
Where to go on vacation in July 2026: 23 destinations with a dry season and warm sea
In July, the Mediterranean enters its hottest stretch. Half of Europe goes on vacation at the same time as you, and waterfront hotels get booked up months before the trip. We've put together 23 destinations where no visa is required or it can be obtained online. You'll see where July is dry and where monsoon rains are starting.
Ad: this article contains affiliate links, we earn a commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
How to choose a beach vacation destination
💡 In short:
- In July, pick countries with a dry season: the Mediterranean, Bali, Zanzibar.
- Check entry rules in advance: they depend on your citizenship.
- Book a hotel by the sea several months ahead, otherwise the selection will be worse.
- Visa rules for EU citizens: 09/2026, according to Auswärtiges Amt country pages.
July is considered the middle of high season in Europe. Flights and hotels are booked months in advance, and good spots on the beach get taken from the morning. Your choice depends on two things: visa rules and the weather in a specific region.
In the Mediterranean, the heat sets in from the first days of the month. In Southeast Asia, the rainy season begins, and not every resort is suitable for swimming. We've noted the weather for each destination so you don't spend your vacation in the rain.
A practical detail for all destinations on the list: book accommodation near the sea and check whether the beach has loungers. Rooms in the second line are cheaper, but you'll have to walk across the road with a towel every day. Get medical insurance before departure, not at the airport.
1. Turkey
© Esginmurat · CC BY-SAPhoto: Esginmurat, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia CommonsTurkey remains the easiest option for July. The flight is short, the service is familiar, and the sea is warm from morning until late evening. Among the resorts on the southern coast, Antalya, Belek, Alanya and Kemer stand out. Here you'll find long promenades, pine forests right by the water, and small bays sheltered from the waves.
July in Turkey is dry and very hot. During the day the air gets scorching, so you'll be walking around the city in the morning or after sunset. The warm water is great for diving and water activities. EU citizens do not need a visa for a short trip. Check the current conditions on the Auswärtiges Amt pages for Turkey.
- The catch: at midday the heat makes sightseeing difficult, the comfortable time for walks is early morning.
2. Tunisia

Tunisia attracts with white sand and the warm Mediterranean, but July here is genuinely scorching. During the day the heat is exhausting, and long trips to historical sites are tough. On the plus side, the sea warms up to a comfortable temperature, and in the evening it's pleasant to stroll along the palm-lined promenade.
In Hammamet and Monastir, hotels are set in green areas with pools and private beaches. July is rich in events: fairs, carnivals and music festivals draw large crowds. If you enjoy resort nightlife, these two cities will suit you better than the quiet bays of the south.
- The catch: the African heat doesn't lend itself to long excursions.
3. Cyprus
© Jules Verne Times Two · CC BY-SAPhoto: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia CommonsCyprus is famous for its golden beaches and windless bays between the rocks. In July the island is hot, so excursions to ancient monuments are best scheduled for the morning. The resorts of Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos work well for both swimming and walks through the old quarters.
The beaches are equipped with loungers, umbrellas and changing rooms, and the hotels have well-developed infrastructure. You'll have water parks, restaurants and water sports at your disposal. The heat in Cyprus is easier to handle than in Tunisia because the sea and wind are close by.
- The catch: during the day it's easy to get sunburned in direct sunlight.
4. Israel
© אין מידע · CC BYPhoto: אין מידע, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5), Wikimedia CommonsIsrael combines beaches and history: the country is washed by the Mediterranean, Red, and Dead Seas. In July, the air and water on the Mediterranean coast are very warm, so you're unlikely to get through a full sightseeing program. Among the coastal cities, Netanya is especially popular.
Netanya's promenades are lined with palm trees and flower beds. The sandy beaches have umbrellas, loungers, and sports areas, with cafes and shopping centers nearby. If you've come for both the sea and sightseeing, split your day into morning and evening.
- The catch: the heat pushes sightseeing into the early hours.
5. Georgia
© jagermesh from Ukraine · CC BY-SAPhoto: jagermesh from Ukraine, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), Wikimedia CommonsBlack Sea Batumi suits those who want to combine beach and city. In July, beach season is in full swing here, the air is warm, and the sea is comfortable, though cooler than the Mediterranean. The coastline is well maintained, with modern buildings and sculptures along it.
The wide pebble beach has loungers and umbrellas. The city has a botanical garden, a theater, a circus, and a dolphinarium, so you won't be bored in the evening. Parks and squares with palms and fountains run right along the waterfront.
- Who it's for: those who like pebble beaches and city infrastructure nearby.
6. Jordan
© Adeeb Atwan · CC BYPhoto: Adeeb Atwan, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia CommonsJordan suits lovers of intense heat. The resort of Aqaba sits on the Red Sea, where coral reefs start almost at the shore. In summer, the air gets extremely hot, while the water stays clear and warm. The beaches are covered with white sand, and sprawling palm trees grow along the shore.
