La Bella Verde

Ibiza

It is just crazy, beautiful. If you want to reach it by land, it's a massive hike and definitely not everybody is up for that or even capable of getting there. So it's easier by boat. It's such an impressive place, the colour of the water, the history of the place. It's just an amazing, unique and beautiful place.

Es Vedrà is this huge rock sticking out of the water with many myths written about it. It's supposed to be, super magnetic and contributing to the magical energy of the island. And there's this old pirate myth that due to the magnetic forces of the rock like compasses would be spinning around like crazy, and people would not be able to know the way north was and they would crash. These are all stories, but it is a very impressive place to sail past.

It's just very beautiful and the whole West Coast really is quite impressive to sail past because of the geometric rock formations and caves.

This is where one of our boats is based and it has these beautiful, white sand beaches like Playa de Migjorn and the caves!

On the way from the port of Formentera to Cala Saona, there are these swim-in caves. We get close by and then you can jump off the boat and swim into them.

This is a beautiful private island on the east coast. It is a really magical place as well. Beautiful water and just an amazing location.

Ibiza's Only Eco-Friendly Boat Trip with La Bella Verde

Orienteer Magazine

Scotland

Wales

London

We took a trip to Arisaig, Scotland with MW guiding us to go sea kayaking. The water is so clear it looks like the Caribbean, we kayaked from island to island spotting seals as we went. With the right equipment you can also go wild camping, snorkelling or fishing. 


Swim level: Beginner 
Public Transport: Yes 
Facilities: Lifeguard 


A photoshoot took us walking the Watkins Path of Snowdonia. We were following the river up which twists and turns through many rock pools and waterfalls, the rock pools make the perfect spot to stop for a swim and cliff jumping! The clearest water and easy to access.  


Swim Level: Intermediate

Public Transport:  Yes

Facilities: None 

Where I am from in Rickmansworth, there are a lot of lakes that you can go sailing on and spots that would be great for wild swimming. I haven’t been back in years but have fond memories. Catch a short train from London and take an easy stroll around them, it's a great spot to go if you just want to be in nature and surrounded by water. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  No 

Facilities: Toilets / Car Park 

When walking The Old Man Of Coniston, the blue lake is the perfect scene for a mirror lake shot - you get reflections of the mountain behind and the sky, if you can stay till sundown! The colours are so vivid. 


Swim Level: Not for Swimming 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

There is a lake at the bottom of Pen Y Fan, great spot for a wild swim after a long hike. You can pitch up for the night in the nearby forest and wild camp next to small streams. It's a great spot for a few days as with the right equipment this water can be used for drinking water and to clean your cook sets! 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Orienteer Mapazine's Top Weekend Trips That End with a Dip

Karun

Nairobi

It's a super cute Vegan-friendly and child-friendly cafe that has an all-deaf waiting staff. They also sometimes have a market of all sorts of Kenyan made crafts.

Especially when they have the flea market, or on Wednesday evenings when they have the ‘Speaker Box’. Speaker Box is a series of live acoustic music performances curated by Patricia Kihoro. (Check out her socials, she has great taste in music and always find the best underground indie/folk/jazz Kenyan artists to play.)

I like this restaurant because she always has some dope Kenyan art on display and for sale (Painters, Photographers, mixed media) and live acoustic music on Saturdays.

Or this one, depending on what’s closest. Also great trails. (Also Tip, there are multiple entrances to Karura, find the lesser-known ones for a more peaceful time.)

Karun's Guide to Nairobi

Raffael

Kerala

I'm probably going to get some hate for this but it is literally the best biryani I've eaten in India. And believe me when I say I've pretty much travelled the length and breadth of this country for biryani.

Kerala is littered with these beautifully rustic establishments that brew their own coconut wine called toddy. It's well worth a visit, not just for the toddy but the food and the experience of the whole thing. I would recommend trying the fish head curry, duck curry and beef roast when you do visit. My favourite is the VELLIYAZCHA KAAVU TODDY SHOP, near Attingal.

