Top Travel Beach: 2011

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Palm Beach, Aruba

With miles of clean shores, tranquil waters and picture-perfect weather year-round, Aruba sees its fair share of tourism. The island offers accommodations in a variety of price ranges and enough activities on land and sea to satisfy everyone's wishes.
Unlike some Caribbean islands, which seem geared toward couples, Aruba welcomes kids with open arms. The island features plenty of fun, child-friendly stuff, such as Kibaima Miniature Village and Park (297-586-0536), where little ones can explore miniature Aruban-style houses and buildings, and observe live animals and plants. Playgrounds like Tira Koochi Park and Neptalle Henriquez Playground provide hours of entertainment, and Aruba is even home to Adventure Golf (L.G. Smith Blvd., across from La Cabana Resort), billed as the world's largest mini-golf course.
But parents hoping to escape for a romantic dinner date or excursion need not despair. Many of Palm Beach's hotels and resorts offer kids' programs and baby-sitting services.
Getting There
Reina Beatrix International Airport (297-582-4800) is serviced by American Airlines, Continental, Delta, United Airlines and US Airways. The flight is only 2 �� hours from Miami and 4 1/2 hours from New York.
Airport Transportation
Hotels do not provide shuttle services, but taxis are readily available at the airport. Additionally, a range of car rental agencies have offices at the airport.
Timing
Fortunately Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt, making it a popular year-round destination. The average temperature is 82 degrees, and there is no rainy season, though it does rain occasionally. High season is from mid-December to mid-April, and while prices generally increase at hotels, entertainment options across the island increase as well. If crowds aren't a deterrent, head to the island for a festive spring break during Carnival in February or March, when parades and parties fill the streets.
Lodging
Family-friendly lodging options abound in Aruba; the island's many large resorts participate in a program called "One Cool Family Vacation," in which participating resorts offer kids 12 and under free bonuses such as tours, snorkeling, cruises and other activities. These resorts also offer family discounts on things like car rentals, horseback rides and submarine tours. Thirteen hotels, including the Aruba Marriott Resort, Renaissance Aruba Beach Resort, and Wyndham Aruba Beach Resort and Casino, participate in the program.
Cuisine
Aruba cooks up an interesting array of local cuisines. Some must-haves include giambo, a fish gumbo made with fish fillets, shrimp, okra and basil; deep-fried turnovers called pastechi, which are filled with cheese, shrimp or spicy meat; and, pudin di coco, a coconut pudding infused with rum and served with lime sauce.
For folks craving continental cuisine, many resort restaurants cater to European-style menus. Foodies will appreciate the Aruba Gastronomic Association's "Dine Around" program, which for a set price offers meal coupons to popular restaurants and allows children under 13 to eat at half price.
Travel Tips
Once on the island, visitors can find information at the Aruba Tourism Authority (L.G. Smith Blvd. 172, Eagle, Aruba; (297) 582-3777).
U.S. citizens do not need passports to visit Aruba (though they are accepted). Only an original and official state-issued birth certificate with a raised seal AND a government-issued (state or federal) photo I.D. (i.e., a driver's license) are required. Children under age 18 traveling with both parents must have an original or certified copy of a birth certificate and the same last name as the parents. A photo ID is not required.
The Aruban florin is the local currency, but US dollars are often accepted in stores. ATM machines are easy to find on the island, and some even dispense dollars. Credit cards are accepted at nearly all hotels, restaurants and businesses.
While You're There
Lying beached under the sun on Aruba's pristine sands might seem like the perfect way to spend a vacation, but visitors will miss out on the island's natural wonders if they bypass exploring its wild outback. At only 21 miles long, Aruba can be easily explored via a guided four-wheel-drive tour through the desert hills, dirt roads and rocky coastline. Most excursions also include swimming and snorkeling (check out the most popular, De Palm Tours, 297-582-4400.
Water lovers will find no shortage of activities at the beach and in the water. Sunset cruises, windsurfing, water safaris, jet skiing and fishing are among the off-shore activities visitors love diving into.
To Fake That You've Been There
Flex your muscles and claim to feel like a million bucks after hitting Conchi, a natural pool in the island's countryside said to have restorative powers.

Hermosa Beach, California

Just far enough away from high-profile Hollywood is the South Bay community of Hermosa, Manhattan and Redondo beaches. Those travelers anxious to enjoy California's sunny weather and gorgeous beaches away from the high-maintenance and crowded city center can pack their beach bags and head to this residential enclave known for its white sands and active pier scenes.
Hermosa Beach is the center of the universe for some die-hard beach volleyball players, including amateurs and professionals, and there always seems to be intense serving and spiking action on the 1.5-mile stretch of sand. The community takes pride in its abundance of outdoor beach activities, which include surfing, swimming, paddleball and, of course, sunbathing. The bustle of activity is reminiscent of songs by the Beach Boys or reruns of Baywatch. The Strand is the place to see and be seen both during the day and come nightfall. By day, this paved boardwalk that borders the beach is a thoroughfare for bikers, bladers, joggers and strollers. At night, the Strand is a great people-watching spot as crowds fill the restaurants and bars. Kids going through videogame withdrawal will find relief at the Hermosa Penny Arcade located on the pier as well.
It is easy to celebrate a low-key beach week without ever leaving Hermosa Beach and the neighboring beaches - Manhattan, Redondo and Long. However, many will find the lure of nearby Los Angeles, glamorous Beverly Hills and starlit Hollywood hard to resist, which is fine as they are all a short drive from Hermosa. It is possible to spend the day touring the nearby neighborhoods and still get back to the beach to ride a few more waves before the sun goes down. Then, head to a bar on the Strand in the appropriate attire, i.e., shorts and flip-flops, to celebrate happy hour with the lifeguards getting off duty.

Culebra Island, Puerto Rico

Overview
Many people fail to associate a Caribbean paradise with historic significance, assuming instead that it has always been a sandy, sun-drenched beach swathed in sunbathers and snorkelers. That's part of the beauty of Puerto Rico's Culebra Island. Yes, this island, situated 20 miles off the northeast coast, has beautiful beaches and plenty of sun, but it's also an old pirate hideout loaded with virtually undisturbed treasures. Not to mention that in 1493 Christopher Columbus dropped by this tropical oasis during his second voyage, and in 1909 Theodore Roosevelt declared Culebra one of America's first wildlife refuges.
When World War II erupted, the US Navy turned Culebra and the 23 other islands in the archipelago into the primary site for gunnery and bombing practice. This island remained a target until 1975, which turned out to be a good thing - the reefs and surrounding waters remained unscathed by boaters and divers and the beaches were unspoiled by large-scale tourism development.
Today Culebra is appealing for what it lacks. There are no luxury resorts, elegant restaurants, discos, movie theaters, casinos, museums or boutiques. There's also no crime, hardly any traffic and few crowds (except during Semana Sancta - Holy Week - which precedes Easter).
What Culebra does offer is an unsullied and under-populated beach along with pristine waters filled with beautiful fish. There is also plenty of wildlife. The disconnected tracts of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, which total more than one-third of the islands' area, are populated with terns, gulls, pelicans, boobies and several species of endangered turtle. And the natives - or culebrenses as they are known - as well as the expatriates provide plenty of the signature laid-back attitude that is so familiar in the Caribbean.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Thailand's Hidden Beaches

