The Best Beaches Around Byron Bay, Australia

Although Byron Bay is known for its surf breaks, you don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy the charming beaches around the town. Byron Bay has some of the best beaches, not just in the area, but in all of Australia. They’re perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, among other beach activities.

Although it depends on your desired activities, the best time to visit Byron Bay is during the spring months — September through November. Rainfall is limited and temperatures remain a comfortable high of 80 degrees.

Home to just under 10,000 residents, Byron Bay attracts over two million travelers every year. So, whether you’re visiting Byron Bay for its artisan shops, fresh food cafes, or nightlife, you’ll definitely want to explore the following six beaches in and around the town!

Main Beach

As the name suggests, Main Beach is the most central and popular beach in Byron Bay. Due to its convenient location, it’s unsurprising that this stretch of beach is busier than surrounding ones throughout the year. Plus, it has the most robust amenities, with toilets, showers, picnic tables, a drinking fountain, and a large parking lot.

Located at the end of lively Jonson Street, this beach has access to seaside dining. The Beach Hotel, across the street from Main Beach, is a great place to enjoy a cold beer and watch the sunset change the color of the sky from deep blue to light pinks and purples. Alternatively, you can grab fresh fish and chips from Fishmongers to enjoy with your toes wriggling in the sand.

Byron Bay is known as “hippie haven,” and most evenings you’ll find fire dancers and a drum circle at Main Beach encouraging anyone and everyone to sing, drum, and dance. Sometimes, you’ll even see beautiful mandalas drawn in the sand.

The Pass

Since Main Beach is quite long, at one point the beach becomes Clarke Beach and then turns into an area called The Pass on the northeastern end. There is a small, convenient — but metered — parking lot near this area that will cost you $4 per hour. Otherwise, you can stroll the 1.4 miles along the white sand beach to reach it.

Mainly known for its surf, this area attracts both beginner and expert surfers during the right conditions. The rip tides and swells are notoriously hazardous in Byron Bay, so it’s important to be aware of ocean conditions before venturing out.

However, since the beach is at a rounded, protected point on the coastline, it’s a great place to swim between the two flags set up by lifeguards. Not only is it a safe place to take a dip, but it also has a wide stretch of sand perfect for laying out in the sun.

Uniquely, this stretch of beach also features a man-made viewpoint called Fisherman’s Lookout. The lookout consists of a series of wooden staircases set against a large rock that leads to a wooden platform overlooking the ocean and surfers below. Between June and November, the lookout can provide visitors with opportunities to see migrating humpback whales.

Tallow Beach

If you’ve hiked to the top of Cape Byron via Lighthouse Road, you’ve most likely seen the beautiful half-moon shaped beach on the right-hand side. Four miles long, Tallow Beach is much more remote than the beaches on the north side of Byron Bay. This means ample space for any four-legged friends to join you for a long walk on the beach. The dog-friendly beach entrance is located on Jarman Street.

Although conditions here might seem just right for a lengthy swim, it’s not recommended at Tallow Beach due to rip currents. Nevertheless, there are a few patrolled sections on Tallow Beach where swimming between flags is safe. Either way, Tallow Beach is great for sunbathing, playing beach games, and sharing lunch or dinner on a checkered picnic blanket.

Cosy Corner, another popular surfing spot, is located just under Cape Byron on the northern side of Tallow Beach. Since this area is shielded from wind, Cosy Corner is also a great place to try your hand at beach fishing (you’ll have to have a New South Wales recreational fishing license). Additionally, the bordering Arakwal National Park is filled with walking trails, freshwater tea tree lakes, and wildlife.

Wategos Beach

A local favorite, Wategos Beach is a comparatively smaller beach than both Main and Tallow beaches. However, any points it loses for size, it makes up for in beauty.

You can reach Wategos Beach by driving in from town (5 minutes by car) or walking the scenic Cape Byron walking trail. Parking spots are limited, just spanning the length of the road adjacent to the beach. It’s recommended that you visit between early morning surfers and mid-day families.

Once you’ve reached the beach, set up camp on the sand or under a shady palm. Equipped with picnic tables, free barbecues, and even a small cafe, Wategos Beach is the perfect place to while away the day. With calmer waters than The Pass, it’s a great place for longboarding, swimming, and snorkeling. Go sea kayaking in search of dolphins — you’ll paddle through Wategos Beach waters where dolphins are commonly sighted. You may even see turtles or whales during their migration seasons!

In addition to the natural beauty here, the cliffside behind Wategos Beach is filled with gorgeous mansions. Celebrities have caught onto the beauty of Byron Bay and eagerly buy up properties to enjoy the stunning views and atmosphere.

Little Wategos Beach

More exclusive, Little Wategos Beach can only be accessed via the Cape Byron Walking Track from Wategos Beach. It’s also much smaller — just a 0.1 mile stretch of sand. Since it’s so small, it’s important to keep the tides in mind so as not to get caught during high tide.

