The Best Beach Towns for Foodies and Sun Seekers

29 September 2025

Picture this: you’re lounging on a sun-kissed beach, waves gently crashing at your feet, and in your hand? A plate of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted. If that sounds like paradise, congratulations—you, my friend, are both a foodie and a sun seeker. And guess what? The world is full of beach towns that cater to both your love for good eats and your insatiable craving for sandy shores.

So, where should you go to indulge in mouthwatering meals while soaking up vitamin D? Buckle up (or, you know, loosely tie that sarong), because we’re about to take you on a deliciously sun-drenched ride through the best beach towns for food lovers and sun worshippers.

1. San Sebastián, Spain – Where Pintxos Meet Pristine Coastlines

San Sebastián isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a food lover’s dream wrapped in golden sand. Sitting on Spain’s northern coast, this town is known for two things: world-class beaches and an obsession with food so deep, even their snacks (pintxos) are elevated to gourmet status.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- La Concha Beach – One of Europe's most beautiful beaches. You can sunbathe, swim, or just stare at the horizon contemplating life decisions (like why you haven’t been here sooner).
- Michelin-star madness – More Michelin stars per square meter than almost anywhere in the world. If fine dining were a sport, San Sebastián would be the Olympics.
- Pintxos culture – Bar hopping here isn’t about drinks—it’s about small, heavenly bites of seafood, cured meats, and local cheese, all speared with tiny skewers.

Imagine sipping a glass of Txakoli (a lightly sparkling white wine) as you nibble your way through bite-sized bliss. Sun, sea, and snacks—what’s not to love?

2. Charleston, USA – Southern Charm with a Side of Shrimp & Grits

Charleston, South Carolina, is like that effortlessly cool person who always knows where to get the best food and has an impeccable beach tan. This historic coastal gem is packed with charm, and its food scene? Unreal.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- Folly Beach – Laid-back, bohemian vibes with killer surf and even better sunsets.
- Lowcountry cuisine – Charleston’s food scene is all about flavor. Think buttery shrimp and grits, melt-in-your-mouth biscuits, and spicy-sweet barbecue.
- Historic beauty – Cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and Spanish moss-covered trees—walking around Charleston feels like stepping into a postcard.

Whether you're slurping down fresh oysters at a beachside shack or indulging in crispy fried chicken that ruins all future fried chicken for you, Charleston will leave your stomach and soul equally happy.

3. Phuket, Thailand – Tropical Paradise with a Side of Pad Thai

Phuket is Thailand’s ultimate beach destination, with turquoise waters, stunning islands, and, most importantly, some of the best street food on the planet. If your ideal vacation involves dipping your toes in warm waters while devouring spicy, coconut-infused dishes, welcome home.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- Patong Beach – The place to go if you love lively beaches, buzzing nightlife, and plenty of street food within arm’s reach.
- Beachside street eats – Satay skewers, mango sticky rice, fresh seafood—all prepared right before your sun-kissed eyes.
- Island-hopping heaven – Take a boat to Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island for views so stunning they’ll make you forget Instagram even exists.

One bite of freshly grilled fish with tamarind sauce, and you’ll wonder why you don’t live here permanently. Warning: You will be tempted to quit your job and open a beachside food cart.

4. Amalfi Coast, Italy – Sun, Seafood, and Sensational Pasta

When Italians do beach towns, they don’t mess around. The Amalfi Coast isn’t just breathtaking—it’s a feast for the senses. Azure waters, dramatic cliffs, and food so good you’ll want to write poetry about it.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- Positano Beach – Iconic views, colorful cliffside villages, and crystal-clear water.
- Seafood pasta for days – Fresh Mediterranean seafood + homemade pasta = happiness on a plate.
- Limoncello straight from the source – When life gives the Amalfi Coast lemons, they make limoncello, and it’s divine.

Whether you're sipping espresso at a seaside café or twirling forkfuls of spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta) while watching the sunset, this place is pure magic.

5. Bali, Indonesia – Surf, Sunsets, and Sate Skewers

Bali is basically the Beyoncé of beach destinations—loved by all, effortlessly stunning, and packed with personality. But beyond its Instagram-worthy beaches, Bali also delivers some of the best food in Southeast Asia.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- Seminyak Beach – Trendy beach clubs, soft sand, and sunsets so perfect they feel photoshopped.
- Balinese cuisine – From Nasi Goreng (fried rice) to Babi Guling (suckling pig), Bali’s food scene is flavorful and ridiculously good.
- Coconut everything – Fresh coconut water, coconut ice cream, coconut pancakes—Bali is basically a coconut-worshipping island, and you’ll love every sip and bite.

Bali is that rare place where you can surf at sunrise, eat a breakfast smoothie bowl that looks like a rainbow, and dance barefoot at a beachside bonfire—all in a single day.

6. Lagos, Portugal – Hidden Coves and the Best Grilled Fish Ever

Lagos is Portugal’s secret weapon when it comes to beach towns. Not only does it have some of the most jaw-dropping coastline, but it’s also a paradise for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- Praia Dona Ana – Turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and picture-perfect golden sand.
- Grilled sardines done right – Simple, fresh, and packed with flavor—this is Portugal’s beachside staple.
- Pastéis de nata (Custard tarts) – Sweet, creamy, and flaky perfection. You will eat more than one.

Lagos gives you everything—quiet, hidden coves for solo sun-soaking and lively restaurants for feasting on the best seafood of your life.

7. Tulum, Mexico – Tacos, Turtles, and Turquoise Waters

Tulum is for those who enjoy their sunshine with a side of bohemian vibes, ancient ruins, and the best tacos in existence.

Why You’ll Dig It:

- Beachfront jungles – Palm trees, soft white sand, and crystal-clear waters create an otherworldly paradise.
- Mexican street food heaven – Tacos al pastor, ceviche, and churros that will ruin all future churros for you.
- Swim with sea turtles – Seriously, how many places let you enjoy tacos and swim with turtles in the same afternoon?

If you love the idea of sunbathing under a palm tree while munching on the freshest guacamole of your life, Tulum is calling your name.

So, Where’s Your Next Stop?

If you’re someone who believes beach days should come with a side of unforgettable food, these towns are calling your name. Whether it’s pintxos in Spain, seafood in Portugal, or street food in Thailand, there’s a beach town out there waiting to satisfy both your stomach and your sun-seeking soul.

Now, the only question left is: Which one are you booking first?