Beach of the Week: Azure Window and The Blue Hole, Gozo, Malta

The Blue Hole and Azure Window: Swimming in Paradise

The island of Gozo in Malta is home to The Azure Window and The Blue Hole, neighboring natural wonders.   The Azure Window is a dramatic arch towering over the seaside, it’s pale stone contrasting against the deep blue sea.   It’s a much loved destination in its own right, and visitors also come to take a dip in its neighbor, The Blue Hole.  

A popular spot for scuba divers, The Blue Hole is world renowned for its crystal clear depths.  Beneath the water lie interesting features like arches and caverns, all brimming with sea life.  If scuba isn’t your bag, it’s also a wonderful spot for snorkeling.  Or take the basic route, and just enjoy a swim in the gorgeous Mediterranean waters. 

What’s your favorite swimming spot in the Mediterranean?

 
Don’t let a sunburn spoil your vacation!  Get all your sun protection needs covered at SolEscapes, so you can enjoy the sun in style!

Beach of the Week: White Beach, Boracay, Philippines

Who wouldn't want to relax here?  White Beach ~ Boracay, Philippines.

Off the coast of Manila, lies Boracay; an island paradise.  Boracay is home to lovely White Beach.  As hinted at by its name, White Beach has powdery, white sand.  Combine the silky sand with the aqua sea and swaying palm trees, and you’re basically in beach lover’s paradise.  In addition to good looks, White Beach has all its bases covered, with a wide selection of restaurants and bars, beach activities, and even a jaw dropping sunset.
 
If you could go to any beach in the world, which would it be?

 
Keep summer humming along – get all your summertime necessities at SolEscapes.  From sun hats to beach bags to swimwear, SolEscapes has you covered!

Beach of the Week: Tulum, Mexico

Breathtaking views at Tulum, Mexico

Here’s a destination that combines fascinating archeology with picture perfect beach Paradise.  Tulum holds the ruins of a Mayan temple and city, built in the 15th century at the edge of the cliffs.  It may well be the Mayans chose this spot for ease of fortification, but one can easily theorize that the breathtaking view also had something to do with it. 
 
After wandering the ruins, just head down to the beach, where you’ll find sugar white sand and beautiful blue water.  Cool off in the sea and bask in the Yucatan sun, enjoying the impressive, historic backdrop.
 
What beach are you daydreaming about today?

SolEscapes and beach vacations go hand in hand.  Pack your bags with sun hats, swimwear, cover-ups and all your warm weather vacation must haves!

Pick the Perfect Sun Hat Infographic

Choose the sun hat that's just right for you

Picking the sun hat that's perfect for you

How do you pick the perfect sun hat?  Just use our handy infographic!

Consider the features you need.  What activities will you be doing?  What hat style do you love?  Do you need a packable hat?  Don't forget about size, and be sure to choose a hat that gives ample sun protection.

Shop our large selection of sun hat styles today!

Friday Fashion: Destination Wedding

What to Wear to a Destination Wedding on Polyvore - click for details.

It's Wedding Season!  Even better - it's Beach Wedding Season!  Combine a dream vacation with a beautiful life event?  Yes, please!

What will you wear to a Destination Wedding?  Well, you'll need a gorgeous dress, of course.  This beauty will flow in the ocean breeze, without revealing too much.  In case that breeze gets chilly, bring a pretty wrap.  Jewelry is in warm golden tones, it will catch the sun and sparkle.  You'll need something to carry your essentials; this La Pluma clutch by ále by Alessandra is just stunning.  Low heeled strappy shoes cover your feet (unless you go barefoot), and you top everything off with a glamorous sun hat.  Morgana sun hat by Gottex has a wide brim for fantastic sun protection as well as all the style you could ask for. 

Are you going to a Beach Wedding this summer?

