Introducing the World Beach Map

Where are the Best Beaches in the World, and how do you find them? Welcome to our site which not only chooses the top three beaches at vacation destinations all over the globe, but we pride ourselves in giving you relevant data and pictures from people just like you; not the flashy tourism brochures which can crop and paint over reality. We love beaches, and have been fortunate to visit hundreds in our travels. And people have been gracious enough to send us their favorites and tell us why they think that the beaches are worth a visit.

You will notice that we give conditions of the beach, along with things we found you can do at the beach, and if we recommend you spend the time to visit. There are many beaches that are just off the beaten path or only known by locals that are out of this world. Many never hear of them because they are secluded, or near any commerce. But we found them and now you can, too!

Start by clicking on the map below where you want to visit. We're bound to have what you are looking for. You'll find comments from other visitors as well. Explore now and welcome to Three Best Beaches!


Click on an area of the map above and wander off into the wonderland of the World's Best Beaches. We did the work - you can do the choosing. And if we don't have your beach, we've made it easy to send us a message asking for it to be included.

In fact, if you own or operate a resort or bed and breakfast anywhere in the world near a beach, we'd love to hear from you as our readers enjoy the many stories we already have in the pages of Three Best Beaches of hidden paradises around the globe.

It all started with Three Best Beaches. We flew to the vacation beach destination and then did exhaustive homework from photos to restaurants to must see attractions. We graded, and still grade sand conditions, drive to the beach, parking, and best times to go.

For example - this awesome beach in Brazil is hidden away down a semi-steep trail. You'd never know it was there unless you asked the locals, as we did. With a dozen other beaches in the area, this one was our hands down favorite. You can read more about it, here. These are the gems that keep our readers coming back.

From three beaches, we expanded, by demand, to ALL the best beaches at the location. And as we grew, we had to depend on local reports until we get our team out to check. But you have the opportunity to report as well. Any beach you have been to, simply comment about it at the bottom of the page and that will be added to the material on that beach.

We also have a great feature - the Beach List! When you're on the Beach List, you're notified of great deals we come across, plus any security items we learn. Travel in confidence and save money by subscribing right now to the Beach List. You'll find the link to the left under the heading Suggest a Beach.

Our travels have taken us to Kauai, Hawaii, where we enjoyed some of the most breath- taking beaches in the world. And one thing is nice about Hawaii; it's relatively safe. We found it clean and the water simply sparkling. Read more about that, and a complete spread on every beach in Maui, here.

We've been featured on TV, most recently, on BBC's World Service. Their program "Click" gave us a full review sending viewers to check out some of the top beaches of the world. And they made a nice comment about the many, many videos we feature on the website. Make sure you check them out when you view the beach you want to visit.

Our visit to Aruba took us back to the island fifteen times where we ventured to almost every inch of shoreline. This tiny island in the Caribbean is huge with contrasts. On our first visit, we were in awe how cactus could grow in the tropics. One shore of Aruba is shallow, pristine white sand beaches, while the other side is rocky, deep and rough seas that open to the Caribbean Sea. Yet on this rocky north shore, we found an area rich in elk horn coral so large and beautiful it seemed we were in a fantasy land.

In the Maldives, we enjoyed every minute of the wonderful peacefulness of a group of islands that are literally in the middle of nowhere. And each island is home to a resort - at least the small islands. Talk about feeling isolate and remote! But God has had His handiwork in these island that are a must-see if you are a beach lover. Take a look at Maldives, here.

And Zanzibar has everyone talking. We can't stop our chatter about how fascinating this island of spices is home to both extreme wealth and old fishing villages that date back hundreds of years. The people here are just charming and make for a delightful experience if you are ever privileged to go. The beach area is very close to old parts of Zanzibar and you'll get to see first hand the people and the way they live. Visit those beaches, here.

We're expanding Australia. Many beaches and flavors in the land down under. In fact, we get requests all the time to review beaches that are off the beaten path. Australia is home to one of the longest beaches in the world. So put on your Vitamin A Swimwear and come visit this paradise..... Beaches Down Under - what everyone is talking about.

If you'd like more information about Three Best Beaches, or about a beach in particular, just write us - in the Suggest a Beach area - and we'll reply. And thanks for joining our community here. We appreciate you!

Here are a few of the TOP beaches we've reported on. Start with South Beach, Miami.

