Where to Go for a Beach Vacation in Spring: 12 Best Destinations

Spring is an excellent time for beach holidays, when most popular resorts are already welcoming the warm sun but are not yet overcrowded with tourists. Hotel and tour prices are often lower than during the peak summer season, and the choice of destinations is quite wide: from nearby European coasts to more exotic corners of Asia and Africa.

In this article, we have gathered 12 best tourist destinations for a beach holiday in March, April, and May. We have considered visa requirements, logistics convenience (flights, connections from Minsk, Moscow, Vilnius, and Warsaw), as well as budget nuances.

Beach destinations in March

Egypt (Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh)

The weather in Egypt in March is already pleasant: the air warms up to +24…+26°C, the water in the Red Sea is about +21…+23°C. The days are sunny but not too hot, making it a great time to enjoy beach relaxation and the underwater world of the Red Sea. You can get there by regular or charter flights. Direct tour packages with departures from Minsk are popular — although destinations may change in recent years. The beaches in Hurghada are sandy with a gentle slope, while in Sharm El Sheikh there are coral areas — snorkeling enthusiasts will especially appreciate this.

Visa: can be obtained on arrival, but it's more convenient to apply for an e-Visa in advance.

Pros: affordable tours, rich underwater world, plenty of entertainment.

Cons: possible temperature drops in the evenings (it's recommended to bring a light windbreaker), sometimes overly persistent service.

UAE (Dubai, Sharjah)

In March, the weather here is very pleasant: +25…+28°C during the day, the water warms up to +22…+24°C. You can combine beach holidays with luxury shopping and visits to ultra-modern attractions (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, etc.). There are direct flights from Minsk to the Emirates, or you can fly with connections (Istanbul, Moscow) or take a direct flight from Vilnius, Warsaw. For long city walks, consider cultural specifics — some emirates have strict rules regarding clothing and behavior.

Visa: not required (for up to 90 days).

Pros: high service standards, quality beaches, many entertainment options for families and young people.

Cons: accommodation and dining prices can be high, especially in Dubai.

Thailand (Phuket, Krabi)

In March, hot weather sets in in southern Thailand: air temperature +29…+33°C, water in the Andaman Sea — +27…+29°C. The rainy season hasn't started yet, so you can enjoy clear skies and gentle seas. There are no direct flights from Minsk; travelers usually connect in Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul. Phuket is famous for its wide beaches (Patong, Karon), while Krabi is known for its unique limestone cliffs and secluded bays.

Visa: on arrival or apply for an e-Visa in advance.

Pros: exotic cuisine, affordable food and accommodation prices, friendly atmosphere.

Cons: long flight, high humidity, possible language barrier outside tourist areas.

Vietnam (Nha Trang, Phan Thiet)

Vietnam's climate in March is particularly pleasant on the southern coast — +27…+30°C during the day and +25…+28°C water temperature. Nha Trang is suitable for those who love vibrant city life and a wide choice of restaurants. Phan Thiet and Mui Ne are ideal places for surfing and a relaxed vacation. Travel is usually from Moscow with a layover in Asia (Bangkok, Doha, Seoul, etc.). The price of hotels and guesthouses in Vietnam continues to please with a low level compared to other Asian resorts.

Visa: not required (up to 30 days).

Pros: affordable accommodation, rich local cuisine (seafood, pho soup), unusual excursions.

Cons: long flights, language difficulties in some places (English is not always understood).

Beach destinations in April

Turkey (Antalya, Alanya)

In April, the weather on Turkey's Mediterranean coast is already starting to delight with warmth: around +20…+23°C, water temperature — +18…+20°C. Not everyone may swim, but many tourists already enjoy the sun and beaches. From Minsk and neighboring airports (Gomel), charter and regular flights operate to Antalya. Hotels offer early booking at favorable prices, and in April, there is still no summer heat and bustle.

Visa: not required (up to 30 days).

Pros: excellent infrastructure, many all-inclusive hotels, proximity and accessibility (short flight).

Cons: the sea water can still be cool, many tourists in popular locations even in the off-season.

