SENDAI, Japan — The tourism sector in Japan’s northeastern Tohoku region is working to establish adventure travel, a type of experiential tourism that focuses on outdoor activities and cultural interaction. With a global market size for such tourism estimated at more than $400 billion, Tohoku expects adventure travel to play a key role in attracting overseas visitors.
Ways to Travel
The Best Little Beach Towns To Visit in Summer
It’s the season of fishing, festivals, turtle-watching, and sipping a cold one on the shore. Beaches offer a warm-weather escape year-round, but absolutely nothing says vacation like a summer beach trip. We’re talking seafood boils, mini golf, bodysurfing, and sandy toes. We’ll even forgive the sunburn and light dusting of sand in the bottom of our beds, after all both are tell-tale signs of a seaside vacation well spent.
While there are plenty of places all over the country to find sand and sea, we’re partial to all the coastal towns residing below the Mason-Dixon line and particularly those on the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Here are the ultimate Southern beach towns that have it all.
Melbourne Beach, Florida
By day, the unspoiled shoreline and historic downtown keep things hopping in this happy little town on Florida’s Space Coast. But it’s by night that the real magic happens in Melbourne Beach, situated on a barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Here, the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge hosts the largest nesting population of loggerhead and green sea turtles in the country, along 20.5 protected miles of sandy beach—and the best time to spot the nesting turtles is during June and July on guided, night-time sea turtle watch walks. Perhaps even more magical is seeing hatchlings emerge from their nest during turtle digs held here each August and early September.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
There’s more than salt in the breeze on summer weekend evenings in Rehoboth Beach. Just as quintessential as the taffy awaiting at Dolle’s Candyland on the beach boardwalk, the sound of music in the air beginning in mid June signals summer’s arrival each year with the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand’s Summer Concert Series. Even better, it’s one of those iconic pleasures of the season that’s free—and has a sense of history, too: Since 1963, the classic open-air pavilion by the shore has drawn listeners to live music, and today the shows range from jazz to tribute bands, from orchestras to rock ‘n’ roll. More than 40 acts perform each season on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings until Labor Day. During select weekdays, the bandstand also serves as meeting place for The Rehoboth Beach Historical Society walking tours that explore downtown’s roots as a Victorian beach retreat.
Carolina Beach, North Carolina
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a classic American promenade—with a pedestrian-only boardwalk that features bars, restaurants, arcades, bike and surfboard rental shops, and even an amusement park—that beach-goers have been enjoying since the late 1800s. Take your time walking up and down the boardwalk, but whatever you do, you must stop for a donut at Britts Donuts, where the donuts have been made-to-order and fried-fresh since 1939. Even more entertainment can be found nearby at the Carolina Beach State Park, which offers a variety of hiking paths, including the Flytrap Trail where visitors can see the native Venus flytrap plant.
Cape Charles, Virginia
Quieter than better-known Virginia Beach on the Atlantic, this beach town showcases the beauty of Chesapeake Bay. Spend the afternoon fishing from the Cape Charles Fishing Pier, or fancy a stroll along Bay Avenue, which offers beach access at every block. This Eastern Shore gem has slowly transformed itself into an enlivened, yet laidback, beach town with great seafood and charming historic homes. Average high temperatures from June through August hover around the mid-80s, so it’s never too sweltering, and the sea breeze certainly helps in keeping things cool.
Fernandina Beach, Florida
The birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, Fernandina Beach, is a waterfront village nestled on the north end of Amelia Island. Celebrating pirate culture is a way of life, so it’s not uncommon to see people dressed as swashbucklers just for the heck of it. Visit during the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in May for an early summer trip. During the festivities, the historic district bustles with parades, live music, lots of shrimp, and—you guessed it—pirates. You can spend many happy hours checking out the shops and restaurants around historic Main Street, or exploring the natural areas around nearby Fort Clinch State Park.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
The Gulf Coast has come a long way since being hammered into devastation by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, with restoration and cleanup efforts slowly giving life back to this quaint coastal town. Locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants infuse your trip with the quirkiness and laidback attitude of the small town, while the warm ocean breeze calls for a relaxed mindset. Pay a visit to the The Shed Barbecue and Blues Joint, a rustic rickshaw of a restaurant that started with a shed made from dumpster-diving finds and expanded as the locals’ love for the hometown joint increased. Spend evening taking a long walk on quiet Front Beach. You can even have a sunset picnic orchestrated by Coastal Picnic and Company.
Topsail Island, North Carolina
Topsail Island is a 26-mile long barrier island off the coast of North Carolina made up of the communities of Topsail Beach, Surf City, and North Topsail Beach. Its small population (only around 500 full-time residents) and no high-rise development rule helps maintain its natural beauty. If you love marine life, visit in summer when Loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to nest and lay eggs along Topsail’s beachfront from mid-May through August. And the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City is a great place to learn about the island’s preservation and conservation initiatives.
