The Best Beaches for Group Vacations Around the World

18 March 2025

There’s something magical about packing your bags with your closest friends or family and jetting off to a picture-perfect beach. Whether you're planning a reunion, a bachelorette party, or just a chill getaway with your squad, the right beach destination can turn a regular vacation into an unforgettable one. From sun-soaked sands to thrilling water activities and vibrant nightlife, beaches are perfect for group vacations. But with so many destinations to choose from, where do you start? Don’t worry—we’ve done the sandy legwork for you.

Here’s a roundup of the best beaches around the world that cater to group vacations. Grab your sunscreen and let’s dive in!

Why Beaches Are Ideal for Group Vacations

Let’s be real—beaches are everyone’s happy place. They offer something for everyone: the sunbather can soak up Vitamin D, the adventure junkie can ride the waves, and the food lover can indulge in fresh seafood. Plus, beaches are inherently social. Whether you’re tossing a frisbee, building a bonfire, or just lounging on the sand with a cool drink in hand, it’s easy to bond when you're by the sea.

The best part? Beaches are versatile. You can go luxury in a villa overlooking turquoise waters or stay budget-friendly with a beachside hostel. The options are endless!

Top Beaches Around the World for Group Getaways

1. Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

Bondi Beach isn’t just a beach—it’s a vibe. If you and your friends love a mix of relaxation and excitement, this iconic Australian beach is a must-visit. With golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a buzzing social scene, it’s perfect for groups. You can hit the waves for surfing lessons (great for beginners, by the way), try the famous Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, and wrap up your day with cocktails at one of the chic beachside bars.

Oh, and did I mention the food? Bondi’s café culture is next-level. Don’t leave without grabbing a hearty brunch with smashed avocado toast (because why not?).

2. Tulum Beach, Mexico

If your group loves a mix of bohemian vibes and natural beauty, Tulum Beach will tick all the boxes. White sands, swaying palm trees, and Instagram-worthy turquoise waters make it a top choice. Beyond the beach itself, Tulum offers plenty of group-friendly activities: explore ancient Mayan ruins, dive into cenotes (those magical natural sinkholes), or enjoy a yoga session under the sun.

At night, Tulum comes alive with beach parties and open-air restaurants serving delightful Mexican cuisine. Perfect for those late-night laughs and bonding moments.

3. Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

Waikiki Beach is a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. Nestled on the island of Oahu, it offers everything from beginner-friendly surf lessons to catamaran cruises. Your group can explore the nearby Diamond Head Crater for jaw-dropping views or enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau for a cultural experience.

Waikiki’s vibrant nightlife and beachfront bars mean no one will be bored when the sun goes down. Bonus: it’s family-friendly too, making it great for mixed-age groups.

4. Mykonos Beaches, Greece

Looking for a place where you can lounge during the day and party all night? Mykonos is calling your name! This Greek island boasts beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise that are perfect for groups. Picture yourself sipping cocktails with a backdrop of the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Mykonos is famous for its beach clubs and nightlife, so if your crew loves a good dance party, this is the place to be. But don’t worry, it’s not all about the nightlife—relaxing on a sunbed with a plate of fresh seafood and some greek salad is equally magical.

5. South Beach, Miami, USA

If energy and excitement are what your group is after, South Beach in Miami won’t disappoint. Known for its Art Deco vibes, trendy restaurants, and iconic nightlife, this is a hotspot for groups looking to mix sun and fun.

During the day, your group can chill on the wide sandy beach or hit the water for paddleboarding or Jet Ski adventures. By night, South Beach transforms into a party paradise with world-class clubs and rooftop bars. Wear your dancing shoes—you’ll need them!

6. Anse Lazio, Praslin, Seychelles

For groups looking for a slice of paradise with a side of tranquility, Anse Lazio is the ultimate escape. Tucked away in the stunning Seychelles, this beach is postcard-perfect with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. The calm waters make it ideal for snorkeling, so grab some gear and explore the colorful underwater world with your friends.

The best part? Anse Lazio offers peace and quiet, so it’s perfect for those who want to unplug and reconnect with nature and each other.

7. Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Thailand knows how to do beaches, and Patong Beach in Phuket is a prime example. This lively destination has something for everyone. Love water sports? Go parasailing or Jet Skiing. Craving a shopping spree? The nearby markets are brimming with bargains.

When the sun sets, Patong transforms into a nightlife hub with bars and clubs lining Bangla Road. It’s the perfect place to let loose with your group and create memories that will have you laughing long after the trip is over.

8. Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona, Spain

For a unique mix of urban energy and beach vibes, take your group to Barceloneta Beach in Barcelona. This bustling beach offers plenty of activities, from volleyball to paddleboarding. Once you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, the city is just steps away.

Tons of beachside restaurants serve up delicious paella and sangria, perfect for group dinners. And because it’s Barcelona, expect that late-night music and dancing are part of the deal. This beach is like a 2-for-1 vacation—a beach getaway and a city escape rolled into one!

9. Kaanapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii, USA

Another gem in Hawaii, Kaanapali Beach, is perfect for groups looking for a little bit of everything. You can snorkel with tropical fish, take a sunset cruise, or try your hand at ziplining nearby. Bonus points for the nightly cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock—it’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss.

The nearby Whalers Village offers great shopping and dining options, making it easy to please everyone in your group.

10. Camps Bay, Cape Town, South Africa

Camps Bay is where stunning natural beauty meets buzzing social energy. Against the backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, this South African beach offers soft sand and vibrant blue waters. Groups can try everything from sunbathing to beach volleyball, or even venture into Cape Town for wine tours and safaris.

When evening rolls around, Camps Bay’s trendy bars and restaurants are the perfect spots to share stories and delicious seafood platters with your travel companions.

Tips for Planning a Group Beach Vacation

- Book Accommodations Early: Beach destinations tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Lock in that beachfront villa or hotel well in advance.
- Plan Group Activities: While spontaneous beach lounging is great, having a few planned activities (like a boat tour or a group dinner) helps keep everyone on the same page.
- Pack Smart: Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and beach games. A Bluetooth speaker can also be a game-changer for setting the mood.
- Consider Everyone's Interests: It’s good to have a mix of relaxation and adventure to cater to different personalities in the group.

Final Thoughts

Beach vacations are like a blank canvas—you can make them as laid-back or adventurous as you want. The key is picking a destination that matches your group’s vibe. Whether it’s partying in Mykonos or snorkeling in Seychelles, the world’s best beaches are ready to welcome you and your crew.

So, what’s it gonna be? Are you ready to pack your bags and hit the sand? Life’s better with salty air, sandy toes, and good company.