Best Beaches of Puerto Rico

Based on a recommendation by one of our readers, we ventured to the islands that make up Puerto Rico and came back with some of the most astonishing beaches! Yes, even next to our arrival airport - San Juan International, there's a community beach that's hard to beat.

As we followed the 272 miles of dramatic coast, we stop at each of the best beaches in the area. There are beaches for bird watchers; beaches for swimming; beaches for sailing; surfing, diving, snorkeling, kiteboarding, windsurfing, boogie boarding - one for each passion!

Taino Indians called these beaches home when Christopher Columbus arrived in the New World in 1492. But Spanish explorers made them extinct in little time when they exploited them and brought disease the Tainos had no defense against.

With the Spanish-American War in 1898, Puerto Rico became a possession of the United States. Citizens became American Citizens. Nonetheless, a battle for autonomy runs warm throughout much of the land. Many are divided because they want what American citizenship gives them, yet they desire autonomy as well.

Politics aside, the people we found in Puerto Rico were so hospitable - it reminded us of our journey to Buzios, Brazil. And, truthfully, the beaches are very similar. Here, you'll find beach vendors. These are people who sell goods right on the beach. We found all types of delicious Caribbean food, from seafood to chicken - most cooked right on the beach over hibachis. Aren't hibachis from Asia? Multi-culture exists here, but the main form is born and bred Puerto Rican. They are proud and not hard to find. And they have a ton of excellent beaches to experience as well.

Other vendors sell sarongs and towels, suntan lotion, and souvenirs. A few stay at posts near the entrances to the beaches, and a few wander the beaches. This is customary here. Some of the balneareos - beach areas - had a few dollar access fee. And they use the American dollar here - so no exchange.

Speaking of that - American citizens can fly down here on nothing more than ID and an airline ticket. You don't need a passport. That's convenient and simple - so you have no excuse not to check out some of these beaches soon.

We found the beaches well kept and five of them are world class Blue Flag beaches - an honor very hard to acquire. Come venture with us as this month we take a close look at the many Beaches of Puerto Rico! >>

Cocoa Beach Florida

Think Cocoa Beach and you may think space shuttles and world class beaches. If you do - you're right on the money. Cocoa Beach is a family-friendly town with prices so low, it make great sense to headquarter here for your Florida vacation instead of Orlando. Besides, there's only so much madness you can take. Cocoa Beach will relax you - it did us. Here are the kiddos taking a break.

Cocoa Beach has a beach, is minutes away from the Kennedy Space Center and a short hop from Disney. You'll pay much more to stay near the parks and guess what? No ocean!

NASA's influx in the early 1960's put sleepy Cocoa Beach on the map. Hundreds of engineers, technicians, designers and assistants moved in and really, little has changed. You'll find the same family-run motels that seem to be stopped in time.

Beach access in Cocoa can be found at the end of many streets that run to the ocean. We found this ideal as traffic flow around the Cocoa Beach Pier is nice. Parking is ample and there are a few parks where you can spend the day.

Cocoa Beach is an All-American beach: green water, wide, coarse-grained and sometimes brown-sand beach with every race imaginable (and swimsuit size). We found most people hang out around the pier area - on Atlantic and Meade toward the north end of Cocoa Beach.

Surf is best on the north side of the pier. The beach is ideal for kids on the south side. But we didn't find any lifeguards. Make sure you're watching where your kids are. And take note of possible rip-currents. We saw signs posted for them.

If your timing is right, you just might see a rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center, just north of Cocoa. You'll know when it happens. Everybody and their brother will be looking skyward and taking in the majestic event. The orange flame in the picture here is the Space Shuttle. Click the picture for a larger view.

We're off to Aruba in the Dutch Caribbean where Palm Beach reigns supreme! Next! >>

Ipanema Beach - Rio de Janeiro, RJ - Brazil

Best Beaches searching takes us South of the Border! Wow, what can we say that hasn't been sung about Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil? Back in the 60's Tom Jobim and Viní­cius de Morais penned the famous lyrics and music to "The Girl from Ipanema" about a girl they saw on this very beach. Though both have passed, the girl and beach still live on.

It's Ipanema Beach in Rio, the starting place for the Brazilian bikini, or "tanga" as it's called, along with the G-string bathing suit for men. And who could forget the dental-floss bikini? You'll still see many of all these right here on Ipanema.

Granted, it is one of the most urban beaches on the planet - but still, it's Brazil's most popular tanning spot. And, we think it's one of the best for people-watching.

