When to Go

These regions are well loved for their beaches, and they are crowded between December and February when the hot summer weather draws thousands of holiday makers; sleepy seaside towns become filled with city folk with a tourist surge during the weeks around Christmas and the New Year. Don't overlook the off-season (March through September). The weather's usually sunny, climate is temperate, prices are lower, and locals have more time to chat. Some of the more hardy locals swim whatever the weather.