Head to our selection of the worldʼs top seven beach resort getaways for the coolest summer vacay!

By SATARUPA PAUL

With the mercury inching upwards and summer holidays around the corner, it’s time to start planning that much-awaited vacation of the year. While the mountains may still be the first choice for many,
beach destinations are becoming increasingly popular as that perfect getaway—especially when they come with some of the finest luxury resorts offering a host of amenities and special experiences. So, pack your swimwear and sandals, grab those shades and sunscreens,
and head to one of these beach resorts for the most relaxing summer holiday ever.

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Bathed in verdant tropical greenery and lined by white-sand beaches, the enchanting Indian Ocean archipelago of Seychelles has captured many a wandering heart. Nestled in the lush tropical hillside overlooking the turquoise waters of the Petite Anse Bay on the main island of Mahé, the Four Seasons Resort offers an endless selection
of experiences, from marine education to beachfront yoga sessions. Whether you opt to relax in your own private pool or sunken bathtub that come with all accommodation types, or lounge at the pristine shores of the sheltered, horseshoe-shaped bay, R&R options are aplenty here. The in-house Le Syel Spa offers a range of relaxing therapies with the most spectacular views in all of Mahé.

Doubles from ₹1,22,000/night; fourseasons.com
Nearest airport: Mahé.
Fly to Mahé with Vistara’s interline partners Emirates and Etihad.

Galle Fort Hotel, Sri Lanka

Originally a Dutch mansion and warehouse from the 18th century, the magnificent Galle Fort Hotel is one of Sri Lanka’s most uplifting cultural experiences. Rescued from neglect and painstakingly restored in 2003, the property retains its historical authenticity while boasting several modern luxuries. The destination of Galle itself entices with its stunning beaches, the 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort, the National Maritime Museum, and numerous Portuguese- and Dutch-era buildings. Besides culture vultures, foodies are sure to have a gala time, too, in the city with fine restaurants offering delectable menus designed around fresh produce
and abundant seafood.

Doubles from ₹27,000/night; galleforthotel.com
Nearest airport: Colombo.
Vistara operates direct flights six times a week from Mumbai and Delhi.

Rayavadee, Thailand

Situated in the heart of Krabi’s beautiful Phranang Peninsula
and bordering the Krabi Marine National Park, renowned for its natural beauty and rich marine life, the luxurious Rayavadee Resort was built with the idea of living in balance with the environment.
Two-storey pavilions and luxurious villas with Thai-inspired design details are nestled amongst the property’s thick coconut groves and tropical gardens, none of which was cut or cleared during the construction process. High on sustainability, Rayavadee regularly organises beach cleaning, mangrove planting, and marine life repopulation activities. Personalised experiences include speedboat cruises to Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay, kayaking through pristine mangrove forests, rock climbing, nature hikes to waterfalls, scuba diving, and Thai cooking classes.

Doubles from ₹23,000/night; rayavadee.com
Nearest airport: Bangkok.
Vistara operates direct flights to Bangkok five times a week from Delhi.

One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives

The stunning islands-nation of Maldives has become every Indian’s dream beach destination, especially in the last few years with direct flights and exclusive offers from the many luxury resorts. Surrounded by the dazzling Indian Ocean and located on one of the largest islands in North Malé Atoll, One & Only Reethi Rah offers an unrivalled selection of inspiring journeys for summer. Their six-km-long private coastline includes 12 pristine beaches, two swimming pools, and 37 private pools with each of their Beach Villas. A selection of luxuriously appointed Water Villas, eight world-class restaurants, water adventures such as diving and snorkelling, a host of wellness experiences at the bespoke spa, and cultural immersion activities make for a complete vacation package.

Doubles from ₹1,35,000/night; oneandonlyresorts.com
Nearest airport: Malé.
Fly to Malé with Vistara’s interline partner SriLankan Airlines

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa

Arguably everyone’s favourite domestic beach destination, Goa has its own share of luxury beach resorts, of which the Taj Exotica is one of the most resplendent. Located in Benaulim, on the southwest coast of Goa and overlooking the Arabian Sea, this Mediterranean-inspired resort is sprawled across 56 acres of lush greenery. It features stunning old-world architecture, flower-lined patios, and a sunshine-laden atrium that make for the perfect romantic getaway or family holiday. The resort is an ideal destination for those wish to enjoy a lazy vacation filled with endless sunbathing and swimming at the private beach, and indulge in some wining and dining at the fine establishments or casual all-day eateries. If you prefer a more active holiday, the concierge can plan city tours to Goa’s historic sites, spice plantation and bird sanctuary visits, or help you choose from several water-sports adventures.

Doubles from ₹28,500/night; tajhotels.com
Nearest airport: Goa.
Vistara operates daily direct flights from Mumbai and Delhi.

Hilton Los Cabos, Mexico

The sparkling blue waters of the Sea of Cortez create the perfect backdrop for all kinds of getaways in Los Cabos or Cabo San Lucas,
a resort town located on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. At the luxe Hilton Los Cabos, inviting oceanfront rooms and suites—some with private plunge pools—allow you to savour the expansive views preparing for the adventures ahead. Award-winning restaurants offer contemporary interpretations of Latin American, Mexican, and Mediterranean cuisines, while the new Enclave Beach Club provides a vibrant seaside setting with a bar, fire pits, plush lounges, and personal butler service. Spend your days golfing, snorkelling, or at dive-in movies. Or go for an all-out wellness vacation with spa treatments, floating yoga classes, Outrace TRX workout sessions, and more.

Doubles from ₹31,000/night; hiltonloscabos.com
Nearest airport: Los Cabos.
Fly to Los Cabos with Vistara’s interline partner American Airlines.

InterContinental Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu may not be everyone’s first choice for a summer holiday, but it can certainly be a memorable one. Situated along the scenic East Coast Road, the InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort is tucked away amidst expansive casuarina groves and gardens. The property boasts its own private beach and an outdoor pool for the luxurious 100-plus rooms and ocean-view suites. Three fine dining restaurants feature global cuisines, while a casual seaside tiki shack offers picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal, along with tapas, beach classics, and coastal curries inspired from Peninsular India. Couples can opt for private dining experiences for two under a star-spangled sky with serenading waves for company. The Amrtam Wellness Studio offers holistic treatments inspired by Eastern medicine, naturopathy, and Ayurveda.

Doubles from ₹10,500/night; ihg.com
Nearest airport: Chennai.
Vistara operates daily direct flights from Mumbai and Delhi.

Related: 8 Luxurious Hotels That Are Perfect For A Romantic Getaway