As Little Wategos Beach is sheltered by a headland, it’s rocky and features occasional rock pools. During low tide, marine life enthusiasts can inspect each rock pool carefully and explore the sea critters occupying these small spaces. In addition to the usual sunbathing and swimming, it’s another fantastic location for sunset with fewer people and more space to enjoy the light show above.

Little Wategos Beach is also known as Australia’s most easterly beach. If you want to mark off another “most easterly” location, continue along the Cape Byron Walking Track to the Byron Bay Lighthouse. There is even a sign you can take a photo with once you reach the tip of the Cape!

Lennox Head Beach

A 15-minute drive south from Byron Bay, Lennox Head Beach is a relaxed strip of shore known for welcoming swimmers, snorkelers, and surfers.

Find an unclaimed spot along the coast, spread your picnic blanket, and enjoy the rays. Conveniently, the beach area in front of Lennox Head Surf Club is equipped with bathrooms and showers. Without the swarm of tourists found in Byron Bay, parking in Lennox Head shouldn’t be a problem.

Proclaimed a National Surfing Reserve in 2007, Lennox Head Beach is also an idyllic spot for seasoned surfers. Due to the number of surfers and the strength of the waves, it’s not recommended for beginners. However, you can spend hours watching the pros, almost effortlessly, catch wave after wave.

If you take a stroll to the southern end of Lennox Head Beach, you might catch a glimpse of a few hang-gliders taking off of Pat Morton Lookout. You may even want to try soaring over the beach yourself — Flight Zone Hang Gliding School is a great place to start.

Where To Get The Best Steak In Omaha

It’s no surprise that beefy Omaha is an ideal spot to get a steak. What is surprising is just how many unbelievable steakhouses there are in Nebraska’s largest city. Whether you’re in the area on a quick business trip or you’re catching a world-famous sporting event, Omaha steak will not disappoint.

Here are the best Omaha steakhouses, including classic favorites, modern iterations, and everything in between.

Omaha Prime

Omaha Prime is located in Omaha’s main entertainment district, the historic Old Market. The restaurant is a white-tablecloth type of place, perfect for a special night out. Be prepared for a hefty bill and a nice dress code, since this is quite an upscale spot.

The service is impeccable, and USDA Prime steaks and chops are the only kinds of beef served (hence the name). Don’t miss the extensive wine list and the four most popular main dishes: the bone-in New York strip, the tomahawk, the bone-in ribeye, and the bone-in filet. There are plenty of fish and poultry options available as well.

Omaha Prime offers a selection of side dishes, vegetables, appetizers, soups, and salads. Some knockouts are the blue cheese potatoes, the lobster bisque served in a puff pastry, the bacon sprouts, the bone marrow, and the sliced tomato and onion salad.

You can make reservations on Open Table or by calling the establishment.

The Drover

A longtime Omaha favorite, The Drover has inspired a cult-like devotion among its large following. Managers Buddy Goodman and Spike Sabin have expertly steered the establishment for decades and continue to do so with aplomb.

This central Omaha legend is best known for its marinated whiskey steaks. First-time visitors should be sure to try this classic menu item. The surf-and-turf steak and lobster is another excellent choice, as is the teriyaki tenderloin kabob with wild rice. For those who don’t love red meat, options like crab legs, halibut, chicken, and pork chops round out the menu.

All dinners at The Drover are served with bread, soup or salad, and a choice of baked potato, French fries, or vegetable. The stocked salad bar is a great precursor to a main meal, and the soup options are different every day.

Be prepared for an old-school steakhouse ambiance, complete with a dark and cave-like interior. Overall, the prices are midrange, and guests can dress casually. You can make reservations by calling the restaurant at (402) 391-7440.

Johnny’s Café

Not to be confused with West Omaha’s Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, South Omaha’s Johnny’s Café, family owned and operated since 1922, is another classic steakhouse choice.

According to its website, the establishment is known for Midwestern, hand-cut, and aged-on-site beef selections. Menu favorites include the cowboy cut prime rib, native filet mignon, and T-bone steak. The lunch menu features everything from made-from-scratch soups and sauces to a variety of chicken and fish selections, which means that every member of your party will find something to enjoy. The restaurant also offers daily rotating specials, so be sure to ask your server about these for best value.

Overall, main courses cost between $15 and $40. For a more luxe dinner out, consider the hand-carved-at-your-table chateaubriand for $73.95. Reservations can be made by calling (402) 731-4774.

Brother Sebastian’s Steak House & Winery

Inspired by the legendary hospitality of Spanish monks, West Omaha’s Brother Sebastian’s Steak House & Winery channels old-world vibes sure to charm any visitor. Expect your servers to embrace this theme and even don monastic habits!

Brother Sebastian’s ribeye has been called the best in the city by the Omaha World-Herald, but numerous other items from the large menu stand out, too. The beef stroganoff, salmon fettuccine, and chicken-rolled asparagus are all winners. With the USDA Choice Angus steaks and prime rib available, it’s easy to see why Brother Sebastian’s is a must-visit eatery.

