The Over 50s Solo Beach Holiday Boom: Demand Soars as Solos Reports Significant Growth for 2026

Solos, a leading specialist in solo travel, has announced a surge in demand for over-50s beach holidays, with its latest data revealing a significant year-on-year increase in bookings and departures for 2026. The findings point to a growing appetite among mature travellers for sun-soaked, sociable, and hassle-free solo experiences, with total sun and beach departures up 15% year-on-year and demand for Solos Exclusives rising by an impressive 20%. This popularity is largely driven by the appeal of these holidays’ easy-going nature, with warm destinations, organised itineraries, and the opportunity to meet like-minded travellers creating a relaxed and confidence-boosting way to travel independently without the stress of planning alone.

Solos attributes this growth to a combination of lifestyle and travel trends among over-50s, including increased disposable income and greater flexibility in retirement or semi-retirement, a growing desire for structured, sociable travel experiences without compromise, rising confidence in solo travel, particularly when supported by specialist operators, and a continued drive to escape unpredictable UK weather conditions.

This growth is being driven in part by male solo travellers, who are leading the surge with bookings up 16% overall and a 20% increase in Solos Exclusives, reflecting greater confidence among men over 50 to travel independently within structured group settings. At the same time, female travellers remain a strong and steadily growing segment, with a 10% increase in overall bookings and a 12% rise in Solos Exclusives, further highlighting the broad appeal of these sociable, sun-focused holidays across both genders.

Destinations Shaping 2026
Greece and Croatia remain the most popular destinations for solo beach holidays, driven by strong demand across Solos’ Solos Exclusives collection and classic island escapes. Looking ahead to 2026, several destinations are emerging as key favourites, with Greek islands such as Santorini, Corfu, and Crete continuing to attract loyal solo travellers, while Italy and Turkey are gaining traction as high-value alternatives that combine rich culture with sunshine.

At the same time, experienced solo travellers are increasingly seeking lesser-known destinations that offer both relaxation and discovery, with rising stars including Bulgaria, Montenegro, and quieter Greek islands such as Thassos and Lefkada. These newer spots are benefiting from broader travel trends in 2026, where many travellers are actively seeking quieter, more authentic and less crowded experiences away from traditional hotspots, partly in response to overtourism and a desire for deeper cultural connection and slower travel rhythms. Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast and historic towns are gaining attention for their affordability, scenic beauty and laid-back charm, appealing to cost-conscious solo travellers looking to stretch their budget while exploring local culture. Meanwhile, Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline, with dramatic scenery, picturesque old towns and a more intimate, under-visited feel compared with its neighbours, is capturing interest from those who want a blend of beach time and natural adventure without the crowds. This shift towards under-the-radar destinations reflects a broader appetite for unique experiences, sustainable travel and meaningful exploration in 2026.

Try these Solos Trips this Summer:  

Soak up the summer sun in Nessebar, Bulgaria
Golden sands, blue skies and a relaxed coastal atmosphere make Nessebar one of Bulgaria’s most inviting seaside escapes. On this adults-only, all-inclusive escorted group holiday, guests enjoy a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery, travelling with a friendly group while staying in a comfortable four-star hotel close to the beach, promenade and historic Old Town. Days are spent at an unhurried pace, whether lounging by the pool, strolling along the shoreline or enjoying leisurely lunches in good company, while evenings bring a sociable ambience with shared dinners, relaxed drinks and the option to experience the laid-back local nightlife. With a dedicated Tour Leader ensuring everything runs smoothly and bringing the group together, the experience offers a sunshine-filled escape where great company and easy-going enjoyment come naturally. A seven night Nessebar, Bulgaria trip, departing 23 September 2026, is priced from £1,999 pp this includes flights and transfers, one piece of checked baggage, airport taxes and charges, a twin or double room for sole use, all-inclusive meals, drinks and snacks, a welcome drink and information meeting, and an accompanying Solos Tour Leader.
Solos (020 8951 2900, www.solosholidays.com)

