As winter settles over the U.S., many people find themselves imagining a lifestyle change, one filled with warm weather, ocean views, and days that start with sunshine rather than scraping frost off the windshield. For digital nomads and retirees, 2026 is shaping up to be the year they finally make that move.
If you’re planning a relocation abroad, now is the perfect time to explore which coastal destinations offer the right mix of long-term visas, expat communities, livability, and year-round weather. Below are the top 5 beach destinations Americans are choosing for 2026.
1. Algarve, Portugal – Golden Cliffs, Soft Beaches & Mild Winters
The Algarve continues to be one of Europe’s most welcoming regions for Americans. With dramatic coastlines, relaxed seaside towns, and friendly expat communities, it’s one of the easiest transitions for U.S. citizens seeking a new coastal home.
Seasonal Weather in the Algarve
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild, often sunny, with cooler evenings. Fantastic for hiking and exploring.
- Spring (Mar–May): Warm, breezy, and ideal for beach walks before summer crowds.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, dry, and sunny, peak beach season.
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Warm seas, pleasant temperatures, and fewer tourists.
Why Americans Choose the Algarve
- English widely spoken
- Safe and very expat-friendly
- Excellent public transportation and healthcare
- Active communities of digital nomads and retirees
Visa Options
- Digital Nomad Visa (D8)
- D7 Passive Income Visa
- Investment residency options
What Americans Want to Know
The Algarve is affordable and easy to adapt to. Most find that the region’s slower pace, walkable towns, and warm culture make the transition surprisingly smooth.
Learn more about moving to Portugal
2. Costa del Sol, Spain – Mediterranean Sunshine & Modern Coastal Living
Spain’s Costa del Sol is perfect for those who want sunshine, outdoor living, and the amenities of a vibrant city blended with beach-town charm.
Seasonal Weather in Costa del Sol
- Winter: Mild, with bright sunny days—one of Europe’s warmest winter climates.
- Spring: Warm and comfortable with early beach days.
- Summer: Hot and dry, with lively coastal towns.
- Fall: Long, warm season with swimmable water into October.
Why Americans Choose Costa del Sol
- 300+ days of sunshine a year
- Reliable healthcare and public services
- Major international airport in Málaga
- Strong expat communities for easy integration
Visa Options
- Digital Nomad Visa
- Non-Lucrative Visa
- Investment residency pathway
What Americans Want to Know
Many worry that Spain feels too touristy. While summers are lively, most expats settle into quieter coastal neighborhoods with year-round residents and a calmer pace of life.
Learn more about moving to Spain
3. Greece – Island Coastlines, Clear Water & a Relaxed Lifestyle
Greece offers an iconic coastal lifestyle, deep cultural roots, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu are especially attractive for Americans moving abroad.
Seasonal Weather in Greece (Islands)
- Winter: Cooler with occasional rain, but still mild compared to northern Europe.
- Spring: Warm and pleasant; perfect for outdoor exploring.
- Summer: Hot and sunny with warm seas—ideal for beach living.
- Fall: Still warm, especially September and October, with quieter beaches.
Why Americans Choose Greece
- Laid-back lifestyle and strong community atmosphere
- Some islands have thriving expat populations
- High-quality local food and outdoor-oriented living
- A balance of affordability and Mediterranean beauty
Visa Options
- Digital Nomad Visa
- Financially Independent Person Visa
- Golden Visa for qualifying investments
What Americans Want to Know
A common concern is whether living on an island is practical year-round. Larger islands like Crete and Rhodes have hospitals, airports, and full services, making them very livable year-round.
Learn more about moving to Greece
4. Phuket & Southern Thailand – Tropical Beach Life With Global-Nomad Energy
Southern Thailand combines tropical beaches, clear water, and a vibrant international community. Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui appeal to expats who want warm weather year-round and a relaxed, wellness-forward lifestyle.
Seasonal Weather in Southern Thailand
Because Thailand is tropical, you’ll see warm temperatures year-round, with seasons defined by rainfall rather than temperature differences.
- Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Sunny, warm, and the most popular time for beach living.
- Green/Rainy Season (May–Oct): Warm with regular afternoon showers; quieter and lush.
Why Americans Choose Southern Thailand
- Affordable wellness-based lifestyle
- Great infrastructure for remote work
- Friendly locals and large expat communities
- Beautiful natural surroundings
Visa Options
- Long-Term Residency (LTR) Visa
- Digital Nomad–friendly pathways
- Retirement visas for eligible applicants
What Americans Want to Know
People often ask if the rainy season makes living in Thailand difficult. Most long-term residents appreciate the seasonal balance and enjoy the quieter months when tourism slows.
Learn more about moving to Thailand
5. Gold Coast, Australia – Surf Culture, Safety & Modern Living
Australia’s Gold Coast is ideal for expats wanting an English-speaking, beach-focused lifestyle with excellent services, safety, and strong job and community opportunities.
Seasonal Weather in the Gold Coast
Being in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia’s seasons are opposite the U.S.:
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot and sunny with prime beach weather.
- Fall (Mar–May): Warm, stable, and ideal for outdoor activities.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild, dry, and pleasant—still warm enough for beach walks.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Warm and breezy as temperatures rise again.
Why Americans Choose the Gold Coast
- Clean, safe, and modern coastal cities
- Great surf beaches and outdoor recreation culture
- Strong digital-nomad and entrepreneurial environment
- Easy integration due to shared language and similar lifestyle rhythms
Visa Options
- Working Holiday Visa (for Americans under 35)
- Skilled Worker Visa categories
- Long-stay and retirement pathways depending on income and qualifications
What Americans Want to Know
Many prospective expats ask whether the distance feels isolating. Most Americans living in Australia say the stable government, safety, climate, and quality of life more than make up for the travel time.
Learn more about moving to Australia
How to Choose the Right Beach Destination for Your 2026 Move
When selecting your ideal coastal home abroad, consider:
Climate Alignment
Do you want dry summers? Mild winters? Tropical warmth year-round?
Lifestyle Fit
Busy Mediterranean cities? Calm island villages? Surf-and-fitness culture?
Visa Options
Start the visa research early; some residency applications require months of preparation.
International Moving Planning
Give yourself 6–12 months to organize the logistics of moving overseas with household goods.
Plan Your 2026 Beach Move With Schumacher Cargo Logistics
For over 40 years, Schumacher Cargo Logistics has helped Americans move to the world’s top coastal destinations with reliable service and door-to-door support.
We provide:
- International household goods shipping
- Vehicle and motorcycle transportation
- Professional packing, crating & consolidation
- Customs documentation assistance
- Dedicated support throughout your move
Your dream of living by the beach can become a reality with the right planning and the right moving partner.