Appetizers (except the large platter options) are all priced at less than $10, while main dishes cost between $20 and $50. To keep prices in that middle range, dinners are served with a salad bar, bread, and a choice of either potato or vegetable.

Call (402) 330-0300 to make reservations.

A steak from Cascio's Steakhouse. — Cascio’s Steak & Pizza House

Cascio’s Steak & Pizza House

Cascio’s Steak & Pizza House is a storied Italian steakhouse located on 10th Street just south of the Old Market district. One of the only remaining old-school steak joints in the city, this legendary restaurant has been serving up beefy goodness since 1946.

To get the ultimate Cascio’s experience, order sautéed mushrooms and onions on top of your steak. Cuts available include sirloin, prime rib, porterhouse, strip, filet mignon, tenderloin brochettes, and more. Steak, chicken, and fish dinners come with a side of pasta and a baked potato for maximum leftover potential. The spaghetti sauce is especially famous and is slow-simmered for 7 hours before it is served. Dinner also includes a salad and breadsticks. Cascio’s is a family-friendly establishment and offers a children’s menu for the little ones in your party.

Italian menu items cost between $16 and $19, seafood costs between $20 and $28, and steaks and chops cost between $21 and $37.

For reservations, call (402) 345-8313. Please note that this steakhouse also offers large party rooms for private gatherings.

Monarch Prime & Bar

According to the New York Times, Monarch Prime & Bar is a can’t-be-missed steakhouse experience. Notably, this spot, which opened in the fall of 2017, is the only one in town that dry-ages its steaks in house. It considers itself a modern take on the classic steakhouse.

Monarch is located in the stunning Hotel Deco, a 1930s renovated space that is one of Omaha’s finest hotels, perched on the edge of the Old Market. The decor is sumptuous and lovely and should inspire diners to dress up a bit.

Besides the aforementioned dry-aged steaks, guests can expect a lively and inventive cocktail program, unexpectedly creative appetizers, and funky steakhouse sides. Menu standouts include the French onion dip, Wagyu prime rib, 60-day-aged tomahawk chop, baby red potatoes, beet salad, and pork shoulder.

For the ultimate, tailored Monarch experience, spring for the $75 chef’s tasting menu with an optional $35 wine pairing; a reserve wine pairing may be added for $65. Please note that full-table participation is mandatory for the tasting menu.

You can make reservations online on Open Table.

Gorat’s

Located in Midtown Crossing, Gorat’s is best known for its most famous patron, Omaha’s own Warren Buffett. But even ordinary visitors can experience this lovely steakhouse with its midrange price point.

Notable appetizers include the hand-battered onion rings, Midwestern tater tots, and creamy spinach dip. Menu favorites include the whiskey steak topped with crispy onion straws, the prime rib au jus, and the Omaha T-bone. Numerous Italian, seafood, and poultry options are also available and are cheaper than the red meat choices. Weekly specials are generally served with garlic roasted carrots with cranberry balsamic glaze and a house salad or soup.

Oftentimes on the weekends, you can enjoy your classic steak dinner with live music.

Make reservations on Open Table or on the app.

Anthony’s Steakhouse

Next up is a family-owned spot, Anthony’s Steakhouse. For more than 50 years, this old-school restaurant has been pleasing the palates of locals and visitors alike. And with its hand-cut, dry-aged beef, it’s easy to see why.

Anthony’s has all the elements of a classic steakhouse but with modern touches that help keep it relevant in today’s dining scene. Appetizers like the burrata-stuffed meatballs and fig-and-prosciutto flatbread are winners. Entrées that shine include the tomahawk pork chop, prime rib, Wagyu short ribs, filet mignon, and veal Parmesan. The Atlantic salmon is delivered fresh daily, and favorite pastas include the rigatoni sausage and peppers and the baked lasagna. You can choose a soup, salad, or both, since they are offered à la carte on this midrange menu.

Reserve your spot on Open Table, or call (402) 331-7575.

Other Options

If you would like to experience a chain steakhouse while in Omaha, numerous favorites can be found sprinkled throughout the city. The Old Market area is home to Sullivan’s Steakhouse, regional chain 801 Chophouse, and Spencer’s For Steak & Chops. The Village Pointe area in West Omaha provides a Japanese twist with Kobe Steakhouse, while Regency Mall hosts Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.

Can’t make it to Omaha but still want to enjoy some world-famous steak? Look into delivery options at Omaha Steaks.

Planning a visit to Omaha? Start your day off right with a delicious brunch.

10 Tips For Hiking The Grand Canyon

It’s a natural wonder of the world, a magnet for visitors from around the globe, and Arizona’s most distinguishing feature. Still, most people who visit the Grand Canyon get just one perspective of the geological phenomenon: from the top down.

Park surveys have shown that a vast majority of the more than 6 million annual visitors to Grand Canyon National Park spend just a few hours there, driving along the rim road and gazing briefly into the vast chasm from one of the convenient overlooks.

But the small percentage of visitors who stay to explore a little deeper find that there is a whole different perspective available: a multilayered view from the bottom up.

