The rise of digital nomadism has opened the doors to working from some of the world’s most beautiful locations. Imagine setting up your laptop on a sun-drenched beach, the sound of waves as your background music, and the occasional dip in the ocean as your coffee break. This is not just a dream; it’s a reality for many remote workers today. In this post, as part of our Digital Nomad tips and advice, I’ll take you through seven of the best beach destinations for digital nomads, each from a different country, including two spectacular spots in Europe. Let’s dive into paradise!
1. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Overview
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal town that blends the charm of Mexico with the amenities of a bustling expat community. It’s got it all: beautiful beaches, an energetic nightlife, and a cultural richness that’s palpable in the air. Read this to learn about more things you can do there.
Pros
Playa del Carmen offers an affordable cost of living, which means more tacos and margaritas without breaking the bank. The internet is reliable, and there are numerous coworking spaces like Nest Coworking and Bunker Coworking that cater to the needs of digital nomads. The social scene here is vibrant, making it easy to meet fellow nomads and build a community.
Cons
However, it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. This might mean dealing with more noise and longer waits at your favorite spots. Also, the tropical climate can be quite humid, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Personal Experience
I spent three months in Playa del Carmen and absolutely loved the mix of work and leisure. My days were spent working from cozy cafes and my evenings were filled with salsa dancing and exploring Mayan ruins. The community of digital nomads here is incredibly supportive, making it easy to settle in and make friends.
Watch this video to learn more:
2. Lagos, Portugal (Europe)
Overview
Lagos, located in Portugal’s Algarve region, is a picturesque town known for its stunning cliffs, clear waters, and charming old town.
Pros
Lagos offers a moderate cost of living, and a friendly expat community. The natural beauty of the cliffs and beaches here is unparalleled, providing endless inspiration for your work. Lagos also offers excellent internet connectivity. However, I still recommend getting a local SIM card. Getting a European SIM card when traveling long-term in Europe ensures you benefit from local rates, avoiding exorbitant roaming charges, and provides seamless connectivity across multiple countries under the EU’s “Roam Like at Home” regulations. Additionally, it offers convenience and ease of communication with local services and contacts, enhancing your travel experience. Read this to learn about the best options.
Cons
However, it can be quieter in the off-season, which might not suit those who thrive on constant social interaction. Additionally, while it’s relatively affordable, it’s not as cheap as some of the other destinations on this list.
Personal Experience
Working from Lagos was an absolute delight. The beauty of the coastline inspired me daily, and the slower pace of life was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities. I found that the tranquility helped boost my productivity and creativity.
Watch this video to learn more:
3. Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
Overview
Canggu is the epitome of a laid-back surfer town with a digital nomad twist. The beach stretches on forever, and the sunsets are nothing short of magical.
Pros
The cost of living in Canggu is incredibly low, which means you can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle on a budget. The town is dotted with cafes and coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Outpost Canggu, where the Wi-Fi is fast and the coffee is strong. The wellness options here, from yoga classes to organic eateries, are superb.
Cons
But beware, the traffic can be intense, and the infrastructure, while improving, can be a bit unpredictable. Power outages are not uncommon, which can be a hassle when you’re in the middle of a Zoom call.
Personal Experience
Canggu felt like a second home to me. The vibe is relaxed, and there’s a strong sense of community. Surfing in the morning, working in a coworking space by day, and watching the sunset from Echo Beach became my daily routine. It’s easy to see why so many digital nomads fall in love with this place.
Watch this video to learn more:
4. Koh Phangan, Thailand
Overview
Koh Phangan is famous for its full moon parties, but there’s much more to this Thai island. It’s a haven for yoga enthusiasts, beach lovers, and, increasingly, digital nomads.
Pros
The island offers an incredibly affordable lifestyle, with cheap accommodations and food. The digital nomad community is growing, and there are plenty of wellness activities to indulge in, from yoga retreats to detox programs.
Cons
The downside is the limited infrastructure in some areas, which can make reliable internet a challenge. Also, it can feel quite remote, which might not be ideal for everyone.
Personal Experience
I found Koh Phangan to be a perfect blend of work and relaxation. The island’s natural beauty and the emphasis on wellness made it easy to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Plus, the sense of community here is strong, with plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Overview
Cape Town is a city of contrasts, with its stunning beaches, rich history, and modern amenities. It’s a great place for digital nomads who want a mix of urban and natural environments.
Pros
The city offers excellent internet connectivity, a variety of coworking spaces, and a reasonable cost of living. The natural beauty, from Table Mountain to the beaches, is breathtaking and provides a perfect backdrop for remote work.
Cons
Safety can be a concern in certain areas, and the electricity supply can be inconsistent. However, with proper precautions and planning, these issues can be managed.
Personal Experience
Cape Town is one of my favorite places to work from. The city’s dynamic culture, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a unique and inspiring place. I spent many afternoons working from cafes with views of the ocean and weekends exploring the surrounding wine regions.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
6. Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Overview
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a year-round warm climate and diverse landscapes, from beaches to volcanoes.
Pros
The weather is fantastic, the cost of living is reasonable, and the internet connectivity is strong. There are plenty of coworking spaces and a growing community of digital nomads.
Cons
The island can feel a bit isolated from mainland Europe, which might not suit everyone. Additionally, while it’s affordable, it’s not as cheap as some Asian destinations.
Personal Experience
Tenerife surprised me with its diversity. One day I’d be working from a beachside cafe, and the next, I’d be hiking up a volcano. The blend of natural beauty and modern amenities made it an excellent place to live and work.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
7. Bondi Beach, Australia
Overview
Bondi Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in the world, known for its surfing culture and vibrant community.
Pros
The infrastructure is excellent, with numerous coworking spaces and fast internet. The beach lifestyle is unbeatable, and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
Cons
The cost of living is higher compared to other destinations, which might be a deterrent for some. However, the quality of life and work environment can justify the extra expense.
Personal Experience
Working from Bondi Beach was a dream come true. The energetic vibe of the area, combined with the stunning natural beauty, created a perfect work environment. I found that the beach lifestyle encouraged a healthy balance between work and leisure. For more about Australia for Digital Nomads – read this.
Watch this video to learn more:
Conclusion
These seven beach destinations each offer their unique charm and benefits for digital nomads. From the vibrant culture of Playa del Carmen to the laid-back surfer town of Canggu, there’s something for everyone. Lagos and Tenerife in Europe provide stunning coastal views and a rich history, while Koh Phangan, Cape Town, and Bondi Beach each offer their distinct allure.
Working from paradise isn’t just about the location; it’s about finding a place that inspires you and supports your lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, community, or adventure, these destinations have it all. So pack your bags, grab your laptop, and get ready to work from paradise!
