Whether it's a flawlessly palm-lined coast, incredible underwater reefs teeming with sea life, or the perfect thatched-roof bar serving an impeccable margarita, we all have our own criteria for our favorite beaches in the world. Take a look at what the experts consider to be some of the very best beaches on the planet, and let us know your favorite in the comments section!
Belize
Belize's entire eastern border runs along the Caribbean Sea, and there are also hundreds of cayes found offshore that are completely surrounded by water. As you might imagine, this kind of setup means that you'll find a good amount of Belize beaches to enjoy. The mainland coastal town of Placencia offers what many consider to be the best beach in Belize. Thankfully, wherever you find yourself in Belize, a nice Belizean beach is never too far off. Read more>
Puerto Rico
Flamenco Beach on Culebra island has been dubbed the "best beach in America" and the "best escape beach" by relevant authorities. A mile or so of striking white coral sand is juxtaposed by turquoise waters and well covered hills. But this beach offers more than the best stretch of coast in Puerto Rico - it offers an atmosphere of solitude. Read more>
Seychelles
With breath-taking sunsets, powder-white beaches, the Seychelles are a tropical paradise like no other. And not just because of the endemic coco-de-mer palm whose startling resemblance to the female form has many believing it to be the biblical forbidden fruit. The main islands of this tiny Indian Ocean archipelago are the only mid-oceanic granite islands in the world. Read more>
South Africa
Addington Beach along Durban's well-known Golden Mile, boasts beautiful golden sands and clear warm Indian Ocean waters. It's a broad, sandy shore line extending way beyond the bathing zone. The waters are protected by the entrance of the harbor making it an ideal swimming spot for those who prefer calm waters and for young ones. Read more>
South America
Jericoacoara stands out for its majestic beauty and perfect conditions for Kite and Windsurfing. Jeri, as locals call it, is one of the longest beaches in the world, surrounded by dunes and fresh-water lagoons, which attract visitors in search of peace and quiet but also offers great winds for sports activities. Read more>
Tahiti
Tahiti covers over two million square miles of the South Pacific Ocean and is comprised of 118 islands spread over five great archipelagos. Many islands are crowned with jagged peaks while others appear to barely float above the breaking waves. Spread over an area as large as Western Europe, the total land mass of all the islands adds up to an area only slightly larger than the tiny state of Rhode Island. Read more>
Thailand
The eleven islands at the heart of the Ko Similan National Park are among the most exciting diving destinations in Thailand. Massive granite boulders set magnificently against turquoise waters give the islands their distinctive character, but it's the thirty-metre visibility that draws the divers. Read more>
Turkey
Ölüdeniz is Turkey's most famous bay. This world-famous azure lagoon has a bright sandy beach surrounded by trees. The Meri is the oldest and most beautiful hotel here, and also the only hotel directly on the lagoon. Read more>
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