BAZARUTO BEACH, MOZAMBIQUE
Bazaruto Beach in Mozambique is an unspoiled paradise that dazzles with its pristine beauty and azure waters. Nestled in the Bazaruto archipelago, this idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of sun-drenched beaches, coral reefs and a diverse underwater world.
The crystal-clear waters offer excellent conditions for both snorkeling and diving, revealing a vibrant underwater world. The beach is lined with swaying palm trees, providing a tranquil backdrop for relaxation. The more adventurous can enjoy water sports such as sailing and windsurfing. The archipelago is a protected national park, which ensures the preservation of its unique ecosystems.
Bazaruto Beach lures travelers with its tranquil charm and is an unforgettable destination for those seeking a tropical getaway.
BOCA DA BARRA BOIPEBA, BRAZIL
PHU QUOC ISLAND, VIETNAM
Well worth the extra flight from the mainland, a few nights on Phu Quoc island is simply paradise and a perfect addition to a Vietnam touring holiday.
The trickiest choice is which location on the island. Long Beach offers convenience if you like dining out and a chance to walk around in the evening, but there are increible private resorts that offer seclusion and the ultimate in luxury (including private pool villas). Can’t choose? A couple of nights at each you say! Great plan.
PRIVATE BEACHES, MALDIVES
Since the Maldives is just one glorious beach after another, choosing a favourite feels almost impossible. But at a push, if you can… Carly’s tip would be to head further away from the international airport to the more remote atolls.
As a bonus you get to travel by thrilling seaplane, and here air and boat traffic are at a minimum so views are uninterrupted and the marine life is undisturbed. We love Ayada for surf fans and families, and Amilla for serenity and romance.
SONG SA, CAMBODIA
Navigating the beaches in Cambodia requires careful planning as some of the main coastal areas have developed quickly in recent years and without much local charm – and this is well publicised.
We know our way around though and will steer you to one of the quieter private islands, or a casual glamping resort in an untouched spot – so you can experience the stunning sand, sea and seafood the way it should be.
Balancing some beach days with time exploring Angkor temples, the capital Phnom Penh and the lush jungle makes for an incredible couple of weeks.
SAILING, GREECE
The joy of being on a luxury yacht is that you have access to far more wonderful swim spots than if you holidayed on land. The quietest beaches have boat only access and the most pristine water can be found by simply jumping off the back of your yacht.
A couple of favourites include the Blue Caves of Paxos…basically the pictures that pop up when you Google Paxos! Your crew can take you there early morning for breakfast so you have private access before it gets busier in the afternoon. Watch the morning sun peak through the white rocks and reflect off that beautiful turquoise water.
If swimming to a beach is more for you, we love One House Bay on Atokos. Brilliant white pebbles and gently lapping waves form your soundtrack as you admire your yacht from the shore.
PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES
Marbree nearly cried when asked for only one jaw-dropping swim spot in the Philippines, saying that’s a bit like asking a parent to pick a favourite child. The country is littered with amazing beaches including dozens known as “secret beach.” One of these is in El Nido and the only way to access it is to snorkel through a deep channel between two soaring limestone cliffs. The current usually makes going in or out easy and the other direction an adventure not for the faint-of-heart.
Once you’re through, a small circle of beach sits within the cliffs with soft sand and crystal-clear water. With the sun shining, it’s achingly beautiful although without a waterproof camera, you’ll have only mental images to look back on. You need a boat to reach the entrance and a guide who knows where the hand-holds are but it’s well worth the adventure!
St Vincent & The Grenadines
Private deserted white sand beaches, reef-protected warm turquoise calm waters, near-perfect climate all year round, exquisite dining…. check, check, check and check.
This 115-acre island is home to lush green hills, palm-fringed beach and miles of rugged coastline. Petit St Vincent Resort’s 22 villas are dotted around the island on the beach, the hillside and the bluff. Swim, snorkel, dive, sail and island-hop in one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the Caribbean.