Where else on the planet do you have mountains cascading down to the sea, interspersed with golden white sand beaches and tropical flora showcasing every vista? Come to Ipanema Beach to grab a bit of samba, a bit of the Brazilian flavor, and to relax among the sweeping Atlantic ocean views.

When you go, what can you expect? Beautiful weather, miles and miles of pure white sand and yes, people. The locals flock to Ipanema Beach from the suburb of Ipanema (and surrounding burbs). But you'll be able to enjoy the sound of the surf, the sun, and don't forget, "people watching". Ipanema Beach has it all - with street vendors stopping by with local favorite snacks, seafood and coconuts - so you can drink the milk right from the coconut with a straw. Don't worry, they open the coconut right in front of you.

In case you'd rather have more "space", don't think every day brings a crowd. The locals come mainly on holidays and weekends. The beach is quiet from sunrise until about 10:30 AM. For a real treat, take your camera to take pictures of the sun rising over the Atlantic. It is spectacular.

There are two sports played on Ipanema Beach in Brazil. The main one is soccer. Where there is a ball, you'll find guys and even some gals now and then, playing their hearts out at the national pastime. See if you can picture a few above.

The second sport, (not counting people watching), is beach volleyball. Remember the past Summer Olympic Games; Brazil was in its element. You will find many soccer and volleyball games going on right on the beach. Join in, or simply watch the beauty.

Now, when When you need to take a break, simply cross the Avenida Atlantica to the upscale shops, awesome eateries and nightspots. If you're into a little history, make sure you visit Rue Viní­cius de Morais, and the Velloso Bar where the two greats wrote the memorable song.

On Saturday, try the local Feijoada, a spicy bean stew at the local restaurants. Plan to be in the area on a Sunday where the Hippie Fair offers the very best from local artists. This thing started back in the days of hippies and hasn't slowed. Favorite finds are Brazilian musical instruments and the Brazilian Naif paintings (primitive art). The colors are spectacular. If you buy one, the beautiful frame which costs hundreds at home, is a bargain. If at all possible, have them dismount the frame and bring it back as well. Take some of Brazil home with you. At night you'll want to visit the many cafés and bars to get a real taste of Brazil.

Then you'll know why the Girl from Ipanema still lives here.

BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - white powder, medium grain
• Facilities - various along the crescent
• Shade - none, but inexpensive umbrella rentals abound. You face east, so remember that mid-morning to early afternoon are ideal for tanning.
• Sports - none, bring beach games if you like. Soccer and volleyball games abound.
• Notes - swim, surf, tan, people watch

December to March is warmest - 77 to 95F (25 to 35C). Their winter is June through August - 55 to 64F (13 to 18C). New Year's Eve and Carnival are the busiest times - book well in advance.

Don't miss the cable car ride to the top of world famous Sugarloaf Mountain in the city. Unforgettable romantic vistas.

There are two cables; one to the first mountain, then another to the top of Sugarloaf.

As you ascend, look for rock wall climbers making their way to the summit. They climb daily, mostly starting in the morning and continuing through daylight. Sugarloaf is a must climb if you're in Rio!


Go on a clear day to avoid disappointment. Cloudy/foggy days will leave you nothing much to see.

Ipanema Beach is the beach to the left. Copacabana Beach is to the right.

Check out other Best Beaches of Brazil.

Julio Iglesias, Oscar de la Renta call this next country their home away from home - with more beaches than most countries its size. Check out the spectacular beaches of the Dominican Republic, Next! >>

Punta Cana Beach - Dominican Republic

A Virginia DUI Lawyer states their best time was in the wonderful eastern coastal wonderland of Punta Cana. But, no way would we have thought of quick divorce and Dominican Republic synonymous. Yet, lawyers from the "DR" seem to have a corner on that market. If there were one place in the Caribbean we could point you to for inexpensive resorts and sugar-white beaches, the Dominican Republic would be our destination of choice. It's romantic! And, it's the fastest-growing destination in the Caribbean because of the low prices and beautiful terrain. Especially, the Punta Cana area - what a boom!

Canadians have known about the Dominican Republic for years. The make up the bulk of North American tourists. But Americans are now waking up to the bargain and websites are catering to their every need.

Columbus found the Dominican Republic on his very first voyage to the New World. He said it was, "the most beautiful island in the world". A settlement was founded in 1493 and ruins still remain near Montecristi.