Still, for the intrepid traveler, it can be altogether disheartening to travel halfway around the world only to find your dream Thai beach packed with your fellow Statesmen (behaving badly, to boot) and an abundance of 7-11 and Starbucks-related signage.
For sure, the well-trodden beaches of Ko Phi Phi, Ko Samui and Ko Phangan are exquisitely beautiful. But if you're looking for a private piece of paradise away from Thailand's tourist masses, follow our lead to some of the former Siam's more serene escapes.
Koh Lao Liang
Offshore from Trang province, in southern Thailand, Ko Lao Liang is an enigma for most foreign tourists, who tend to stick to Krabi province to the north. And that probably has a lot do with why Thais on weekend trips from Bangkok consider the island one of their country's best-kept island secrets. Limestone cliffs tower over a perfect crescent of white-sand beach on Ko Lao Liang, and upscale sea camping tents provide eco-minded and comfortable accommodation within earshot of the gently lapping sea. You can arrange boat tours just offshore, where reefs painted the colors of the rainbow in soft coral formations teem with clownfish and swaying anemones.
NaiHarn Beach
A 1-hour flight from Bangkok, the island of Phuket, on Thailand's Andaman coast, is about as undiscovered as Disneyland. But armed with some insider knowledge, you can still experience the island's stunning beaches in relative peace and isolation. Nai Harn Beach, on the southern end of Phuket, has just a smattering of hotels along a thickly forested shore, and is a favorite destination for island locals. For a great snorkeling spot that's quieter still, take the dirt road from The Royal Phuket Yacht's Club's parking lot to the tiny beach of Ao Sane.
Railay Beach
International rock jocks have long had Railay on the radar; the limestone karst formations jutting eerily from the landscape here are heavily bolted with climbing routes reaching skyward. Such a sporty slant to the beach means the sugary sands at Railay remain relatively lonely -- particularly compared with the people-patterned patches of beach elsewhere in Krabi province. From Krabi's chief built-up beach town of Ao Nang, it's just a 15-minute trip by longtail boat to Railay. However, perched outside your thatched bungalow with a frosty Singha beer in hand, you'll feel eons away.
Ko Kood
Isolation, like many good things, often comes with a hefty price tag. If you can afford the limited luxury accommodation offerings on this island in the Ko Chang chain -- situated very close to Cambodia on Thailand's east coast -- you're sure to relish a private Thai beach experience. Past problems with Cambodia have been resolved, but the fact that Ko Kood (also called Ko Kut) was inaccessible to outsiders for many years has kept it relatively off the tourist radar. The beaches here have been likened to those of the Maldives, and you'll have your run of inland waterfalls and lush hiking trails, too.
Ko Lipe
Afloat in the Andaman Sea, off the southwest coast of Thailand, Ko Lipe is 1 of more than 50 islands in Ko Tarutao National Park. With a thick jungle interior dotted with coconut farms that opens onto perfect cove beaches lapped by crystal water, the tiny island conjures castaway fantasies. And Ko Lipe's residents -- renowned for their mind-blowing ability to free dive to great depths -- are predominantly sea gypsies who most likely originated in Indonesia.
Ko Adang
Also part of Ko Tarutao National Park, Ko Adang is one of the larger islands in the archipelago. Apart from its beautiful beaches, you can explore inland waterfalls once used by passing pirate ships to replenish their water supplies. Hiking trails abound. In addition, if you visit between September and December, you're likely to see green sea turtles lumbering ashore after dark to deposit their eggs in the sugar-fine sands.
Ko Chang
After Phuket -- its far more popular and crowded big sister -- Ko Chang is Thailand's second-largest island. Situated in the province of Trat in eastern Thailand, near the Cambodian border, the island is famed for its national park -- a protected area of thick forests and rocky bays. The white sandy beaches are mostly found on the island's west coast, and even though development is ever-increasing, there's still a blissfully forgotten feel to the place. The aptly named Lonely Beach, on the southern end of the island's west coast, is one of the best places to soak up some solo time on the sand. For the region's best snorkeling and diving, hire a longtail boat to take you to the tiny islands just off Ko Chang's southern coast.

Best California Beaches

Click here for more on the best California beaches.
Manchester State Beach, Point Arena
Where: The beach entrance is half a mile north of the town of Manchester on Highway 1.
The vibe: Friendly locals with wind-burned faces beachcombing the many miles of postcard-perfect beach.
Why it's popular: It's breathtakingly beautiful and never overcrowded. There are sandy dunes, grassy flatlands and piles of driftwood that have washed ashore.
Hint: In January and February, the nearby Garcia River is a mecca for local steelhead fishermen.
Rodeo Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area at Marin Headlands
Where: Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge on Highway 101, take the Sausalito exit and follow signs for Marin Headlands and the beach.
Why it's popular: Although swimming conditions aren't always ideal, it doesn't deter sun-worshippers, dog-walking and semi-precious stone hunters.
Hint: It's the only nude beach in the Marin Headlands that faces the Pacific Ocean.
Cowell's Beach, Santa Cruz
Where: Located on West Cliff Drive, near Bay Avenue.
The vibe: More than 15 volleyball courts means lots of athletic action (and buff eye-candy).
Why it's popular: It's a great spot to learn to surf -- the waves are small and locals aren't too territorial about sharing the ocean.
Hint: Park up the road by Depot Park for free.
Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel Highlands
Where: Enter three miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.
The vibe: Fierce winds don't stop casual outdoor enthusiasts from wandering the coastal trails, snapping pics of tide pools, marine life and wildflowers. The Reserve has often been called "the crown jewel of the State Park System."
Why it's popular: Diving (both scuba and free) is available at Whalers and Bluefish Coves.
Hint: Visit during the spring when adult and baby harbor seals abound.
Asilomar State Beach, Pacific Grove
Where: From Highway 1, take Highway 68 west. Watch for signs to Asilomar Beach as you near Sunset Drive.
The vibe: Despite frequent fog, the 1-mile strip of sand is a favorite for tide-pooling, long walks, and windy al fresco wedding ceremonies.
Why it's popular: Dogs reign supreme. There is a leash law in effect, although few owners seem to abide.
Hint: There are no restroom facilities. If nature calls, walk across the street to the Asilomar Conference Grounds and act like you belong.
Cayucos State Beach, Cayucos
Where: Take Highway 1 to Cayucos at Cayucos Drive. Turn west toward the ocean -- the beach and pier are at the end of Cayucos Drive.
The vibe: In-the-know Californians regard this underrated beach town as one of the best getaways in the state.
Why it's popular: Probably best known for its pier -- it affords incredible views of the area, as well as sea lion and pilot whale sightings.
Hint: Cure your hangover at the annual polar bear dip -- it draws thousands annually on New Year's Day.
Rincon Beach, Santa Barbara
Where: Three miles east of Carpinteria adjacent to the Santa Barbara/Ventura County line. From Highway 101, take the Bates Road turn-off south to the park entrance.
The vibe: Surfers, surfers and more surfers.
Why it's popular: Widely considered one of the best surf spots on the Central Coast. Winter waves create a rocky shoreline, while summer currents create pleasant swimming conditions.
Hint: Arrive early on weekends to stake out prime sunning spots.
Dockweiler Beach, Los Angeles
Where: Located at the last western stop of Imperial Highway in Playa del Rey.
The vibe: Slightly surreal, attracting a social crowd. The beach is located under the flight path of nearby LAX.
Why it's popular: Not the most scenic of beaches, the three-mile shoreline is best known for its oceanfront entertaining options -- fire pits and barbecues abound.
Hint: It is one of the very few beaches in Los Angeles County that allows bonfires.
El Matador Beach, Los Angeles
Where: 32215 Pacific Coast Highway.
The vibe: Malibu's celebrity jet set and bathing beauties. It's a photo shoot favorite.
Why it's popular: Bodyboarders and bodysurfers love El Matador, because it boasts summer and winter swells. Kids love the tide pools.
Hint: It's a steep walk down several flights of stairs to reach this, making it, unfortunately, inaccessible for the handicapped.
Coronado Beach, San Diego
Where: From downtown San Diego, cross the Bay Bridge, travel several blocks on Third Street. Turn left onto Orange Avenue, then right onto R.H. Dana Place, which will take you to Ocean Boulevard.
The vibe: Families, locals and tourists alike frequent these friendly environs in droves.
Why it's popular: It's a 1-size-fits-all beach destination offering swimming, surfing, sailing, volleyball, kite flying or the option to laze and do absolutely nothing at all.
Hint: Park free on Ocean Boulevard, but plan to arrive early on summer weekends to beat the crowds.

Top 10 Caribbean Resorts

Welcome to paradise. We're counting down Caribbean resorts with crystal-clear waters, powder-soft sands, sumptuous settings and world-class accommodations. These aren't your average cookie-cutter beachfront hotels either. These Caribbean hot spots rank among the most luxurious and lavish in the world. For even more beach bliss, check out our beaches page.

Hyatt Regency, Aruba Resort & Casino
Aruba, Netherland Antilles
Set just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is the westernmost island of the Netherland Antilles. Here Spanish, Dutch and Caribbean culture blend as comfortably as your beachside cocktail. The Hyatt Regency Aruba is one of the region's premier resorts, because it has a lot of casual elegance and the staff combine that attribute with an incredible array of really fun activities.
Caneel Bay
St. John, US Virgin Islands
The island of St. John is a treasure trove of tropical jungle and enticing enclaves. It was once the playpen of gazillionaire Lawrence Rockefeller, who fell in love with this lush land in the 1920s. Facilities here include 166 elegantly understated rooms, 3 restaurants, a 20,000-square-foot spa and a state-of-the-art tennis facility.
Parrot Cay Resort & Spa
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos Islands
Located 575 miles southeast of Miami, the 8 major islands and more than 40 keys of Turks & Caicos cover only a combined 196 square miles of sun-drenched shoreline. Stars like Paul McCartney, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis and David Copperfield have all said ahoy to this place. And unlike super-accessible mega-resorts, the exclusive 5-star Parrot Cay Resort and Spa can be reached only by small boat.
Little Dix Bay
Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Set 90 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico, Virgin Gorda is 8 1/2 square miles of lush greenery and stunning crescent bays; it truly is a tropical wilderness. The huge sprawling property includes an amazing number of hiking trails and amazing snorkeling.
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
A visit to these beautiful islands will often cost you a pretty penny, but not if you stay at the Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort and Spa. Opened in 1997, this popular spot is an all-inclusive resort.
Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas
St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
St. Thomas is part of the US Virgin Islands, just east of Puerto Rico. Blessed with breathtaking views, it's no wonder this island attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Combining Old World Colonial charm with a tropical setting, the 152-room Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas sits on 15 acres of impeccably manicured grounds and its stately elegance attracts guests from all around the world.
Four Seasons Resort
Nevis, West Indies
The tropical island of Nevis sits a balmy 19 degrees north of the equator. While it's only separated from other islands in the West Indies by 2 miles of warm water, go there and you'll feel a world apart. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Four Seasons, Nevis, is that it has attained a 5-diamond rating. Getting a five-diamond rating from AAA is hard enough in the United States, but to get this rating on a relatively remote Caribbean island is a testament to the resort's commitment to service.
Atlantis
Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas
Rising up majestically from the Caribbean is Atlantis, a resort based on the mythical city that sank without a trace 11,000 years ago. Along the 3 miles Cabbage Beach's sugary sand, guests can snorkel, parasail, jet-ski or just lounge to their hearts' desire. Then there is the Leap of Faith: a 60-foot drop down a Mayan temple water slide that takes you to 1 of the resort's spectacular family attractions -- the aquarium.
Sandy Lane
St. James, Barbados
Fresh off a $200-million renovation, the stunning Sandy Lane is just what any Caribbean connoisseur is looking for. This 800-acre resort features an 18-hole golf course, a 7,000-square-foot pool, state-of-the-art tennis facilities and museum-quality art. In fact, Sandy Lane has become not only the premier luxury resort in Barbados, but also 1 of the premier resorts in the world.
Hotel Maroma
Maroma, Mexico
Thirty miles south of the crowded Mexican resort of Cancun, in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, you'll find the pristine, quiet area of Maroma. The Hotel Maroma has a mere 36 suites decked in handmade mahogany and bamboo furniture. A stay here is worth every penny.