A tiny, beautiful and clean beach. Beware the currents can be a bit dodgy at times but it's mostly fine.

Kerala's first and India's premier surf and yoga holiday destination. Join the local crew of surf instructors and guides for a surf every morning or just relax at the beautiful and stylish hotel, perched on a cliff top overlooking some of the best beaches and sunsets Kerala has to offer. Also, a really laid back atmosphere and cafe serving healthy treats and a mix of Keralan and Western-style food.

Backwaters of Kerala. The iconic Keralan scenery that you've seen on every postcard. It's like Alleppey but less touristy so best to visit here if you want to experience the backwaters but get away from the hustle of the very touristy spots.

Beautiful pristine beach and one of my favourites to visit. Again, not as many tourists as you might find on other beaches in Kerala so worth a visit.

My favourite spot to surf in Kerala. A beautiful fishing village with a fast hollow left hand wave. You can join for surf lessons or grab a board and go surfing yourself all while the fishermen and boats carry on with their days around you. Beware though, the surf can be a tad crowded here, but the locals are always friendly and welcoming.

I'm a bit of a beach bum as you can probably tell, but sometimes I like to leave the beach to get into the western ghats. You'll think you're in a different country. Vagamon is one of my favourite hill stations in the western ghats, considered to have one of the most ecologically dense environments in the world. The drive up there is stunning as are the views and there are some adventure activities like paragliding, hiking that you can get involved in, or you could just kickback and watch the birds for hours.

Heritage sites, cafes, art galleries and the biennale. Some may go as far as to say it's the art capital of India. (KASHI ART CAFE, DAVID HALL GALLERY, PEPPER HOUSE).

Kerala with Raffael from Soul & Surf

Matt Wilkinson

Cornwall

The name says it all - a tiny hut, hidden away near beautiful Portscatho. This is a legendary local institution, serving awesome, fresh takeaway grub. Their feast nights are off the scale, and their recipe book is great as well.

I always go to this old-school pub whenever I’m back - it’s like a classic, trinket-filled, Aladdin’s cave of a place. Amazing views too, as it’s just metres from one of the most epic harbours on the planet. Go when it’s stormy!

The paddleboarding club at my local beach, Gyllyngvase. Absolutely anyone can paddleboard - here you can take lessons or just head out on your own.

Whether it’s foraging, game butchery, bush-crafting or canoeing, this camping and glamping activity spot - with a central hub for socialising - is remote and beautiful.

The most westerly surf spot in the country, and one of the most breath-taking beaches on the planet, in my opinion. Great for walks, too.

Finisterre have really taken beachwear to the next level. Their surf clothes are tailor-made for the cold climate, and their streetwear is great too.

Cornwall with Matt Wilkinson

Blue Hawaii

Montreal

A spa out on the water overlooking the old port. Beautiful views. Good at all times of the year.

Fine French dining. Best steak frites in Montreal. Stunning ambiance. Wonderful wine list.

Record shop with a really good selection and really good prices.

A book shop with graphic novels and modern novels - really special vibe here.

This cafe is the best, it feels like you’re walking into a cafe from the 1960’s. Wonderful atmosphere.

Small stalls and local farmers. A beautiful experience with all kinds of food to try.

The large orange globe with good drinks and hot dogs, a must see, especially in the summer.

Kabinet on a Thursday for jazz/tarot night. Cute cocktail club, try the rasputin. Datcha is the club side. Wednesday nights are best at Datcha or Thursday’s after-jazz tarot.

Blue Hawaii's Guide to Montreal

Open Waters Community

Margate

A gorgeous sandy beach in South hams at the mouth of the River Avon where you can forage for sea treasure, surf or sun yourself in the summer. I go often to collect drift wood and shells to use in my art pieces. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Lifeguards from May - Sept

Added by @nuttersbychloehill

Sick place to go for a picnic and a swim in the summer. Bit muddy , but alright when you dive in. Bring your armbands just in case. 

