Here is a list of tourist destinations around the world named after animals. These places are notable for their unique names inspired by local fauna or historical associations with animals, often offering fascinating wildlife or cultural experiences. Some of these places have inspired scientific research, some host cute and furry residents, and some have fearsome prehistoric beings. Come, check out these places, and maybe bookmark them for your next travel adventures.

Chidiya Tapu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Chidiya Tapu, like its name suggests, is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting diverse birdlife and stunning sunset views. It is a great addition to your beachy holiday in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The sunset and sunrise scenes are simply unforgettable, and you WILL come back with stunning photos of sunsets, birds and forests.

Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia

This island is named after the unique kangaroos that inhabit it, which differ slightly from mainland species. This island is a premier wildlife destination in Australia. Visitors can observe kangaroos, koalas, and other native animals in their natural habitat, alongside beautiful beaches and unique landscapes.

Penguin Island, Western Australia, Australia

This island is known for its significant population of little penguins, making it one of Australia’s top wildlife destinations. Tourists can enjoy penguin sightings, especially at dusk, along with other marine life and scenic coastal walks.

Elephant Island, Antarctica

No, there are no elephants in Antarctica. This island is named after the elephant seals spotted by early explorers along its shores. This island is historically significant as the refuge for Ernest Shackleton’s crew during their 1916 expedition.

Cat Island (Tashirojima), Japan

Famous for its large population of stray cats, which outnumber humans, this quirky island is a unique tourist spot. Visitors come to interact with the friendly felines, explore the “cat shrine,” and experience the island’s peaceful, feline-centric culture.

Pig Island (Big Major Cay), Bahamas

This uninhabited island is renowned for its feral swimming pigs, a major draw for tourists who enjoy swimming and posing with these animals. People don’t stay here, but the number of tourists proves the island’s popularity. The pigs, believed to have been left by sailors, give the island its name and make it a must-visit in the Bahamas.

Komodo Island, Indonesia

Named after the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, this island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors flock to see these fearsome reptiles in their natural habitat, alongside stunning beaches and diving opportunities. There are guided tours available. Maintain your distance when visiting Komodo dragons.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

These islands are famous for their giant tortoises and unique biodiversity, which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. The archipelago is a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. Most of the animals found on this island are endemic in nature and have been around for a long time, especially the tortoises.

With smart planning and a little flexibility in travel dates, these beach destinations welcome every traveler to enjoy world-class sun and sand—without maxing out their credit card.

Craving a beach tan but short on budget? Travelers these days most likely hunt for budget-friendly destinations.

To explore more without spending much, factor in the distance between the beach and the hotel.

While hotels at the prime beach destinations tend to go higher just for a night, leveraging online platforms to find beachfront hotels and beach house rentals under your budget is a smart choice, as suggested by Melanie Fish, Hotels.com and Vrbo travel expert.

Based on the data revealed by Expedia, here are a few recommendations for beach vacation destinations for low-cost experiences.

Cheapest Beach Destinations To Explore in 2025

From the sugar-soft sands of Florida beaches to Thailand’s tropical vibes and the endless charm of Greece, here are the beach destinations to enjoy the sun, surf, and serenity without breaking the bank.

1. Panama City Beach, Florida

Stretched 27 miles along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, Panama Beach is a surprisingly affordable Florida beach destination to visit.

Known for its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sand beaches, Panama is home to the world’s most beautiful beaches that offer endless recreational and adventurous activities for solo travelers and families alike.

Food & Drinks: $20-$50 per person

Vacation Rentals: $185-$200 per night

Unique Experiences

• Kayak or collect seashells at Shell Island and spot diverse local wildlife, or snorkel at St. Andrews State Park.
• Capture the beach’s bird’s eye view from a SkyWheel glass gondola, lounge on Shipwreck Island’s lazy river.
• Shop, dine, and enjoy eclectic nightlife at Pier Park beachfront complex.
• Go boating and fishing at Cam Helen’s Dune Lake, and walk with your dog on the pet-friendly trails.
• Unwind at Rosemary Beach while kids build sandcastles, then treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa.

Travel Tip: If visiting in October, don’t miss the week-long Schooners Lobster Festival and Tournament.

