Sand, sun, surf, snooze … getting tired yet? Please stay awake to sea more great beaches from around the world.
Sand, sun, surf, snooze … getting tired yet? Please stay awake to sea more great beaches from around the world.
The Argostoli Gulf, which is Greek’s fourth largest natural harbor, is shaped by several mountains including Evmorfia (3,396 feet) and Evyeros (2,700 feet). Surrounding its shoreline are delightful places for swimming in the transparent blue water. They are reachable from Argostoli by walking along a fir tree shaded path that is parallel to Fanari Road. Most of the island’s popular beaches, however, are on the west and southern sides. Regardless of which of the 39 beaches you select, they are all a perfect place to enjoy a Mediterranean climate where the annual high temperature is about 70° Fahrenheit.
Camping Argostoli Fanari, Argostoli Kefalonia 281 00, Greece
Most Greek islands are famous for their beaches. Patmos is no exception. They range from expansive stretches of sand to isolated havens hidden in coves. This is Skala Beach, also called Agios Theologos (Saint Theologian) Beach. It is located on Skala Bay about 700 feet from the port. Enjoy a relaxing swim here before reboarding your cruise ship. Other nearby beaches to consider are Kambos (the most popular), Agriolivado (ideal for children and water sport enthusiasts), Meloi (offers campsites), Lambi (secluded with colorful pebbles) and Grikos (the longest beach). For a special treat, venture out to the islets of Arkoi and Marathi.
Agios Theologos Beach, Skála, Patmos 855 00, Greece
For many vacationers, there is one main reason to visit a Caribbean island: a flawless, sun-kissed beach. Grand Anse Beach is the perfect prescription for your wintertime blues. Relax under a wonderful blue sky with a few puffy clouds while the gentle warm surf of the Caribbean Sea washes into Grand Anse Bay. Yes, there are several resorts facing the pristine white sand. But there are far fewer people than you would expect on the island’s top-rated beach. Many claim Grand Anse Beach is also one of the best in the Caribbean. Additional good news for day trippers. This tropical paradise is only about six miles from the cruise port terminal. So, you will never lose sight of your ship.
Grand Anse Beach, Grand Anse Main Rd, The Lime, Grenada
From the moment you exit your car and head towards Reynisfjara Beach, you immediately understand why National Geographic ranked it among the top ten, non-tropical beaches in the world. The Garðar cliff with its chiseled columns is a stunning backdrop to the black sand, twin monoliths plus the rolling North Atlantic Ocean.
Reynishverfisvegur, Iceland
There are nine beaches on the 42 mile western shore of the Dead Sea along Highway 90. The three clustered in the north are the closest to Jerusalem. They are the Kalia, Biankini and Neve Midbar Beaches. Each one charges an admission fee in exchange for lots of amenities plus bars, shops and swimming pools. The choppy waves cause murky water but harbor lots of spa-like mud. In the middle of the North Basin are Mineral Beach and Ein Gedi Public Beach (pictured). Both have been closed indefinitely because of dangerous sinkholes. Nearby is Ein Gedi Hot Springs Beach. The resort offers a thermo-mineral spa and pools yet is a half mile from the sea. Although this spot boasts of being the lowest place on earth, the resort needs to ship in the Dead Sea mud. Finally, in the South Basin are Ein Bokek, Zohar and Segregated Beaches. They are all free. The water here is very calm and very salty. So, instead of mud or sand, you will walk on salt pellets. The area is encircled with resorts, a shopping center, stores and restaurants.
Ein Gedi Beach, Dead Sea, Israel
Judging from this laundry hanging from a balcony, it looks like a mom had a perfect day at the beach with her two daughters. That is easy to do in Messina, especially during the summer months when the average high is above 80s Fahrenheit and the sun is almost always shining. A few of the most popular beaches are Giardini, Roccalumera and Isola Bella.
Picture this. You are on vacation at a Caribbean Island. You have left behind your computer, cell phone and worries. You have found a gorgeous beach where it is warm and sunny with only a few puffy clouds floating by. Beneath a grove of coconut trees is this hammock. You crawl in, lay back and begin to sway while reading a great book. Any questions?
