Trifter

Now that summer is approaching we will all be thinking about a beach vacation, or at least dream about one. But where can one find the best beaches around the world? This list is a list of my favorite beaches, some I have seen and many others I have not but thanks to the Internet you can at least take a virtual tour.

Seychelles

One of the most photographed beaches in the world, the pale pink sands of Anse Source d’Argent unfurls across the island of La Digue, one of the 115 components of this archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The sands sparkle against a backdrop of towering granite boulders, worn by time and weather. The turquoise water is relatively shallow and protected from the ocean’s waves by a reef.

Maldives

Whether your dream beach trip consists of spending a few pampered nights in a four star resort or swimming among tropical fish some 24 meters underwater, the Maldives are the sort of islands where either – or both – can come true. The soft air enveloping the archipelago blends into a beautiful palm-fringed haze.

Bora Bora, Tahiti

This is one of the magical islands that make up French Polynesia in the South Pacific. Just 29 kilomteres long, this lush little slip of land lies in a protected lagoon edged by white sandy shores, the best being at Matira Point. Bora Bora boasts the nickname the “Romantic Island,” a moniker easy to appreciate with its isolated beaches, intimate hotels and quiet atmosphere.

The Hamptons, New York

One of the hip spots for the air kissing, well heeled set, the Hamptons boast some of the prettiest beaches on Long Island. The unspoiled shoreline begins around Southampton and runs east to the end of the island at Montauk. Wind-swept dunes and waving grasses border the Atlantic Ocean.

Nantucket Island, Massachusettes

The most popular beaches on this island in the North Atlantic are Surfside and Children’s. The waters here are relatively calm, and there is plenty of sand to sue for sunbathing or castle building. Madaket Beach is known for its rougher surf and not-to-be-missed sunsets. Quidnet Beach provides great views of Sankaty Head lighthouse.

Fraser Island, Australia

Perched on the sunny Queensland coast 259 kilometers northeast of Brisbane, Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and home to a wonderful beach. This World Heritage site is an ecologist’s dream, with 1,664 square kilometers of natural paradise. Lodgings here accommodate a wide range of tourists, from the backpacking ecology lover to pampered resort fans.

St.Bart’s

One of many islands in the Caribbean Sea, St.Bart’s stands out with its blend of French chic and island relaxation. With beautiful secluded beaches, fine French cuisine, and gracious hotels, this tropical playground is popular with the Jet Set. The 13-kilometer long island is edged by 20 beaches and small coves for swimmers and sunbathers, with sparkling water and white sand.

Langkawi, Malaysia

The name “Langkawi” translates into “the land of the one”s wishes,’ a welcoming concept that somewhat belies the island’s historic origins as a reputed refuge for pirates. Langkawi has since become a modern hideaway for the traveler seeking an escape. If your vacation wishes extend from uncrowded white sands and clear waters to lush green forests, you will find yourself content here. Datai Bay, located on Pulau Langkawi, is a heavenly retreat on the Andaman Sea.

Kauno’oa Bay, Hawaii

Located on the Kohala Coast of the Aloha State’s Big Island, Kauna’oa Bay is the quintessential Hawaiian spot. The .4 kilometer long, crescent-shaped beach has plenty of white sand, palm trees, and calm, clear, blue water. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, beachgoers here can snorkeler or ride boogie boards. At night, nestle into the sands and peer out into the water to see if you can catch a glimpse of manta rays swimming.

Sources:

www.seychelles.com

www.visitmaldives.com

www.boraboraisland.com

www.hawaii.com

www.langkawi.com.my