Port Aransas, Texas
This sleepy fishing village has long been a nostalgic vacation spot for generations of Texas families. Perhaps the biggest draw of the are is its broad, walkable beachfronts with firm sand, gentle surf, and warm water that lasts well into the fall months. Beach activities range from sandcastle building to surfing lessons. And you can’t forget what the town is best known for–fishing. Closer to the shore and in the bay, the daily catch could include redfish, flounder, black drum, and trout. Farther out in the Gulf waters, offshore trophies such as tuna, kingfish, sailfish, and marlin prove bountiful game.
Dunedin, Florida
Credit:
Robbie Caponetto
When it comes to the Sunshine State’s countless beaches, you’ll likely hear about 30A’s powdery stretches of shore or Miami’s coast, with its pastel-hued lifeguard stands, long before anyone mentions this Gulf coast town about 25 miles from Tampa. But that’s just the beauty of Dunedin. Here, you’ll skip the crowds and instead enjoy its many riches in relative peace, from its colorful downtown storefronts to its ample breweries to nearby Honeymoon Island State Park, with its four miles of pristine beaches and A+ birdwatching.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
Credit:
Getty Images
One of Georgia’s largest barrier islands, St. Simons Island, is known for its wide variety of things to do. In addition to typical water activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking, there’s also plenty to explore in town, including art and antique shops, farmer’s markets, wine tastings, live music, and great restaurants. The Pier Village downtown is great for spending an afternoon shopping, strolling, and sipping. Learn more about the island’s history at Fort Frederica National Monument, the WWII museum, and the historic St. Simons Island Lighthouse.
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Ways to Travel
Spain, Portugal, Stunning Hidden Beach Escape Ideal For An October Holiday, Offering Golden Sands, Crystal-clear Waters, And Peaceful Surroundings Away From The Crowds
Published on
August 10, 2025 |
Spain and Portugal reveal a stunning hidden beach escape perfect for an October holiday, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters in tranquil surroundings. This peaceful retreat offers travelers a rare chance to unwind away from bustling crowds, taking full advantage of milder autumn weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal destination to recharge and enjoy natural beauty in serene isolation.
As summer gives way to cooler days and shorter evenings, many travellers still yearn for that final burst of sunshine before winter sets in. Autumn can be the perfect time to take that last-minute getaway, especially for those looking to escape the crowded beaches and inflated prices of peak season. With the summer rush over, the Mediterranean coastline takes on a calmer charm, the weather remains warm, and holiday packages often drop significantly in price.
For those who can wait until October, the rewards are plentiful. Across southern Europe, popular holiday spots like Spain and Portugal reveal their quieter, more authentic sides. Among these destinations, the island of Ibiza stands out — not just for its famous nightlife, but also for the tranquil corners that come to life when the party crowds thin. Cala Benirràs, a secluded beach on Ibiza’s northern coast, is one such treasure.
A Beach Chosen for Its Space and Serenity
Wizz Air conducted an extensive study of more than 50 European countries to identify the continent’s best off-the-beaten-track beaches for the shoulder season. Their research looked at factors such as visitor numbers, daylight hours, and average temperatures between September and November. One of the key criteria was “beach space per visitor” — a measure of how much room each person has to relax without feeling crowded. Cala Benirràs ranked among the top choices, offering plenty of space for sunseekers to enjoy the last rays of the year.
A Different Side to Ibiza
While Ibiza is globally known for its energetic clubs and lively nightlife, Cala Benirràs showcases the island’s more laid-back personality. Located on the northwest coast, this peaceful cove is surrounded by hills and cliffs that add to its sense of seclusion. Visitors reach it via a scenic path that winds through the countryside, making the journey part of the experience.
From the beach, the view is dominated by Cap Bernat — a striking rock formation that juts out of the sea and is known locally as “the finger of God.” Its silhouette at sunset creates one of the most memorable scenes in the Balearics.
A Haven for Snorkelling and Market Browsing
The beach’s clear waters make it ideal for snorkelling, with visibility that allows swimmers to spot vibrant marine life close to the shore. On most days, except Wednesdays and Thursdays, a small hippy market sets up nearby, selling handmade crafts, jewellery, and local goods. The market adds a colourful touch to the otherwise quiet surroundings, creating a blend of nature and culture that feels distinctly Ibizan.
The Sunset Drumming Tradition
One of Cala Benirràs’ most distinctive features is its evening drumming circle. As the sun begins its slow descent, groups of locals and visitors gather on the sand, forming a circle and filling the air with rhythmic beats. The sound carries across the cove, mixing with the sound of the waves and creating a hypnotic atmosphere.
This is not a staged performance but a spontaneous ritual that has become part of the beach’s identity. It channels the island’s bohemian spirit and offers a moment of connection between people from all walks of life. In summer, the drumming draws large crowds, but during autumn it becomes a more intimate gathering where the music feels personal and the surroundings less hectic.
Perfect Weather for a Shoulder-Season Escape
October and November bring pleasantly warm days to Ibiza, with average temperatures hovering around 23°C (73°F). This climate is perfect for beachgoers who prefer milder heat and for those who want to spend time outdoors without the intensity of summer’s sun. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the island’s natural landscapes are still vibrant from the summer months.