Les 97227, Pnt des Salines, Sainte-Anne, Martinique
The northern end of Akumal Bay is protected by a reef so the Caribbean water is shallow, clear and typically calm. Plus the beach has pure white sand. Best of all, it is far less crowded than other beaches in front of hotels along the Riviera Maya. So if you want sun, surf, sand and seclusion, this is the place to spend one or more of your vacation days while in Mexico.
Las Casitas Akumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Playa del Amante is a popular hideaway in Los Cabos. You can walk there but it is much easier to charter a boat or hail a water taxi. Lover’s Beach is a small stretch of hard beige sand facing both the Pacific and the Sea of Cortés. Each side offers magnificent views. However the ocean waves and rip currents can be treacherous which is why the locals call it Divorce Beach. It is strongly advised to only swim or snorkel in the water facing the harbor.
Ave Solmar #1A Col Centro, Marina, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico
At KM marker 25 is Coral Beach at the southern end of Cancun’s Hotel Zone seen in the distance. This means it is unknown to most tourists. The locals love it and affectionately call it El Mirador II. The warm, clean beachfront and transparent aquamarine water earned it the coveted Blue Flag award. Playa Coral also has plenty of shade trees and a boardwalk for handicap access. It is the only pet-friendly beach in Latin America. Nearby is Ventura Park. This family-oriented amusement park features several water slides, pools and other fun activities to cool off on a hot Mexican afternoon.
Playa Coral, Punta Nizuc, KM 25, Cancún 700, QROO, Mexico
The prescription for a perfect afternoon: sit on a gorgeous beach in a lounge chair under a palm tree while staring at the ocean waves with a cold beverage at your side. There are no known harmful side effects except occasional sunburn. So, repeat as necessary. Fill the prescription at Costa Maya, Mexico, or the tropical getaway of your choice.
Cruise Port, Costa Maya, 77940 Q.R., Mexico
Tourists stay away from the windward coast because the constant waves are bad for swimming. That reputation is just fine with the locals. They prefer keeping their secret about the best beach on the “other side.” It is Chen Rio. The playa’s highlight is the warm, shallow waters of this lagoon formed by a large natural seawall. Nearby are restaurants and bars sheltered with thatch roofs. There is nothing like a delicious meal and a cold drink to compliment a hot tropical day.
Chen Rio Quintana Roo C-1, Q. R., Mexico
Welcome to Playa del Carmen in the heart of Riviera Maya located midway between Cancun and Tulum. The population of 150,000 qualifies as the second largest city (ciudad) in Quintana Roo. The tourist district is very compact and consists of two marvelous features stretching for about three miles. One is Avenida 5. This is a pedestrian walkway filled with shopping and entertainment. The second is sand, sand and more sand facing the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Muelle Playa del Carmen, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QROO, Mexico
Please remove your shoes before reading about Puerto Morelos’ best feature: the beach. The sand is soft and expansive. Except for a racing stripe of seagrass, it is also pristine. The warm glistening water is an incredible blend of aquamarine and turquoise. The barrier reef provides a protective breakwater so the surf is usually gentle. The environment is peaceful – no blaring music, spring breakers or annoying peddlers here – so you can enjoy the sounds of bobbing fishing boats and seabirds. This is the place where your bare feet dream about during the winter.
Rafael E. Melgar 4, Puerto Morelos, 77580, QROO, Mexico
The Mexican tourist corridor called Riviera Maya stretches along Highway 307 from Playa del Secreto (18 miles south of Cancun) to a fishing village named Punta Allen. Almost this entire 75 mile coastline of the Caribbean Sea is graced with pristine white sand. So finding a perfect playa (Spanish for beach) to stroll is the easiest part of your vacation.
Federal Highway Chetumal - Benito Juarez, Km 250, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
People who visit the Mayan ruins at Tulum are quickly surprised by the heat. The average, year-round temperature is 88° and the site offers no shade from the intense Mexican sun. So bring your bathing suit. When you get too hot, walk down the staircase, go for a refreshing dip in the Caribbean Sea and then spread your towel on the sandy beach. What a perfect combination: ancient ruins without ruining your sunbathing time.
