The Bahamas (Photo by Allen Dewberry Jr on Unsplash)
When it comes to Passover programs, location makes a big difference. It’s still early in the season, and many programs haven’t been announced yet. But by the time planning is in full swing, there are expected to be more than 140 Pesach programs worldwide. Many of them will be in warm, beachside destinations. What started decades ago with the first Pesach hotels in Miami Beach has turned into a global trend. Families love the chance to escape the winter and celebrate the holiday somewhere sunny and relaxing.
Today, Passover programs can be found on the beaches of Florida, California, New Jersey, Mexico, Italy, Greece, Spain, Thailand, Costa Rica, and beyond. Guests can spend their mornings by the ocean, afternoons exploring, and evenings enjoying entertainment—all while celebrating the holiday in comfort.
In 2026, Passover begins on Wednesday night, April 1st, and ends on Thursday night, April 9th (Wednesday night, April 8th in Israel). With four or five days of Chol Hamoed, depending on where you’re celebrating, a beachside program offers the perfect balance of relaxation and holiday spirit. From soaking up the sun to trying out watersports, it’s easy to see why Pesach by the beach is such an enduring favorite.
Photo by Brad Kemp on Pexels
So Many Beaches to Choose from all over the World
It turns out that more than 75% of Passover programs are held near the beach or even right on it, which means that there's no shortage of options. Some programs are on a lake - Italy and Israel, on the Kinneret. Passover is a special time of year, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by embracing the beauty of the ocean and all that comes with it. From glistening white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, to engaging activities, Passover programs on the beach offer an unforgettable experience for those who choose to take part in them.
If you want to stay in the U.S. then Florida and California are ideal destinations for Passover programs on the beach due to their warm climate and abundance of beautiful beaches suitable for all kinds of activities like swimming, snorkeling or even just relaxing under an umbrella with a good book. A luxury resort on the Jersey Shore is a great option and don’t worry about the weather because you can just take a dip in the heated indoor pool.
Head south to some of the world's most beautiful beaches for a truly unforgettable and luxurious Passover vacation. From the sunny shores of the Bahamas and Mexico, to the exotic beaches of Brazil, Panama, and Costa Rica, there is something for everyone. Take advantage of all that a beach holiday has to offer from water sports and sightseeing to delicious Seder meals and more. Enjoy relaxing days in the sun and explore local culture by visiting historical sites along your journey. There are also plenty of Chol Hamoed activities, both in and out of the water.
Europe has some truly stunning beaches to explore when celebrating Passover on the European continent. From Italy's Ligurian Riviera and Amalfi Coast to Costa Brava and Costa Dorada in Spain, there are many luxurious spots perfect for a unique beach holiday. Further east, beautiful beach destinations such as Georgia, Cyprus, and Greece—which alone hosted almost 20 programs last year—offer a variety of scenic options.
For an exceptional Passover adventure, Thailand and Israel stand out with their stunning landscapes and deep-rooted historical sites. Israel offers the chance to marvel at the tranquil Mediterranean Sea, the iconic Dead Sea, and the scenic beauty of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), each location offering unique activities and a glimpse into the area's rich cultural history. Thailand offers its own exotic charm and a myriad of cultural discoveries awaiting those eager to explore.
Photo by Nil Castellví on Unsplash
Benefits of Celebrating Passover on the Beach
Spending Pesach by the beach has a special appeal. The ocean views set a beautiful backdrop for the holiday, and the sound of the waves adds a sense of calm that’s hard to match. It’s also the perfect excuse to be outdoors—soaking up the sun, breathing in the fresh air, and enjoying time with family in a setting that feels both festive and relaxing. On top of that, many beach destinations offer activities like swimming, snorkeling, or even surfing, making your Pesach vacation as fun as it is meaningful.
Most beachside Passover programs take place at luxury resorts and spas, so you get all the perks of a high-end getaway. Think swimming pools, fitness centers, full-service spas, sports facilities, and sometimes even water parks. Families can choose from plenty of activities—whether that’s lounging by the pool, trying out water sports, going on a hike, or taking a day trip to explore the local culture. There’s truly something for everyone.
Conclusion
Celebrating Passover on the beach is a great way to enjoy nature and reconnect with your family. From glistening white sand beaches in Florida and California, to exotic destinations like Thailand or Costa Rica – there are plenty of luxurious options for an unforgettable Pesach vacation. With all the water-based activities offered at many resorts and spas, you can create lasting memories with family and friends while embracing the beauty of the ocean. Passover programs on the beach offer adventure, relaxation and fun – it’s no wonder why 75% of Pesach programs are at resorts on the beach.