Best Barbados Beaches

Silver Sands
A windy outcropping ideal for windsurfing, Silver Sands beach is internationally recognized as a world-class beach for this sport. Located on the southern coast of Barbados, Silver Sands holds the Waterman Festival every February; a competitive contest for surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing, the festival has been going strong since 1989. The Silver Sands Resort is located here, offering affordable accommodations on prime oceanfront real estate.
Crane
Crane Beach, originally a harbor, is one of the most beautiful beaches along the coast of Barbados. It's home to one of the prettiest and oldest resorts on the island, The Crane Beach Hotel. Simple luxury and elegance define the hotel that sits on a beach named one of the 10 best in the world by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. The waves here are perfect for beginner surfers or for body surfing, while the coastal coves offer sheltered swimming close to shore.
Bottom Bay
Located just north of the sprawling historic mansion known as Sam Lord's Castle, the pink-sand cove of Bottom Bay is protected by high jagged cliffs. The sugary beach is lined with coconut palms, but the crystalline waters feature a significant undertow, making Bottom Bay a perfect spot for picnics but not swimming. The postcard-perfect views are inspiring many to build homes here, so make sure to pack your picnic basket and visit before it's all private property.
Bathsheba
This picturesque East Coast fishing village hums with activity when the surf contests come to town. That's because this popular beach is the surfing capital of Barbados; the surfing sweet spot is known as Bathsheba's "Soup Bowl." If you don't surf, there are pools and reefs ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing. The breathtaking beach's wild landscape makes it one of Barbados' most popular.
Accra/Rockley
This beach, known either as Accra or Rockley, is one of the widest and most popular stretches of sand along the Barbados coast. Several vendors line the beach selling clothing and local jewelry. Waves are moderate without an undertow, making it a great place for windsurfing, sunfish sailing, snorkeling, boogie boarding and body surfing.
Bath
Bath beach is one of Barbados' best swimming beaches. Located on the Atlantic Coast, there are minimal waves and almost no undertow. Facilities here include ample parking, picnic spots and changing rooms. Stroll north along the perfect sandy beaches to a small waterfall and the remains of a train line that once ran from Bridgetown to Bathsheba.
Cattlewash
This is one of the longest beaches on Barbados; it has a rough and rugged character that makes it a spot for sightseeing and sunbathing rather than swimming. Because of the waves and undertows, this beach is often deserted, so pack a cooler and hit the beach that was once the bathing spot for herds of cattle shepherded from the surrounding villages.
Dover Beach
This popular beach on the South Coast of Barbados is idyllic for swimming, jet skiing, body surfing and romantic shore-side strolls. Across the street is the Dover Playing Field where you can often catch a cricket match or see Bajan footballers in action.
Folkestone Beach
Situated 1 mile north of Holetown, Folkestone is home of the government-run Folkestone Marine Park. This gorgeous beach features many water-related activities, a marine museum and coastal environment displays. Snorkeling aalongmidst the fringe reef or diving off a private boat are perfect aquatic afternoon activities.
Mullins Bay
Mullins is a popular hangout, a charming bay surrounded by a placid beach, perfect for relaxing in a chaise lounge. There's a beach bar here serving cold drinks and simple lunches so you can fuel up before taking to the waters in a jet ski. If you prefer to move at a slower speed, rent snorkeling equipment and leisurely explore the tranquil waters.

Hawaiian Beaches

Waikiki Beach
Oahu, Hawaii
The beauty of Waikiki begins at the yacht harbor where every boat imaginable, from sporty, racing numbers to salty-dog blue cruisers, lines the water. It is here where Hawaiian canoe clubs train and stately yachts strut their stuff. Next door, the Hilton Hawaiian Village stages hula shows to welcome the weekend and blasts fireworks visible from miles away. However, not enough visitors find time to visit the other end of Waikiki, where 200 acres of parkland wrap around the base of Diamond Head Crater and there's always a quiet spot in the shade. This is where the locals come to jog in the park, swim at Sans Souci Beach or barbecue dinner with family and friends. Between these two extremes, the seven-tenths of a square mile that make up Waikiki are packed with hotels, theaters, restaurants and shops that offer something for everyone.
What's Cool: Visit the statue of Hawaiian hero Duke Kahanamoku, regarded as the father of modern surfing.

Honaunau Bay
The Big Island, Hawaii
Once the site of a ruling chief's palace, Honaunau Bay offers visitors something other than the white sandy beaches and rolling surf characteristic of Hawaii. Honaunau is home to a true underwater paradise, the Place of Refuge, which attracts scuba divers from all around. Over time, eruptions of the Kilueau volcano poured lava into the ocean, hardening into large, smooth formations now home to an expansive reef of colorful coral heads and formations. The bay satisfies all levels of divers, from beginners to experts, and boasts a large number of fish native to Hawaii, roughly 40 percent of which can be found only in Honaunau. Divers can swim with the likes of long-nosed butterfly fish, surgeon fish, yellow tang and kala and kole -- even the endangered green sea turtle.
What's Cool: Explore Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, an ancient sanctuary where breakers of the kapu (sacred laws) could take refuge from a death sentence.

Kaanapali Beach
Maui, Hawaii
If luxury hotels and constant pampering are your idea of the perfect beach getaway, Kaanapali Beach is the gem you've been seeking. Some of Hawaii's most exclusive resorts line this stretch of sand and are ready to spoil anyone willing. Perhaps you're looking for your own personal Beach Butler to deliver daiquiris, or hoping to splurge and rent out a beach cabana. Your every wish can be easily granted on Kaanapali. After soaking in the sun, visit one of the resorts and indulge in a tanning consultation or unwind with a lomi lomi massage -- noted for its spiritual and healing aspects.
What's Cool: The company Beach Activities of Maui is suited to cater a visitor's every whim.

Kauna'oa Beach
The Big Island, Hawaii
Crescent-shaped Kauna 'oa Beach is the ideal oasis for visitors seeking pristine sands and serenity. This quarter-mile-long beach is very private, and 78-degree water provides the perfect respite from the sand. The famed Mauna Kea Beach Hotel keeps the beach clean and full of healthy coral and fish life, as well as offering guests access to its swank beach facilities. Visitors not staying at the resort can still enjoy this tropical paradise, just with a few restrictions. The hotel limits entry to its private beach, and to a public beach accessible via its grounds, to 25 passes at any given time. Your best bet? Arrive at the beach before 9 a.m. Otherwise, spend the morning enjoying a delectable meal at one of the resort's five restaurants and try to get on the beach later in the afternoon.
What's Cool: Golfers love the nearby $18 million Mauna Kea Golf Course.

Poipu Beach
Kauai, Hawaii
Located on the southern tip of the island of Kauai, Poipu Beach offers beachgoers something unique to many Hawaiian shores -- calm waters. In the midst of beaches noted for mind-blowing surf, Poipu has gained a reputation for tranquil seas and golden beaches. Peaceful trade winds blow offshore, keeping the waters serene for most of the year. Protected bays offer a sandy bottom and never get deeper than 3 feet, making Poipu popular among families with toddlers and other small children. More advanced swimmers can swim beyond this kiddie-haven to a reef guaranteeing underwater adventures. Families are sure to adore the well-maintained picnic areas and covered pavilions, as well as the shower and bathroom facilities.
What's Cool: The endangered monk seal is known to play on these shores.

Lahaina Beach
Maui, Hawaii
Nestled in the quaint whaling village of Lahaina, where thatched-roof huts are the norm, idyllic Lahaina Beach is considered one of the world's most romantic beaches. The tranquility of its old fishing village, lush tropical plant life and the majesty of the ocean have made Lahaina a favorite locale for marriage ceremonies. Of course, a great wedding ceremony isn't the only thing this place has to offer -- no trip here is complete without experiencing the Old Lahaina Luau. This traditional luau traces the history of the hula dance and tantalizes guests with passionate dancing, lei ceremonies and a succulent imu-roasted pig.
What's Cool: Celebrate your nuptials Hawaiian-style at the Old Lahaina sea wall.