Beach of the Week: Long Beach Island, New Jersey

Beautiful Long Beach Island, New Jersey

Long Beach Island, NJ is a favorite vacation spot of many.  A summer haven, it’s the annual vacation spot for countless families.  The beaches are large and not overcrowded.  The streets beg to be wandered: ice cream shops, yummy restaurants and all the beach town essentials.  A wonderful place to gather with friends and family, to relax and bask in the beauty of the shore.

Are you planning a summer beach vacation?

Sand between your toes and a stylish sun hat on your head!  Get set for your next beach trip at SolEscapes!

Friday Fashion: Cannes Film Festival

Cannes inspired!

The Cannes Film Festival is in full swing!  The films are an integral aspect of the festival, of course, but just as important are the fashion culture and beach life!  This week, we feature some pieces that would be right at home on Plage C or strolling down Boulevard de la Croisette.  

The tunic by Glamourpuss NYC is made of sun protective fabric!  It can be worn as a swimsuit cover-up, a dress, or a tunic length top.  Pair it with an awesome tote, some chic sunnies, and colorful accessories.  To protect yourself from that Riviera sun, wear a stylish sun hat, like San Remo.

What would you wear to the Cannes Film Festival?

Beach of the Week: Playa de las Catedrales Galicia, Spain

Breathtaking Playa de las Catedrales

We were so struck by the beautiful rock formations at Praia da Marinha beach, that this week we’re visiting another beach with awe inspiring cliffs: Playa de las Catedrales (Beach of the Cathedrals).

Near the town of Ribadeo, in the Galicia region of Spain, Playa de las Catedrales provides a regal spot to wade, explore, and take lots (and lots) of pictures.  Towering cliffs have been shaped over time into dramatic formations.  Most famous among these are the tremendous arches that resemble the flying buttresses of cathedrals.

Timing is of essence, as the beach is only accessible at low tide.  During low tide, you can walk the beach, exploring caves and pools and soaking in the majesty of its arches.

If you could visit any beach today, which would it be?


Get ready for Summer!  Stock up on sunscreen, sun hats and swimwear!

10 Travel Apps We Love

Smart apps make travel even better

Travel and technology: two of our favorite things.  Put them together, and magic happens! We love a good app, and apps that make travel even better… well they really earn our app-plause!  Here are 10 of our favorite travel apps for your next vacation.

Great Apps for Travel

Packpoint – This cool little app is designed just to manage your packing lists.  It gets you started with standard items, then gives you the ability to customize.  You can upload it, email it to your travel companions, and more.

Evernote – we’ve talked about Evernote before; it’s useful for creating ongoing packing lists.  But it can do so much more.  Keep a running list of travel “to-do’s” or “to-see’s”.  Copy in itinerary information.  Record your favorite memories.  

Trip Advisor – Knowing a bit about where you’re going to sleep is invaluable.  Trip Advisor, long known for reviews of hotels, also has loads of user reviews about restaurants, beaches, things to do and more.  Additionally, you can book flights and hotel stays from the app.

TripIt - Your one stop travel itinerary app.  Store details about your flights, hotels, rental cars, restaurant reservations and more.  It even has an auto import feature, which will pull from confirmation emails you’ve received – so handy!

My Currency Converter – Doing math in one’s head… well, it’s not for everyone, is it?  This app does the currency conversion math for you, simply and quickly.  Bonus: for an app that converts all sorts of things (currency, volume, length and more), check out Units Plus.

Google Maps – Pretty obvious, right?  Though it has features you may not use day to day.  For example, when requesting directions, use the “walk” option if you’re on foot so it will adjust the time estimate accordingly and give you walk-appropriate directions.  Also, check out the “Apps” option within directions for public transit and other apps relevant to your location.  

GateGuru – Ever had a couple hours to kill at an airport?  Or, ever had a short layover and a ravenous appetite?  GateGuru to the rescue.  Just select the airport, and it gives you all the info you’ll need: maps, tips, amenities, restaurants, even flights.  Sort by gate if you’re short on time – dash to the nearest restaurant and grab some food before you board. 

Speak & Translate – Language barrier, no more!  Just say whatcha need to say, and the app translates it into the selected language.  There are a bunch of languages to choose from.  Too cool!

