Americans love celebrities. They’re glamorous. They wear the best clothes, drive the best cars, and eat at the best restaurants. They’re trend setters. When they start wearing floppy hats, we all rush out to get the same. When they decide that floppy hats aren’t in anymore, we donate ours to the thrift store.
Vacation spots aren’t any different. Certain places get hot with the glitterati and all of a sudden we want to go there, too. Perhaps we’ll inadvertently rub elbows with the rich and famous. Or at least our friends will be green with envy as they scroll through our Instagram feeds.
We know a thing or two about vacations, so we thought we would showcase celebrities’ favorite beaches. With summer rapidly approaching, now is the time to start thinking about the beach. Why not see where the movie stars and pop idols stroll along the surf? With that in mind, here’s our list of top on-trend celebrity beaches.
A number of celebrities have been spotted here recently. Sofia Vergara and her husband Joe Manganiello honeymooned at Parrot Cay — an exclusive resort found in this Caribbean locale. Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner also got married at nearby Providenciales. The locale was gorgeous, even if it didn’t foretell a lasting marriage. Even Justin Bieber was spotted there recently.
Known as an excellent place for scuba diving and snorkeling, many vacationers come to explore the crystal waters off the coast. The islands also boast a remarkable biodiversity, so people who like a little eco with their tourism will also find plenty to do.
Barbados has an advantage in celebrity affections. It’s also the place where R&B A-lister Rhianna grew up, but she isn’t the only one who has taken her vacation time on this beautiful island. Gwyneth Paltrow and Hugh Grant along with the whole Wahlberg family have been known to spend time under Barbados’ tropical sun.
Once one of the most important islands in Britain’s Caribbean empire, Barbados is famed for its colonial architecture. The beaches also have much to offer every salt water fan. On the west coast, calm waters are perfect for swimming and wading. If you are more interested in surf, the east coast has the waves. Regardless, the sand is soft, the cuisine renowned, and the water a consistent gorgeous turquoise.
Jamaica is a big island, and we’ve picked Frenchman’s Cove as our favorite. It’s a classic Hollywood vacation spot that is coming back around. Once a popular haunt for the likes of Grace Kelly, Liz Taylor, and Errol Flynn, it has become a popular destination for more recent pop stars like rapper Drake, Icelandic singer Björk and the Voice’s Gwen Stefani.
Frenchman’s Cove is a quiet destination, which is a welcome change in a country that is known for its crowded and overly touristy beaches. In addition to its white sand, the larger Port Antonio region boasts wonderful jungle trails and an authentic Jamaican arts and crafts tradition. If you’re looking for a little bit of exclusivity, opt for Frenchman’s Cove.
Original pop star Elvis Presley put Maui on the celebrity map. The shops, eateries, and resorts have all kept Maui firmly placed in the minds of beach hungry celebrities. Paris Hilton, famed for her dedication to the art of shopping, is a common sight around Maui. Likewise, Selena Gomez has made her presence known in America’s 50th state.
All Hawaiian beaches are famed for their surf. It’s no surprise that Hawaiians invented the sport of surfing. Maui is also a great place to get off the beach and hit the links. Golfing is almost as popular in Maui as sunbathing. In addition, Maui has become a popular destination for scuba divers looking to explore underwater wild life.
There are a number of Greek islands that are popular Mediterranean beach destinations. Recently, both Tom Hanks and Tom Cruise have been spotted in Mykonos. Considering its status as the not-quite-most famous Greek island, it’s a perfect spot for celebrities wanting to take advantage of amenities while avoiding the largest of crowds.
Like many of the Greek islands, the architecture is picturesque. White-washed buildings topped with domes dominate the island. Above them, ancient windmills spin. The nightlife has also become famed. As the sun sets, the discotheques fill with people looking to dance late into the night.
Cabo has earned its reputation due to its exclusivity. George Clooney and Jennifer Aniston are both known to frequent here. It is a quick flight away from Hollywood, so it’s no surprise that many celebrities make their way to Cabo. Or maybe they truly enjoy the margaritas.
Cabo is a great destination for the beach lover who also appreciates history. The famous town square along with a number of museums means the town is equally as alluring as the many beautiful beaches and swimming holes. Cabo also has a proud tradition of water sports, so vacationers who like their salt water with a dash of the extreme will feel right at home.
Bora Bora is, like so many of the favorite destinations of the rich and famous, popular in no small part due to its exclusivity. Charlize Theron, Rob Lowe, Nicole Kidman and Eva Longoria are all known to frequent this Pacific destination. The many private, water-facing bungalows have become well known in travel brochures as the picturesque residences of this Polynesian gem.
Bora Bora is a volcanic island, meaning there are a number of breathtaking geological features. In addition, remarkable coral gardens make this a perfect place for snorkeling and scuba diving. And of course, the beaches are incomparable.