Step below the rim of the canyon, and you will be in for close encounters with rugged red buttes, tantalizing far-off vistas of the mighty Colorado River, and occasional sightings of soaring condors.

It’s an exhilarating experience, but it’s also arduous. The Grand Canyon’s website doesn’t mince words: “Warning: There are no easy trails into or out of the Grand Canyon!”

Regardless of the hike you choose, one thing is certain: You will never see the Grand Canyon in quite the same way again.

Here are 10 tips to keep in mind to make the most of this iconic Arizona hike.

Approaching Skeleton Point on the South Kaibab Trail. — Cindy Barks

1. Know Your Limits And Plan Accordingly

Remember: Hiking the Grand Canyon can be challenging even for those who are physically fit.

Combine the elevation (6,800 feet at the South Rim and 8,300 feet at the North Rim) with extreme summer temperatures (average highs exceeding 100 degrees) and rugged, rocky terrain, and the Grand Canyon makes for one of the toughest hikes around.

While most healthy people can navigate the fairly flat Rim Trails that run along the top edge of the canyon at the South and North Rims, venturing onto the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, or North Kaibab Trail takes a different level of stamina.

If your goal is to hike into the canyon to one of several spectacular lookout points below the rim, it is best to do some conditioning before you arrive.

Test yourself beforehand on steep hikes with stretches of 10 percent incline or more and total elevation gains of upwards of 1,000 feet. As you prepare, always keep in mind the 4,460-foot elevation drop from the top of the South Rim to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon.

2. First-Timers: Opt For A Day Hike

If it’s your first time hiking the Grand Canyon, or if you have any concerns about your fitness, plan for a shorter hike — maybe the 0.9-mile trek to the South Kaibab’s Ooh-Aah Point, which, as the name implies, offers mouth-droppingly gorgeous views.

Or continue for another half mile or so on the South Kaibab to the windswept Cedar Ridge, another perfect spot to take in the sweeping Inner Canyon views. Despite the relatively short distances, both hikes will still require a hefty climb out, and hikers should expect to take twice as long going back up as they did heading down.

The National Park Service says that both Ooh-Aah Point and Cedar Ridge are good day hikes for first-time Grand Canyon hikers. Restrooms are available at Cedar Ridge, but there are no water sources anywhere along the South Kaibab Trail, so carrying plenty of water is a must.

The nearby Bright Angel Trail has several stellar day-hike options as well. Although its views are known to be slightly less awe-inspiring than those on the South Kaibab, the Bright Angel comes with the major benefit of water availability.

At regular intervals along the Bright Angel, hikers will find water spigots where they can replenish their water bottles. The National Park Service reminds hikers that water is available seasonally (during the warm-weather months) at the 1.5-mile rest house and the 3-mile rest house and is available year-round at Indian Garden.

The South Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon. — Cindy Barks

3. Don’t Skimp On The Water

Despite the availability of water stops on some trails, hikers should never attempt a Grand Canyon hike without bringing plenty of water of their own.

The amount of water you’ll need to carry will vary based on the season, but the National Park Service advises that hikers carry and drink about a gallon of water per day during the warmer months.

4. Consider The Heat

For visitors to Arizona, the summer heat can come as a shock. Even though both rims of the Grand Canyon are at fairly high elevations, a descent on the various trails will entail rapidly decreasing elevation — and accompanying warmer temperatures.

Grand Canyon experts remind hikers, “It gets hotter as you go down.” Expect a 3-degree temperature gain for every 1,000 feet of elevation drop. If it’s a comfortable 85 degrees at the top of the South Rim when you depart, the temperature at the floor of the canyon could be approaching 100 degrees when you arrive.

The Inner Canyon on the Tonto Trail. — Cindy Barks

5. Dress Appropriately

To combat the summer heat, veteran hikers recommend wearing white, not black. Darker colors will absorb the heat of the unrelenting sun and make for an uncomfortable day. Long sleeves are also advisable to shield against the sun.

For similar reasons, hikers should never venture below the rim without a hat or a cap. Bandanas will also come in handy to shield against the sun and to dip into the cool water of the creek at Indian Garden. With shade at a premium in the Grand Canyon, an umbrella can also bring some needed relief.

Winter hiking is a whole different matter in the Grand Canyon, and the National Park Service advises anyone considering it to be well versed in the weather and route conditions. For those who do decide to head out in the winter, gear essentials include hiking poles to help with footing on icy trails, over-the-shoe traction devices, and warm, weatherproof clothing.

6. Pack The Essential Gadgets

No one wants to weigh down their packs with unnecessary items, but there are a few hiking gadgets that can be lifesavers — literally.

Among them is a headlamp. If you’re setting out on the trail before sunrise, or if you’re planning a long day hike that could last until after sundown, having a light source is crucial. A headlamp is the handiest option because you wear it on your head, leaving your hands free, but a flashlight would also work in a pinch.

A few other handy items: a spray bottle for quick cool-downs, maps, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and basic first-aid items.

