9:Boulders Beach, South Africa

I waded alongside a colony of African penguins—cute tuxedos bobbing in turquoise waves. Between granite boulders, you get a front-row seat to seaside charm and wildlife cameo. Bonus: no slippery boardwalk needed…

If you’re planning a Boulders Beach adventure, kick off in style at the One&Only Cape Town, where city chic meets Table Mountain views.
For beachside pampering, head up to Umhlanga and unwind at Premier Hotel Umhlanga or Umhlanga Sands with their oceanfront balconies.
Don’t miss a stay at a top south africa safari resort in Kruger for wildlife thrills—just imagine swapping penguins for lions at dawn!
This combo of city luxe, puffin-cute beaches, and bush-veld safaris is my go-to recipe for an epic South African getaway.