The Dominican Republic is located amongst the islands of Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. It is on the isle of Hispaniola (meaning Little Spain), and is divided between Haiti on the west and Dominican Republic on the east - about the size of the state of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Most of the island interior is sugar cane plantations.

The cool thing is that much of what Columbus saw still remains - a natural, virgin landscape - still unspoiled. And, one-third of the island's coastline is the awesome beaches, which we'll review next!

Dominican Republic - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - Most beaches are brilliant white, due to the high content of coral/shell.
• Facilities - DR beaches have full facilities near the tourist centers.
• Shade - Expect tall coconut palms. Tourist beaches offer umbrellas/shades.
• Sports - Full service at tourist centers. Sports fishing great in most areas.
• Notes - best time to visit - late November to April, as humidity is lower, temperature cooler. However, resorts are reporting high volume throughout the year due to the great bargains currently found.
  

Check out the exciting Punta Cana Resort Video pages!

This next beach was once a rated beach of 2005. And, it's in America! More people call Cocoa Beach the most space age beach park on the planet. Next! >>

Poipu Beach Park - Best Beach in the World

The Best Beach lies in an island chain in the Pacific. If you think surfboards and outriggers at Waikiki when you think of Hawaiian beaches, you're in for a surprise. But, you'll get the best of everything at the beach that made the top of our list.

First - a travel note that will keep you happy during your time spent in the land of leis and grass skirts. Hawaiian beaches are busiest during the US winter month, specifically between December to February. This is High Season (read: high hotel prices, airfares, crowds!)

And while we're mentioning seasons, note that June through October are the hottest months with temperatures getting near 90 F, and the humidity in the 70% range. Some areas are drier, but don't count on it. Pack accordingly. Remember that you'll be at the beach most of the day and can dip in the cool Pacific Ocean any time you feel like it.

December through March are the wettest months. Expect a shower, especially if you are visiting our beach pick on the "Garden Island" of Kauai. But it shouldn't last long.

Poipu Beach Park - Best Beach in the World

You come to Hawaii to see the spectacular beaches, and the well cared for beaches. Granted, there are similar islands (ocean/sand) in the world, but none quite kept as pristine as the Hawaiian island. So expect a nice clean beach.

Hawaii travel tip #1 - Don't just book Honolulu.

Because Hawaii is an island chain, you do yourself an injustice if you visit only Oahu (Honolulu). Because of the commercialism (which you're trying to leave a little behind, no?), you will be charmed by Oahu; its many attractions and activities, but you won't know Hawaii unless you book a hotel on two other islands – we recommend Maui and Kauai.

Poipu Beach is on the island of Kauai.

Kauai is the least developed of the four major Hawaiian Islands. You've seen the dramatic landscape in King Kong, Raiders of the Lost Ark and Jurassic Park. And who could forget Fantasy Island? The opening waterfall scene was shot at Wailua Falls.

When you visit Kauai, think Grand Canyon - it's that big and breathtaking. So when you tire a bit from the beach scene, take an afternoon off and go visit the countryside. You will be inspired and thankful that you read right here to include it in your itinerary. Every video you've ever seen of Hawaii and the breathtaking contrasts is even more spectacular when seen in person.

You don't have to go on a helicopter tour, but if you do, you're in for a once in a lifetime treat. Most companies video tape the entire ride so you don't have to. Just sit back and enjoy the beauty.

Now on to the beach.

Poipu is really a series of three white crescents, which hug some of the most awesome turquoise water on Kauai's south coast. To give you an idea of how big it is, it starts at the Sheraton Kauai Resort and goes to the Poipu Beach Park.

Excellent for swimming, snorkeling and yes, even surfing during the winter months - you can find waves in a couple of different places along the beach. Families find it great since the smaller kids can wade in the middle of the crescents, while the bigger kids can check out the surf near the rocks. And remember, the snorkeling is better close to the rocks. The reason is because there is less sand and silt in the water. Coral does not grow where there is silt run-off from the shore.

You will be happy to know at the Best Beach in the World, Poipu Beach Park, there's a lifeguard on duty. The park offers showers, restrooms, picnic tables and shade. The grass is well manicured and we found no trash or debris on the property. In fact, a crew keeps the grounds clean all through the day. So, stay the whole day if you like!

Now if water-play isn't your piece of cake: warm Pacific ocean, surfing or skim boarding, boogie boarding, snorkeling; well, you'll be enamored by the palm fronds swaying in the wind while you lay out or catch up on your latest novel as you hear the gentle surf come to shore as its done for thousands of years. The beach, three crescents, is big enough that you'll feel like you're on your own little piece of paradise. And come to think of it, you truly will be.

BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - gold, medium powder, some rock
• Facilities - showers, restrooms, picnic tables, bring food and snacks
• Shade - palm trees
• Sports - a few rental facilities close by
• Notes - swim, snorkel, surf - something for everyone on this World's Best Beach

Now, let's take a look at Florida's pride and joy - West Palm Beach! - Next! >>

West Palm Beach Florida

Some of wealthiest people on the planet call Palm Beach County their home. But you don't have to be a socialite to enjoy West Palm Beach. While researching for the best beaches, we found a string of celebrities also make West Palm Beach home base. Come see why!

Nestled north of Miami on the Atlantic Ocean in beautiful South Florida, West Palm Beach has some of the most enjoyable beaches. Beaches that will have you coming back because we found them to be well groomed and cared for. And there is such a choice - from small, secluded to mile long beaches for the community. West Palm Beach is a vacation destination cherished by not only Americans, but thousands of people from Europe and beyond.

Initially you might think it's because of the natural beauty of the swaying palms, the grand Atlantic Ocean out the front door, or the year-round temperate climate - only a tad humid in the full summer. It is all those things and more: the proximity to an International airport (PBI is known for it's non-stop business jet traffic), the ability to have a spectacular yacht nearby, and knowing you are still in the USA, although it feels like a tropical paradise.

The palm-lined streets are a reminder, and the beach - one of the best on the East coast. What sets West Palm apart is the spirit - vibrant with activities - a favorite Spring Break destination. Plenty to keep you busy as a visitor, or resident.

There are plenty of local hotels and condo rentals along the beach, but plan early. They fill up fast because the price is right and weather is so fantastic during this time of year with temperatures in the mid to upper 70's and humidity hovering around 55%.

Best times of year to visit the West Palm area, and really, anywhere in south Florida, is between the first snow up north (New York, Ohio Valley) and Easter. Humidity drops to a right tolerable percent. People get out of their homes and condos and walk. Beach walking is a big favorite here. Starting at around 8 AM until lunchtime, you'll find couples of all ages walking the strands of sand, weather permitting. Along the beach, shells and whatever else is memorable can be taken home, as long as it's not living. Best bet is just to leave it there and take a picture of it.

If you're into collecting shells, West Palm Beach has its share. Find out when the low tide time is and plan a day walking the beach then. Take some sandals that you can get wet and some sun block. The earlier the better because the locals know that low tide is the best time for shelling. On shallow sandy areas, look for sand dollars. Granted, you'll find live ones, too. Leave those and get the shells. Clean them up and they make good memories of your time here in West Palm Beach.

And after the shelling and walking, you can find a nice place to eat close to the beach all along West Palm. Pick the eatery with the most cars in the parking lot and you can't go wrong. If you want to hear a little history, just ask some of the locals about how their city has changed in the last 20 years or so. They'll tell you stories of progress and loss, but all in good humor because, well, you're in paradise - south Florida's West Palm Beach.

And the nightlife is simply world class! Find fun at the Improv Comedy Club right along Highway 1. Close by is Respectable Street Cafe and Rumbas's Night Club. For more dancing, check out Coco Bongo or Club 35 Sunset, all right there in central West Palm Beach. You can park and walk to each of these without a problem.

Let's fly off the East Coast and land in the Bahamas where we check out another unique beach - and it really IS pink! Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas - our Next stop! >>

Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

It's located on Harbour Island in the Bahamas, just 50 miles east of Nassau. So close to mainland USA that to miss this beauty would be unforgivable. So, we didn't. And others make it a point to visit this wonder of nature as well. This is Pink Sands Beach.

Harbour Island is a tiny speck, only 3 1/2 miles long and so narrow, you can easily see the other "coast". Whoever first set foot here truly found paradise. It has one of the oldest Bahamian communities. Know the pictures of pastel colored houses? They're here! From the 1800's right on the shoreline, what a memory. If you're here for the beaches, make sure you take in the culture. Walking is best, followed by a nice ride on a golf cart. We were thinking that stocks in the local golf cart mechanic might be a winner. A real treat and "winner" as well is the food here. Don't let "conch" scare you. Yes, it's related to the snail, but tastes totally different. Especially if you've never tried snail. OK, you're in for nice meal and they make it with everything - just like Bubba on Forest Gump and his shrimp that goes with everything.

