Top 10 Beaches
Top 10 Beaches
by Peter Graham
by Peter Graham
There are thousands of beautiful beaches around the globe, all offering their own charm and beauty. Then there are the really spectacular stretches of sand that imprint themselves on people's minds and become the dream destinations of millions. With summer spreading across the northern hemisphere, we take a look at ten of the very best beaches. Read and dream or, even better, book a holiday now.
ALCUDIA BEACH, Mallorca, Spain
We could have chosen one of many beaches on the Balearic islands, only a 45-minute flight from Barcelona, as virtually all demand the nod of approval. However, Alcudia gets our vote because of its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The island is a mecca for jet-set glitterati and sun-lovers from around the world, but Alcudia is a world away from the nightclubs of Ibiza or the package holiday atmosphere of Palma de Mallorca.
We could have chosen one of many beaches on the Balearic islands, only a 45-minute flight from Barcelona, as virtually all demand the nod of approval. However, Alcudia gets our vote because of its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The island is a mecca for jet-set glitterati and sun-lovers from around the world, but Alcudia is a world away from the nightclubs of Ibiza or the package holiday atmosphere of Palma de Mallorca.
The walled town of Alcudia offers Roman ruins and a great Sunday market. Its narrow streets are lined with interesting shops, while the port gives you a sense of the fascinating history behind this stretch of coast. Founded by the Phonecians, it was the capital during the Roman occupation. The seven-kilometre beach shelves gently into the sea and is lined with beach huts and sun beds, palm trees, cafes and restaurants. After a day lazing in the sun, dine at one of the seafront seafood restaurants and then enjoy a quiet cocktail at one of the many pubs stretching along the coast.
Our choice of hotel: The Iberostar Playa De Muro Hotel, which is located right on the beach, surrounded by pine trees. Great for families and perfect for a relaxing holiday.
CASTEL PLAGE, Nice, France.
At the heart of the French Riviera, known as the Cote d’Azur, Nice is an ideal base for a holiday. You get great value for money compared to the more ritzy Cannes or St Tropez, but you can still experience the excitement of being in the playground for the European jet set. A holiday here is not for those seeking a quiet, restful time - there's way too much to see and do. This is where you go to the beach to see and be seen, where partying is serious and where you can never be too glamorous.
At the heart of the French Riviera, known as the Cote d’Azur, Nice is an ideal base for a holiday. You get great value for money compared to the more ritzy Cannes or St Tropez, but you can still experience the excitement of being in the playground for the European jet set. A holiday here is not for those seeking a quiet, restful time - there's way too much to see and do. This is where you go to the beach to see and be seen, where partying is serious and where you can never be too glamorous.
Nice has a mixture of private and public beaches, most of them characterised by small pebbles rather than sand. Visiting in the peak of summer, it makes sense to pay for a guaranteed spot on a private beach. Castel Plage is the very last beach along the Promenade des Anglais, and sits at the foot of the Castle Hill. Here you'll get a comfy sun lounger and parasol, and staff to wait on you all day. Dine on warm goat's cheese salad for lunch, washed down by chilled rose wine. Between swims and sips of iced water, make sure you keep an eye out for celebrities. People-spotting is what it's all about.
Our choice of hotel: Opt for a great bargain, the two-star Saint Gothard, or splurge on the very best Nice has to offer, the world-famous Negresco HotelM. The choice is yours.
FIG TREE BAY, Cyprus
Fig Tree Bay is the most beautiful beach on the island, with its crystal clear water and golden sand. It has been awarded the Blue Flag and is a haven for sun and sea lovers. Although it is located in the small, quiet resort of Protaras, it has gained fame as the beach of choice for holidaymakers from nearby Ayia Napa. Well after the sun has risen, the party crowd from Ayia Napa join the families on this stretch of sand.
Fig Tree Bay is the most beautiful beach on the island, with its crystal clear water and golden sand. It has been awarded the Blue Flag and is a haven for sun and sea lovers. Although it is located in the small, quiet resort of Protaras, it has gained fame as the beach of choice for holidaymakers from nearby Ayia Napa. Well after the sun has risen, the party crowd from Ayia Napa join the families on this stretch of sand.
At sunset, everyone heads back to for Ayia Napa, which is the island's party capital with a host of wild discos and pubs. Its hard to believe that it was once a small fishing village. Don't miss its cultural heritage - a Venetian-decorated monastery fronted by a 600-year-old Sycamore tree, and a quaint harbour filled with colourful fishing vessels. Other beaches to consider are Nissi Beach and Nissi Bay, also close to Ayia Napa, and Cape Greco to the east.
Our choice of hotel: The Pavlo Napa Hotel is situated on the beach, but is only two kilometres - or a 10-minute stroll - from the city centre nightlife.
FISHERMAN'S BEACH, Albufeira, Portugal.