7. Bring Plenty Of Salty Snacks

Even on a quick day hike, it is important for hikers to stay energized with high-energy, salty snacks. This is your chance to indulge in junk foods like potato chips, cheese crackers, and pretzels.

The National Park Service advises taking along easy-to-eat snacks as well as meals to eat along the way. “The hike out is much easier when you provide your body with enough calories to support the extreme physical activity you are engaged in,” says the department’s website.

8. Hike Early And Late

To avoid the midday heat, Grand Canyon hikers should plan to get out on the trail early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Especially during the summer, hikers should plan to be off the trail between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. “Take a break near shade and water to avoid the worst heat of the day. Enjoy a predawn start and a late-afternoon finish,” the National Park Service advises.

During June, July, and August, the Grand Canyon’s average high temperatures range from 101 to 106 degrees, making for brutal hiking conditions. For milder temperatures, but still warm and sunny conditions, plan a late-September or early-October hike. April and May can also be great times for a Grand Canyon hike.

A hiker overlooking the Grand Canyon. — canadastock / Shutterstock

9. Listen To The Rangers

If you encounter a Grand Canyon ranger along the trail, it’s best to heed their advice. Many are longtime volunteers who are experienced in assessing hikers’ capabilities.

Often, the rangers will ask where you’re headed. Don’t take it personally; it’s their responsibility to make sure you stay safe. If they feel that your destination is too far, too hot, or too difficult, they might suggest a shorter hike. And remember that if you do have trouble along the trail, the rangers can offer assistance in getting you out safely.

10. Don’t Forget To Take It All In

As with any vaunted physical feat, hiking the Grand Canyon can become a bit of an obstacle course for some. The point, it seems, is to get to their destination — the river, the other side, back to the rim — as fast as they can.

But that defeats the purpose of the journey. This might be a once-in-a-lifetime excursion, so enjoy it! Take photos, wade in the creek, marvel at the towering rock walls. And when you do make it back to the rim, don’t hesitate to reward yourself. You’ve earned that ice cream cone!

Planning a trip to Arizona? See our other articles on the Grand Canyon State to learn more about the hiking trails, parks, petroglyphs, and natural wonders the area has to offer.

The Best And Most Beautiful Delaware Beaches To Visit

When you think of beaches, you probably think of semitropical swaths of white sand under palm trees and the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. But much farther north than Florida, you’ll find another state that has as high a ratio of beachfront to land as the Sunshine State.

Situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Delaware Bay, Delaware River, and the Atlantic Ocean, the state of Delaware is home to a wide variety of beaches that are worth a visit on any summer afternoon.

Here are some of the best and most beautiful.

Rehoboth Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the state of Delaware is Rehoboth Beach, situated on the Atlantic side of Delaware in the southern third of the state. Thousands of tourists stroll the beach looking for the best spot in the sand all summer long.

There’s a wide wooden boardwalk that skirts a mile of the 1.5-mile beach; it’s lined with hotels, eateries, and shops. There’s even the family-focused Funland amusement park that’s been around since 1962. It’s most popular in the evening, when it’s not so hot and the beach is less crowded.

Rehoboth Beach is a public, free-entry beach, which means there are no showers or changing stalls, but there are public restrooms along the boardwalk. You can find metered parking on the streets or by the convention center a few blocks away.

Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach is nearly as well known as Rehoboth Beach, but it promotes itself as one of the quieter resort towns in the area. Bethany Beach lies farther south along the Atlantic Coast in Delaware, about 30 minutes from Rehoboth Beach. There aren’t as many traffic jams in the small town as there are farther north on Route 1 in the shopping district, but Bethany Beach doesn’t have quite as lively a downtown area as Rehoboth.

The crowds, however, still flock to this mile-long stretch of beach on the Atlantic to enjoy the glistening sands and sparkling water. The sand dunes provide a gorgeous backdrop for family photos and relaxation, and the ever-crashing waves make for a great time for older kids and grown-ups.

Because the lifeguards are off duty in the early morning, the crowds are thinner, and those who enjoy water sports like paddleboarding will find the beach more enjoyable and easier to navigate.

There is a small boardwalk that runs along the beach, where you’ll find some restaurants and shops. And on Monday nights during the summer, you can catch family-friendly films playing on the beach.

Cape Henlopen State Park

For a full outdoor experience and day of beachgoing, you’ll want to venture to the beautiful Cape Henlopen State Park just a little north of Rehoboth Beach. Here you’ll find not only two swimming beaches but a host of other activities as well. There are hiking and biking trails, a basketball court, and an 18-hole disc golf course available for breaks from the balmy sea.

Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day, and the park offers full bathhouses and restrooms, showers, umbrella rentals, and concession and rental shops.

You’ll love the family-friendly picnic areas as well as the World War II-era observation tower that visitors can climb. There’s an old bunker at the Fort Miles Historic Site as well, which will appeal to history buffs who love a great learning opportunity. Boat and kayak rentals are available, and there’s a great fishing pier as well.

