Top Gun House." The former movie set is now on property at the Mission Pacific Hotel, and visiting it is a must for fans of the classic film.
3. Maui, Hawaii – High-end redemptions with luxury rewards
Tourism on Maui has been improving since the August 2023 wildfires but the pace of recovery has been slow.
Despite ongoing challenges in Hawaii's tourism sector, Maui remains a compelling destination for points redemptions — and your visit directly supports the island's economic recovery. Hawaii has struggled to regain pre-pandemic visitor numbers, with tourism still lagging behind most mainland U.S. destinations.
Splurge-worthy and serene, Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, is one of the top ways to use a Hilton Free Night Certificate. You'll enjoy sprawling pools, beachfront access and proximity to Haleakalā and the scenic Road to Hana.
4. Miami, Florida – Points-friendly city with sun, sand and style
Miami's popularity continues to surge, driven in large part by the explosive growth of the cruise industry. As the cruise capital of the world, Miami has seen cruise lines invest heavily in bigger, more impressive cruise terminals, transforming the port into a modern embarkation hub. This has made Miami not just a destination itself, but the gateway to Caribbean adventures — and that dual appeal keeps bookings climbing.
Stay steps from the sand at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, where you can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for oceanview luxury.
5. Private Caribbean islands via cruises – Now bookable with Chase points
Miami is the cruise capital of the world, so you might use that as a jumping point to get to other great beaches — and those are private islands owned by cruise companies.
One of the most exciting updates for points travelers? You can now book cruises through Voyages by Chase, using Chase Ultimate Rewards points to reserve your spot at sea — including those itineraries that stop at exclusive private islands.
- MSC Cruises offers beach access at Ocean Cay, a marine reserve in the Bahamas with eco-conscious vibes. Its accessible on sailings including the MSC World America.
- Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay delivers waterslides, overwater cabanas and swim-up bars.
- Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay is undergoing major renovations, including upgraded cabanas and new dining.
6. Mauritius – A far-flung paradise with Hilton value (if you can get there)
Looking for something a little more exotic? Something far, far away?
Hilton members can find their slice of heaven in the Indian Ocean, about 1,500 miles off the southeast coast of Africa, at the beachfront Heritage Le Telfair. The luxury golf and wellness resort is an SLH Hotel (a collection of more than 500 independent luxury properties affiliated with Hilton), meaning you get the feeling of local luxury, but with the ability to earn and redeem Hilton points.
But getting there is half the challenge: Mauritius is notoriously difficult to reach from the U.S. The most common route involves flying Air Mauritius through London or Paris — already a lengthy journey before you even begin the final long-haul leg to the island.
Once you arrive, though, the effort pays off. The property sits on an old sugar plantation turned nature preserve, allowing visitors to explore the island's colonial history and natural beauty. Beyond the resort, Mauritius offers diverse activities including hiking through Black River Gorges National Park, snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons, visiting the Seven Colored Earths geological formation and exploring Port Louis's vibrant markets and waterfront.
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On this page
- 1. San Juan, Puerto Rico – A cultural hub with Caribbean vibes
- 2. Oceanside, California – A car-free beach escape with laid-back adventure
- 3. Maui, Hawaii – High-end redemptions with luxury rewards
- 4. Miami, Florida – Points-friendly city with sun, sand and style
- 5. Private Caribbean islands via cruises – Now bookable with Chase points
- 6. Mauritius – A far-flung paradise with Hilton value (if you can get there)
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