Albufeira is situated at the heart of the Algarve, the region at the southern tip of Portugal. With hundreds of beautiful, clean beaches and lovely coves, caves and grottos, it draws holidaymakers from around the globe. The town consists of old and new sections and is spread out over a substantial area. However, its charm is that it has something for everyone. You'll find your spot on one of the beaches or in the labyrinth of narrow streets, lined with whitewashed houses, apartments, cafes and shops, which lead down the hillside to a central square.
Albufeira is situated at the heart of the Algarve, the region at the southern tip of Portugal. With hundreds of beautiful, clean beaches and lovely coves, caves and grottos, it draws holidaymakers from around the globe. The town consists of old and new sections and is spread out over a substantial area. However, its charm is that it has something for everyone. You'll find your spot on one of the beaches or in the labyrinth of narrow streets, lined with whitewashed houses, apartments, cafes and shops, which lead down the hillside to a central square.
Partying teenagers feel as comfortable as newlyweds and retired couples in this holiday hot spot. Our spot is Fisherman's Beach, close to the centre of the town. The beach is a bizarre mix of topless sunbathers and fishermen. The men mend their nets, while the holidaymakers take in the sun. If the sun wears you down, pop into one of the fine seafood restaurants lining the road leading to the beach.
Our choice of hotel: You'll get great value at the Rocamar Hotel, which overlooks the Old City and is close to the beach. Rooms have great sea views.
JUMEIRAH BEACH, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
When it comes to international tourism, it's impossible to ignore Dubai. From a seafaring settlement in the desert, it has become one of the most sophisticated destinations in the world, with fabulous shopping, nightlife and magnificent hotels. When it comes to beaches, Jumeirah is where it's all happening.
When it comes to international tourism, it's impossible to ignore Dubai. From a seafaring settlement in the desert, it has become one of the most sophisticated destinations in the world, with fabulous shopping, nightlife and magnificent hotels. When it comes to beaches, Jumeirah is where it's all happening.
Jumeirah is home to the opulent Burj Al Arab Hotel and it provides a great stretch of sand for fun in the sun. The beaches are clean, the water is crystal-clear and you have all the facilities you need. If you tire of the beach, you can head for the Wild Wadi Water Park, a massive aquatic fun park with 23 fabulous rides and 1,5 metre waves.
Our choice of hotel: If you can afford it, staying at the Burj Al Arab will provide you with the experience of a lifetime. However, you can opt for the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers and you will still feel like a king.
THE MALDIVES
The ultimate tropical paradise, the beaches of the Maldives are the stuff that dreams are made of. Advertised as "the last paradise on earth", this is where you can live your fantasies. A string of 1,190 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Maldivian archipelago is located 300 miles southwest of the southern tip of India and 450 miles west of Sri Lanka.
The ultimate tropical paradise, the beaches of the Maldives are the stuff that dreams are made of. Advertised as "the last paradise on earth", this is where you can live your fantasies. A string of 1,190 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Maldivian archipelago is located 300 miles southwest of the southern tip of India and 450 miles west of Sri Lanka.
The sun, sea and sand was provided by nature, but man has added some of the most spectacular beach resorts to be found anywhere. The Maldives has it all - from modest beach bungalows to lavish over-water villas with glass floors and private butlers. With its wealth of marine life, the islands are a major destination for scuba divers. Its beaches lure families who seek relaxation and comfort, as well as honeymoon couples.
Our choice of hotel: Almost impossible to choose. Take your pick from hotels like the comfortable Kuredu Island Resort to the unsurpassed luxury of the One and Only Reethi Rah Hotel.
MAYA BAY, Phi Phi Lei Island, Thailand
This is the one that featured in the Leonardo Di Caprio movie, The Beach. Yes, the one with the crystal-clear water and soaring cliffs. It remains a huge draw card and, despite the ferries and boats that converge on this small stretch of sand every day, it remains surprisingly pristine. Part of the reason is that the island is a national park and only day visitors are allowed. There are no shops, no tourist guides and no vendors. Although it has almost become a cliché, a trip to Maya Bay remains top of the list for visitors to Phuket Island, Thailand's most well-known destination.
This is the one that featured in the Leonardo Di Caprio movie, The Beach. Yes, the one with the crystal-clear water and soaring cliffs. It remains a huge draw card and, despite the ferries and boats that converge on this small stretch of sand every day, it remains surprisingly pristine. Part of the reason is that the island is a national park and only day visitors are allowed. There are no shops, no tourist guides and no vendors. Although it has almost become a cliché, a trip to Maya Bay remains top of the list for visitors to Phuket Island, Thailand's most well-known destination.