One of the other nice things about this park is that it’s very accessible. Mats are available to give access to the beach to anyone with mobility issues.

Broadkill Beach

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, Broadkill Beach is a great alternative. And you won’t have to travel far to get there, since Broadkill is just 40 minutes north of Rehoboth Beach along Route 1. This low-key beach has a snack shack at one end, portable toilets, and no entry fee. Parking is limited — that’s one reason there aren’t as many visitors — so you’ll want to hit the beach early to make sure you snag a spot.

The beach offers surf fishing, swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water activities, as well as access to Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge features lovely trails perfect for those who love wildflowers, wildlife photography, and bird-watching.

Fenwick Island State Park Beach

Between the Atlantic Ocean and Little Assawoman Bay lies Fenwick Island State Park. The 3-mile strip of barrier island beach offers several sandy areas for relaxation. The park provides changing rooms and showers, gift shops, and a snack stand, and lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

You’ll find a designated surfing area — a rare bird in Delaware — and great fishing spots along the water for those with fishing licenses. Some of the beaches are wheelchair accessible, thanks to the mats provided by the park. Local guides offer eco-tours of the dune system and surrounding waters, and you can rent kayaks and paddleboards or take a sailing lesson just outside the park.

Lewes Beach

Lewes, Delaware, is a charming, peaceful town where the pristine Lewes Beach attracts thousands of beachcombers annually. Lewes Beach is close enough to Cape Henlopen State Park that you can make it a double-beach day. Because the community itself is picturesque and relaxing, the beach has become one of the most popular places to go on a summer afternoon in Delaware. You can swim and enjoy water sports, stroll through the sand, and catch glimpses of the Breakwater Lighthouse just offshore.

Lewes Beach is especially great for those traveling with young children, thanks to the gentle surf, gradual slope, and little to no undertow. The lifeguards add to the safety of the beach, while the bathhouse is kept clean and offers showers for easy cleanup at the end of the day. There’s also a small concession stand where you can grab snacks, as well as an ice cream shop within walking distance and other vendors offering refreshments.

The town of Lewes welcomes visitors with its fantastic restaurants, historic sites, and shops filled with various gifts, souvenirs, and goodies.

Metered parking is available at the beach.

Delaware Seashore State Park

The Delaware Seashore State Park comprises 6 miles of photo-worthy shoreline about halfway between Bethany Beach and Rehoboth Beach. The Atlantic Ocean invites swimmers into the crashing surf, while views of Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay make for unforgettable selfies.

The beaches at the park feature swimming areas, concession stands, umbrella rentals, lifeguards on duty, chairs, raft rentals, and more. You can sail, boat, surf, fish, and enjoy just about every water sport you can think of while visiting the beautiful beaches of this park. And if you’re looking for more than just sunbathing and swimming, you can hike the nature trails on Thompson Island and Burton Island within the park. Thompson Island is particularly well known for birding, while Burton Island teems with wildlife and unique plants and flowers.

If you want to stay longer to enjoy the beaches and trails, the park offers some beautiful campsites on either side of the Indian River Inlet. They accommodate everything from tents to large RVs. The North Inlet campsites feature three-point hookups — electricity, water, and sewer — and standard sites, while the South Inlet campsites feature only tent sites.

Dewey Beach

Adjacent to Rehoboth Bay, you’ll find Dewey Beach, locally known as Delaware’s party beach. The town offers more nightlife than most of the others nearby, along with music festivals all summer long, including the Elvis Festival and the Fiddlers’ Festival. But don’t let that keep you away if you’re bringing little ones along. The beach offers plenty of activities that the whole family can enjoy, including bonfires on the beach, free beach movie nights, junior lifeguard programs, and environmental education programs.

You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, pontoons, jet skis, and other water sports gear at local shops or participate in seaside yoga sessions. Dewey Beach is also a pet-friendly location, so you’ll want to bring Fido along.

If you can’t find parking near the beach, you can hop aboard the Jolly Trolley and ride straight to the shoreline.

Ready for a Delaware beach vacation? Here’s what to see and do on a weekend getaway to Rehoboth Beach.

Visiting The Arctic Circle Responsibly: 7 Things To Know

The Arctic Circle is alluring in its remoteness; it’s one of the last few places on Earth that feels like a true adventure. That said, visiting the Arctic Circle also means you’re traversing some of the world’s most fragile ecosystems. Polar bears, whales, walruses, and a host of rare and endangered wildlife call these lands and waters home. Inuit communities across the north are also navigating recent tourism influxes, not to mention a changing climate.

The Arctic Circle is a bucket-list and awe-inspiring destination, but you shouldn’t just book a tour or hop on a plane and hope for the best. The Arctic and its inhabitants need travelers to research, take time, and plan their trips responsibly.

I was invited to experience northern Canada and Greenland with Adventure Canada, a small-ship expedition company that focuses on responsible travel, both culturally and environmentally. After touring with an expedition team of climate change scientists, geoscientists, archaeologists, culturalists, and explorers, I learned how to decrease my footprint on a trip to the fragile north. Here are seven takeaways to help you visit the Arctic Circle responsibly.