Swim Level: Intermediate
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: No 

Added by @tenzinball

Quieter than most tourist beaches, with some gorgeous views up at Hastings cliffs, plus there's a lovely group of swimmers, the St Leonards Bluetits, for bigger supportive swims when you want them.

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Changing rooms

Added by @filmsvbooks

One of the best beaches I've been to, beautiful white sand, very few people, no litter and lots of seals which are very cute. Nudity is also acceptable if that's your thing. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: None

Added by @kittycatmeow4

Stunning reservoir with clear water that glows a vibrant turquoise in the sunshine where you can go open water swimming, or even take cheeky stop by the hot tub or saunas in you're feeling boujie. 

Swim Level: Intermediate
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Lifeguards 

Added by @shotbymelissa 

Beautiful place to swim, one of the best places I've been to wild swim in the UK with some amazing views around the lake. Takes a little bit of a walk along the footpath to get there and you should keep an eye out for boats, but well worth it. 

Swim Level: Intermediate
Public Transport: No
Facilities: No
Wheelchair access: No 

Added by @samblenk

I love this place because it's got fresh running water, beautiful lakes and streams and massive grass areas for lounging in the sun. Perfect place to rest and restore your energy.

Swim Level: Not for swimming
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: No 

Added by @feensface 

Home to a unique breed of seaweed eating sheep who live on it's rocky-foreshore, this beach isn't neccesarrily one for swimming but it's a place where once a year you can tap into local cutlure and traditions by attending the North Ronaldsay Sheep Festival which involves rebuilding the drystone sheep dyke to prevent the special breed from straying from the shores and eating grass which is toxic to the sheep. 

Swim Level: Not for swimming
Public Transport: No 
Facilities: No

Added by @gazzergram_

Such a great pool and there's a queer swim meet there once a month which is great for water lovers who might not feel so comfortable going to the pool alone. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: No 

Added by @freshasadaiz 

An effortlessly beautiful beach where you can swim or go fossil foraging if that floats your boat. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Yes, RNLI lifeguards 

Added by @xcazzyx 

One of my fav pools, it's open air, heated and has beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Yes, lifeguards and changing rooms

Added by @heyellieq

Tiny little shingle beach with stunning views. Great for a quiet little retreat, peppered with fossils and there are some fantastic walks to be had on the surrounding cliffs with spectacular views of the sea. 

Swim Level: Intermediate 
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Yes, toilets 

Added by @wilhopson

Hope Cove is like a little slice of the Med tucked into the Devonshire shores. The cove itself is beautiful, with crystal clear water, little streams and rockpools that pepper the beach and lots of big boulders for climbing. It's safe as there's very little current and there are usually lifeguards in the summer months and if you get tired of paddling then there's a lovely little gallery where you can enjoy art produced by locals. 


Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Yes, Seasonal lifeguards 

Added by @indiahill_mhd

The bit of Brighton Beach that extends down to Hove is a an oddly serene oasis compared to the main bit of the beach by Brighton town centre. Not many tourist stray down that far, there's a mixture of sandy and pebbled sections and the main draw is it's a lot quieter. Lovely for a dip in the summer and the major key is to position yourself inbetween Marrocco's (a fantastic Italian restaurant where the go to order is a Frittura Mista - a HUGE and delivious box of seafood and chips) and the Brass Monkey's Ice Cream cart (often positioned on Courtney Terrace on the beach front where the beach huts are).