The weather is perfect for swimming, yacht trips, and snorkeling. Hotel complexes in Aqaba are surrounded by green areas and offer guests a variety of entertainment. If you're going for the sea, choose a hotel with its own beach section.
- The catch: the air is scorching, and during the day it's only comfortable near the water.
7. UAE
© IvaTheCat · CC BY-SAPhoto: IvaTheCat, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia CommonsThe UAE attracts with its architecture and the sandy beaches of the Persian Gulf. In July, the sun is especially harsh here, so many people come for the air-conditioned hotels, parks, and shopping centers. The resorts of Dubai and Sharjah offer a wide choice of hotels.
Shady theme parks, gardens, and green oases provide relief from the heat. The beaches have shade structures, and the warm gulf water is pleasant even in the evening. Bring sunscreen and plan your walks before noon.
- The catch: extreme heat severely limits time outdoors.
8. Morocco
© Marco Riss · CC BY-SAPhoto: Marco Riss, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia CommonsMorocco suits those who want exotic vibes and a cool ocean. The resort of Agadir sits on the Atlantic: the water here is colder than the Mediterranean, but the air is hot and dry, and the sea breeze softens the heat. The multi-kilometer beach is covered with yellow sand, with pine and eucalyptus groves behind it.
The city has many modern hotels, park areas, and distinctive Arab architecture. Active travelers can play on sports grounds, ride camels, or go on a boat trip. For swimming with small children, the ocean water may feel cool.
- The catch: the ocean is colder than the Mediterranean.
9. Thailand
© PonlawatThai · CC BY-SAPhoto: PonlawatThai, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia CommonsThailand greets July with its rainy season, but the downpours here are short. If you're heading to Pattaya or Samui, the sun shines for most of the day, and rain comes for just a couple of hours. Humidity is high, the air is warm, and the water in the Gulf of Thailand is balmy.
The coast has white sand, palm groves, and soft blue lagoons. Bungalow-style hotels sit right in the greenery, with bars and restaurants serving local cuisine nearby. Temple complexes are best visited during the cloudier half of the day.
- The catch: some excursions have to be rescheduled due to downpours.
10. Vietnam
© Steffen Schmitz ( more photos ) · CC BY-SAPhoto: Steffen Schmitz ( more photos ), CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia CommonsVietnam attracts visitors with its tropical nature, ancient culture, and architectural landmarks. The danger in July lies elsewhere: some provinces get monsoon rains, while others stay dry. Da Nang and Hoi An remain relatively sunny and calm, so choose the central coast rather than the north or south.
These cities have hotels, restaurants, shops, and well-maintained waterfronts. The wide sandy beaches are equipped with loungers and umbrellas, and the water in the South China Sea is warm. A light breeze keeps the heat in check, so swimming is quite comfortable.
Hoi An sits right next to Da Nang, which is convenient: you stay by the sea and can reach the old town with its lanterns and markets in half an hour. In the evening the waterfront cools down, making walks easy. Rainfall in the central provinces is usually brief, so you'll still get half a day at the beach.
- The catch: other regions of the country can see downpours, overcast skies, and strong winds.
11. Indonesia, Bali
© CEphoto, Uwe Aranas · CC BY-SAPhoto: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia CommonsBali remains a popular destination year-round, but July is especially convenient here. It's the most visited month for tourists, yet the weather is sunny and dry, and the air is warm. The island offers mountains, tropical forests, and sandy coastlines with cozy bays.
The Nusa Dua resort in the south of the island is known for its wide beaches with golden sand and sprawling palm trees. A chain of coral reefs protects the shore from high waves, so swimming with children here is calmer. Hotel complexes with their own green grounds and entertainment programs line the coast.
If you want peace and quiet, choose a complex set back from the main road rather than one right on it.
- The catch: July is high season, so book hotels in advance.
Hotels in Nusa Dua on Trip.com
12. Montenegro
© Bratislav Tabaš · CC BY-SAPhoto: Bratislav Tabaš, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia CommonsMontenegro suits those who want sea and mountains in one vacation. The Adriatic coastline here is short but well kept: fine-pebble and sandy beaches hide in windless bays between rocky hills. July brings steady summer weather, so you can both swim and head up into the mountains.
The country's most popular resort is Budva. Hotels of various categories, restaurants, and evening entertainment are concentrated here. The narrow streets of the old town with its stone buildings and cozy parks are worth seeing at least once.
For evening walks, choose accommodation near Budva's old town: that's where the cafes, restaurants, and waterfront are. With children, it's easier to hit the beach in the morning before other vacationers arrive.
- The catch: at the height of the season, beaches in the bays fill up, so grab a spot by the water in the morning.