Carretera federal 307 Cancún - Chetumal Km 230, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Judging from its appearance in this elevated view, you’d expect this 4,000 foot beach encircled by gorgeous turquoise water to be called crescent. Instead, it is named Jazz Beach because it is the frequent venue for music festivals and outdoor concerts. The most famous was in 2007 when the Rolling Stones played here during the Bigger Bang Tour. It is located about two miles west of Budva, Montenegro.
E65 El Rey, Prijevor, Montenegro
In the shadows of the Budva’s old town is the Ricardova Glava Beach. Its 328 feet of coastline is a very popular place to swim and sun. The pebble/sand of Richard’s Head begins here at the base of Santa Maria in Punta, a church built as a Benedictine cloister in 840 AD. But if you are planning an extended vacation along the Budva Riviera, you might have time to lounge at all 19 beaches that are tucked along 23 miles of enchanting coves and bays.
Njegoseva 4, Old Town, Budva 85310, Montenegro
Across the Bou Regreg River from the capital city of Rabat is Salé, Morocco. Dating back to the 7th century BC, it is supposed to be the oldest city on the western coast. It is showing its age with lots of pollution. However, efforts are underway to improve the lives of its 800,000 residents. This laborer uses a wheelbarrow to rest while surveying the river as it empties into the Atlantic Ocean.
Plage de Salé Ville, Avenue Sidi Ben Achir, Salé, Morocco
Scheveningen is a coastal resort town about a 15 minute drive from the historic center of The Hague. During the treasured summer months, fair-skinned Dutch flock to this expansive beach for suntanning and fun. Attractions include a boardwalk, restaurants, snack kiosks and bars plus a giant Ferris wheel and the Scheveningen Pier. But don’t go home at dusk. Watch a marvelous sunset and then indulge in the nightlife at clubs or the Holland Casino Scheveningen. If you are really hearty – or just crazy – take the plunge during Nieuwjaarsduik, a swim event on New Year’s Day.
De Pier, Strandweg 154, 2586 JW Den Haag, Netherlands
Dozens of the curious Moeraki Boulders are grouped in clusters along Koekohe Beach near the village of Moeraki. These enormous, spherical and veined rocks seem like ominous pods from a sci-fi movie. They average three to over six feet high. The largest is ten feet in diameter. They are 60 to 65 million years old. Geologists have a detailed explanation for how they were formed. It is boring and dilutes their mystery. Māori tradition explains them as gourds from the shipwrecked Āraiteuru canoe, the legendary vessel used by Polynesians to discover New Zealand.
Public Parking, Moeraki Boulders Rd, Hampden 9482, New Zealand
You will not take many steps along Oriental Parade’s scenic, seaside promenade before realizing why this area is a hotbed of summertime activity. Especially popular for swimming, sunning and lounging away a gorgeous day is Freyberg Beach and its neighbor, Oriental Bay Beach. These shorelines were created by importing 22,000 tons of sand. They are dog-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Amenities include a playground, picnic area, waterfront benches, restrooms and a pier. There are also walking, cycling and rollerblading paths. In the center of Oriental Bay is Carter Memorial Fountain. It sprays water 53 feet into the air.
162 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Most of Akaroa’s waterfront is scenic yet rocky. There are two delightful sandy exceptions ideal for sunning and swimming. These tourists are lounging and strolling along the wide shore closest to the main town. It runs parallel to Beach Road just south of Daly’s Wharf. Akaroa Beach is further north next to Jubilee Park.
Beach Rd & Rue Benoit, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand
Miraflores is a resort town near Lima, Peru. Its many parks, bars, restaurants and shops attract the locals and tourists. The Playa Makaha is a favorite among sun worshipers and surfers plus those who want to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The polished rocks along this beach make an unusual clacking sound as the surf rolls them around. The pier offers a few shops and the La Rosa Náutica restaurant.