A life preserver on a cruise ship. — Stephanie Vermillion

1. Choose A Responsible Tour Company

The Arctic Circle is not like, say, Europe. You can’t just show up with a backpack and figure it out. In most cases, it’s best to travel with a tourism company to ensure you’re safely visiting these wildlife-rich destinations (for the wildlife and yourself). By choosing a responsible tourism company, you’re taking a big first step toward responsible Arctic tourism.

Companies like Adventure Canada, which runs small-boat Arctic expeditions like the one I joined, make it easy to select a sustainable Arctic travel opportunity. Just look on the tour operator’s website or social media for clues. For instance, Adventure Canada empowers local communities by hiring Inuit guides at all levels — including as expedition leader — so guests learn from the people who actually live there. They also support the not-for-profit program Students on Ice, which fosters education among young and diverse conservationists. If your tour company can check at least a few of these boxes, you can head into your trip knowing you made a smart and safe-for-the-environment choice.

The Ocean Endeavor ship. — Stephanie Vermillion

2. Opt For Smaller Ships

As its narrow, ice-filled passageways indicate, the Arctic was not built for massive cruise ships. Adventure Canada ships typically host 200 passengers or less, which means a lower impact in terms of tourist numbers and a smaller, less intrusive ship.

Speaking of small boats, another way people travel through the Arctic’s Northwest Passage is by sailing, but this requires massive research on logistics, permits, and hiring the right crew. (For a glimpse into this type of travel, watch the 2015 documentary The Polar Sea.)

Learning about Inuit culture. — Stephanie Vermillion

3. Learn About The Culture

Before even stepping foot on Arctic soil, spend time learning about the Inuit culture. This is an entirely different culture than most people are used to, but it’s not “foreign” or “exotic.” It’s just, well, different. By learning about Inuit history — including troubling treatment in Canada — you’ll go into the trip with an appreciation for just how strong willed the people welcoming you really are.

By learning about contemporary Inuit culture, you’ll be able to relate better once you step foot on their soil. Circling the Midnight Sun is a great book that highlights the changing Inuit culture. Its author and longtime explorer, James Raffan, was actually part of the Adventure Canada expedition crew during my High Arctic trip, too.

Observing seals in the Arctic. — Stephanie Vermillion

4. Enjoy Wildlife, From A Distance

Wildlife is one of the biggest High Arctic draws. You have the chance to see narwhals, polar bears, humpback whales, seals, walruses, and so many other unique and awe-inspiring animals. But these wild animals should remain, well, wild. That means enjoying the Arctic wildlife must happen at a safe distance. On foot, you should never approach a wild animal for a whole host of safety reasons. But even if you’re on a boat or bike ride, don’t let the excitement of capturing a good photo put a vulnerable animal at risk.

In many cases, it’s not up to you how close your tour guides get to an animal. With an eco-friendly company like Adventure Canada, guides are required to stay a ways back, unless the animal approaches the ship or zodiac boats on its own. Sure, the captain will idle and let the ship slowly move in the direction of, say, a polar bear on land, but when we saw swimming animals or vulnerable wildlife on the shores, we stopped, looked through binoculars, then moved on.

If you’re on a one-off tour with a company, let them know from the get-go that you’d rather stay at a safe and respectful distance if you spot whales or bears. This will set the tone for a responsible wildlife-viewing trip and will take the pressure off your guides, who are inevitably working for a tip.

An iceberg at sunset in the Arctic. — Stephanie Vermillion

5. Don’t Photograph People Without Permission

When you’re visiting a new place like the Arctic, it’s tempting to pull out your camera the second you land in a new community. Of course, you can take photos of these beautiful towns and the warm, welcoming people — but only if you ask. A good rule of thumb for travel photography is, If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it here. I try to start a conversation first so that I can make a genuine, albeit brief, memory with the person; the photograph will then help me remember this once-in-a-lifetime connection.

A whale in the Arctic. — Stephanie Vermillion

6. Buy Local Souvenirs

As climate change impacts lifestyles across the Arctic, many Inuit are turning to tourism as a way to make ends meet. That’s why buying your souvenirs straight from the source — on the ground in local Arctic communities — is incredibly important. This approach guarantees your money goes to the artist or maker, which also means you could have the chance to meet the person behind your souvenir!

If you’re unsure about whether you’re buying from a locally sourced shop or not, ask the store owner where they get their merchandise. Or, if you’re on an expedition with Inuit guides, ask them for tips on where to shop.

Night time on an Arctic cruise. — Stephanie Vermillion

7. Spread Your Knowledge At Home

Visiting the Arctic Circle is a rare privilege. This trip-of-a-lifetime will put you face to face with the reality of climate change. Iceberg views will leave you awestruck, as will the diverse wildlife that flocks to the them. Interacting with Inuit people will help you put a face to climate problems, as they’ve been among the first to suffer — and are the least to blame.