2. West Palm Beach, Florida

Often overshadowed by Miami, West Palm Beach offers a similar sun-kissed experience by the sandy beaches without putting a heavy price tag on fun. According to Expedia, a travel booking company, the nightly rate for hotels in West Palm Beach averages under $200 for a night.

Located along the Atlantic Ocean coastline, this Wall Street South beach is the third-largest city in South Florida, adorned with exquisite shops, fine dining, bustling entertainment districts, and the nation’s most intriguing waterways.

Food & Drinks: Less than $15 to $100 per person, may vary with restaurant type

Vacation Rentals: $175-$200 per night

Unique Experiences

• Cruise the Intracoastal waterways and visit historic coastal towns along the Palm Beaches.
• Climb 105 steps of Jupiter’s Lighthouse, then hike along Peanut Island’s trails and witness a Cold War bunker.
• Stroll through the streets of Clematis District and City Place for exquisite shopping, fine dining, bars, and Broadway-style shows, then catch live music on Thursday nights.
• Explore the jazzy Friday night with art, film, and artifacts at the Norton Art Museum’s ‘Art After Dark’ .
• Food lovers can browse Northwood Village for creative bites or grab the best burgers and shakes at Relish & More.

3. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks of North Carolina offers a welcoming atmosphere far from bustling city crowds and overrun vacation spots.

The islands are a popular beach destination with plenty of vacation rental options in each town at affordable rates, making them the cheapest beach vacation place to visit.

These 200-mile-long barrier islands are renowned for their open-sea beaches, shipwreck diving sites, lighthouses, and historical landmarks.

Food & Drinks: Based on dining choices, $50-$100 a day

Vacation Rentals: $185-$200 per night

Unique Experiences

• Enjoy sandboarding across the East Coast’s largest sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
• Enjoy the panoramic ocean view from the observation deck of North America’s tallest lighthouses, Cape Hatteras and Bodie Island.
• Learn about the aviation history at the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
• Chase the wild horses on the sands of Corolla or go fishing at Jennette’s Pier.
• Watch America’s longest-running outdoor drama, unfolding the region’s mysterious history and lore.
• Experience North Carolina’s pristine coastline from above via kiteboarding, paragliding, and hang-gliding.

4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Often referred to as the ‘Venice of America,’ Fort Lauderdale is a more affordable urban beach destination to visit with family and friends.

Located an hour away via flight, Tampa Bay and Miami Beach are other destinations that put you near beaches while offering affordable vacation rentals and hotels inland.

Food & Drinks: Based on dining choices, $50-$100 a day

Vacation Rentals: Within $250 per night

Unique Experiences

Explore the hiking trails, rent kayaks, or simply soak up the sun in the urban oasis of Fort Lauderdale beaches.

Visit Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving structure, the Stranahan House, or Tampa Bay History Center, for a glimpse into the city’s rich historic past and cultural heritage.

Perfect for families, Tampa Bay offers themed-park zoos and aquariums, exhibiting diverse marine and wildlife. Discover Ybor City, echoing Cuban heritage, cigar factories, and dynamic nightlife.

Whereas Miami Beach is packed with an array of activities, from water adventures and architectural wonders to cultural tours and leisure experiences. Indulge in the eclectic night scenes of Miami Beach at recreational clubs, rooftop bars, and beachfront parties.

5. Pattaya, Thailand

Pattaya is a lively and often crowded beach destination, known for its water sports and a bustling beachfront space brimming with inexpensive vacation rentals, hotels, restaurants, and shops.

With an average rate of $91 for a hotel a night in August, this is one of Thailand’s cheapest beach destinations to visit when considering savings. Located on the eastern Gulf coast, this quaint fishing village is lined with high-rise condos, resort hotels, high-end bars, and clubs.

Food & Drinks: $1-$100, depending on the dining options

Vacation Rentals: Under $150 per night

Unique Experiences

• Visit the ‘Sin City,’ Pattaya, for eclectic nightlife and fun parties by the beaches.
• Explore bars and clubs, displaying cabaret shows, like the ladyboy’s Tiffany Show.
• Indulge in various water sports, including windsurfing, skiing, snorkeling, and sailing at popular beaches.
• Pattaya’s Sanctuary of Truth, an ancient, intricate wooden temple, and Mini Siam, a miniature park, housing replicas of the world’s famous landmarks.
• Shop like a local and eat delish Thai cuisine like a local in the Floating Market.