Wi-Fi Finder – When you yearn for wi-fi, this app helps you find it!  It uses GPS to identify hot spots nearby.  You can even download the offline database, so the info will be at your fingertips, regardless of your connection status!

Moldiv - You're going to be making a lot of memories; why not share them on the fly?  Use Moldiv to quickly create photo collages of your adventures, then share them via your favorite social media: Instagram, Facebook, etc.


What's your favorite app for traveling?

Friday Fashion - Poppies!

It's Friday!  We're celebrating with color... and poppies!  We love the combination of this beautiful Oscar de la Renta dress with our Renda sun hat, La Pluma clutch (both from the ále by Alessandra collection) and SolEscapes Resort jewelry.  We may just hunt down a garden party this weekend! 

What fun does your weekend hold?

Beach of the Week: Praia da Marinha, Portugal

Stunning views of Praia da Marinha in The Algarves of Southern Portugal

The Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, is home to some drool-worthy beaches.  Known widely as the most beautiful of the bunch is Praia da Marinha, or Navy Beach. 
 
Praia da Marinha makes you work for it, as it’s a bit of a drive, and then you have to navigate the steep staircase down to the beach.  Worth it?  Of course it is. 
 
Once on the beach, you’re surrounded by towering limestone formations, the deep aqua Atlantic, and the serene blue sky.  It’s time to explore the beach’s hidden alcoves, bathe in the clear water and enjoy the stunning views of those towering cliffs.

What’s the most unique beach you’ve been to?

 
Get your family summer ready!  Find all your sun protection needs at SolEscapes!


 

Belize Fedora in Redbook Magazine

The fabulous Belize fedora in Redbook Magazine!

The May issue of Redbook Magazine has a fantastic "Fashion Under $50" spread featuring the Belize fedora sun hat!  Belize is joined by a wonderful assortment of clothing fit for any "prepster".  The layout has an emerald green and royal blue theme with a fun preppy, nautical feel.  

Belize has fedora lines and panama straw, making it a warm weather favorite for any cool cat.  The diamond detail and black contrast stitching set it apart from the fedora crowd.  The Belize fedora sun hat is a real chameleon, suitable for a preppy vibe, a sultry demeanor, or a beach casual look.  It is made of off-white straw adorned with a navy ribbon or a black ribbon.  $40 by Physician Endorsed.

Belize Fedora Sun Hat

Celebrating Mom: Summer Bag and Tote Offer

Hey Moms!  This weekend is all about YOU!  With summer coming, you know you'll need a great looking bag to accompany you - whether it's around town, at the shops, to the beach, or on summer vacation.  Treat yourself to a wonderful new tote bag, beach bag or clutch!  

Get 25% off all summer bags and totes!  5/9/15 through 5/11/15.  Use code: LOVEMOM.

Summer Bag Sale

Here are a few ideas... see our complete selection of resort and beach bags and clutches on the site.

1. St. Tropez Tote from Glamourpuss NYC.  Super fun print, and it's transparent!

2. Brasilia Tote Bag.  The beaded details and flower applique are gorgeous!

3. Grand Cayman Raffia Tote Bag.  Big enough to haul essentials for the whole family, and it packs flat!

4. Tulum Straw Clutch by Kayu.  Pink with polka dots.  I mean, come on - the cuteness!

5. Ipanema Linen & Raffia Bag by ále by Alessandra.  The contrasting fabrics make this shoulder bag a knock-out.

6. Boheme Clutch by ále by Alessandra.  A stylish straw clutch, complete with tassel!

7. Copacabana Straw Bag by ále by Alessandra. Pretty much the perfect beach bag. 

8. Turks & Caicos Resort Bag.  That turquoise crochet handle is so good!

9. La Pluma Clutch by ále by Alessandra.  This stylish clutch is ready for a night on the town!


25% of all bags and clutches, 5/9/15 through 5/11/15 with code LOVEMOM.  Shop our collection of resort bags and clutches now!  What a wonderful way to celebrate your role as Mom!

