A recent article in the Michelin Guide highlighted the best beach destinations for foodies, particularly in September and October. Of course, delicious eats can be enjoyed year-round, but for a beach trip you’ll want to consider the weather and the sea conditions. In many places, the water stays warm enough for swimming well into October thanks to summer’s heat.
These spots, named among the guide’s nine top places, are particularly good for foodies and beach enthusiasts planning a late summer or early fall trip.
Athens Riviera, Greece
If you like Greek food, the Athens Riviera is one of the best destinations in Greece for a shoulder season beach vacation. It’s also just a short distance from the capital for those who want to explore iconic ancient sites like the Acropolis and its 5th-century BC monuments. Stretching about 40 miles from Piraeus just southwest of central Athens to Cape Sounion, the Riviera has over 30 sandy beaches to choose from. The sea will be at its warmest for swimming in September at 77 F, but you can expect it to be comfortable until at least mid-October when it drops to around 73 F.
Many casual waterfront tavernas line the coast, perfect for sipping Assyrtiko and enjoying fresh-caught fish. For fine dining, you might head to one of the Michelin-starred restaurants, like Pelagos at the Four Seasons Astir Palace.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Similar to the Athens region, Dubrovnik enjoys pleasant temperatures in late summer and early fall. In September, the sea averages 75 F, and it’s not much cooler in October at 72 F. Plus, the thick crowds of summer will have thinned significantly for more comfortable exploring, from walking the famous medieval walls that encircle the old town to sunbathing on famous Banje Beach near Ploče Gate.
The dining scene is impressive in the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” and you’ll have an easier time reserving a covered table, including one on the terrace at the classic Proto Fish in the historic center or at the Michelin-starred Restaurant 360 in the harbor.
Taormina, Sicily, Italy
Spectacularly perched on a rocky promontory, high above the Ionian Sea on Sicily‘s east coast, charming Taormina has been a top tourist destination since the early 19th century. Of course, that means it gets very busy in the summer. But if you wait until around mid-September or October, you can enjoy its remarkable beauty in a more tranquil atmosphere with more comfortable temperatures. The beaches, ranging from sandy and pebbly to rocky coves, will have plenty of space for tossing down your towel and swimming in the clear, warm blue water, hovering around 72 to 73 F.
Despite being a small town, there are multiple Michelin-starred restaurants for your fine dining pleasure, such as St. George by Heinz Beck, with two Michelin stars. Or consider the intimate Otto Geleng. It boasts sweeping views of Taormina, the Bay of Naxos, and Mount Etna from its terrace. There are only eight tables but it will be easier to score one this time of year.