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Yes

Added by @indiahill_mhd

Powered by volunteers, Clevedon Marine Lake is a salt water tidal pool filled with water and set against the the Bristol channel. Swim, paddle, crab, SUP or canoe here any day of the year. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes 
Facilities: No 

Added by @bonnieophelia 

Take the Bristol to Bath cycle route and end here to pop your toes in the water. Take a picnic and meander through the valley, enjoying a dip in the River avon. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: No 

Added by @bonnieophelia 

A 2 mile long pebble beach, set against jurassic cliffs, is a perfect spot for a long walk and day out in the south Devon area. After, get a clotted cream ice cream and pop to the long high street of charity shops. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: No 
Wheelchair Access: Yes

Added by @bonnieophelia

Tucked away behind Clifton Village in North Bristol, Clifton Lido is a calm oasis offering delicious swim and lunch packages. Pop in during winter as the pool is heated all year round. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Yes, lifeguards and changing rooms

Added by @bonnieophelia

If you fancy a little inland adventure, or just want to brush up on your skills before going on a holiday further afield, you can try your hand at scuba diving, open water swimming or stand-up paddleboarding centre in Somerset. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms + Guide, Added by @dancetoujours

This is a beautiful art deco saltwater lido formed in an unusual, triangular shape. You can take a dip while enjoying a little slice of history. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilties: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes. Added by: @dancetoujours 

A real gem of the south west, this is one of my favourite places in the UK to go snorkelling. Also at low tide you can explore the surrounding caves and it feels like you're walking through a magical kingdom of rocks, water and hidden caves. Swim Level: Beginner Public Transport: No, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: No

Beautiful sandy beach next to a quaint, picture-perfect fishing village with some truly amazing views and you can grab a drink at Tŷ Coch Tavern after. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Partial.

The cutest little cove in the world with a bit of a swashbuckling vibe from the smugglers caves that are dotted about.  It's got a lovely sandy beach, which is really quiet as it's tucked away from any roads or hustle and bustle and there's even a botanical garden nearby if you're visiting with friends who are less keen on beach activities. Seafood is to die for. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

Even thought the route to Man O'War is really steep, it's worth the effort. The water is so beautiful, it's literally like being in the Med on a hot day. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

So I had to double take at pictures of this beach when I was looking ahead of my visit, because it genuinely looks like a beach I love in Trinidad. The water is crystal clear and I had a sick day here doing paddle boarding and snorkeling and collecting sea treasures. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This was a lovely little discovery on a camping holiday to Osmington Mills in Weymouth. The beach is sandy and pebbly, but the best thing about it is the water is super clear and it's pretty shallow for quite a distance offshore, which was great for the members of our group who were anxious about deeper water. Also, it's a lot less busy than Weymouth Beach. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by @indiahill_mhd

Really great facility to have in the heart of Hackney borough. I love going here for a cold water swim all year round. There's nothing quite like it in the rest of London and there's something really liberating about having access to cool water and open horizon against the city skyline. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This one is for all my people after a boujie weekend. Floating around in these beautiful heated pools, overlooking the rooftops of Bath city is such a treat, especially at sunset. There's also an indoor pool if you don't fancy the one on the roof. And if you plan your trip, you can head down to the Roman Baths to contrast your modern experience of the water with a guided tour to find out how the Romans enjoyed the water too! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms + Guide, Wheelchair Access: Yes 

Ok hear me out, this pool is small and kind of spenny because you only get access when you book a room in the hotel, but the view from this pool is amazing. It's 52 floors up and you can see all of London. This is definitely one to consider as a birthday, valentines, palentines or anniversary experience. If you're going to go up the Shard, this is the way to do it. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This spa is so decadent, there are six pools and each has a different kind of vide. There's one set up on the roof, another which is more of a kid's pool with a rockpool kind of vibe, but my favourite one is the one set slightly aside from the hall in the grounds as it has more of a holiday abroad kind of vibe. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This is a teeny tiny infinity pool to be fair, but it's set right up in the rooftops of Manchester city centre and it's just really cool because of the views. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

Incredible indoor infinity pool with views of the Thames. Such a luxurious setting to swim laps and then you can treat yourself to a spa treatment after if you feel like it. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Partial

I think this is the only hotel pool I've been to in the UK that has a stunning coastal view. The pool is heated, so you can enjoy it even when the weather is chilly, but the best thing is definitely being able to look down onto Saundersfoot Beach. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Acces: Yes