Beach of the Week: Baker Beach, San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge makes a glorious backdrop to Baker Beach.

We’re staying close to home with this week’s beach: Baker Beach in San Francisco.  With the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background, the views here can’t be beat.  Though San Francisco is known for it’s chilly, foggy weather, the best weather occurs in the Spring and Fall.   This beach is family friendly; even the family pooch is welcome.  It’s a beautiful place to picnic, play in the sand and take a scenic stroll.  Brave souls will enjoy wading, or even swimming, in the chilly water.  Be sure to bring your camera, photo op’s abound here!

Northern California has scads of gorgeous beaches: what’s your favorite?

Check off your packing list at SolEscapes!  Get all your warm weather travel needs: sun hats, swimwear, resort wear and more!

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Gift Ideas for Mom

We know you adore Mom every day, but Mother's Day is the time to really show her how much you appreciate her!  We love these ideas for fun, stylish and useful gifts for Mom

1. Not just any sun hat, but a glamorous sun hat!  The Alhambra sun hat is a classic beauty, with a 4" brim and 50+ UPF sun protection too!  It comes in the feminine white/pink shown here, as well as white/black, black, tan/brown and white/navy.

2. Jewelry always works!  The Color Pop necklace is just the thing; it goes with a casual outfits and dressier ensembles alike.  It brightens a neutral top instantly!  Comes in pink, yellow, green or turquoise.

3. How about a gorgeous tote bag?  The Gigi Straw Tote Bag is the perfect size to carry all her essentials.  It has several pockets, a flat bottom, and a fun chain/bamboo strap.  

4. Summer's coming, sandals are a necessity.  These Keikei's flip-flops are cute as can be!  The colorful beads are made from coconut, making them perfect for the tropics.  They also come in turquoise.

5.  More jewelry?  Yes, jewelry will always make a fabulous Mother's Day gift!  The Calypso bracelet is a really special piece.  The white wooden beads set off the rainbow of colorful stone beads.  And? It goes with everything, making it ideal for travel.

6. Swimming season is right around the corner.  This Bond Girl Tunic cover-up from Glamourpuss NYC is a real multi-tasker.  It's a swimsuit cover-up - yep.  It can also be worn as a top, paired with capris or skinnies.  Or, let down the sides, and wear it as a dress!  It also comes in navy and an aqua jellyfish print.

7. Mom deserves a special night out, and you can equip her with this perfect going-out clutch.  The La Pluma clutch from the ále by Alessandra hat and bag line is beautiful.  The feather pattern repeats across the bag to stunning effect.  It comes in gold and black too.

See these items and more in the Mother's Day Gift Ideas area of the shop!


How will you celebrate Mother's Day?

Beach of the Week: Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau Bahamas: Gorgeous.

The beaches of Nassau, capital city of the Bahamas, are 1) beautiful, and 2) varied.  Or, put another way, there’s a beach for everyone, and each one of them is absolutely breathtaking.  

For the party-seeking crowd, there’s Junkanoo Beach, AKA Spring Break Beach.  ‘Nuf said?  Thought so.  On the opposite end of the spectrum, there’s Adelaide beach: more of a locals destination, it has a mellower vibe.  Snorkelers should head to Love Beach (as should romantics), and families will find calm waters and kid-friendly amenities at Saunders Beach.  

For a real beach vacation scene, Cable Beach is your destination (bonus: many think it’s the best beach in the Bahamas).  And for explorers?  Head to Caves Beach and explore the - you guessed it - caves.
 
What is your favorite beach in Nassau?

 

Start packing for your beach resort vacation: get your sun hats, resort wear, swimwear, sun protection, beach bags and more at SolEscapes.

Beach of the Week: Rimini, Italy

Beach Relaxation in Rimini

The European holiday destination of dreams, Rimini, Italy boasts a long stretch of beach and every activity you could imagine.  Color explodes as far as the eye can see, from the brilliant blue sky to the aqua blue water to the seemingly infinite umbrellas and loungers, in every color of the rainbow. 