Zlatni Rat Beach, Croatia
Ash loves basking in the sunshine and soaking up the vibes at the unique Zlatni Rat beach, nestled near the charming town of Bol. This beach is famous for its ever-changing shape sculpted by the tides, making it perhaps the most photographed beach in Croatia.
The fine white pebbles not only add to its beauty but also serve a practical purpose; you won’t find yourself dealing with sand in your pants for weeks afterwards! Plus, thanks to this, the water is beautifully crystal-clear, perfect for a refreshing dip.
If you’re into windsurfing and kitesurfing you’re in for a treat, and as you stroll along the pretty tree-lined promenade from Bol, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the turquoise Adriatic Sea against the beautifully white stone the island is famous for.
Anse Mamin and Anse Chastanet, St Lucia
In St Lucia you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to magnificent beaches, calm azure waters to swim in and fantastic snorkelling and dive locations. It’s more a case of deciding whether you want white or volcanic sand beaches, peaceful coves or larger more well known beaches.
Steffi’s favourite is the gorgeous Anse Mamin, which is just a 10 minute walk from one of the other striking beaches, Anse Chastanet or by boat, of course. This little cove has everything; beautiful sand, gorgeous clear waters, fantastic snorkelling, a jungle backdrop and not to mention those towering imposing Pitons. With a quiet bar, mango tree with fruit for the taking and if you’re lucky a whale breaching in the bay, I don’t think it gets much better this.
Soča River, Slovenia
Slovenia offers abundant natural beauty, from its pristine lakes to majestic waterfalls. Crystal clear waters and breathtaking landscapes are accessible at numerous natural bathing sites. The inviting turquoise hue of the Soča River beckons all to immerse themselves.
While the river offers various swimming spots, the boldest adventurers must try cliff jumping at Velika korita. Located at the Great Soca Gorge’s end, it offers tranquil emerald pools where rapids calm down. Among the well-known spots are the gravel areas between Kobarid and Tolmin, including the Tolminka and Soča rivers’ confluence in Tolmin, hosting various festivals.
For the most daring, Čezsoča promises a refreshing experience. Further down, enjoy swimming in Kanal and Solkan, with the added bonus of a kayak center. Slovenia’s natural wonders provide endless opportunities to connect with water and the great outdoors.
Cenotes, Mexico
Cenotes (which feel like something out of a movie!), are swimming holes formed naturally by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, this creates underground water pools. The Mayans revered cenotes because they were a source of water in dry times and cenote means ‘sacred well’.
Each one is unique and they are the perfect place to cool off in the most beautiful natural surroundings.
Cenote Xkeken: has some incredible rock formations and swimming under its sprawling stalactites is a magical experience.
Sidi Kaouki Beach, Morocco
If you seek a secluded and unspoiled destination, consider visiting Sidi Kaouki beach – a natural beauty where you will experience tranquility and a pleasant atmosphere. The beach is situated in a Berber village, the lifestyle in the vicinity is modest and straightforward.
Many surfers flock to this spot for its impressive waves. The long, sandy beach is perfect for strolls, horseback or camel rides, for example at sunrise, and also offers adrenaline-pumping quad biking experiences.
In the summer, the winds make the stay at Sidi Kaouki Beach even more enjoyable, allowing you to indulge in a relaxing experience.
Sri Lanka’s best kept secret beaches
The best things in life always require a little effort; trek through the jungle to reach the beautiful cove of Jungle Beach near Galle but fear not, it isn’t far and the path is easy. However, we simply had to choose Karpaha Sands, Kalkudah as Sri Lanka’s best swim spot and beach.
Karpaha Sands boasts 15km of white-sand untouched pristine beach dotted with palmyra palms from an old coconut plantation. Think calm turquoise waters, lagoons, ancestral fishing and the freshest seafood.
We suggest staying at Karpaha Sands between May & September when the weather is at its best on the East Coast.