13. China, Hainan
© STW932 · CC BY-SAPhoto: STW932, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia CommonsHainan is China's tropical island with white-sand beaches and coconut palms. The main areas tourists head to are the bays of Sanya, Dadonghai, and Yalong Bay. The bays are framed by mountains with dense vegetation, and the water in the South China Sea is clean and warm.
The island is covered with forests and plantations, and Buddhist cultural landmarks stand near the modern tourist zones. In July, be prepared for muggy heat: clear days alternate with downpours and squally winds. Entry rules for Hainan differ from those for the rest of China, so check them on the China entry requirements page before buying tickets.
- The catch: high humidity and sudden downpours.
14. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean and offers tropical scenery, long beaches, and developed infrastructure. July on the island is rainy, but the climate is uneven, and you can always find a coast with favorable weather. Head east: there, sunny days alternate with short nighttime downpours.
The beaches of the east coast are lined with tall palm trees, and the shoreline is carved into cozy bays. Nearby you'll find national parks, tea plantations, an elephant orphanage, and ancient religious sites. So you can easily combine a beach vacation with sightseeing.
- The catch: the southwest coast gets rain in July.
Hotels on Sri Lanka's east coast on Trip.com
15. Cambodia
© Manfred Werner ( talk · contribs ) · CC BY-SAPhoto: Manfred Werner ( talk · contribs ), CC BY-SA (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/), Wikimedia CommonsCambodia suits those ready for the exotic and modest service. The country reveals temples of the Khmer civilization, national reserves with dense forests and waterfalls. There's really one main resort here: the city of Sihanoukville with white-sand beaches and palm and pine groves.
The country's infrastructure is still developing. Many provinces haven't yet seen the comforts of civilization, and weathered wooden houses sit next to hotels. July is the height of the rainy season: short downpours come almost every day, and dirt roads get washed out.
Sihanoukville's beaches stay uncrowded, so you'll have no trouble finding a spot by the water. Temples are best visited in the first half of the day.
- The catch: rain and washed-out roads make getting around the country difficult.
Hotels in Sihanoukville on Trip.com
16. Philippines
The Philippines, an archipelago of thousands of islands with pristine forests, cliffs, and volcanoes. Midsummer here is hot and rainy, but that doesn't stop tourists. The reason is simple: in the low season, tours and accommodation cost less than in winter, and there are more available hotels.
The country's resort capital is Boracay Island. The shores are covered in dazzling white coral sand, with tall, slender palm trees along them. The island has both budget hostels and expensive hotels, plus restaurants and nightlife spots. Diving enthusiasts will love the clear depths, and hikers will enjoy the nature reserves, caves, and hills with panoramic views.
For walks, choose the morning; the sun is too strong in the afternoon. If you want to see more, add a couple of days to your vacation for travel between islands.
- The catch: July falls in the rainy season, and the weather changes quickly.
17. Malaysia
© Phuketian.S · CC BYPhoto: Phuketian.S, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/), FlickrMalaysia combines natural attractions, temples, and modern architectural complexes. The landscapes here are shaped by mountain ranges, limestone cliffs, impenetrable jungles, waterfall valleys, and caves. In July you'll get sunny, windless days, and short rains usually don't get in the way of your vacation.
The island of Langkawi, lush with tropical greenery, deserves special attention. The Langkawi Sky Bridge, one of the archipelago's main viewpoints, spans the gorge between the peaks. The turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea wash well-kept sandy shores, and hotel complexes offer solid service.
- The catch: short rains are possible on any day.
Hotels on Langkawi on Trip.com
18. Tanzania

Tanzania combines beach and sightseeing vacations. Here jungles transition into savannas, and plains give way to mountain ranges, and the country is known for its national parks with abundant wildlife. The beaches of the Indian Ocean and the underwater world attract visitors no less than safaris through the reserves.
Calendar summer is a good time to visit. In July the weather brings sunny days with almost no precipitation, and the coastal water is warm. Among the resorts, Zanzibar Island stands out: part of its territory is covered in mangrove forests, the beaches are carpeted with coral sand and equipped with gear. Safaris through the national parks take several days, so the ocean and the reserves are easy to combine in one itinerary. Boat trips, diving, and snorkeling add variety to a leisurely stay by the water.
- The catch: check visa requirements in advance on the Tanzania visa rules page.
Hotels in Zanzibar on Trip.com
19. Mauritius
© Simisa ( talk · contribs ) · CC BY-SAPhoto: Simisa ( talk · contribs ), CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia CommonsMauritius lies in the Indian Ocean and lures you in with its scenery. Mountains, tropical forests and gorges sit side by side with white-sand beaches and picturesque bays. Midsummer on the island is moderately warm, the water is heated up, and there is no pronounced rainy season. For you, that means stable weather with no surprises.
