10 exotic places to visit in North America in 2025

1. Bahía de las Águilas, Dominican Republic

Bahía de las Águilas is a secluded and pristine beach located within Jaragua National Park. Accessible only by boat or through less-traveled paths, it is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, immaculate white sand, and complete lack of tourist development. The area is home to exceptional marine biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature and tranquility lovers.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  A wild and remote beach, far from any tourist infrastructure, with transparent waters and a preserved ecosystem, offering a unique and authentic setting.
• Best time to visit 📅
  From December to April, during the dry season, to enjoy sunny weather and calm seas.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture the shades of blue and the contrasts of the white sand from an elevated point or onboard a boat, and shoot at sunrise or sunset for warm, golden tones.

2. Cenote Ik-Kil, Mexico

The Cenote Ik-Kil in Mexico is a circular natural pool, deep and surrounded by high stone walls. The water is exceptionally clear, making it perfect for swimming. Green vines hang down along the walls, adding a natural touch to the environment. The cenote is located in the jungle, and the sunlight reaching the water creates a spectacular glowing effect. Naturally formed over thousands of years, this site offers a peaceful space to swim and gaze at the open sky. It is a well-preserved spot, appreciated for its unique setting and natural beauty.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  An impressive natural sinkhole with crystal-clear water, surrounded by hanging vines and lush greenery, making it a natural wonder.
• Best time to visit 📅
  From November to April during the dry season, when the water is clearer, and the weather conditions are ideal.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture an overhead view of the cenote from above to include its circular opening and vines and use a wide-angle lens for underwater shots.

3. Great Blue Hole, Belize

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is a massive circular marine sinkhole located in the middle of the ocean. Its deep blue color sharply contrasts with the surrounding turquoise waters. With a depth of over 100 meters, it was naturally formed thousands of years ago. This site is particularly popular among divers, who explore underwater caves and discover a rich biodiversity, including fish and coral. Seen from above, it's perfectly round shape makes it especially remarkable and unique. This natural site impresses with its tranquility and mysterious character.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  This massive marine sinkhole with deep blue waters is one of the most unique diving sites in the world, featuring stalactites and rich marine biodiversity.
• Best time to visit 📅
  From April to June for calm seas and better underwater visibility.
• Photography tip 📷
  Aerial shots with a drone highlight the circular formation of the sinkhole. For underwater photography, use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale.

4. Na Pali Coast, United States

The Na Pali Coast in Hawaii is a coastal area known for its steep cliffs, reaching hundreds of meters high, that drop directly into the ocean. These geological formations consist of volcanic rock covered in dense tropical vegetation. The region is dotted with small waterfalls fed by rain and beaches that are inaccessible by road. The waves of the Pacific Ocean regularly crash against the cliffs, causing continuous erosion visible in the irregular contours of the rocks. Access is only possible via challenging hiking trails, by boat, or by helicopter. These options allow visitors to explore the full extent of this coastline, from its rock formations to its secluded beaches, in a natural environment that remains largely untouched by human activity.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Its lush green cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, and secluded beaches make it one of the most impressive coastal landscapes in the world.
• Best time to visit 📅
  From May to September for calm seas and clear skies.
• Photography tip 📷
  Sunset boat tours or helicopter rides provide breathtaking views. Golden hour adds depth to your shots.

5. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is a vast region renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes. The park is home to turquoise glacial lakes, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including hiking on marked trails, canoeing on calm lakes, or simply admiring the scenery. The environment is well-preserved, with fresh air and postcard-worthy views. Park infrastructure ensures controlled access to popular areas while maintaining the natural and wild character of the region.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  With its turquoise glacial lakes, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains, Banff offers some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in the world.
• Best time to visit 📅
  June to September for hiking and the vibrant colors of the lakes, or December to February for snow-covered scenery.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture the lake reflections early in the morning when the water is calm. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the colors.

6. Marietas Islands, Mexico

The Marietas Islands, located off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, are a small  protected archipelago known for their unique "hidden beach,"  accessible only at low tide through a natural tunnel. These islands feature  crystal-clear waters, abundant marine biodiversity, and spectacular volcanic landscapes. They are a popular destination for snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  A preserved volcanic archipelago with an iconic hidden beach, transparent waters, and rich marine and bird life, offering a truly unique experience.
• Best time to visit 📅
  From November to May, during the dry season, for calm waters and ideal visibility for water activities.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture the hidden beach using a drone or underwater shots to highlight its uniqueness. Include elements like volcanic cliffs and turquoise waters to emphasize the natural contrasts.

7. Glass Beach, USA

Glass Beach in California is a unique shoreline covered with pieces of glass polished by the ocean. Once used as a dump, the area’s glass debris has been smoothed and shaped into colorful fragments by wave erosion. Today, the beach is a mix of small glass pieces in various shades that sparkle in the sunlight, creating a striking contrast with the sand and rocks. Visitors can walk along the shore to observe these colorful fragments up close. This site is a fascinating example of how nature has transformed human waste into a visually remarkable feature.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Once a dumping ground, years of waves have transformed broken glass into a sparkling carpet of colorful sea glass covering the beach.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Spring and summer for clear skies and vibrant light.
• Photography tip 📷
  Take close-up shots of the sea glass to capture its vivid colors. Use a macro lens to highlight the texture and shapes of the glass.

8. White Sands National Park, USA

White Sands National Park is a vast desert area made up of unique white sand dunes.  The sand, composed of gypsum, remains cool to the touch even in high temperatures, making it ideal for walking or activities like sledding down the dunes. The dunes stretch endlessly, creating a minimalist and uniform landscape. At sunrise and sunset, the natural light paints the dunes with golden and pink hues, offering exceptional visual experiences. The park is a peaceful and isolated place, perfect for exploring and admiring this rare and preserved desert environment.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Its unique gypsum dunes stretch endlessly, creating a bright and almost surreal landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Best time to visit 📅
  October to April for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
• Photography tip 📷
  Use the natural lines of the dunes to guide the eye in your composition. Shoot during golden hour for warm tones.

9. Sle Royale National Park, USA

Isle Royale National Park, located in Michigan, is a remote island in the heart of Lake Superior. Covered in dense forests, dotted with clear lakes, and bordered by rocky shores, it offers a pristine escape from civilization.  Accessible only by boat or plane, the park allows visitors to hike diverse trails, canoe on inland lakes, or observe local wildlife, including moose and wolves in their natural habitat. At night, the absence of light pollution provides excellent stargazing opportunities. This park is an ideal place for immersing yourself in nature and disconnecting from the modern world.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  This remote island in Lake Superior offers untouched wilderness, dense forests, and unique wildlife, making it perfect for escaping civilization.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Late May to mid-September, when the park is open, and the weather is favorable.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture the serene atmosphere of the island. Include elements like misty mornings or lake reflections for mysterious shots.

10. Bacalar Lagoon, Mexico

Laguna Bacalar is a calm, crystal-clear body of water, often called the "Lagoon of Seven Colors" due to the varying shades of blue that change with its depth. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, the lagoon is perfect for activities like swimming and kayaking. Several cenotes connected to the lagoon can also be explored. The shores are ideal for relaxing while enjoying the untouched natural landscapes. Sunsets are particularly stunning, with multicolored reflections blending the sky and water. This peaceful site is a must-visit destination for experiencing the natural beauty of the region.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors," Bacalar reflects different shades of blue due to its varying depths, creating a paradise-like setting.
• Best time to visit 📅
  November to May, during the dry season, for calm waters and sunny skies.
• Photography tip 📷
  Use a drone to capture the lagoon’s gradient of blues from above. For close-up shots, include kayaks or boats to add scale and context.