If you obsessively scroll Instagram looking for vacation inspiration, you may have noticed a fair amount of your fellow travelers swinging carefree in scenic locales around the world. The popularity of the #SwingsofInstagram shouldn’t be all that surprising, if you think about it: That same combination of freedom, relaxation and thrills that make travel so exciting are what make a good, old-fashioned swing so enjoyable—especially in a gorgeous beach, jungle or mountain setting. Here are some favorites that were shared with Orbitz on Instagram; if you’d like to share some of your favorite vacation photos with us, use hashtag #OrbitzPic.
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Sea Swings: Santa Cruz Boardwalk, CA
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is loaded with chills and thrills, including the Sea Swings, which—as the name promises—swing you high over the beach with perfect views of Monterey Bay below.
Otama Beach, New Zealand
The beautiful solitude of New Zealand’s Otama Beach is best enjoyed from its rustic tree swing. This throwback to you childhood lets you take in the gentle sea breezes while you gaze out over the gorgeous white sand and crystal clear waters. Listen closely and you’ll hear the sand squeak!
Secret Paradise Beach Bar: San Pedro, Belize
This “secret” beach bar isn’t such a secret if you’ve been to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of a visit. In fact, swing seating right at the bar is really the only thing that could make having a frosty drink in the middle of a tropical paradise with the waves crashing in the background any more enjoyable.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Sometimes, when a swing doesn’t present itself, you have to conjure one yourself, like this local tour guide did in the viney jungles of Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Dalawella Beach, Sri Lanka
We marvel at the unknown hero who secured this beachfront swing to the top of this towering palm tree at Dalawella Beach in Sri Lanka. Stake it out at day’s end to swing out into the sunset and take it all in from great heights.
Pelangi Beach in Gili Air, Indonesia
This swing stands out because it’s not just at the beach, it’s in the water. Its two seats make it a relaxing, romantic spot to end a long day of snorkeling at Indonesia’s Pelangi Beach on the island of Lombok.
Tulum, Mexico
Cenote Calavera outside of Tulum is nicknamed the “Temple of Doom,” but don’t let that scare you from diving, snorkeling, cliff-jumping or even swinging over the water-filled limestone cave.
El Nido, Philippines
Here’s a magical combination: Warm breeze, hidden beach, magical evening light… That’s how you swing off into the sunset at El Nido on Palawan Island in the Philippines.
Quito, Ecuador
Talk about riding that vacation high. This swing in Quito takes you right out into that crisp Andean air, with beautiful mountain views to boot.
Ubud, Bali
Take a break from adulting like @chakli25 did in this pic, and wile away an afternoon swinging out over the beautiful jungles of Bali.
Malecon Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Hey, girl, the great views are behind you! This swing in the DR affords amazing ocean views (if you’re facing the right way!).
Kandima Island, Maldives
Bring a friend—or two!—to this beachfront swing in Maldives. Depending on the tide, you’ll either be skimming the surface or fully submerged!
Cloud 9: Siargao Island, Philippines
You’ll find this shaded swing at the Cloud 9 surf break in Siargao, Philippines. While you’re swinging, take in some pretty great surfing, since the spot is often rated one of the 10 best breaks in the world.