Hookipa Beach
Maui, Hawaii
It isn't the gorgeous windswept sands that attract visitors to Hookipa Beach & it's the winds themselves! Hookipa Beach and its notorious trade winds are home to some of the finest windsurfing conditions in the world. Wave-riders travel from around the globe to catch the surf at Hookipa. Windsurfers will tell you the best views of Hookipa Beach's gleaming white sands and towering palm trees are from the water, where surfers are privy to the beach's spectacular setting. If jumping on a board and catching some wind doesn't suit your fancy, relax ocean-side and watch one of two world-class competitions held in Hookipa, when windsurfing champions battle wind and sea.
What's Cool: Visit Kuau Cove, home of Mama's Fish House - a favorite among area locals.

Punalu'u Beach
The Big Island, Hawaii
One of nature's rarest wonders stretches across the island of Hawaii's shores -- the black-sand beach of Punalu'u. This magnificent beach formed when lava from two of the world's most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, spilled into the ocean and quickly cooled, breaking into minuscule pieces that now comprise the "sand." The black-sand beach with its smoothed glass granules is always warm and soothing, and the wild tropical landscape makes this spot irresistible. Should swimming and sunbathing grow tiresome, grab a net and join the ranks of local fishermen -- the waters off Punalu'u are noted for their tremendous fishing.
What's Cool: The natural freshwater wading pool at the far end of the beach is good for rinsing off after snorkeling with endangered turtles.

The North Shore
Oahu, Hawaii
Along the 7-mile stretch of sand encompassing the North Shore, three beaches stand out from the rest. Located in the center of the North Shore, Waimeia Bay boasts calm waters and a large expanse of tranquil beach in the summer, when there is little wave action. But surfers need not despair! In the winter, Waimeia's waves pick up and the surf can grow to 30 feet. For die-hard surfers, the Mecca of the sport lies in Pipeline. Those lucky enough to ride the seemingly impossible waves without a wipeout are left with a lifetime of bragging rites. Finally, as the day draws to a close, visit Sunset Beach, where an explosion of light and color paint the sky as the sun sets gracefully behind the waves.
What's Cool: Visit Pipeline in mid-November and catch the Triple Crown of Surfing.

Lanikai Beach
Oahu, Hawaii
Half a mile of sparkling sand, palm trees that sway over a white beach, lush tropical plants and endless sunshine make Lanikai one of Hawaii's most scenic beaches. The shore is protected by a nearby coral reef, which keeps the surf relatively calm, and the water is always a deep turquoise or green. Visitors to Lanikai can kayak to the nearby twin islands of Mokumanu and Mokulua, both noted bird sanctuaries. Lanikai not only seems postcard-perfect & it truly is! Having lured many models and photographers over the years, this beach is one of Hawaii's most popular spots for photo shoots!
What's Cool: This beach oasis is noted for serving up one of the best sunrises on Oahu.

Jamaica: Island Secrets

Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean; studded with sensuous beaches, skyscraping mountains and lush landscapes, it's a vacation destination for those in search of pure relaxation. But if you want to see the real Jamaica, throw away your guidebook, and take a few tips from us. These are Jamaica's best-kept secrets.

All-Inclusive Resorts
With stunning vistas at every turn, finding a beautiful place to stay in Jamaica isn't a challenge. However, for the discerning traveler with a taste for luxury and a desire for ambience, there's only one choice -- the all-inclusive resort. These resorts take the worry out of travel and won't break the bank; all the food, drinks and entertainment are available for one fixed price.

Breezes Resort in Montego Bay sits on 2,000 acres of prime oceanfront real estate. The secret world that makes Breezes more than just another beautiful all-inclusive? Its open-air circus. Swing with the greatest of ease and even learn to "make a catch" on the trapeze, or stay closer to land on the giant trampoline. These are activities you won't find anywhere else on the island, and they are the perfect release for your inner-child. And we mean inner-child -- Breezes is an adults-only resort.

Offering a completely different resort experience is Hedonism III. This resort is the party center of Jamaica and the Caribbean, encouraging guests to let loose and unleash their wild side. Everything that goes on at Hedonism III is kept a secret from outsiders -- to get past the gate, you must be a guest. The resort is set on 15 acres at the eastern end of Runaway Bay, and its stunning views and beaches are the perfect setting for a lively (and slightly wicked) Caribbean vacation.
Hidden History
A visit to Port Royal will open a treasure chest of the island's hidden history. The city was a refuge and port for many of the real pirates of the Caribbean. Legendary men like Henry Morgan and Blackbeard made frequent stops at the city that used to be known as the "wickedest city on Earth."

Every naughty pirate needed a place to repent, and St. Peter's Church is believed to be Henry Morgan's preferred location. The church has stood on the site since 1726 and is now regarded as a makeshift museum of the city's seedy past. The church is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and still offers a Sunday service.

Another region of the island with a mysterious attraction is the small village of Bath. With the help of a local guide, you can find one of the island's oldest and most cherished secrets: natural healing springs. According to legend, a runaway slave discovered the Bath springs in 1690. The sulfur in the water is said to have therapeutic and restorative powers. The Bath Fountain Hotel is located on-site and features water pumped straight from the spring.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
It's no secret that jerk sauce is a culinary staple in Jamaica, but finding the best jerk the island has to offer can be a bit overwhelming. Jerk originated on the eastern-most part of the island near Boston Bay, and now the best can be found in a cluster of stands near Boston Bay Beach.

After a meal of jerk -- whether it's jerk sausage, shrimp, goat or chicken -- there's only one way to cool down your palate. In Jamaica the drink of choice is rum, and Appleton Estate is an icon in the rum world. Take a tour of the distillery just south of Montego Bay where rum has been brewed and blended since 1749. Tours are available Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and include a rum-tasting and a complimentary bottle for each visitor.

With your belly full and a little rum flowing, it's time to complete your irie mood with some reggae music. There's no shortage of bars and restaurants featuring Jamaica's official soundtrack, but for those wishing to hear the best of the best, head to the festivals. Check out a complete list of Jamaica's year-round reggae fests.
To cap off the perfect insider trip to Jamaica, enjoy one of the island's unique pleasures -- rafting. For about $40, you and a friend can hop aboard a bamboo raft and enjoy a leisurely trip down one of Jamaica's rolling rivers. Click here to learn about rafting on the Martha Brae River and to find out about the island's number-one rafting attraction.

World's Best Secret Beaches

The world is full of hidden beaches, but discovering them before the masses do can be challenging.