Easy Access and Plenty of Amenities
Despite its secluded feel, Cala Benirràs is easy to reach. It lies just a short bus ride from the nearby town of Port de San Miguel, which offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to private villas. Visitors will also find restaurants, cafés, and shops close by, ensuring that comfort is never far from the shore.
Why Cala Benirràs Shines in Autumn
Autumn transforms Cala Benirràs into something truly special. The lack of summer crowds gives the beach a more relaxed pace, allowing visitors to take in the scenery without distraction. The sunsets are striking, the drumming circles more soulful, and the air carries a gentle warmth that feels restorative.
Those who make the trip in October or November find themselves immersed in a setting where nature, culture, and tranquillity merge seamlessly. The hills that frame the beach glow in the evening light, the sea shimmers with late-season sunshine, and the sounds of percussion echo long after the sun has disappeared.
An Invitation to Discover a Hidden Gem
For travellers seeking an experience beyond the typical holiday itinerary, Cala Benirràs offers a rare balance of beauty, culture, and calm. It is a place where you can snorkel in clear waters during the day, wander through a small artisan market in the afternoon, and end the day watching the sun melt into the horizon to the beat of live drums.
This beach embodies the idea of Ibiza as more than just a party island. It shows a side of the Balearics where relaxation, tradition, and natural wonder take centre stage. With easy access, comfortable autumn weather, and a charm that lingers in memory, Cala Benirràs stands as one of Europe’s most appealing late-season escapes.
Spain and Portugal offer a stunning hidden beach escape ideal for an October holiday, featuring golden sands and crystal-clear waters. With peaceful surroundings and fewer crowds, this retreat lets travelers enjoy mild autumn weather in serene isolation.
Whether you’re looking to extend your summer, capture the last warmth of the year, or simply explore a quieter side of a famous destination, Cala Benirràs delivers all of it — wrapped in golden sunsets and the gentle rhythm of the Mediterranean.
Travel & Leisure
Efforts center on creating experiences that engage with nature and culture
Japan’s Tohoku region is working to offer more trekking, paddling and other adventure travel activities. (Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization)
HAYATO SAWA
August 10, 2025 09:00 JST
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) – Folly Beach has opened a history museum that preserves the history, culture and heritage of the city and its community.
The museum broke ground with a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday. The museum’s mission is to preserve Folly Beach’s history of war, pirates, surfing and tourism throughout the years. They have been planning to build the museum and collecting artifacts and memorabilia for the past 10 years.
The city of Folly Beach first announced it would build a history museum last year.
Regina Anderson, chairman of the Folly Beach Historical Society, says she hopes residents and tourists will use the museum to learn more about the area’s history.
“It’s not just a vacation spot and even for the residents, it’s not just their memories,” Anderson said. “Every generation has different memories of how special Folly Beach is and I think it’s important to understand how other people see history and how they experience the same place.”
The first display at the museum is “Surfing on the Edge,” which explores the origins of surf culture on Folly Beach from the early 1960s to the current charitable organizations that have grown out of that culture.
Richard Beck, former mayor of Folly Beach and board member of the Folly Beach Historical Society, says surfing is part of Folly’s character.
“You can’t separate surfing from the character of Folly Beach,” Beck said. “There are hundreds of people that are surfing and have stories to tell, so we hope to be able to include as many as would like to have their stories included.”
Future exhibits include the city’s role in the American Revolution, the Civil War and World War II; the history of the Folly Beach pier; the impact of hurricanes on Folly Beach; and the area’s history with pirates and criminals.
“The idea of rotating exhibits is cool because the people who are volunteering and providing things for this exhibit are very different from the ones that’ll be in the next one,” Anderson said.
Dozens attended the grand opening that featured three panel discussions, including one on the pioneers of surfing on Folly and the Southeast Coast, another on the story of the 1976 civil rights lawsuit against the City of Folly Beach, which had restricted surfing to the Washout and another on all the organizations grown from surf culture.
The panel on surfing on Folly Beach featured four panelists who have been surfing in the area since they were little: Foster Folsum, Nanci Polk-Weckhorst, Dewey Mauldin and Jack Tripp.
They all shared stories about surfing the waves when many didn’t think you could surf them. When they first began surfing, there weren’t even leashes attached to the board to help capture the board after a wave. They watched the area grow in surf culture with surf shops and meetups to surf in groups.
Nanci Polk-Weckhorst told the audience how she used her mother’s ironing board when she began surfing.
“We used to steal it out of the beach house and my father would push me in the waves and it didn’t surf real well, but it was something to do,” Polk-Weckhorst said. “Then, finally, my brother and I went down and bought our own surfboards. That’s when I fell in love with it and never looked back.”
Polk-Weckhorst then went on to win surfing competitions, be inducted into the Surfing Hall of Fame and became one of the best surfers on the East Coast.
She says the historical society did an excellent job at telling the story of surf culture on Folly Beach.
The new museum is located at 55 Center Street in the community center and library building and is now one of the first things you see when you cross the bridge into Folly Beach.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
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