Av. Circuito de Playas 2, Miraflores, Lima 18, Peru
Describe your perfect beach. Plenty of soft white sand. Gentle warm surf. Unlimited views of the Caribbean Sea. Swaying palm trees. Amenities including food, bars, restrooms, water toy rentals, easy access and parking. You just described Cane Bay Beach. This is one of the best beaches in the Virgin Islands and other Caribbean islands.
Cane Bay Rd & Plantation Rd, Christiansted, St Croix 00820, USVI
The end of the Southeast Peninsula road is about a 20 minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal in Basseterre. It is also the beginning of some of the best beaches on the island. The terminus is shaped by three mounts and four idyllic bays. Each has a crescent of sand worthy of any Caribbean brochure. This is Cockleshell Bay Beach. It is often called Raggae Beach because of the bar and grill located here. These sheltered waters are perfect for young families. Couples chat, read or nap on rented loungers between intermittent dips to cool off. Others socialize while sipping cocktails and having a seafood lunch. Especially popular is the lobster fest on Friday nights.
Cockleshell Bay Beach, Southeast Peninsula, Saint Kitts & Nevis
One look at this gorgeous scenery and it is easy to see why Reduit Beach is considered to be the best stretch of golden sand on Saint Lucia. It is the majestic crown of the northwest coastline. But with beauty comes throngs of vacationers. There are numerous places to stay nearby in Rodney Bay Village and Gros Islet. The accommodations range from large, all-inclusive resorts to small boutique hotels. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants, taverns, shops and entertainment including the Treasure Bay Casino with over 250 slot machines.
Reduit Beach Ave & Flamboyant Dr, Rodney Bay, St. Lucia
There are five beaches along Orient Bay. This is Bikini Beach. Its name is a bit of a misnomer because in true French Rivera style, many female sun worshipers are topless. A bit further south is the famous Club Orient, a naturist resort. This means most of their guests are au natural. If you plan on visiting these clothing optional sections, then you’d better bring a very good sunblock.
Hotel Mont Vernon, Rue du Mont Vernon , St Martin
There are about forty beaches on the island of St. Thomas. One of the most popular is Magens Bay on the Northside. It has an exquisite sandy beach that stretches for three quarters of a mile. Although it tends to be crowded, there is always plenty of room to find your spot to lie down and enjoy a good book or a great nap.
Magens Bay Park, Magen's Bay Rd, St Thomas 00802, USVI
The water surrounding Saint Thomas is blessed with healthy reefs that are home to more than 40 types of coral. This is a visual paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. But if you explore deserted beaches like the one at Mandahl Bay, you might find sea fans that have washed ashore. Called a gorgonian or alcyonacea, this sea whip is actually a colony of tiny, living polyps.
21B-2 MANDAHL, Box 600166, St. Thomas, 00801, USVI
The beach along Cumberland Bay is one of the most appealing on the Caribbean side of Saint Vincent. The horseshoe cove delivers calm waters for swimmers. It is also deep enough to allow pleasure boats to anchor near shore. Plus, the Cumberland Beach Recreational Park provides plenty of amenities. There is a restaurant and bar on site. Other services include restrooms, showers and a laundry. So, take a break from your road trip, don your bathing suit and go for a refreshing dip.
Cumberland Bay, Leeward Hwy, Cumberland, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
St Andrews Castle along the North Sea is best viewed from the Cliff Walk. The first citadel on this promontory was built in the late 12th century by Roger de Beaumont, the Bishop of St Andrews. The fortress repeatedly exchanged hands between the Scots and the English in several battles before finally being destroyed in 1337. It was rebuilt in 1400 and again in the mid-16th century. 100 years later it was mostly in ruins until much of it collapsed in 1801.
32 E Scores, St Andrews KY16 9BE, UK
There are nine beaches along the Mediterranean Sea beginning at Torre de Sant Sebastià and strolling northeast. They are defined by stone piers. Frankly, they feel like a continuous, three-mile stretch of surf. Locals know the farther you walk, the further you distance yourself from the crowds and the better the sand. Barceloneta Beach is the most popular, especially during the summer months when the water temperature reaches 75°F. That may sound nippy. However, taking a dip is the perfect way to cool off when the thermometer often exceeds 90°F in July and August.