Shhh ... we're letting the cat out of bag on a few of our favorite global destinations for relatively untracked sand and surf.
And while that's not to say you'll have these beaches all to yourself, it's a good bet you'll be among mostly locals - and a handful of intrepid travelers savvy enough to put these gems on their beach-hopping agendas.
Muriwai Beach, New Zealand
For most tourists arriving in Auckland, Piha Beach is the logical destination for a first glimpse of New Zealand's pristine North Island coastline.
For an even keener local look at the Kiwi surf lifestyle, make the half-hour drive west of Auckland to Muriwai Beach. The oceanfront here is beautifully rugged, with black sand beaches, pounding surf and rocky headlands where you can forage for New Zealand's famed green lip mussels at low tide.
Surfers love Maori Bay - just around the headland from the main beach - for its consistent beach break, and the fact that the horseshoe stretch of sand here is sheltered in a cove, making it a good place to toss down a towel for the day. A rocky outcropping between the bay and the beach is home to New Zealand's largest onshore gannet (sea birds) colony.
EAT: Kiwis get kudos for their great coffee, and latte lovers will adore the espresso drink called a 'flat white.' The weekend breakfast scene at Sand Dunz, near the main beach parking lot, sees locals mingling with city dwellers visiting from Auckland. Try the eggs benedict and ask about the local photography on display.
STAY: A short drive from the beach, the Muriwai Beach Farmstay is set in verdant surrounds, with New Zealand's iconic sheep dotting the hillsides.
Fraser Island, Australia
Less than 200 miles north of built-up Brisbane lies this wild stretch of largely desolate sand. Fraser Island's status as the largest sand island in the world automatically conjures dreams of mile upon mile of blissfully uninterrupted oceanfront. Indeed the surf beach stretches for some 75 miles here, and you can easily find a private stretch for swimming.
Getting to Fraser requires a short ferry ride. And a 4-wheel drive vehicle, hired on the mainland, is the best way to explore the island at your whim. When it's time to sleep, pitch a tent in the sand or stay at one of the island's resorts. The beaches are sublime, and if you want to de-salt yourself you can dip inland to one of the crystal clear lakes set in the dunes.
EAT: Carry your food over from the mainland if you're planning to camp here as dining on the island is limited to hotels and resorts. The Maheno Restaurant (no Web site), poolside at Kingfisher Bay Resort, does a seafood buffet on weekends.
STAY: Camping in dingo territory not your thing? Check in to one of Australia's top eco-tourism experiences at Kingfisher Bay Resort. Rooms overlook lakes and the island's rugged bushland. Eco-tours include whale watching and ranger-led hikes.
Cabo Polonio, Uruguay
Punta del Este may be Uruguay's most famous beach resort, but the South Beach-meets-South America feel of the place hardly screams, "Off the beaten path."
Ask an Uruguayan to point you in the direction of a beach after his or her own heart, and you can bet it will be located in the laid-back department of Rocha.
Situated a few miles off the highway, the tiny peninsula village of Cabo Polonio is accessed by 4-wheel drive trucks or horseback, which transport visitors over the dunes to a hidden beach.
Electricity and running water - only delivered to a few places by rainwater and the odd generator - are rare commodities here. There are a few posadas (rustic motels), and most of the block-style vacation bungalows dotting the dunes are lit with candles at night. The long, sandy beach - popular with windsurfers from around the world - is rugged and totally undeveloped. On one side of the peninsula the ocean pounds the shore, while the other side offers a sheltered crescent of beach more suited to swimming.
STAY: Rent your own private beach bungalow for a few nights or by the week. Most online information about rentals online is in Spanish, so consider contacting the country's Ministry of Tourism for assistance with bookings. The oceanfront rooms at Posadoy Parador La Canada have hot-water showers, and there's a communal kitchen.
EAT: There are a few restaurants in Cabo Polonio, but most folks cook in (bungalows are usually equipped with gas burners or outdoor grills). There's a small grocery store with very limited supplies, so it's best to bring the bulk of your food with you.
Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Intrepid European and Australian backpackers fresh from the ferry rub elbows with international jet-setters who've just flown in from Ho Chi Minh City at this palm-fringed isle off the coast of southwestern Vietnam. Stretching about 30 miles from north to south, Phu Quoc is the largest island in the Gulf of Thailand, but it has remained a relative secret - most tourists who make it to Southeast Asia bypass the island for more trafficked Thai destinations such as Phuket and Koh Samui.
And while bungalow-style accommodation dominates, the opening of the Phu Quoc's first megahotel last year hints that the island - like the rest of Vietnam - won't remain a travel secret for long.
For now, at least, the beaches are pristine, the reef snorkeling impressive and the delicious Vietnamese fare alone worth the journey. The island is loaded with stunning beaches, but one of the prettiest is Bai Sao, on the southeastern coast.
EAT: Most guest houses offer food, and you're guaranteed a fabulous (and fabulously cheap) fill-up at any street stall selling Pho - Vietnam's aromatic noodle soup that rarely runs more than buck a bowl.
STAY: Budget lodging abounds, with a few bucks getting you a simple bed in a thatched bungalow a few steps from the beach (usually with a hole in the ground for a toilet). If luxury is more your ticket, there's the Grande Mercure La Veranda Resort & Spa, complete with all the accoutrements of any large international chain.
Isla Bastimentos, Panama
Nine Caribbean islands off the east coast of Panama make up the archipelago called Bocas del Toro. For the region's most sublime beaches (and that's saying a lot - Bocas del Toro is loaded with brilliant spots), set your sights on Isla Bastimentos.
Playa Wizard is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with a wide, empty stretch of sand and some of the best surf in Central America. And at nearby Red Frog Beach - accessed by a short hike or boat taxi -- you'll have your best chance of spotting Panama's native poison dart frog.
EAT: Pension Bastimentos (no Web site) -- on a floating dock near the main point of arrival on the island -- dishes up Panamanian staples such as red beans and rice in lively surrounds.
STAY: Near the National Marine Park, Al Natural Resort offers oceanfront bungalows with thatched roofs, mosquito nets, and porches with uninterrupted ocean and rainforest views.

Turks and Caicos' Best Beaches

Providenciales Island
Providenciales, or Provo for short, is the most popular island in the Turks and Caicos chain and the center of the tourism industry, meaning you'll find more beaches here -- but often with more people. Here are some of the island's most popular beaches.
Grace Bay Beach
Grace Bay Beach is 1 of Turks and Caicos' most well-known and beloved beaches. The stretch of fine sand starts in the island town of Leeward and runs 12 miles to Thompson Cove. Many hotels and resorts have cropped up here including the luxurious Grace Bay Club and the all-suite Alexandra Resort and Spa. Grace Bay Beach is part of the Princess Alexandra National Park and, therefore, offers peace, quiet and nature-friendly water sports. Sailing, catamarans and snorkeling are all encouraged, but water skis and jet skis are off-limits. Grace Bay Beach offers fantastic snorkeling: 2 spots that shouldn't be missed are Smith's Reef and Bight Reef.
Long Bay Beach
Tear yourself away from the inspiring beauty of Grace Bay Beach and head east to Long Bay Beach. Unlike Grace Bay, Long Bay is virtually free of hotels (for now). Opening directly onto Long Bay, the shallow waters of this beach are sheltered and waveless, making them perfect for lazy swims. Provo Ponies offers another picture-perfect vacation activity -- horseback riding along the beautiful coast of Long Bay Beach.
Malcolm Beach
Secluded Malcolm Beach is an oasis of calm and relaxation, but to get there you're going to need your sense of adventure. The traditional way to get to Malcolm Beach (sometimes referred to as Malcolm Roads Beach) is by traversing the twisting, bumpy Malcolm roads in a rented 4x4. The reward is worth the journey, but if off-roading isn't your style, you can book a room at the adjacent and peaceful Amanyara Villas. Another plus to booking a villa at Amanyara is that the resort will provide guests with excellent snorkeling equipment for Malcolm's crystal waters, part of the Northwest Point Marine National Park.
Chalk Sound National Park
Chalk Sound is a landlocked lagoon featuring Sapodilla and Taylor Bays, 2 shallow, warm-water coves. The soft, silty bottom of Sapodilla extends almost 100 feet out into the bay, providing an endless playground for young children or the perfect setting for a romantic walk. Chalk Sound National Park comprises a large part of Provo's uninhabited Western half and is the island's best natural attraction.
Pine Cay Island
Pine Cay is a privately owned 800-acre jewel in the Turks and Caicos island chain. It is also home to the Meridian Club, a private island resort with 2 miles of immaculate white-sand beaches. And the Meridian offers an abundance of activities to enjoy its sun-drenched sugary shores: sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving and biking. Meridian will also arrange day trips and excursions so that you can explore Provo, Grand Turk, and Middle and North Caicos while calling the cottages and villas of the resort home.
North Caicos Island
This island is the most verdant of the Turks and Caicos chain and is only 12 miles from Provo, reachable by plane or boat. That makes it a great day trip location for those staying on Provo.
Sandy Point Beach
Sandy Point beach is a pristine crescent of white sand and blue waters. The seclusion of the beach provides the perfect environment for bird-watching. For those feeling more adventurous, nearby caves once used by the Lucayans are available for exploration.
Stay on North Caicos at the newly built ultra-indulgent Royal Reef Resort, the perfect place to enjoy this island's endless summer.
Whitby Beaches
Also on North Caicos are the Whitby beaches, offering shallow coves perfect for snorkeling. Pelican Point beach, in front of Pelican Beach Hotel, is a quiet spot on untouched beaches where amblers can find conch shells of all shapes and sizes.
Grand Turk Island
Grand Turk is home to some of the chain's most beautiful beaches and is also the capital island of Turks and Caicos. The island is rich with history including many Colonial-style buildings and ruins, and the Turks and Caicos National Museum.
Governor's Beach
Governor's Beach is Grand Turk's most celebrated stretch of sand. Within Columbus Landfall National Park, it has wonderful snorkeling opportunities and great picnic spots underneath shady pines. It's also located near the Grand Turk Cruise Center, which makes it a popular day destination for passengers.
Pillory Beach
The Bohio Dive Resort is located on Grand Turk's Pillory Beach, 1 of the most celebrated diving beaches in the world. The resort is beautiful, intimate and friendly; offering fishing, nature watching, bike and scooter rental, and yoga. Book 1 of the resort's 12 rooms or 4 private suites, and enjoy being steps from the beach, dive shack, pool and pool bar.