6. Phuket, Thailand

Thailand’s popular beach destination, Phuket, is another cheapest beach destinations with an average of $122 for vacation rentals and hotels for a night. Built in 1903, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, along with 32 nearby islands.

The island is known for its pristine beaches, exotic wildlife, rich cultural attractions, and dynamic wildlife, a perfect cheap beach getaway for family and backpackers alike.

Food & Drinks: Based on dining choices, $16-$100 a day

Vacation Rentals: Within $200 per night

Unique Experiences

• Explore Phuket’s deep-rooted past in the historic streets of Old Town, featuring ancient relics and Sino-Portuguese historical landmarks.
• Spot a whale shark on a once-in-a-lifetime diving experience in the Similan Islands. Marvel at Thailand’s largest Buddha sculpture on Nakkerd Hill and enjoy the sunset views from the top.
• Witness the diverse marine life at Phuket’s Sirinat National Park, a home for sea turtles.
• Visit the famous Koh Tapu island, popularly called ‘James Bond Island.’
• Ride a longtail boat to Coral Island or try snorkeling in the clear water of Koh Khai.

7. Greek Islands

The North Aegean Islands are a group of Greek Islands, encompassing several main and smaller islands located near the Turkish Coast. Lesbos, Chios, Lemnos, and Agios Minas are but a few islands to explore the Greek island experience at very affordable rates.

The average nightly rate during mid-August is recorded as not more than $190 for hotels and vacation rentals.

Discover the unique blend of Greek and Turkish-influenced architecture, culinary, and traditional scenes through the islands’ diverse landscape and unique cultural and historic heritage.

Food & Drinks: Based on dining choices, $50-$100 a day

Vacation Rentals: Within $250 per night, based on accommodation choice

Unique Experiences

• Experience the rustic life in Lesbos, the Island of Poets, famous for its traditional villages and a Petrified Forest.
• Visit the ancient temples, white-sand beaches, and local wineries of Samos Island.
• Bash the dunes of the only desert in Greece, Lemnos, home to diverse wildlife.
• Discover the ancient ruins amid lush forests in Thassos island.
• Hike along the rugged mountainous trails of Samothrace, offering rejuvenating spots of hot springs and the Sanctuary of Great Gods.
• Experience a slow-paced life along the traditional villages of Ikaria, offering beautiful views of untouched natural wonders.

8. Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Nestling in the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is another cheap beach destination closer to the United States, brimming with rich history and vibrant culture.

Famously known as the ‘Silver City,’ the region’s cultural landmarks, stunning beach landscapes, and silver trading history showcase its unique Caribbean charm, offering a diverse range of activities for a fun beach vacay.

Food & Drinks: Based on dining choices, $25-$50 a day

Vacation Rentals: Within $250 per night

Unique Experiences

• Take a swim in Playa Dorada’s emerald blue waters or visit Sosua Beach for snorkeling.
• Ride the Caribbean’s only aerial tramway up the slopes of Mount Isabel de Torres, offering sweeping views of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.
• Explore a beautiful botanical garden, exhibiting a smaller version of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer Statue.
• Dive into adventure in the cascading series of Waterfalls of Damajagua. Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecon scenic oceanfront boulevard, lined with street vendors, local cafes, and cultural landmarks.
• For a family-friendly atmosphere, Cofresi Beach is an ideal spot to enjoy a sunset or indulge in a fun beach activity.

With smart planning and a little flexibility in travel dates, these beach destinations welcome every traveler to enjoy world-class sun and sand—without maxing out their credit card.

Recognized for their geological, ecological, cultural, or historical significance, several caves systems around the world have earned the prestigious designation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites, spanning diverse regions from the Americas to Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond, showcase remarkable natural phenomena like vast underground chambers and unique ecosystems, as well as cultural treasures such as prehistoric rock art and ancient religious sanctuaries. Here is a list of caves you need to add to your travel bucket list.