You will probably only spend an hour or two there, before you make way for the next load of goggle-eyed visitors. You can swim or snorkel, but most of your time will be taken up trying to capture the extraordinary beauty of this spot on film. This is everyone's idea of a "dream beach". A trip to Maya is also likely to take in a visit to Phi Phi Don, where you may be lucky enough to find a room. Almost as beautiful, Ton Sei Bay has guest houses and hotels to suit all budgets. It's also home to great restaurants and fun bars that keep swinging well into the night.
Our choice of hotel: The Pee Pee Island Village is a luxury retreat for families and lovers alike, with all the facilities you could wish for on a tropical island. Even further up the coast is the exclusive Zeavola Resort, a five-star jungle beach retreat which lures the rich and famous.
WHITE BEACH, Boracay Island, Philippines
Long regarded as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, White Beach is still in a league of its own. Many hotels, bars and restaurants now line the white sand, but the beach remains clean and pristine. Visitors cannot help being bowled over the spectacular sight of four kilometres of the glistening, white powder, fringed by the aquamarine sea.
Long regarded as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, White Beach is still in a league of its own. Many hotels, bars and restaurants now line the white sand, but the beach remains clean and pristine. Visitors cannot help being bowled over the spectacular sight of four kilometres of the glistening, white powder, fringed by the aquamarine sea.
Boracay Island is all about romance - take a swim at dawn, walk the beach at sunset, have a body massage under the palm trees or enjoy a cocktail at sunset with the sand between your toes. You can also learn to windsurf or surf, but the accent here is on relaxation and recharging your batteries.
Our choice of hotel: Friday's Resort is all you imagine a tropical island retreat to be. Stay in a cottage-styled room with walls of woven bamboo, a thatched roof and gleaming wooden floors.
JIMBARAN BEACH, Bali, Indonesia
It's hard to choose the best beach in Bali, as it really comes down to a matter of taste. If you want to experience the traditional Balinese holiday, with bronzed surfers, beach vendors and beautiful bikini-clad girls, then Kuta beach is the place for you. If you don't want to be far from your five-star resort, opt for the Nusa Dua beaches, but head for Seminyak for the quietest stretches of sand.
It's hard to choose the best beach in Bali, as it really comes down to a matter of taste. If you want to experience the traditional Balinese holiday, with bronzed surfers, beach vendors and beautiful bikini-clad girls, then Kuta beach is the place for you. If you don't want to be far from your five-star resort, opt for the Nusa Dua beaches, but head for Seminyak for the quietest stretches of sand.
If you crave a little bit of everything (topped off by the best sunsets), you can't do better than Jimbaran Bay. It's sparkling clean and the waves are not too high for swimming, windsurfing and sailing. Thankfully, motorized water sports are banned. Jimabaran is still relatively peaceful, with few beach vendors and some great seafood restaurants right on the waterfront. Besides three luxury five-star resorts, there are not many hotels on the beach, but it is easily reached from Nusa Dua and Kuta by taxi. Go there for the day and stay for the sunset and a delicious seafood dinner.
Our choice of hotel: You can't beat the Four Seasons Resort overlooking the beach, but if that's out of your price bracket, try the three-star Puri Bambu Hotel.
BONDI BEACH, Sydney, Australia
Australia's most famous beach is also our favourite. Located only a half-hour trip from the city centre, immerse yourself into Aussie beach life. Home of the oldest surf life-saving club in Australia, Bondi is regarded as the birthplace of the bikini. Watch the lifesavers practice, slug beers at the cafes on Campbell Road overlooking the beach or just lay yourself down on the golden sand.
Australia's most famous beach is also our favourite. Located only a half-hour trip from the city centre, immerse yourself into Aussie beach life. Home of the oldest surf life-saving club in Australia, Bondi is regarded as the birthplace of the bikini. Watch the lifesavers practice, slug beers at the cafes on Campbell Road overlooking the beach or just lay yourself down on the golden sand.
If you want to really mix with the locals, join one of the clubs on the cliffs at either end of the beach, North Bondi RSL and Icebergs. The beach is backed by attractive parkland, where you can relax or play games. It is also a popular place amongst rollerbladers, skaters and cyclists. Whatever you do, make sure you go for a swim and experience the surf. If you're really adventurous, try your hand at surfing. You can hire surf boards and boogie boards from the small hire shop on the beach.
Our choice of hotel: The place to stay is the Swiss Grand Resort & Spa Bondi, which overlooks the beach.
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Kos Island, Greece
The beautiful island of Kos is steeped in history and scattered with archaeological treasures. It is blessed with endless stretches of sandy beaches offering great water sports, while Kos town offers shopping, bars and restaurants. The first class Continental Palace Hotel is located only 50 metres from the beach and opposite the marina, so it is perfect for those who want to cruise the Aegean islands. All 210 rooms have television, air conditioning and big balconies with views of the sea.
Rooms from only Euro 69 per night, including all taxes, breakfast and lunch or dinner. Offer valid from 1 July to 31 August, 2006.
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