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Escape to Paradise: Top 10 Exotic Alternatives to Maui for Your Next Holiday

Discover the top 10 alternative destinations to Maui for an unforgettable holiday. From the ancient allure of Greece to the tropical paradise of the Seychelles, find your perfect getaway.

Click here to tailor the list to match your ideal getaway trip.

Simplify your travel planning with this list of the the 5 must-see alternative Destinations

1. Crete
2. Athens
3. Seychelles
4. Mauritius
5. Bora Bora
6. Kauai
7. Canary Islands
8. Azores
9. Sri Lanka
10. The Bahamas

Crete

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Crete offers a blend of stunning beaches, ancient treasures, and vibrant cities. It's a more affordable alternative to Maui with a rich historical tapestry and diverse landscapes, from the White Mountains to exotic palm beaches.

Falassarna Beach

Falassarna Beach in Crete, Greece is a stunning paradise with crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sand, and breathtaking sunsets. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and dunes, it offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment. A must-visit destination for beach lovers seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

The Well of the Turk

The Well of the Turk in Chania, Greece is a historic landmark dating back to the Ottoman era. This well, adorned with intricate stone carvings, served as a vital water source for the city. Today, it stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

Old Venetian Harbor

Old Venetian Harbor in Chania, Greece is a picturesque waterfront area that exudes charm and history. With its iconic lighthouse, colorful buildings, and bustling atmosphere, it offers a delightful blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the promenade, exploring the narrow streets, and indulging in delicious local cuisine.

Malia Market

Malia Market in Crete, Greece is a bustling and vibrant marketplace offering a wide range of local produce, traditional Greek products, and souvenirs. With its lively atmosphere, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, taste delicious food, and find unique treasures to take home.

Island Beach Club

Island Beach Club in Crete, Greece is a stunning beachfront resort offering a luxurious and relaxing vacation experience. With its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking views, it is the perfect destination for sun-seekers and nature lovers. Enjoy a tranquil getaway surrounded by natural beauty and Greek hospitality.

Athen

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Athens presents a historical journey through ancient ruins and mythology, paired with a lively urban vibe. It's a perfect choice for travelers seeking a cultural deep-dive with the added benefit of Mediterranean cuisine.

Spondi

Spondi is a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant located in Athens, Greece. It offers a luxurious and elegant dining experience, serving exquisite French cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. With its impeccable service, sophisticated ambiance, and exceptional culinary creations, Spondi is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable gastronomic journey.

Ancient Agora of Athens

The Ancient Agora of Athens, located in Athens, Greece, was the central marketplace and civic center of ancient Athens. It served as a hub for political, commercial, and social activities, featuring important buildings such as the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus.

The Mall Athens

The Mall Athens is a popular shopping center located in Athens, Greece. It offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. With its modern design and convenient location, it attracts both locals and tourists looking for a diverse shopping experience in the heart of Athens.

Six D.O.G.S

Six D.O.G.S in Athens, Greece is a vibrant cultural hub that combines a bar, a café, a gallery, and a music venue all in one. With its eclectic atmosphere, diverse events, and unique outdoor courtyard, it has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists seeking a dynamic experience.

Museum of Cycladic Art

The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens, Greece, showcases a remarkable collection of ancient Cycladic art, including marble figurines, pottery, and jewelry. With its minimalist design and serene atmosphere, the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Cycladic civilization.

Seychelles

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Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands offering white sandy beaches and clear waters, rivaling Maui's tropical beauty. It's a sanctuary for nature lovers and a top spot for diving and snorkeling without the long-haul flight from England.

Konnos Bay

Konnos Bay in Protaras, Cyprus is a picturesque and secluded beach nestled between rocky cliffs. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand, it offers a tranquil escape for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.

Le Perle Noire Restaurant

Le Perle Noire Restaurant in Seychelles is a charming and elegant dining establishment. With its stunning beachfront location, it offers a romantic atmosphere and serves delicious seafood and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination in Seychelles.

Morne Seychellois National Park

Morne Seychellois National Park is a stunning nature reserve located in the Seychelles archipelago. Spanning over 3,000 hectares, it encompasses the highest peak in Seychelles, Morne Seychellois, offering breathtaking views. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

STC Hypermarket

STC Hypermarket in Seychelles is a popular retail store offering a wide range of products including groceries, household items, electronics, clothing, and more. It is known for its affordable prices, convenient location, and excellent customer service, making it a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike.

