4 Blue Zones Around the World You Can Visit Right Now

Blue Zone is a term given to regions known for consistently having locals who live longer than 100 years. The term was coined by Dan Buettner when researching his book of the same name - he and his colleagues drew blue circles around these areas on a map.

Blue Zones have a high rate of longevity due to environmental influences, diet, and lifestyle. By visiting them, you can explore how locals enjoy a different pace of life as you sample new cuisine, find activity built into daily life, and possibly learn the art of rest.

The following is a list of Blue Zones you can visit:

Sardinia is also known as the Emerald Coast because of the stunning color of its water, highlighted by white-sand beaches. The Mediterranean island is rugged, ancient, and enchanting. Prehistoric settlements date back to the Bronze and Iron Ages and the cuisine sets it apart from the traditionally famous dishes of mainland Italy.

While only about 125 miles from the mainland, its depth of heritage and distinctive culinary flavors make Sardinia feel a world away from Italy. Its diet consists of ingredients traditionally considered la cucina povera, or peasant food, featuring many greens, legumes, and whole grains, as well as sheep’s cheese. Locals walk daily, have strong family bonds, and prioritize a sense of community over work.

From captivating beaches to the remains of stone towers scattered across the island, the medieval cobblestone lanes of Alghero to the bright crystal-clear waters, Sardinia can quickly mesmerize you.

Highlights: Nuraghe Su Nuraxi • Cala Coloritzé • Pelosa Beach • Gola Su Gorropu • Alghero

Learn more: Italy Tours • Italy Travel Guide

The subtropical island of Okinawa can be compared to Hawaii. It is a popular beach and vacation destination throughout the year. White sand, turquoise water, and a warm climate, combined with traditional culture and a celebrated culinary scene, attract local and international visitors.

Elaborate stone karsts, lush forests, and the pristine coastline showcase the island’s beauty, while the simple approach to nutritional balance offers flavorful representations of historic dishes. Home-cooked stir-fries featuring slowly simmered pork, tofu, or seaweed, as well as nutrient-rich foods like bitter melon and turmeric, provide extra health benefits. The slower pace of life results in less stress, with local expressions, including nankuru nai sa (meaning things will work out somehow), further exemplifying a different perspective on life.

Whether visiting the sensational beaches and coral reefs, finding a breathtaking view at Cape Manza, embracing the food, or taking time to enjoy the sunset, Okinawa unveils a different perspective on Japanese culture and life.

Highlights: International Street • Gyokusen-do Cave • Shuri Castle • Bise Fukugi Trees • Sefa Utaki

Learn more: Japan Tours • Japan Travel Guide

If Costa Rica’s famous saying is pura vida (meaning pure life), the Nicoya Peninsula is where the phrase feels most true. Off the beaten path of its main sights, the rugged and mountainous inland landscape adds to the relaxed lifestyle of locals, further shaped by the Pacific shoreline and secluded bays.

Pura vida is more than a saying in the Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone; it’s a lifestyle. Locals integrate the pillars of a Blue Zone into their lives by keeping a strong sense of purpose, eating healthy whole foods, and prioritizing rest throughout the day. They also embrace exercise, from fishing to walking, or participating in yoga and Tai Chi.

Lounge on the soft sands of Montezuma Beach or take to the waters to enjoy the incredible surf. Horseback ride at the edge of the shoreline on Samara Beach or travel into the Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve in search of howler monkeys and coatis. You can also keep an eye out for giant sea turtles during nesting season when visiting the Ostional Wildlife Refuge as you discover the Nicoya Peninsula’s majesty.

Highlights: Ostional Wildlife Refuge • Barra Honda National Park • Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve • Playa Montezuma • Playa Carrillo

Learn more: Costa Rica Tours & Vacation Packages • Costa Rica Travel Guide

Quiet and colorful describe Ikaria. Time slows down and visitors break away from their daily routine to quickly fall in love with the island’s relaxed pace. The natural landscape of rugged Mediterranean terrain slopes into azure waters. Villages shimmer white and hiking trails connect towns, coastlines, and marinas.

Locals walk daily and keep their lives as stress-free as possible, filling their days with optimism through community connections and family involvement. Their diet focuses on nutritious local foods like beans, olive oil, fish, and potatoes. They sip wine in moderation and drink herbal tea every day. From walking to swimming, prioritizing friends to resting in the afternoon heat, the deliberate pace feels all-encompassing.

From visiting a local winery to touring the island by bicycle, walking between towns to enjoying the view over the coastline, there are plenty of ways you can ingratiate yourself into Ikaria’s quiet way of life.

Highlights: Therma • The Stone House • Temple of Artemis • Halari Gorge • Seychelles Beach

Learn more: Greece Tours & Vacations • Greece Travel Guide

Whether finding a larger sense of community, savoring the diverse flavors of healthy dishes, or embracing the beauty of the surrounding scenery, you can find endless appeal in the world’s Blue Zones.

You can discover inspiration for more unique travel ideas with our Trips of a Lifetime or explore the best places to travel by month as you look for your next adventure.