Best Mayan Riviera Beaches

Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is considered the gateway to the Mayan Riviera; its warm welcoming beaches match the temperaments of its people. The main beach is in the center of town, with smooth natural sand and cerulean waters. To the north and south of this centralized main beach are smaller, private stretches of sand belonging to resorts. Ocean Turquesa is a 5-star hotel located to the north of Puerto Morelos. The modern accommodations offer old-fashioned pampering and service, as well as some of the best sand and sun in the Riviera.
The reef surrounding these idyllic beaches is a protected national park, home to tropical fish, dolphins, turtles and corals. It's the perfect place to snorkel and appreciate the natural beauty of the Yucatan peninsula.
Playa del Carmen
A beachside city that grew up just south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen is now the primary tourist destination in the Riviera. La Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, is the main pedestrian throughway flanked with restaurants, boutiques, luxury shopping and nightlife. The street runs parallel to the ocean, making it a popular meeting place after a day spent soaking in the sun.
The beaches are most populated along Fifth Avenue where many resorts are located. The crowds taper off the farther north you go from this bustling city center. Many resorts, like the 5-star Mandarin Oriental are not only beachside, but every room offers a view of water, be it the lagoon tributaries or the crystal Caribbean.
A more affordable accommodation option is Hotel Kinbe, located on Fifth Avenue. Featuring lush gardens and fantastic views, you'll be only steps away from the hum of Playa del Carmen's nightlife.
Xcaret
Although Cancun might be most commonly associated with an anything-goes spring break scene, there is another aspect to this Mayan Riviera town. Cancun's Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park brimming with culture, nature and plenty of adventure.
The beach here is perfect: sugary white sands meet the warm, crystalline waters of Xcaret Bay. There are plenty of beach loungers in the shade of the palm trees and inner tubes for rent if you want to lounge in the calm waters.
Lazing on the beach is the most relaxing activity Xcaret has to offer. Turn the adventure up by scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, diving in the underground rivers, exploring the coves of the Xcaret lagoon, floating down Paradise River or taking a guided shark tour.
On dry land, you can tour archaeological sites, enjoy a Mexican wine tasting and Xcaret's nightly performances combining traditional Mexican food, dance and theater.
Akumal
Akumal features some of the most stunning beaches on Earth. Offshore reefs protect the silky white sand and filter warm water currents through the coastal caves and subterranean rivers.
In the Maya language, Akumal means "place of the turtles." This natural refuge is still a popular place for sea turtles to lay their eggs; see them between the months of May and November on Half Moon Bay beach.
The protected reef is a favorite snorkeling and dive site. The Akumal Dive Shop has all the gear you'll need and is easily accessible from the main road entering Akumal.
While enjoying Akumal's natural beauty, consider staying at the eco-friendly Vista del Mar. Their green policies are kicked up a notch during the turtles' nesting season. Lights are removed from all the balconies and the security guards are all environmentally certified to assist turtles nesting on Vista del Mar's stretch of beach.
Tulum
Tulum is the only archaeological site located along the Caribbean shores in the Mayan Riviera. Over 60 structures can be viewed within the massive walls that protect the ancient pre-Columbian Mayan city from the sea. The principal structures of the ruins include the city square, the Temple of the Descending God and Temple of the God of the Wind. Within the city square is the Castillo, sometimes referred to as the lighthouse, standing alone on the city's bluff offering stunning views and a sense of historical awe.
There is a small beach beside the Temple of the Descending God where you can swim and sunbathe beneath this ancient city; the same beach where Mayan trade ships would have docked at Tulum centuries ago.
During your stay here, make sure to take the 45-minute night tour of the Tulum's archaeological sites. You'll be guided along lighted paths through the ancient city where the temples and monuments are lit in an array of colors. Enhance your experience by opting for the audio component of the tour.

Nude Beaches

Nude Beach. The very mention of these two words often arouses feelings of titillation, embarrassment, outrage or even a combination of the three. For the thousands of people involved in the naturist movement worldwide, however, the idea of a nude beach seems, well, natural. After all, we all come into this world wearing only our birthday suits. Below is a list of some of the best stretches of sand where beach lovers can shed their skivvies and perfect that all-over tan.

See photos of the best nude beaches

Little Beach
Maui, Hawaii
Officially known as Maui's "unofficial clothing-optional beach," Little Beach is an isolated strand surrounded by high shrubs, craggy volcanic rocks and driftwood. Although nude sunbathing is illegal in Hawaii, the law has not been enforced here for years. As a result, Little Beach has become a favorite hangout for naturists as well as artists like Dr. Leisure, who has been painting colorful scenes from nude beaches for more than a decade. Activities at Little Beach are plentiful, including swimming, body surfing and whale watching.

Haulover Beach
Florida
Just north of Miami lies one of the few county-run and government-sanctioned clothing-optional beaches in the United States. For years Haulover Beach, part of the city of Sunny Isles, has been a haven for naturists from South Florida as well as snowbirds from Canada and Europe. Thanks to the efforts of the South Florida Free Beach Association, this beach has certified lifeguards and organized group activities, such as swimming and volleyball.

Red Beach
Crete, Greece
With its cobalt blue waters, sun-bleached cottages, ancient ruins and red sandstone cliffs, Crete's Red Beach is picturesque to say the least. Made famous in 1968 when hippies from across Europe flocked to its shores, the resort at Red Beach has remained a naturist favorite for its rustic charm and its tolerance (nudity is allowed everywhere except the dining room). Visitors to Red Beach will find the area's ancient caves interesting, as well as sunken bits of history that wash ashore from time to time.

Praia do Pinho
Brazil
Although the barely-there, dental-floss bikini debuted here, nude beaches in Brazil are somewhat rare. However, naturism has caught on in some parts of the country, including Praia do Pinho (a.k.a. Pinho Beach), located in the southern state of Santa Catarina. Pinho opened in 1987 as the first sanctioned au naturel beach, and nudists who frequent this area make a point of saying "clothing is not an option" despite the strand's official description as clothing-optional. Balne��rio Cambori��, the chic city home to Pinho Beach, is very popular with beachgoers from Argentina, Uruguay and elsewhere, and its population is said to increase ten-fold from December through February.

Hedonism II
Negril, Jamaica
Unlike most other nude beaches, Hedonism II promotes a freewheeling and indulgent naturist experience for playful singles and couples. Located in Negril, Jamaica's famous 7-mile white sand beach, the all-inclusive resort is divided into "nude" and "prude" sections, with separate facilities for swimming, sunbathing, volleyball and more. Clothing is optional, however, throughout the entire complex. Visitors can expect to find vast spreads of food and drink, a thumping party scene and, quoting the resort, a "lush garden of playful passion."

Samurai Beach
Australia
Relaxed and lively is the only way to describe Samurai Beach. On this half-mile stretch of white sand, nudists let it all hang out while taking part in volleyball, tug-of-war and Frisbee.

Wreck Beach
Vancouver, British Columbia
Named for a hulking, wrecked vessel that once sat on the sand, Wreck Beach is the shore of choice for Vancouver students. Just several hundred steps below the University of British Columbia, the 3-mile-long beach is a wildlife and nesting area for both bald eagles and bald bodies. Other sections of the beach assume a more carnival-like atmosphere. One stretch on the beach known as Vendors' Row is a 1-stop shop for souvenirs, refreshments and the ever-important sunscreen.

Ochos Rios
Jamaica
The site for nude novices is the Couples Resort in Ocho Rios, a popular Jamaican port-of-call. A unique feature at the romantic, all-inclusive spot is a private, au naturel island approximately 200 yards offshore where playful pairs can enjoy a day of nudity. Located on the island is a pool, cozy nooks for lounging, a cabana bar and, of course, a pristine beach. Although the rest of the complex has a dress code, Couples is the ideal resort for letting loose year-round.

Montalivet Beach
France
Travelers looking for an authentic nude beach experience should go to Centre H��lio Montalivet, the birthplace of the international naturist movement. Established in 1950, this nude beach resort on France's Atlantic Coast provides a safe and legal wilderness setting for nudists and their families. Within the complex are more than 1,800 camp sites, 172 bungalows, shops and facilities for art classes, yoga, soccer and more. No other nude beach or camp on earth rivals Montalivet's family-friendly environment.

Best Caribbean Beaches

The more than 7,000 islands, cays and volcano-fringed coves of the Caribbean are sprinkled across the azure seas like so many glittering diamonds. And when it comes to finding an idyllic stretch of sand all your own, the Caribbean has more than its share of breathtaking beaches.

Here are a few of our favorites, custom picked for beach lovers who know that the perfect mix of sea, sun and sand is indeed a very fine -- and, often, powdery white -- balance.
Saline Beach
Saint-Barthelemy (St. Barts)
Rich and beautiful folks and other emulators of posh tropical leisure have long been lured to St. Barts, a tiny, V-shaped island that barely pushes 8 square miles in size.
Saline Beach, on the southern coast, is the island's most beautiful and secluded slice of paradise. The horseshoe-shaped swath of sand is located a couple miles from Gustavia (St. Barts' main village). From the parking lot, you'll have to hike 10 minutes over a dune to reach the beach here, but it's worth the effort. And while nude bathing isn't officially allowed, many folks cool off au naturel (turn left when you arrive at the beach if you want to hang with more covered-up beachgoers).
EAT: Gustavia's cuisine scene is renowned, and fabulous French fare abounds. One of the best spots to toast your privileged self at sunset is Maya's Restaurant (on the beach, just northwest of Gustavia), famed for fabulous French Creole cuisine in romantic surrounds.
STAY: For the best oceanfront lodging, splurge on a bungalow suite or villa at the Hotel St.-Barth Isle de France on Flamands Beach.

Englishman's Bay
Tobago
Half of the dual-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, the latter island is the least developed and tiniest, and home to one of the most dream-inducing beaches in the Caribbean.
The beach at Englishman's Bay, on the leeward side of Tobago, is buffered by verdant headlands that cradle a U-shaped beach stretching about a mile. On the southern end of the strand, a freshwater stream flows from the island's lush rainforest interior to the sea. And just offshore, brilliant coral reefs ripple with tropical fish. There are no official facilities here, apart from a small snack cart run by a local selling pies and drinks. But when it comes to a secluded spot to lay out your towel in completely untouched surrounds, few beaches can hang with Englishman's Bay.
EAT: Wash down a meal of curried lamb or Creole shrimp with live steel band beats at Toucan Inn & Bonkers.