Catering to the fun loving holiday-maker, the beach is rife with activities, from volleyball and Frisbee to a rich nightlife.  Top rated restaurants abound, along with luxurious spas, and even a promenade, for your evening stroll. 

Ideal accommodation: The Grand Hotel Rimini.  Not only is this palace like hotel beautiful, it’s also famous for being featured in several of Federico Fellini’s (a Rimini native!) films.

Do you have a favorite beach vacation destination in Italy?


Planning a European beach getaway?  Get your sun hats, swimwear and beach vacation essentials at SolEscapes.

8 Honeymoon Must Have Products

Honeymoon Necessities

Morgana Sun Hat by Gottex |  Architecture Skirted Bandeau Swimsuit by Gottex

Coco Cabana Necklaces by SolEscapes  |  UPF 50+ Lace Up Front Dress by Glamourpuss NYC  

Vela Crochet Tote by ále by Alessandra  |  Coco Cabana Stacking Bracelets by SolEscapes

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen by COOLA  |  Microfiber Travel Beach Towel by SolEscapes

Just Married!  Congratulations!  And to top it off, you get to go on a romantic vacation to a dreamy tropical destination.  Honeymoons are the best!

What to Bring on Your Honeymoon

1. You'll need a sun hat!  Look as sultry as you want while protecting your skin from the potential damage of the sun's rays.  Santorino, in white with a touch of gold, says "bride", as well as glamorous resort (it also speaks cruise ship fluently).  Oh yeah, it's packable too!
   
2. A flattering swimsuit is a necessity for endless lounging at the pool (Weddings are exhausting; lounging is a must).  The Gottex Architecture Skirted Bandeau is simple elegance wrapped up in lovely details.  The internal tummy control does its job while the subtle texturing adds interest.
3. Vacation jewelry can be tricky; you don't want to overwhelm your luggage, and yet you need some bling to liven up your outfits.  These versatile, go with everything Coco Cabana Necklaces mix, match, and go with everything; wear them separately or together. 
4. Cover-up - check.  Going-out-dress - check.  This lace-up dress by Glamourpuss NYC is a vacation essential.  It's made of sun protective material, and ideal as a swimsuit cover-up.  Or... wear it with a pair of fun wedges, add some jewelry (see above), and you've got a chic evening outfit.
5. You have stuff, you need to carry it around; it's a practical need.  Fill that gap with the boho chic fun of the Vela Crochet Tote Bag.  It's stylish and it's the perfect size for carrying your vacation necessities from day to evening.
6. Don't let your wrists get jealous of your newly bejeweled ring finger!  Adorn them with Coco Cabana Stacking Bracelets.  Combined with their counterpart necklaces, they're dazzling.  Work in some other favorite bracelets, and enjoy the arm party!
7. We have to say it: please don't get sunburned on your Honeymoon.  Nothing is more miserable than a sunburn on vacation, and on your Honeymoon?  Just don't.  Please.  COOLA Sunscreen is made of super high quality, natural ingredients that nurture your skin while guarding it from the sun with broad spectrum SPF 45 protection.  Also: they have fantastic scents, this one smells deliciously of mango!
8. You need a towel, but not just any towel: a travel beach towel!  Travel Lux Microfiber Beach Towels are multitasking travel experts.  They pack teeny-tiny (seriously - tuck one in your carry on so you have a blankie for the plane), but fold out to a luxurious 40" x 70"!  They're really handy for beach excursions or even impromptu picnics!

   
Enjoy your Honeymoon!


 

ále by Alessandra Hat Collection in Ocean Magazine

See pages 12 and 13 for Alessandra Ambrosio's feature!

 
Alessandra Ambrosio is interviewed in the Spring 2015 issue of Ocean Magazine.  In the interview, Alessandra answers questions about designing her ále by Alessandra lines of clothing, swimwear and brand new hat collection.  She talks about how important it is to her that her creations are imbued with her own personal style.  Well done, they’re gorgeous!
 