Plaça de la Barceloneta, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
The 1,300 feet of sand between the Castles of San Sebastián and Santa Catalina is the local’s favorite place to swim and sun: Caleta Beach. The white, semicircular structure was the Spa of our Lady of the Palm and of the Real when it opened in 1926. Its position on concrete stilts provides an elevated view of the surf rolling beneath it at high tide. The building served several tenants until it was abandoned in 1975. After an extensive remodeling, the former Palm Bath became the headquarters for the Center of Underwater Archeology of Andalusia. The research center has information on 1,250 shipwrecks around the Andalusian coast.
Av. Duque de Nájera, 3D, 11002 Cádiz, Spain
Málaga is located along the Alboran Sea, the western waters of the Mediterranean. The shoreline region is called Costa del Sol meaning Coast of the Sun. With nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, it is well named. This geographic position also gives Málaga the warmest winters in Europe. Doesn’t this sound ideal for a day at the beach? The nearest one to city center is Playa de la Malagueta. Adjacent to it is Playa de la Caleta. You will easily find your spot to sit and savor this .75 mile stretch of dark sand. The modest waves are ideal for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling. Defining the skyline are the Montes de Málaga.
Playa la Malagueta, Paseo Marítimo Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 29016 Málaga, Spain
If you ever dreamed about riding a horse while the waves gently roll into the sand, then Bangtao Beach is where your fantasy can become a reality. The Phuket International Riding Club offers horseback riding for every experience level, from the seasoned equestrian to the novice city slicker. For a special treat, schedule your saddle time around sunset.
Bangtao Beach, 35 Moo 4, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Amphoe Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Karon Beach offers sun worshipers over three miles of gorgeous white sand. It uniquely squeaks as you walk. You will also learn the aqua waters of the Andaman Sea are ideal for every imaginable water activity. Nearby are excellent hotels, restaurants, shopping and an active nightlife. Best of all, Karon Beach attracts fewer crowds than many other beaches along the southwest coast of Phuket Island.
9/23 - 24 Moo 1, Patak Road, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Phuket 83100, Thailand
In case you are wondering what you need to pack in order to enjoy the tropical climate of Phuket Island during your next vacation, this sand sculpture delightfully demonstrates all of the appropriate attire you will need to wear: a bathing suit, flip flops, sunglasses and a smile.
9/23 - 24 Moo 1, Patak Road, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Laem Sing Beach is a small stretch of sand measuring less than 500 feet. This tiny paradise is below a huge hill accented with lush vegetation and giant rocks. If you are lucky, you might see supermodel Naomi Campbell enjoying this beautiful hideaway.
Laem Sing View Point 4025, Tambon Kamala, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailand
If you get goosebumps when you step foot on Guanahani Beach, it could be because of the gentle surf lapping against the sand or your excitement over finding a sea fan washed ashore. Or maybe it is because when Christopher Columbus discovered the New World on October 12, 1492, he called the island Guanahani. Local experts believe he set foot on this beach and was greeted by Lucayan Indians. Other islands also claim this historical distinction.
Bohio Dive Resort, Grand Turk Cockburn Town TKCA 1ZZ, Turks and Caicos Islands
The iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai is shaped like a sailboat or ship’s mast, is 66 floors tall and built on a man-made island. This seven-star rated hotel is frequently voted the most luxurious in the world. Amenities include a personal butler, chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce and a 24-carat gold iPad to serve as a “virtual concierge.” On Jumeirah Beach, the dress code is considerably different than the typical modesty around Dubai.
Jumeira Road & 17 A St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
A large percent of the 9,000 people living in Punta del Este, Uruguay serve wealthy tourists. The visitors flock to this quaint resort town for the nightlife and beaches. Brava Beach is very popular for sunning and swimming. In the center is this monument to the drowned. La Mano, or The Hand, consists of five giant fingers protruding from the sand. The concrete sculpture by Mario Irarrázabal has become a local landmark since the dramatic artwork was erected in 1982.
Brava Beach, Punta del Este, Uruguay