The resort area of Grand Baie is considered the country's main tourist hub. It is packed with first-class hotels, cozy bungalows, bars and entertainment complexes. Emerald lagoons and abundant greenery give you that postcard-perfect picture. Active travelers can take up water sports or visit the botanical garden and bird park.
- Who it's for: those who want a relaxed vacation without exhausting heat.
Hotels in Grand Baie on Trip.com
20. Seychelles

The Seychelles suit those looking for peace and quiet far from noisy cities. Emerald tropical greenery, the crystal-clear turquoise of the Indian Ocean and sandy shores lined with coconut palms create a secluded atmosphere. The islands are carved up by bays surrounded by boulders and cliffs.
July is considered the driest and, by local standards, coolest month, so you won't face sweltering heat. Comfortable hotel complexes have their own well-maintained beach areas. Popular activities include fishing, diving and boat trips.
- The catch: the water is cooler than in the tropics of Southeast Asia.
Hotels in the Seychelles on Trip.com
21. Albania
Albania delivers on expectations for a budget seaside vacation. The Balkan landscape offers mountain ridges, rocky bays, gentle hills and groves of citrus and conifer trees. The blue gulfs of the Adriatic and Ionian seas wash sandy and fine-pebble shores that rise right up to steep slopes.
Summer here is dry and hot, but the sea water stays refreshing. Vacationers head to Saranda and Durres: these cities have a wide choice of hotels in different categories, and waterfront promenades with entertainment infrastructure run along the beaches. The air from the conifer-covered slopes smells of resin.
- Who it's for: those who don't mind fine-pebble beaches and a relaxed pace.
22. Cuba
© Андрей Бобровский · CC BYPhoto: Андрей Бобровский, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia CommonsCuba suits those who want exotic experiences without boredom. The island's sandy beaches and tropical landscapes are considered among the best in the Caribbean. The resort of Varadero offers wide shores and emerald Atlantic water, and the bays are carved up in a way that makes it easy to find a quiet spot.
July in Cuba is hot and humid: the air is warm, the water is warm, and short downpours hit suddenly and end quickly. Beyond the sea, you'll find colonial buildings, national nature reserves, tobacco plantations and ancient settlements. Visa rules here differ from most Caribbean countries, so check them in advance on the Cuba entry requirements page.
- The catch: high humidity and sudden downpours.
Hotels in Varadero on Trip.com
23. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic occupies two thirds of the island of Hispaniola and promises the full tropical package. The terrain consists of mountains and plains blanketed in dense greenery, while the shores of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic are lined with tall coconut palms. The island has plenty of hotels in all categories, so you'll find an option even on a modest budget.
July in the Dominican Republic is scorching and relatively humid: sunny days alternate with rainy ones. The air and water are warm, and swimming is comfortable. The excursion program includes the island's protected areas, highland valleys and mangrove forests with rivers and waterfalls. Check the weather forecast before booking, as it changes quickly during the rainy season.
- The catch: alternating sun and rain, high humidity.
Hotels in the Dominican Republic on Trip.com
⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions
Where to go in July with kids without a visa?
Look at Cyprus, Turkey, and Bali: the flight is short or familiar, and hotels have their own beaches and green grounds. In Bali, the reefs at Nusa Dua break the waves, so swimming is calmer. Check the entry rules for your citizenship and book accommodation near the sea.
Where is it dry in July, and where does it rain?
The dry and hot season holds across the Mediterranean: Turkey, Cyprus, Montenegro, Albania. Bali and Zanzibar are also going through their dry period. It rains in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, Hainan, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. These are usually short downpours rather than weeks on end, but it's better to schedule excursions for the morning.
When should you book a hotel and flight for July?
The destinations on this list are popular, so hotels and tickets should be booked several months in advance. The closer the date, the higher the prices and the smaller the selection. Look for accommodation near the sea: saving money on the second line turns into a daily trek with a towel.
Do you need a visa for these destinations?
The rules depend on your citizenship and change every year. For German citizens and most EU countries, some destinations are open without a visa, while others require an online document or a visa on arrival. Before buying tickets, check the Auswärtiges Amt page for the country you need.
What should you pack for a trip in July?
In southern countries you'll need high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and a supply of water. Bring a first aid kit with fever medication and remedies for stomach upset. For excursions, comfortable shoes and light long-sleeved clothing will come in handy. In monsoon regions, add a raincoat.
In short: what's worth booking
If you want a short flight and a warm sea, go for Turkey, Cyprus, or Montenegro. If peace and nature matter, look at the Seychelles, Mauritius, and Zanzibar. For a trip with kids, Bali and Cyprus work well: at Nusa Dua the reefs hold the waves back, and Cypriot hotels sit by equipped beaches. The budget options are Albania, Georgia, and Tunisia. In July, seaside hotels get snapped up first, so look for accommodation early. Before you fly, compare insurance terms.