You've probably seen this pool popping up on your timeline or on the news, it made a big place when it opened. It's a bizarre experience being able to swim with the London skyline all around you and the streets visible below. Definitely worth experiencing at least once, if you can get in. It's worth noting that the pool has also been quite controversial, gaining a reputation for being super exclusive and expensive to maintain. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

So I came across this beach on TikTok and it did not disappoint. Firstly, it's huge and it's a gorgeous sandy beach which is a nice change as so many of the beaches in the UK are stony and painful to walk on. At sunset on a hot day I think this is literally the closest you can get to the Caribbean in the south west. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by Sabrina @sabrinal879

Bit of a remote one in Shetland and take a bit of hiking to get there, but it's worth the trip. The slopes are slippery, so proceed with caution and the water is pretty icy, so one to be admired from the banks. Swim Level: 
Advanced, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by Ian @dancetoujours

The most aesthetically pleasing plunge pool with a waterfall above it that is perfect for a wild swim. The water is extremely cold so don't stay in too long or wear a wetsuit! Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by Ian @dancetoujours

This medieval fish pond is the perfect place for a dip in the summer set in the middle of beautiful heathland. They have two areas of the ponds that are marked out for swimming and the rest of the pond is used for fishing. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes

Really cute little beach lined with beach huts. You can do some really lovely walks along the coast and then take a dip after. Just watch out as there are warnings around of landslides and coastal erosion, so just don't get too close to the cliffside. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes 

Crystal clear turquoise water, white sand and a dramatic cliff-face as a backdrop. It's giving the holiday feel of the Caribbean with the drama of the British coastline. Also has a claim to fame, having starred in the series Poldark. You need to check tide times before you go though otherwise you'll risk getting stuck, it takes a hike down a pretty steep cliff 'path' to get there, so trainers and backpacks are advisable, and finally it's an unofficial nudist beach, so you can let it all hang out if you want to! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No 

This beach is really special as it's home to one of the UK's most spectacular natural landmarks, a massive arch formed naturally in the limestone that jutts out in front of the beach. The beach itself is a mixture of pebbles and shingle and you access it by a somewhat perilous winding staircase, but it's worth the effort. Good for a paddle and maybe a quick swim on a clear day when the waters in the cove are calm, just be wary of the rocks beneath the surface. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Added by @indiahill_mhd

A lovely place to visit for the day, just a short journey out of London. Lee Valley Park a tangle of rivers and lakes, so it's a great place to take a picnic and sit by the water. You can rent little boats or pedalos at Lee Valley Boat Centre and go sailing. Not one for swimming as the water quality isn't fantastic and also I think the park advises against it because it would disturb the wildlife, but you can dip your toes in to cool off on a hot day. Swim Level: No Swimming, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @indiahill_mhd

Located on a quiet stretch of the South Coast pebble beaches between Seaford and Newhaven, Tide Mills has prime swimming. Calm and easy to dip into ocean, which is surprisingly clear here. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @annarosejay

Hyper local spot in Penzance for accessible sea swimming, drop off the rocks or step down the natural granite into cool, clear water. Enclosed in the bay, this spot is tucked behind the Jubilee Pool Lido in Penzance. The marked Buoys to swim to and around make this a ritualistic swimming spot, frequented by locals on their daily swim. It's also a friendly, sheltered place to hang out.  Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Lido next door has facilities, Wheelchair Access: No,  Added by @annarosejay