Featured are two choice hats from the ále by Alessandra hat line.  Cabo is fab fedora with a lot of personality.  While the lines and band of the hat are traditional, the fantastic texture boosts it to beach, bohemian chic.  Altamira has a ladylike vibe, with a wide brim and long black scarf wrapped around the brim.  The Altamira sun hat will bring style to the resort, beach, or wherever you happen to be.
 
Find the ále by Alessandra hat collection, as well as ále by Alessandra bags in the shop!

Alessandra Ambrosio's Hat Collection

Beach of the Week: Elafonissi, Crete

Pink Sand Beach on Elafonissi , Crete

We’ve highlighted a gorgeous white sand beach, and this week we’re visiting the beautiful pink sand beaches of Elafonissi near Crete.
 
Elafonissi, or “Deer Island”, is a small island off the coast of Crete.  It is a popular destination for those vacationing in Crete.
 
The blush hues of Elafonissi’s sand get their rosy glow from coral.  The shallow, clear Mediterranean water lures you from the warm, pink sand, inviting you to wade out and take an leisurely swim.  This special place shows up on many “Most Beautiful Beach” lists, so you’ll probably just want to spend the day soaking in that beauty as you relax in paradise.
 
Have you seen a pink sand beach before?

 
The best cure for Spring Fever is a tropical getaway!  Stock up for Spring Break with stylish sun hats, cover-ups, swimwear and more! 

So You're Going to a Beach Wedding...

Packing for a Beach Wedding

Lucky you!  What could be better than a destination Wedding to somewhere terrifically tropical and beautifully beachy?!

Packing for a Beach Wedding means you need to remember beach resort essentials for yourself as well as a few unique items for the Special Day.

What to Pack for a Beach Wedding

 

1. Sun Hat -  You'll need one at the pool, you'll need one at the Wedding.  Chic lines, a wide brim and packability are in order!
Shown: Gottex Belladonna Sun Hat in Ivory.  See more Beach Wedding Sun Hats here!

2. Swimsuit - Pool, beach, and everywhere in between; find a women's swimsuit that flatters and inspires fun. 
Shown: Gottex Dreamweaver Bandeau in Black

3. Sunscreen - Don't let a sunburn get in the way of this once in a lifetime event.  Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects your precious skin from UVA and UVB rays.
Shown: COOLA Continuos Sport Spray in Pina Colada  

4. Cover-Up - Better yet, a cover-up that doubles as a dress, tunic or top!  Travel friendly clothing should be versatile and look fabulous.
Shown: Glamourpuss NYC Bond Girl Tunic in Cabernet 

5. Jewelry - Versatility is key (see above), and resort jewelry is the best jewelry to pack for vacation.  A piece that will go with everything and liven up neutrals.
Shown: SolEscapes Calypso Necklace

6. Clutch - No need to pack around a large purse while on holiday.  Bring a fun clutch; just the right size to carry your essentials for an evening out.
Shown: Kayu Pina Straw Clutch in Green

7. Hostess Gift - Odds are there will be someone working extra hard to make this Destination Wedding exceptional.  Show your gratitude with a beautiful gift.  A resort scarf will be favored during the vacation (it's a wrap, a sarong, a dull-outfit-brightener!), and for years to come.
Shown: Profile by Gottex Royal Peacock Scarf

8. Tote Bag - Whether you're carrying towels and snacks to the beach or hauling around Wedding decorations, a Tote Bag is essential for any beach vacation.  You'll want a resort bag that's stylish, large and packable.
Shown: Global Glamour Grand Cayman Raffia Resort Tote Bag

9. Wedding Gift - Bring the happy couple something fun that they'll enjoy now, during their Wedding celebration, and also for future adventures.  Travel Beach Towels are a necessity; they pack super small, but unfold to a generous beach towel size.  
Shown: Travel Lux Microfiber Beach & Pool Towels in Turquoise Blue and Fuchsia Pink.