Tequila Boom Nightclub

Tequila Boom Nightclub in Seychelles is a vibrant and energetic nightlife destination. With its lively atmosphere, pulsating music, and a wide range of tequila-based drinks, it offers an unforgettable experience for party-goers. The club is known for its energetic crowd, international DJs, and a dance floor that keeps the party going all night long.

Mauritius

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Mauritius is a mosaic of cultures and flavors with mesmerizing landscapes. It provides a luxurious yet budget-friendly experience with fewer tourists, making it a more exclusive and tranquil retreat compared to Maui.

Flic en Flac Beach

Flic en Flac Beach in Mauritius is a stunning tropical paradise with crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and palm-fringed shores. It offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The beach is also known for its breathtaking sunsets and vibrant marine life.

Esprit Libre Restaurant

Esprit Libre Restaurant in Mauritius offers a unique dining experience with its stunning beachfront location and exquisite cuisine. With a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients, guests can indulge in a fusion of flavors while enjoying breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

Blue Bay Marine Park

Blue Bay Marine Park in Mauritius is a stunning marine reserve known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. It offers a diverse range of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The park also boasts picturesque beaches and is a haven for nature lovers.

Bagatelle Mall

Bagatelle Mall in Mauritius is a vibrant shopping destination offering a wide range of international and local brands. With its modern architecture and spacious layout, it provides a unique shopping experience. The mall also features various dining options, entertainment facilities, and a cinema, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.

Lakaz Cascavelle

Lakaz Cascavelle is a charming village located in Mauritius, known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountains, it offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. With its warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage, it promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Bora Bora

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Bora Bora is the jewel of the South Seas, offering an intimate and romantic escape with overwater bungalows and azure lagoons. It's a tropical paradise that promises a more secluded and upscale experience than Maui.

Motu Mute

Motu Mute is a small island located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. It is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The island offers a tranquil and picturesque setting, making it a popular destination for relaxation, water sports, and snorkeling.

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a culinary paradise nestled on the water's edge. With breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu, this restaurant offers a fusion of French and Polynesian flavors, creating a memorable dining experience in a stunning tropical setting.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a stunning underwater paradise. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, it offers an unforgettable snorkeling and diving experience. Explore the colorful coral formations and encounter tropical fish, rays, and even sharks in this breathtaking natural wonder.

Tahia Exquisite Tahitian Pearls

Tahia Exquisite Tahitian Pearls is a renowned jewelry brand located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. They specialize in crafting exquisite pearl jewelry using the finest Tahitian pearls, known for their lustrous beauty and unique colors. Each piece is meticulously designed to capture the essence of the stunning island paradise.

Bloody Mary's

Bloody Mary's in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a renowned restaurant and bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. With its sandy floors, thatched roof, and open-air setting, it offers a unique dining experience. Serving fresh seafood and tropical cocktails, it is a must-visit destination for tourists.

Kaua'i

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Kauai, known as the 'Garden Isle,' boasts dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and waterfalls. It's less commercialized than Maui, providing a more authentic Hawaiian experience with ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Navagio Beach

Navagio Beach, located in Thessaloniki, Greece, is a stunning paradise known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sandy beach, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Accessible only by boat, this secluded beach is a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for relaxation and exploration.

Red Salt

Red Salt is a renowned restaurant located in Kauai, USA. With a vibrant and contemporary atmosphere, it offers a unique dining experience. Known for its innovative Pacific Rim cuisine, the restaurant showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients, creating flavorful dishes that celebrate the island's culinary heritage.

Wailua River State Park

Wailua River State Park in Kauai, USA, is a lush and scenic park known for its stunning waterfalls, dense rainforest, and tranquil river. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, hiking, and boat tours, while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and serenity of the park.

Kapaa Shopping Center

Kapaa Shopping Center in Kauai, USA is a vibrant retail hub offering a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and services. Located in the heart of Kapaa town, it provides a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience for both locals and tourists, with a variety of options to suit different tastes and needs.

Kalapaki Joe's

Kalapaki Joe's is a popular restaurant and sports bar located in Kauai, USA. It offers a casual and lively atmosphere with a menu featuring a variety of American and Hawaiian dishes. Known for its delicious food, refreshing drinks, and friendly service, it is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Islas Canarias

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The Canary Islands offer diverse landscapes, from volcanic terrain to verdant forests. With a mild climate year-round and a shorter flight from England, it's an accessible destination for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Playa de Las Teresitas

Playa de Las Teresitas is a stunning golden sand beach located in Tenerife, Spain. With crystal clear turquoise waters and surrounded by lush mountains, it offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and sunbathing. The beach is popular among locals and tourists alike, providing a tranquil escape from city life.