Greece (Crete, Rhodes)

In April, the air on the islands of Crete and Rhodes warms up to +18…+22°C, the water is still fresh (+16…+19°C). Despite this, the season is already starting: hotels are opening, tour bureaus are operating. Most often, Belarusians travel via Athens or European airports, and a valid Schengen visa is required for entry. Warm evenings are perfect for walks along the promenades and dinners in Greek tavernas.

Visa: Schengen visa required.

Pros: rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine (souvlaki, moussaka), picturesque beaches.

Cons: the swimming season is just beginning, prices for some services can be high.

Morocco (Agadir, Essaouira)

April in Morocco is +20…+25°C, the water in the Atlantic Ocean remains cool (+17…+19°C), but this is not a problem for surfers. Agadir is a famous resort with extensive beaches, and Essaouira is a favorite spot for kite surfers and those who appreciate a bohemian atmosphere. Flights with layovers in European cities (Paris, Madrid) or via Istanbul. Moroccan cuisine (tagine, couscous) deserves special attention — the dishes are not only tasty but also perfectly convey the flavor of the local culture.

Visa: electronic or via embassy.

Pros: exotic atmosphere, authentic cuisine, surfing opportunities.

Cons: cool ocean water, logistical complexity (not always direct flights).

Israel (Eilat)

On the Red Sea (Eilat) in April, it is already comfortable to swim: air temperature +25…+29°C, water around +21…+23°C. The beaches here are clean, with good infrastructure, and there is a magnificent underwater nature reserve nearby. As a rule, there are no direct flights from Minsk, so tourists fly via European airports or Istanbul. Be sure to check entry requirements: Israel has certain security rules at the border.

Visa: not required.

Pros: sunny and dry weather, developed resort area, rich history and excursions (Jerusalem, Dead Sea).

Cons: high accommodation prices, possible lengthy border checks.

Beach destinations in May

Cyprus (Larnaca, Ayia Napa)

In May, Cyprus is already experiencing real summer: +23…+26°C, and the sea warms up to +20…+22°C. Beaches awarded the "Blue Flag," excellent conditions for diving, and in Ayia Napa, the nightlife is buzzing. You can fly from Minsk (charters, if available) or with a layover. For entry, citizens of the Republic of Belarus require either a Schengen visa or a Cyprus national visa (which is relatively easy to obtain).

Visa: Cyprus national or Schengen.

Pros: beautiful sea, numerous bars, restaurants, well-developed infrastructure.

Cons: prices rise during peak season, especially at popular resorts.

Spain (Canary Islands — Tenerife)

The Canary Islands are warm year-round, but May is especially pleasant for a vacation: air +22…+24°C, water +19…+21°C. Tenerife combines beach relaxation with amazing nature (Mount Teide volcano, black sand beaches). For flights, Belarusians usually choose European connections. On the island, you can rent a car and take a small trip along the coast.

Visa: Schengen.

Pros: mild climate, stunning landscapes, high level of service.

Cons: long flight, sometimes requiring multiple layovers.

Montenegro (Budva, Kotor)

In May, the air temperature in Budva and Kotor rises to +20…+24°C, and the water warms up to +18…+20°C. The active phase of the tourist season begins, restaurants and hotels open, and the mountain slopes around the Bay of Kotor are a breathtaking sight. Sometimes you can find direct charters from Minsk, but it's often more convenient to fly via Belgrade or other cities. Montenegro is famous not only for its beaches but also for beautiful excursion routes into the mountains.

Visa: not required (up to 30 days).

Pros: affordable prices, picturesque nature, proximity to Europe.

Cons: weather can be changeable in early May, the sea is not yet very warm.

Italy (Sicily)

In Sicily, mild weather sets in during May: air +20…+24°C, water — +18…+20°C. There are fewer tourists than in summer, so there's a chance to explore the architecture of Palermo or enjoy the beaches around Taormina without the crowds. Flights are usually via Rome, Milan, or other European cities. Hotel prices are lower in spring, and the local cuisine (pasta, pizza, Sicilian desserts) will delight any gourmet.

Visa: Schengen.

Pros: rich culture, gastronomic delights, comfortable climate.

Cons: the swimming season is just beginning, airfare prices to Italy can be high.