STAY: Cabana-style rooms open onto a nice pool at Kariwak Village, and the meals are largely sourced from the owner's organic garden.

Pink Beach
Barbuda
Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean is a pretty pair -- Antigua and Barbuda. The latter island is so undeveloped you could almost call it paradise lost. But for beach lovers looking to lounge seaside in an otherworldly locale, Barbuda is most definitely paradise found.
Apart from expensive all-inclusive resorts and sublime beaches, there's little else on the island. But when sandy perfection is your prime demand, Barbuda delivers.
Visitors reach the island by plane or boat from nearby Antigua, which lies 27 miles to the south of Barbuda. The reward when you step onto the silky sand at Pink Beach -- Barbuda's centerpiece beach, located a few miles south of the island's main village, Codrington -- is instantaneous. Nearly 8 miles of deserted oceanfront stretches from Spanish Point to Palmetto Point, and the snorkeling is fabulous. The champagne color of the sand glows rose thanks to the crushed coral in the mix. And it's possible to stroll the beach for miles without seeing another soul. As if the natural lure of the beach wasn't enough, Barbuda is also home to the Caribbean's largest nesting colony of frigate birds, which you can visit by boat.
EAT: Barbudan lobster with butter and lime sauce at The Beach House is a culinary must.
STAY: Set on its own peninsula, Coco Point Lodge is one of those died-and-went-to-heaven oceanfront resorts that charges an arm and a leg for extreme luxury and paradise delivered to your door.

Anse Chastanet
St. Lucia
There are times when the price of beach perfection is higher than others, and this is one of them. Think the mysterious peaks of Tahiti, transplanted to the Caribbean -- such is the exotic lure of the spiky Piton Mountains surrounding this unbelievable beach on St. Lucia's southwestern coast. The beach at Anse Chastanet is intense tropical beauty defined, with the Technicolor green of the surrounding jungle-clad mountains forming a sharp contrast to the dark sand beach and bright white villas dotting the cliffs.
EAT: Carrot and coconut soup and grilled dorado are on the indulgent menu at Nick Troubetzkoy's Anse Chastanet resort.
STAY: It's hard to imagine accommodations more decadent than at Jade Mountain, where the enormous suites boast private infinity pools that overlook the Pitons and Anse Chastanet beach.

Tintamarre Island
St. Martin
Beach connoisseurs are enamored by the beautiful mountain-coddled coves of St. Martin. But if you're willing to go the distance for a more isolated beach experience, arrange a day-trip aboard a catamaran to the island of Tintamarre, situated about 5 miles off St. Martin's north coast.
You'll feel like Robinson Crusoe on the island's deserted beaches lapped by clear blue water. And iron-rich clay, found in the coves here, inspires beachgoers to strip down for spontaneous mud baths (just rinse in the ocean afterward to complete the holistic experience). Part of the Natural Reserve of Saint Martin, development is prohibited on Tintamarre, and there are no lodging and dining facilities.

Florida's Panhandle Beaches

To experience Florida's most pristine and beautiful beaches away from the masses, consider passing on the perpetually populated peninsula and set your sun-loving sights on the state's loneliest region - the panhandle - instead.
Most people associate that northernmost thin stretch of Florida, which fronts the Gulf of Mexico, with the raucous spring break crowds of Panama City. The busy resort town is the heart of an area that has long been dubbed the Redneck Riviera, much to the chagrin of marketing types, who are hard at work rebranding the beaches around Panama City as the 'Emerald Coast.'
Snowbirds, mostly hailing from Canada and the Midwest, abound in the winter months throughout the Panhandle. However, they tend to stick to the populated communities of Fort Walton Beach and Destin. Come summertime, crowds thin out and you'll find endless stretches of solitary sand.
From east to west, we've selected four of the panhandle's most alluring and lesser-known locales.
Dog Island
The Nature Conservancy owns the bulk of this eastern panhandle island, giving you an idea of just how untouched Dog Island is. For unspoiled beaches that you can enjoy largely by your lonesome year-round, few Florida islands can compare. There's only one hotel on the roughly 7-mile-long island, accessed by passenger ferry from Carabelle in the Florida panhandle (50 miles southwest of Tallahassee). You can't bring a car to the 'island that time forget,' as the roughly 100 locals who live here call their sanctuary. But you're guaranteed quiet beaches with powdered-sugar sand, shells galore and aquamarine waters. The only place to stay on the island is the loaded-with-character if lovably ramshackle Pelican Innwhere you can snag one of eight oceanfront studios for your own private retreat.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Jutting out from the eastern side of the panhandle like a delicate fishing hook, Cape San Blas - bound on three sides by the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joe Bay - is home to one of the country's most sublime beaches. At St. Joseph Peninsula State Park located on the tip of the coastal barrier peninsula, 10 miles of uninterrupted spun-sugar oceanfront await. The spit of sand here fronts the crystalline waters of the gulf, and water temperatures in the summer can reach a cozy 84 degrees. The park is a bird watcher's paradise, with more than 240 species found here. And there's a full facility campground set just back from the beach if you want to stay the night. Postcard perfect doesn't even begin to do this place justice; if you like your beach time as close to nature as possible, you'll be in heaven.
Grayton Beach
Bypass the nearby 'Truman Show'-esque resort towns of Watercolor and Seaside for the artsy community of Grayton Beach- a funky little beach burg with heaps more character and equally stunning sands. Hemingway-style wooden homes tucked down side streets 'paved' with crushed oyster shells conjure Florida beach towns of yesteryear. Come sundown, head to the Red Barfor some local color and live jazz - the bar is a longstanding institution, and Grayton Beach's version of Key West's Sloppy Joe's. Nearby, the Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is an unmissable natural attraction with beaches that are more secluded still and unusual maritime lakes dotting the undulating dunes.
Blue Mountain Beach
A blip on the radar between the popular resort communities of Destin and Seaside, near South Fort Walton Beach, Blue Mountain Beach is a residential community with a slew of private beach homes available for rent by the week or season. Save for a few health food stores and gourmet grocers, there's not much of a commercial presence in town - and that's just how locals like it. Regional lore says the beach gets its name from a blue cast that a native wildflower, lupine, gives the dunes. But more obvious are the powdery quartz sands, backed by the constantly turquoise-to-sapphire-morphing Gulf of Mexico. When you've had your fill of lounging on the beach, rent a bike to pedal along the 19-mile paved Timpoochee Trail, which skirts the sea along the scenic County Road 30A.

Vietnam's Best Beaches

Vietnam's idyllic tropical beaches have long been a favorite amongst locals and intrepid travelers. In recent years, the beach scene has inevitably expanded as foreigners discover the turquoise waters and unique scuba diving along the country's central and south coast. While there are plenty of well-appointed resorts, adventurers can find welcoming budget bungalows and even some unassuming beach towns still untouched by developers.

Danang
Danang Beach, a central fighting area during the Vietnam War, is known locally for its great beaches with notable surfing, scuba diving and even a swanky resort. Furama Resort is the grand dame of Vietnam's hotel scene and is continually praised for its 5-star service, top-notch amenities and perfect location on one of the country's best beaches. My Khe beach, known as China Beach to foreigners, has a busy expat scene and was the former recreation base for the US military during the war. The white sands are framed by natural pines and coconut palms, the perfect backdrop for a morning tai chi class or just lounging on the beach.
Nha Trang
Located in the Khanh Hoa province, Nha Trang is a busy beach area known for its endless days of sunshine. The beach is notably home to Rainbow Divers, Vietnam's first PADI-certified dive center. Divers explore hard and soft coral reefs, caves and walls for some of the best diving in the South China Sea. Adventures above water include wakeboarding, kite surfing and banana boat rides. Divers and aquatic athletes relax poolside and exchange stories over unique brews at the beach bar and pool at Louisiane Brewhouse. The luxurious Evason Ana Mandara and Six Senses Spa has a private beach and quick access to the countryside and nearby mountains. The Vinpearl Resort and Spa is a resort island that can be reached by motorboat or the Vinpearl cable car, the longest sea-crossing cable car system in the world. In addition to the 5-star resort, there's an amusement park, shopping mall and endless entertainment options both on the beach and off.
Doc Let
Doc Let is just 30 miles from the bustling beach town Nha Trang, but it offers a vastly different beach experience. There are few tourist facilities making this a popular choice with renegade travelers looking to forgo the crowds to settle into a beach paradise with lots of peace and quiet. The Paradise Resort Hotel has 25 simple but comfortable beach bungalows and a friendly proprietor. Prices include 3 meals a day so there's no reason to stray far from the beach. The White Sand Doc Let Resort and Spa brings 4-star luxury to the area with 54 luxurious rooms and villas overlooking the turquoise waters and private sandy white shores.
Phan Thiet
The fishing village Phan Thiet is a 3-hour drive from Saigon, making it a quick weekend escape from the city. Both Saigon's wealthy locals and expats flock to Cape Mui Ne, a 13-mile stretch of beach just east of the city. Head inland for a cool photo shoot at the unusual red sand dunes that rise above the village creating an exotic dessert vibe. The cozy and laidback Coco Beach Resort is a TV-free zone with thatched roof bungalows scattered around the manicured green lawn and overlooking a private strip of beach. The Novotel Coralia Ocean Dunes Resort is a more modern spot with 3 bars, 2 restaurants and a rare amenity in the area -- an on-site golf course designed by Nick Faldo.
Phu Quoc Island
Located off the west coast of the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island is bit off the standard tourist track. The diverse topography is made up of national forest land, pepper plantations and sprawling white sands beaches. The island still maintains some of its untouched charm with dirt roads, quiet shores and limited tourist services. The most developed beach area is along Long Beach with large resorts and great budget options like the Beach Club. La Veranda Resort, an exclusive boutique hotel, is an elegant seaside escape. This French colonial-style mansion sits located on Duong Dong Beach on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand.

