Sometimes Florida and Cancun just won’t cut it when you have that underlying wanderlust itch that just needs to be scratched.
While we all know Cartagena and Rio, there are dozens upon dozens of other worthwhile shores to bake in the sun by day and immerse in local culture while you’re lathered in aloe vera.
Don’t worry — we’ve all been there.
You may look like a tomato in your pics, but that’s just a badge of honor for livin’ the dream in paradise.
Experts at Fora, one of the hottest names in the travel industry right now (or at least according to my algorithm as they try to recruit me to be a travel advisor), has revealed their 2026 ‘Hot List’, jam-packed with insightful goodies.
Our own team of experts hand-picked 3 beautiful beach destinations from their list, we believe to be true gems waiting to be discovered, earning a Travel Off Path stamp of approval for your next sunny escape abroad.
Punta del Este: The ‘St. Tropez’ Of Uruguay
When it comes to the States, travelers have a hard time picking which coast to visit. Florida and California are both gorgeous.
It all comes down to the fact that everybody loves having options.
But vacationers love being able to choose their vibe. In this case, Punta del Este lies along 2 different coastlines, split by the Maldonado peninsula.
Though popular among neighboring Brazilians and Argentinians, this secret paradise for the masses is home to golden beaches and upscale beach clubs.
Fora highlights 4 amazing places to stay to level up your trip. I mean, you’ve come all the way to Uruguay. Go hard or go home, right?
Fora’s favorite stays are:
- Playa Vik
- Bahia Vik
- Estancia Vik
- Hotel Fasano
Best of all, it may be dubbed as ‘St. Tropez’, but vacationing here won’t amount to aren’t French Riviera prices unless you choose to splurge — hence digital nomads love much of Uruguay’s beautiful shores as their sanctuary.
Carmelo, Uruguay: Private Beaches & Riverside Bliss
Let’s keep the Uruguay train rolling, shall we? Toot, toot!
Ever heard the term “slow luxury”? It doesn’t apply everywhere…
Mexico, for example, is a tough one. With salty margs and mariachi blasting, it’s a challenge to tap the brakes on vacation.
That’s not the case in Uruguay, especially in Carmelo. This quiet beach town is set along the Rio de la Plata near the Argentine border
With less party vibes and more idyllic atmosphere, this is a perfect spot to kick back and relax to enjoy the little things in life.
Fora singles out Carmelo Resort & Spa as hands-down the best place to stay, especially since this posh resort offers a private beach for guests.
Plus, food in this town is top-notch — one of the most underrated foodie destinations in South America, serving classic chivito sandwiches and parrilla classics.
Don’t sleep on majestic riverside towns when it comes to waterfront getaways. Carmelo is destined to shock you!
Transoco: The Calm, Crowd-Free Alternative To Rio
Put a caipirinha in my hand, and I’ll be happy anywhere, but let’s not pretend Rio’s renowned beaches aren’t a madhouse — and safety can be a concern as well.
Trancoso is about as laid-back as it gets. Located in Bahia, is all about barefoot luxury, tranquil beaches, and slower days revolving around fiery sunsets and fresh seafood.
Not to get all “woo-woo” on you, but you won’t find your favorite resort here — they’re mostly eco-friendly, sustainability-driven properties with prime real estate.
That said, you’re not sacrificing quality, and it’s a lot more authentic than yet another chain resort packed to the gills with sunbathers.
Fora highlights the ‘rustic’ UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa, perched atop a hill for unmatched sweeping views, and Etnia Casa Hotel if you prefer to be within walking distance to town, which boasts its vibrant town square known as the Quadrado.
From palm-swaying beaches to colorful walkways and boutique shops downtown, Transoco is one of South America’s last true hidden gems of this caliber.
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