Mammoth Cave National Park, USA

Located in Kentucky, this is the world’s longest known cave system, spanning over 643 km of surveyed passageways. The cave system features vast chambers, intricate limestone labyrinths, and unique formations like gypsum flowers and cave pearls. The cave also has evidence of prehistoric human habitation.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, USA

A visit to New Mexico is incomplete without a trip to the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The cave system is known for its over 119 caves, including the Big Room, one of the largest cave chambers in North America. The cave system features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and columns, and if bats don’t creep you out, stay for the nightly bat flight spectacle.

Elephanta Caves, India

Located in the state of Maharashtra, Elephanta Cave is a must-visit destination if you are visiting Mumbai. A ferry from the Gateway of India will take you to Elephanta Cave, a rock-cut cave system with ancient Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and carvings. Elephanta Cave has the famous Trimurti depiction of Shiva.

Ajanta Caves, India

Located in Aurangabad district in Maharashtra, Ajanta Caves is home to ancient Buddhist cave temples from the 2nd century BCE. These cave temples are adorned with intricate paintings and sculptures depicting the life of the Buddha

Ellora Caves, India

Approximately 100 kilometres from Ajanta Caves is the famous Ellora Cave, home to the famous monolithic Kailasa Temple. Ellora Caves is a complex of rock-cut temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, with intricate carvings and architecture. These caves date back to the 6th to 10th century.

Škocjan Caves, Slovenia

This dramatic cave system, located in Kras Plateau, is one of the largest underground canyons in the world. This cave system is shaped by the Reka River, and features massive chambers, stalactites, and a unique ecosystem with endemic species.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam

Located in Quang Binh Province, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest known cave passage. There are other caves with colossal chambers, stalagmites, stalactites, and underground rivers. The cave system supports a unique ecosystem, some even untouched by mankind.

Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia

Easily one of the most famous and curious cave systems in the world, the famous Sarawak Chamber is the show stopper of Gunung Mulu National Park. The park is home to some of the world’s largest cave chambers and passages, with spectacular limestone formations and diverse ecosystems.

Mogao Caves, China

Mogao Caves, located in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, is a complex of 735 caves with Buddhist art, murals, and sculptures dating back to 366 CE, reflecting a fusion of Indian, Central Asian, and Chinese artistry. For those interested in history and culture, this cave visit is a must.

Sterkfontein Caves, South Africa

This is easily one of the most interesting ones on the list. Located near Johannesburg, Sterkfontein Caves are a part of the Cradle of Humankind. These caves have yielded significant hominid fossils, contributing to the understanding of human evolution. This is a must-visit site when visiting Johannesburg.

Think you know Italy? Think again. Beyond Rome and Venice lie seven breathtaking hidden gems charming hilltop towns, crystal-clear coves, and timeless traditions waiting to be discovered.

Italy is more than just Rome, Venice, and Florence. Beyond the famous cities and crowded landmarks lie lesser-known treasures that pulse with history, charm, and untouched beauty. These hidden gems whisper stories of old, offer quieter streets to wander, and invite travelers to experience Italy beyond the usual guidebooks.

Italy’s popular spots are stunning, no doubt. But sometimes the best moments come when you step off the beaten path and discover places that feel like they belong to you alone. This journey isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about soaking in atmospheres where time slows down, and every corner holds a secret waiting to be uncovered.

What makes Italy’s hidden gems so special?

It’s the contrast.

The well-trodden tourist hubs hum with crowds and bright lights, but these hidden gems thrive in stillness and authenticity. They are where Italy’s soul breathes freely cobblestone alleys lined with faded frescoes, family-run trattorias dishing out recipes passed down for generations, and landscapes that look like paintings come alive.

If you think Italy is all about the Colosseum or gondola rides, it’s time to dive deeper. These seven hidden gems offer stories that the crowds haven’t yet claimed. They invite you to slow down and listen to the wind rustling through olive groves, the chatter of locals in a quiet piazza, the splash of waves against a secret cove.

1. Matera : The City of Stones and Ancient Wonder

Tucked away in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera is a place like no other. Known for its ancient cave dwellings called “Sassi,” this city feels frozen in time. Wander narrow alleys carved into limestone, and discover chapels painted with medieval frescoes inside caves. Matera’s story is one of resilience once forgotten, now a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its haunting beauty. It’s best explored on foot with no fixed schedule. Watch the sunset paint golden hues on stone walls and let the city’s quiet history soak into you.