A trip to the Arctic Circle is only responsible if you go home and spread your knowledge about what you saw in the Arctic Circle — and not just the beauty or the narwhal sighting. According to Cedar Swan, CEO of Adventure Canada, giving voices to vast environmental problems is one of the best ways her company can make a difference.

“I think our opportunity is to come home and be ambassadors for this place, because this experience shapes us and makes us just a little bit different,” she said. “Our hope is that we all go home as advocates, as allies, and with connections meaningful enough that we’ll fight for it.”

A snowy iceberg in the Arctic. — Stephanie Vermillion

A Few Things To Know Before Visiting The Arctic

Now that you’re ready to visit the Arctic responsibly, here are a few things to keep in mind before you jetset up north.

The Arctic Circle spans over 9,000 miles. Some of the easiest places to visit include northern Canada, Alaska, and northern Greenland. Your guide will likely choose your route for you, but if you know you want to visit say, Greenland, choose a company that specializes in this portion of the Arctic.

It’s crazy sunny! Sure, it’s chilly — and downright freezing (or below) — most of the year, but in the summer, the sun radiates off the icebergs and water. Bring sunscreen and some good sunblock on your spring, summer, or fall Arctic trip. That said, if you’re visiting in the winter, you won’t have to worry about sunscreen because there’s no sunlight!

Cold weather kills camera batteries, so make sure you pack a spare battery for any device you bring. Take it from the girl whose camera battery almost died when the first whale was spotted!

If you’d rather work your way up to the Arctic, Iceland may be a good place to test the waters — literally. Here’s how to visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland as part of a trip north.

Experience Antarctica’s 2021 Solar Eclipse Onboard This Exclusive Cruise

On December 4, 2021, the sun will go dark over Antarctica and the lucky voyagers aboard the Poseidon Expeditions Sea Spirit will have a mesmerizing and unobscured front-row seat.

total solar eclipse, when Moon passes between planet Earth and Sun. — lgorZh / Shutterstock.com

A Solar Eclipse At The Bottom Of The World

Although solar eclipses are fairly common phenomena, occurring every 18 months or so, solar eclipses at the poles are fairly rare. It’s not a stretch to consider this cruise a once-in-a-lifetime chance to journey into the wild, uninhabited natural splendor of Antarctica, and to see the sun briefly blotted out over the planet’s most southern sea.

What makes the experience even more memorable is the fact that the sun shines nearly 24 hours a day in Antarctica during December, so you’ll be able to see the sky transition dramatically as the moon moves between the Earth and the sun.

Paul Sutter, a renowned scientist and published author, will be a special guest aboard the Sea Spirit, lending further credibility and prestige to this unparalleled journey.

Coastline of Ushuaia, Argentina. — Saiko3p / Shutterstock.com

Setting Sail For Antarctica

The Sea Spirit will set sail on November 21, 2021 from Ushuaia, Argentina and will return to the same port on December 12. Plan to arrive in Ushuaia on November 20, as your one-night hotel stay there is included. The southernmost city in Argentina, Ushuaia has a ton of character and you can spend your free day exploring the history of this fascinating region or simply enjoying a fine craft beer in one of the many cafes and quaint bars that line its streets.

The southern seas are abundant with sea life, and one of the first stops on this itinerary is the Falkland Islands: a fabulous place to check out penguins and albatrosses in their natural habitat. The Sea Spirit circles the Falklands for two days, briefly stopping in the Port of Stanley.

Up next: South Georgia Island. This truly off-the-beaten-path destination is home to many different kinds of penguins and sea lions and boasts untouched natural vistas. After bidding goodbye to this remote island, you’ll experience the solar eclipse as the Sea Spirit traverses the Scotia Sea. The trip will then conclude with a visit to the South Shetland Islands near the very bottom of the globe.

Drake Passage. Antarctica. — Steve Allen / Shutterstock.com

What You Need To Know Before Boarding

This bucket list trip is an extraordinary opportunity, so tickets do not come cheap. Plan to spend between $18,395 and $39,995 for your ticket to board the Sea Spirit. This ticket does not include airfare, alcohol on the ship, or staff gratuities. It does include your hotel in Ushuaia, accommodation, a complimentary parka, meals on board, excursions, and special glasses to wear during the eclipse.

Also, keep in mind that you should never touch wildlife, no matter how friendly or adorable the penguins or any other critters seem. The snow at the bottom of the earth is very reflective, so pack plenty of sunscreen to avoid getting the dreaded Antarctic sunburn.

Always stick with your guides during excursions. Antarctica is wild and unpredictable, and your guides are experts in both weather conditions and safety. Finally, Drake’s Passage is known for its rough seas. Even if you’re not prone to seasickness, pack medication so that you can enjoy your cruise to the fullest.

Antarctica is one of the last true wildernesses in the world, and an extraordinary bucket list destination — not to mention the perfect place to see the 2021 solar eclipse. Read up on how to travel to Antarctica and what to do and where to go during an Antarctica bucket list trip.