This is another classic beach destination that has long been a favorite for celebrity vacationers. It is so special that Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas own a house in Mallorca, as does Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal.
This location offers a wealth of historical destinations. Prehistoric, Roman, and Moorish sites dot the largest of the Balearic Islands. Among the many beaches are also a number of protected coves with calm waters perfect for wading and relaxing. It also boasts some wonderful hiking, meaning it is earning a reputation as a year-round destination, not only a summer vacation spot.
With the upcoming Olympics, Rio is going to be awash with tourists, but the allure of samba, Brazilian cuisine, and the always refreshing caipirinhas has done nothing to deter the celebrity vacationer. A known destination for Penelope Cruz, Madonna, and Javier Bardem, it’s a lively place. Perhaps the dense population actually makes it easier for celebrities to blend in.
Rio’s most famous beach is Ipanema. The view of the ocean from the beach is gorgeous, and the view from the mountain tops is equally dramatic. It’s no wonder that Rio’s Christ the Redeemer is permanently taking in the vista. Brazilian food is a must, as is the nightlife, which is complete with the nation’s signature and sensual dance: the samba.
Jay-Z and Beyoncé vacation here. And so does Jessica Alba. In fact, the very name of St. Barts is becoming shorthand for celebrity beach vacation. It is the kind of slow paced yet highly luxurious tropical paradise that is tailor made for the celebrity looking to escape the lime light and the grind of fame and fortune.
Like any Caribbean escape, St. Barts is perhaps best experienced on a lounge chair with nothing but a bikini and fruity cocktail. Anyone who does nothing but sunbathe will likely go home completely satisfied with their vacation choice. St. Barts also offers diving, sailing, and jet skiing within its pristine waters. When the sun goes down, the bass goes up, as St. Barts’ reputation for nightlife is growing.
Saint-Tropez is a celebrity destination with all of the Old World charm. Victoria Beckham, Kate Moss, P. Diddy, and Kate Hudson have all been spotted at the location originally made famous by French actress Brigitte Bardot.
Like many European destinations, there is a healthy mix of beach relaxation and in-town adventuring. Museums and some of the finest dining in Europe all make day trips into town well worth the time spent away from the sand. Saint-Tropez is also home to many of Europe’s best clubs. If ever you have dreamed of ordering a drink and seeing if you can see past the velvet rope, Saint-Tropez is the place to do it. While you might not be able to get close to P. Diddy, you will be able to tell your friends that you were technically in the same room as him.
Bondi Beach is the beach to go to if you are down under. A favorite of Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Richie, and Australia’s own Hugh Jackman, it is the kind of beach filled with adventure that can only come from being attached to a city.
Any trip to Bondi Beach means you can also explore Sydney, one of the most exciting cities in the world. The beach itself is a well-known surf spot, home to many of Australia’s leaders in the sport. The overlooking cliffs are also worth exploring if vacationers enjoy hiking as much as swimming.
Jennifer Lopez loves Miami, and so does Will Smith. Heck, Will Smith even wrote a song about it. While both are famed for their looks, South Beach is a destination where it seems like everyone is as beautiful as the celebrities who might get lost in the crowd.
Miami’s art deco style is well known throughout the world, as is its nightlife. Miami is the kind of place where you spend the day soaking up the sun only to get dressed up for some equally hot dancing in the clubs. Miami also boasts some exclusive boutiques.
Located in LA, just a stone’s throw from Hollywood, it isn’t surprising that many celebrities take quick breaks to enjoy the California surf. In many ways, Malibu is the best option for celebrities, as they can quickly make an escape if the paparazzi become too aggressive. Since many of us don’t live in Malibu, it is a worthwhile vacation spot. We can visit Hollywood while we’re there, and the beaches are well worth checking out on their own.
Although Ocean City is known more as a family destination, its proximity to New York City along with its history as a popular American destination does attract its fair share of celebrities. Its beaches, boating, fishing, and cultural events all attract celebrities who want to experience a classic American vacation.
A wide range of hotels — from the ultra-lux to the affordable — means that any vacationer can find great accommodations that fit their budget. Unlike many exclusive destinations, Ocean City is a great place for families. There are plenty of quiet places to relax and a number of activities perfect for the active youngster.
Take some time and explore everything that Ocean City, New Jersey has to offer. If you are looking for accommodations, we have collected some of the best options for a good night’s rest. If you are wondering where you are going to eat while you’re here, we’ve figured that out too. Don’t be afraid of getting bored — we have also put together a guide on the best things to do in Ocean City as well.
If you are looking for a family friendly, classic American beach experience with a chance of spotting a visiting celeb, look no further than Ocean City, New Jersey. Take a walk along our famed boardwalk. Share a meal at one of our many fine restaurants. And if you simply want to spend your days soaking up the rays while doing nothing at all, you couldn’t find a better place than Ocean City.