2. Civita di Bagnoregio : The Dying Town on a Hill

Perched precariously atop a hill in Lazio, Civita di Bagnoregio is a tiny village with a dramatic tale. Eroding cliffs threaten its existence, which is why it’s called “the dying town.” Crossing the narrow footbridge feels like stepping into a medieval fairy tale. Its streets are quiet, its views breathtaking, and its pace unhurried. There are no cars here only footsteps echoing through ancient stone lanes. This gem is perfect for those who want to escape noise and immerse themselves in history and nature.

3. Procida : Italy’s Colorful Island Secret

While Capri and Ischia draw crowds, Procida remains Italy’s best-kept island secret in the Bay of Naples. With pastel-colored houses stacked by the sea and fishermen hauling their daily catch, this tiny island hums with authenticity. Narrow streets open to tiny beaches and bustling piazzas where locals gather. Procida’s charm is in its simplicity fresh seafood, vibrant colors, and slow afternoons watching fishing boats glide by. It’s a peaceful alternative for island lovers who want to feel part of a community, not just a tourist.

4. Orvieto : The City Carved from Rock

Rising dramatically from volcanic cliffs in Umbria, Orvieto looks like a fortress from a storybook. Its stunning cathedral dazzles with mosaics and intricate carvings. But beyond the grand fa ade, Orvieto’s underground labyrinths hold ancient tunnels and wells carved deep into the rock. Wander its streets and discover artisan shops, cozy wine bars, and panoramic terraces with sweeping views of the countryside. Orvieto is where history and modern life blend effortlessly.

5. Sperlonga : A Coastal Jewel Away from Crowds

This whitewashed village on the Tyrrhenian coast feels like a slice of paradise. Narrow streets wind toward sandy beaches framed by cliffs and crystal-clear water. Unlike Italy’s crowded Amalfi Coast, Sperlonga offers space and quiet where you can hear the waves and smell the salt air. Its Roman villa ruins and sea caves add a touch of history to this sun-soaked haven. Visit for slow seaside days, fresh seafood, and sunsets that linger.

6. Castelmezzano : Nestled in the Dolomites

Hidden deep in the southern Italian Dolomites, Castelmezzano is a mountain village straight from a postcard. Towering peaks surround it, and ancient stone houses cling to cliffs. It’s an adventurer’s dream with hiking trails, rock climbing, and even a zipline that swoops over the valley. But the village itself is quiet and welcoming a place where you can watch stars spill over the mountains while sipping local wine. Nature and history combine here in perfect harmony.

7. Frasassi Caves : The Underground Spectacle

For those who want something truly extraordinary, the Frasassi Caves in Marche are a wonder beneath the surface. This vast cave system features incredible stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes. It’s not just a cave it’s a cathedral of stone sculpted over millions of years. Guided tours let you explore chambers that feel like another world, cool and silent. It’s a hidden gem for lovers of geology, mystery, and nature’s quiet grandeur.

Why explore Italy’s hidden gems?

These places offer something different from the crowds and tourist traps. They invite you to slow down, notice small details, and experience Italy with all your senses. They are less about ticking famous boxes and more about connecting with stories, landscapes, and people who live rooted in their traditions.

Visiting these gems helps support small communities and preserves unique cultures that might otherwise fade away. When you walk their quiet streets, you become part of their ongoing story not just a passing tourist.

Tips for discovering Italy’s hidden gems

1. Go slow and walk often. These places are best explored on foot where surprises await around every corner.
2. Talk to locals. Ask for their favorite spots, recipes, and stories. This is where you find the real Italy.
3. Stay overnight if you can. Morning light and quiet nights reveal another side of these towns.
4. Travel outside peak hours. Early mornings or late afternoons mean fewer crowds and better photos.
5. Respect the places. These gems are fragile and precious tread lightly and leave only footprints.

Final Thought

Italy is a country of endless discovery. Beyond the famous landmarks lie hidden gems where history, nature, and culture intertwine in unexpected ways. The magic is in wandering off the beaten path and letting these places tell their stories quietly, authentically.

So next time you dream of Italy, don’t just plan the usual. Seek the secret streets, the quiet villages, the untouched landscapes. Because Italy’s true heart often beats strongest where few have stopped to listen.

Explore the hidden gems not just to see Italy, but to feel it.