North African Beaches

Egypt
Visitors to Egypt can’t miss the pyramids and the massive temples. But after exploring the ancient ruins and holy spots, it’s essential to check out Egypt’s more modern delights along the Red Sea coast.
Sharm el Sheikh is Sinai’s most expensive beach area with an abundance of high-end resorts and plenty of scuba tour outfitters. All of the rooms and suites at the Four Seasons have a balcony or terrace and most boast a seaside view. Guests can lounge in a poolside cabana overlooking the 10,764 square foot freshwater pool or lounge on the beach. Just a few miles away, Na’ama Bay is another upscale beach resort likened to a ritzy Mediterranean seaside village with international hotels, restaurants and bars.
Across the Red Sea, El Gouna is a town with personality that brings together classic charm and modern touches for a unique seaside experience. There are 14 hotels on 6 miles of beachfront and small islands that are connected by a series of lagoons. Take a 2-hour boat ride to remote islands like Tawila Island and Gobal Island and enjoy a hideaway with dazzling white sands and clear turquoise sea. For more action, Mangroovy Beach has great kite-surfing while the Marina Beach Club has rows of sun beds and chair-side food and beverage service.
The sprawling Port Ghalib complex is just 5 minutes from the Marsa Alam and about 2 hours on the road from the Valley of the Kings. There are 4 hotels in this over-the-top oasis of abundant Arabic gardens alongside majestic pools and lagoons. The beaches outside of the hotels offer prime sunbathing spots, but the real draw is the marina. With an enviable location, the Port Ghalib marina allows divers to easily access the best dive sites in the Red Sea including Rocky Island, Zabagad Island, Daedalus Reef and the Brothers Island.
Most resort towns pride themselves on endless days of sunshine, but the Bay of Dahab relies on wind power to keep the visitors happy. Thanks to a prime location in the wind tunnel of the gulf of Aquaba, the town has 300 days of wind ideal for windsurfing and kite-surfing. Newbies and seasoned windsurfers can hone their skills on a vacation with the Harry Nass Surf and Action Center including lodging, lessons and transportation to the best sheltered lagoons.

Eastern Mediterranean Beaches

Croatia
Croatia has its share of beautiful beaches along the romantic, rocky Dalmatian Coast. Hvar Island is recognized for its vibrant party scene where the young and beautiful sun by day and catch a siesta before indulging in the open-air clubs by night. The Bonj les Bains beach club is an upscale spot to take in the azure waters and the lively scene. Rent a couple of sun beds on a long wooden deck overlooking the sea or opt for a private and romantic stone cabana. You don’t even need to leave the beach for a massage at the Sensori spa. If too much partying has your head in a fog, join the spa staff for the daily meditative walk and give in to the natural splendor.
Dubrovnik has a special spot in the sand for every beach lover, from families to serious sunbathers. The decadent Eastwest Beach Club sits on Dubrovnik’s pebbly Banje Beach. There’s plenty to look at including stunning views of the city’s nearby Old Town and even some possible star-spotting as hipsters and celebrities are known to kick back at the club. At night, the view of the Adriatic Sea is framed by torches and candles creating an exotic party scene. Families prefer the atmosphere at the shady Lapad Beach, Dubrovnik’s largest beach. There are seaside promenades, nearby restaurants and hotels, and supervised swimming.
Kolocep is just a 25-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik, but this unspoiled getaway seems worlds away from the city’s busy pace. Kocolep is part of the Elafati Islands, an archipelago made up of 13 islands northwest of Dubrovnik. The Hotel Villas Kolocep is a lush Adriatic getaway with one of the island’s only sandy beaches. Be prepared to enjoy alternative modes of transportation -- bike, kayak, sailboat or your own 2 feet -- as cars aren’t permitted on the island, adding to the peace and quiet.

Southwest India Beaches

Bask in the Sun in Goa and Kerala

Travelers are slowly uncovering southwest India's secret beaches, a series of lush hideaways dotted with 5-star resorts, remote beach bungalows and ayurvedic spas, the best of which can be found in the states of Goa and Kerala. While there are beaches around Mumbai, including Chowpatty and Juhu, they are generally more popular for people-watching and festivals as pollution makes them a poor choice for swimming and sunbathing. For a truly idyllic beach escape, make your way farther south along the coast to some of the country's best beaches in the states of Goa and Kerala.

Beaches in Goa
Goa has a culture all its own thanks to a Portuguese occupation that lasted nearly 500 years and an influx of hippies that peaked in the 1970s. Today more conventional tourism rules the area. With many Westerners vacationing in well-appointed beachfront hotels, Goa maintains its laid-back charm with afternoon siestas and inviting beaches. The beaches along north Goa promise a more happening scene and busy nightlife, while farther south the beaches offer more peace and quiet.
Calangute
Often referred to as the "Queen of Beaches," Calangute became the epicenter of the hippie invasion in the 1970s. The blissful vibe that once attracted so many hippies to the region remains as visitors enjoy the golden shores during the high tourist season between November and March. Beach sports like parasailing, windsurfing and water-skiing are just as popular as sunbathing. While much of the local lodging consists of simple beach huts, Pousada Tauma is a favorite in town. Though it's a short walk from the beach, this boutique hotel exudes Goan charm with themed luxury suites surrounding a courtyard pool.
Anjuna
Anjuna is a bit like India's version of Ibiza, a sometimes raucous party spot with heady full-moon parties and an anything-goes atmosphere. Backpackers flock to the beach for relaxing, drinking and bonding with fellow travelers, particularly during the photo-worthy sunsets. The most popular event in town is the weekly flea market held on the beach each Wednesday from 9 a.m. until sundown on the beach where backpackers and locals peddle goods including jewelry and rich Indian fabrics.
Baga
The beach at Baga may be peaceful during the day, but the nightlife is legendary. Late-night shenanigans revolve around Tito's, the choice dance club since 1971 with wild dance parties attracting tourists and locals.
Dona Paula
Fringed by rows of delicate casuarina and palm trees, Dona Paula is Goa's lovers' paradise, complete with gorgeous beaches and a romantic myth. As the story goes, Dona Paula was the daughter of a wealthy Indian viceroy in colonial India. When her father refused her marriage to a poor local fisherman, Dona Paula threw herself from the cliffs into the sea. Visitors keen on romance and ghost stories are certain they've seen her lovelorn spirit, wearing just a pearl necklace, walking in the surf at the ocean's edge.
Colva and Benaulim
The beaches in southern Goa are favored by Goans who come for the miles of pristine beaches and unspoiled beauty. Just a few miles from Colva, Benaulim beach is another hidden gem. Local fishermen head out to sea while beachgoers swim in the gentle surf and relax on the sandy golden shores. The Taj Exotica in Benaulim is a luxe hotel option with suites, private villas, children's activities and a spa.
Mobor Beach
The beaches are less populated in south Goa, but there's no shortage of luxury resorts in this region. Mobor Beach is home to the exclusive Leela Kempinski Goa, set on 75 acres of magical gardens and lagoons and overlooking the beach.
Beaches in Kerala
Kerala is a true respite for weary travelers with stellar beaches and famed ayurvedic spas where every last bit of stress melts away thanks to the capable hands of trained masseuses. Visitors come to rest and rejuvenate along the picture-perfect beaches. When you get away from the wide stretch of beach, the terrain turns into lush jungles and sprawling plantations.
Kovalam
Some argue that Kovalam has become overly touristy, but there's still plenty of charm to be found along its 3 crescent-shaped beaches--Lighthouse Beach, Hawah and Samudra--that define the area with water sports, beach huts and fishing boats running out and back to the sea. The grand dame of the area's hotels for discerning travelers is the Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, built into the cliffs overlooking the sea. Pampered guests lounge by the infinity pools, perfect downward dog in yoga classes, relax at the Divya Ayurveda Wellness Spa and make the short trip down to the beach at the base of the cliff. A smaller and equally impressive hotel is the charming Surya Samudra with well-appointed bungalows just a short stroll from serene Samudra beach.
Varkala
Just 30 miles from Thiruvanatharpuram, Varkala is an important cultural spot with rich mineral water springs. Locals believe that a dip in these holy waters will purge your body of sin and impurities. Backpackers and laid-back travelers gather on the sandy shores at the base of the cliffs to watch the sunset. But while the beaches are lovely, the water is quite dangerous in this area with strong currents. Most hotels in the area are relaxing spots, many with Ayurvedic spas. The Varkala Marine Palace is a family-run hotel with 18 rooms tucked between the two cliffs on Papanasam Beach.

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