Restaurante El Navarro

Restaurante El Navarro in Lanzarote, Spain is a charming eatery known for its delicious seafood and traditional Spanish cuisine. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, it offers a memorable dining experience. The restaurant's stunning location overlooking the ocean adds to its appeal, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts.

Timanfaya National Park

Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, Spain is a captivating volcanic landscape. Its barren terrain, formed by eruptions in the 18th century, showcases unique geological features. Visitors can explore the park's volcanic craters, lava fields, and geothermal demonstrations, offering a surreal and otherworldly experience.

La Ballena Shopping Centre

La Ballena Shopping Centre in Gran Canarias, Spain is a vibrant and modern shopping destination. With a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, it offers a diverse shopping experience. Its convenient location and stylish atmosphere make it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.

Cafe La Ola

Cafe La Ola in Lanzarote, Spain is a charming beachfront café offering a relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views. With a diverse menu of delicious food and refreshing drinks, it is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the island's beauty while savoring a delightful culinary experience.

Açores

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The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic, known for whale watching, hot springs, and outdoor activities. It's a unique and eco-friendly destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path.

Praia de Santa Barbara Beach

Praia de Santa Bárbara Beach is a stunning beach located in Azores, Portugal. With its crystal clear waters, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs, it offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Restaurante Gastronomo

Restaurante Gastronomo in Azores, Portugal is a culinary gem offering a delightful dining experience. With a focus on traditional Azorean cuisine, the restaurant serves delicious dishes made from fresh local ingredients. The cozy ambiance and friendly service make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts in the region.

Terra Nostra Gardens

Terra Nostra Gardens in Azores, Portugal is a lush paradise boasting a vast collection of exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and towering trees. Its centerpiece is a stunning thermal pool, known for its healing properties. This enchanting botanical garden offers a serene escape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.

Parque Atlantico

Parque Atlantico is a picturesque park located in the Azores, Portugal. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation in this tranquil setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Azores.

Bar da Marina

Bar da Marina is a charming seaside bar located in the Azores, Portugal. With its stunning ocean views, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff, it offers a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink or delicious meal while soaking up the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka offers a rich tapestry of ancient sites, wildlife, and beaches. It's an all-in-one destination with a lower cost of living, making it a more budget-friendly option than Maui with a diverse range of experiences.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning golden sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, making it a paradise for beach lovers.

Upali's by Nawaloka

Upali's by Nawaloka in Sri Lanka is a renowned luxury hotel offering a sophisticated and elegant experience. Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, it boasts stunning views, world-class amenities, and exceptional service. With its opulent decor and exquisite dining options, Upali's by Nawaloka promises an unforgettable stay.

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple, located in Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It consists of five caves adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and over 150 statues. The temple complex offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious history, attracting visitors from around the world.

Liberty Plaza

Liberty Plaza is a bustling shopping complex located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. It offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The plaza is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse shopping experience.

Bally's Casino

Bally's Casino in Sri Lanka is a popular gambling destination offering a vibrant and luxurious gaming experience. Located in the heart of Colombo, it features a wide range of table games, slot machines, and live entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking excitement and entertainment.

#10

The Bahamas

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The Bahamas is an archipelago with crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches. It's closer to England than Maui and offers a variety of islands to explore, each with its own character and charm.

Gold Rock Beach

Gold Rock Beach in The Bahamas is a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Located in Lucayan National Park, it offers a serene and secluded atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and beachcombing. With its untouched beauty and peaceful ambiance, it is a true paradise for nature lovers.

Flying Fish GastroBar

Flying Fish GastroBar in The Bahamas offers a unique dining experience with its fusion of Caribbean and international flavors. Located in The Bahamas, this trendy restaurant serves up delicious seafood dishes and creative cocktails in a vibrant and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Atlantis Paradise Island

Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas is a luxurious resort destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and world-class amenities. With its iconic architecture, thrilling water slides, marine habitats, and a vibrant casino, it offers an unforgettable experience of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment.

Marina Village

Marina Village in The Bahamas is a vibrant waterfront destination offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. With its colorful architecture, lively atmosphere, and stunning views of the marina, it is a must-visit spot for tourists looking to experience the essence of Bahamian culture and hospitality.

Pirate Republic Brewing

Pirate Republic Brewing in The Bahamas is a vibrant craft brewery that embodies the spirit of adventure and piracy. With a diverse range of handcrafted beers, including their famous Black Beer'd Stout, it offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts in a tropical paradise setting.

What's one thing you'd like to avoid in your next travel destination

Too Expensive Too Crowded Too Hot Too Touristic Too Cold