Though Peru is not particularly well-known for its beaches, the northern Pacific coast in and around the town of Mancora can be the ideal spot for a bit of relaxation before you return home. The desert surroundings of this region make the beach destinations relatively dry throughout much of the year, and you can find a reasonable choice of hotels here to suit most tastes and budgets. The most convenient way to get to the beaches is to take a short flight to one of the regional airports of Tumbes or Talara, and from here Mancora is a two-hour drive away. The town itself has something of a backpacker vibe and is a little down-at-heel in places, but a good range of bars and restaurants can be found in the centre. The best beaches are to be found outside the main centre of Mancora, and this is where the majority of our preferred hotels are located. Pocitas, for example, is a lovely stretch of beach to the south of the town, and its golden sands lend themselves to sunset walks and complete relaxation. If you are staying longer and wish to explore a little further afield, the town of Punta Sal is just a 20-minute drive away and is one of Peru’s best swimming beaches.