Nice sandy/shingle beach, great place to bodyboard. Really clean and only a stones throw from the New Forsest if you wanted to have a hiking holiday with access to a beach. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Really long stone beach lined with cute little beach huts. Also great beach to visit if you're a dog owner as they're allowed all year round! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Absolutely nut day out, basically like total wipeout. You can go on this massive inflatable assault course that floats on the water. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Amazing place for a wild swim, surrounded by beautiful park land and wildlife that really comes to life in the summer. Not too far out of London so makes a good day trip from the city centre and great place to walk your dog too. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This place is amazing as it's open all year round and you can windsurf, paddleboard, sail and get lessons for the activities too if you've never done them before. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Partial, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Super cold water which is lovely to swim in on a hot summer day. Worth booking a spot if you're trying to go in the summer as it does fill up, but a brilliant spot to visit when you need to cool off, nestled just at the south side of Hamsptead Heath. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by @threadsforapenny

The woodlands at Rydal Hall are like something out of a children's fairytale. There are wild ponds which have been cultivated by volunteers to increase the wildlife. Rydal beck weaves its way around the grounds, but the best part is the waterfall which you can view through the Grot. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Guide, Wheelchair Access: No

A beautiful section of Loch Lomond with a sandy shore which makes accessing the water quite easy compared to other spots around the loch where there are only slippery rocks. Surrounded by lots of walking trails too where you can get a more elevated view of the loch. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Partial

Totally awesome place to swim in view of the old tower house on the tidal islet that sits in the near the shore in Loch Linnhe. Defintiely need a wetsuit though because the water is really cold! Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

The beach here is a lovely, clean, sandy beach and you can swim with the view of the chalk cliffs which are stunning. It's not as crowded as other beaches in the area and there are toilets and nice cafes nearby. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard, Wheelchair Access: No

Such a conveniently located sandy beach with nice walking trails and a promenade. Also really close to lots of lovely restaurants and cafes so you can have a nice lunch with a lot more options than just fish and chips. The beach is dog friendly too and you can get beach wheelchairs for free if you book ahead! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: None, Wheelchair Access: Yes

Stunning white sandy beach fringed with grassy dunes that provide epic views of the beautifully clear turquoise water, not to be confused with its sister beach on the Isle of Barra, though both are equally beautiful. Fun fact this beach is also used as a small aircraft runway at low tide, so also worth checking if anything is due to land as it's quite exciting to go and watch the planes coming down. This beach is quite popular for surfing due to the power waves. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: None, Wheelchair Access: No

There are plenty of beaches and bays spread across these two Hebridean islands. Though the average temperatures on these islands doesn't really go above 16 degreed, the white sand and crystal clear waters on these two islands' beaches would make you think they're in Spain or Italy. These islands are quite remote so the beaches are incredibly peaceful and surrounded by phenomenal landscapes and wildlife. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

Really beautiful park with walking trails that pass by little waterfalls, ponds and streams. The best time of year to go is either autumn when the leaves are starting to change colour, or spring when all the buds are just beginning to emerge. Swim Level: No Swimming, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Partial

Open Waters Crowd Sourced Guide

Stiff Pap

Cape Town

If you want a night out in the township, this should be your first stop. Rands is one of the best live music venues in the city and a great place to experience a night out over some drinks and some of SA’s biggest musicians.

If you’re interested in hiking this is an entry level trail. There’s a beautiful view of the ocean and the city when you reach the peak. It’s really pretty around sundown.

This is a great spot for people who want to experience some of Cape Town’s alternative/underground music events. The best event to attend there is called Prime, so keep an eye on their socials.

This is probably the most popular bar in town. They have great music from an eclectic line up of local (and some international) djs. Start off at the one in Kloof Street around 6/7pm for sundowners and make your way down the road to the one on loop street around 10pm for the rest of the night. If you just want a chilled night out, stick to Kloof Street.

If you’re into markets/food festivals this is your spot on Saturday mornings. There are local bands, food stalls and tons of independent retailers selling (often local) goods.

Observatory is often referred to as the bohemian centre of Cape Town, because of all the students and backpackers it attracts. With the many bars on Lower Main Road, its definitely a must see for people looking to meet new people and interact with the creative community.

If you’re a fan of nature, you might want to make a stop here with the whole family. This is easily one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the country. Depending on the season they also host live concerts on the grass.

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