Enjoy Montenegro’s mountains and lakes with Solos
Join a spectacular journey exploring the mountains, beaches and coastal towns of Montenegro. Guests can immerse themselves in the local history and beauty exploring this UNESCO World Heritage region. The adventure begins in Dobrota, an ideal base overlooking the Bay of Kotor and dotted with local restaurants and bars within walking distance. Flanked by steep-sided mountains Kotor is the fortified waterside town, home to a maze of stone paths to Orthodox Churches, cathedrals, Venetian palaces and piazza with cafes, bars and restaurants – day or night. The Bay of Kotor could easily be mistaken for a lake but is home to some of the country’s most famous beaches – Bocas, Amfora and Orahovac. Guests will stay at Casa Del Mare Vizura Boutique Hotel, which is exclusive to Solos. A seven-night Montenegro Solos Exclusive Tour leaving on 21 September 2026, costs £1,749 pp, this includes return flights and transfers, airport taxes, double room for sole use, breakfast daily, three evening meals, welcome drink and information evening and an accompanying Solos Tour Leader.
Solos (020 8951 2900, www.solosholidays.com)

Explore some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches in Lefkada
Lefkada, a true Greek gem in the Ionian Sea, is home to dense pine forests, dramatic white cliffs, and some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic taste of traditional island life. Beyond its stunning coastline, the island offers scenic mountains, hidden waterfalls, and an extensive network of walking, hiking, and cycling routes that provide far more than a typical beach holiday. In the vibrant village of Nidri, a popular property reserved exclusively for Solos guests offers an intimate setting unlike large, anonymous resorts, where visitors are surrounded by a community of like-minded travellers, creating the feel of a private club. With idyllic white-pebble bays, emerald waters dotted with sailboats, and a charming seafront promenade, guests can enjoy the luxury of a guaranteed sunbed and attentive local hosts, while the Bed & Breakfast arrangement allows complete flexibility to be as social or independent as they wish, whether sharing sunset drinks or exploring local tavernas, capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere that defines a Solos Exclusives holiday. A seven night Lefkada Solos Exclusive Trip, departing 31 May 2026, is priced from £1,375 pp, this includes return flights and transfers, room for sole use, Solos Board including daily breakfast and three local taverna dinners each week, welcome drink and information meeting, free Solos App with all travel documents, a dedicated WhatsApp group for the trip and an accompanying Solos Tour Leader throughout.
Solos (020 8951 2900, www.solosholidays.com)

Solos Responds with New Travel Tools
Solos has responded to the growing surge in demand by introducing a new downloadable “Solo Beach Holiday Checklist,” created to help travellers plan smooth, stress-free, and well-prepared trips. This resource is designed to support individuals at every stage of their journey, offering guidance on selecting the right destination and finding a group environment that suits their preferences. It also simplifies the planning process by helping travellers organise their trips with ease, while providing practical advice on packing efficiently for beach-focused itineraries.

Solos continues to tackle one of the biggest barriers to solo holidays, single supplements, by maintaining a strong commitment to traveller-friendly policies, including offering no single supplements on many trips, guaranteeing private rooms without the need to share, and providing built-in social group experiences from the moment travellers depart.

With demand for solo beach holidays continuing to accelerate, Solos is set to remain at the forefront of this fast-growing travel segment, helping more over 50s enjoy the freedom, flexibility, and enjoyment of travelling solo.

For more details about Solos, or any of these new trips, please email Emma Berg on emmab@heavenpublicity.co.uk or call 07903248122.

About Solos

Since its founding in 1982, Solos has been at the forefront of solo travel, offering a diverse range of holidays to suit every interest. From Costa Rica to Canada, Australia to America, and Iceland to the Caribbean, the company presents a broad selection of destinations and travel experiences. Whether it’s Sun, Discovery, Walks & Treks, Golf, or City Breaks, the only requirement for guests is a zest for life and a passion for exploring the world.

Solos also challenge the misconception that solo travel is solely for single people. Regardless of age, background, or gender, the company ensures every traveller feels welcome and included.