The people here are special, too. Everyone we ran into was super-hospitable. They seem to go out of their way to make you feel welcome. And somehow that translates to the whole tip of Harbour Island. You come by air or water-taxi from North Eleuthera.

Here's what we found:

Pink Sands is a resort. The resort was named after the beautiful pink sandy beach. The resort is an 18 acre hideaway of luxury, natural beauty, and most importantly - privacy. 21 cottages around 1000 sq ft and four two-bedroom cottages around 2000 sq ft line the beach. Make your reservation in advance because this wonderful place fills up and you don't want to stay anywhere else. One thing we liked about Pink Sands and the whole deal about staying on Harbour Island is that we felt close to the U.S. People here are downright friendly and accommodating and not just because they are employees. We found locals just as nice and open.

The beach is pink because of the red coral in the area. Mixed with the white sand it appears pink. What was striking to us is the contrast with the deep blue sky and the green vegetation. Opportunities for pictures abound. Best times are early morning before you get too many harsh shadows messing up your shot, and late in the afternoon. Don't worry about not having enough light. The sun is almost always shining here. Rain showers occur mid afternoon.

The shore slopes slowly and the sandy bottom goes for quite a ways out. Some coral remnants and rocks are clustered about, but no need for shoes. Try walking as far as you can on the beach. If you're not thinking of going in the water, take a set of good walkie-talkies from home and keep in touch as you both explore this side of the island.

Hey, put on your Hula skirt and let's hop over to Hawaii - specifically, Maui, with our Best Pick of 2006 - Kaanapali Beach! Next! >>

Palm Beach - Aruba

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When decisions must be made about where to travel to this vacation, Aruba might be the best choice for you. We found reliable, near perfect weather. So when we knew we had to make the best of a week away from home, Aruba guaranteed us 7 days of ideal tanning conditions: clear, sunny skies (just look at these pictures), Caribbean warm temperatures, and at night - oh my goodness - cool breezes.

Located on the southwest coast of the island, where constant trade winds keep you cool, is Palm Beach, Aruba's "Best Fun Beach", home of High-Rise hotels.

Attorneys and lawyers of all types have camped on Aruba over the past year; and yet the case of a missing teen here has never been solved. The attorneys and lawyers are gone, but the mystery remains.

What a beach! Palm Beach is brilliant white and the perfect place for people-watching. Palm Beach sits south of Hadicurari, and is always buzzing with sailing, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and everyone's favorite: sunbathing. The sand here is so great, that hotels that border it have crews that sift it every morning to clean it of shells, debris.

Because Palm Beach is centrally located, it can get busy. There are two piers and a variety of water sports operators here. This beach is more agitated than any other beach on Aruba. The best spots seem to be between the Holiday Inn and the Marriott to the north. Look for a nice area near the Divi Phoenix to the south as well.

You can spend over an hour walking from one end of Palm Beach to the other. Now, what's fun about this is that you'll be able to stop at the high rise hotels for refreshments. Each resort opens their property to the beach and have everything from snack bars to open bars. A few have beautiful gardens and waterfalls complete with animals.

Tip: Hotels are pretty full, even during the off-season (from mid-April until mid-December), but you can save up to 50%!

What to wear: Dress is casual. Shorts, nice shirts, blouses. Some restaurants are "elegant casual"; long pants, sundresses. Reservations are appreciated.

Palm Beach - Aruba - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - medium grain white powder, soft, very clean, groomed daily
• Facilities - lies along the major hotel and resort strip
• Shade - mature palm trees
• Sports - all water sports
• Notes - can get crowded around major hotels

They are singing and dancing the Samba at our next World Beach, but we caution you to watch yourself at this jewel of South America - Ferradurinha Beach in Buzios is Next! >>

Kaanapali Beach - Maui - Hawaii

Because of its prime location, Kaanapali Beach is lined with upscale resort hotels, but don't let that keep you from going. Those guys built there for a reason. Kaanapali Beach is the most breathtaking beach in the island chain.

This three mile spectacle goes by different names, so write these down before you head out. Keke'a Beach, Canoe Beach, Dig Me Beach, Kahekili Beach, Black Rock Beach and Hanakaoo Beach. It's like traveling through a big city and the street changes names depending on what neighborhood you're in. A large lava rock (the Black Rock) divides the beach.

Don't confuse this with Big Beach which is also totally awesome, with the best skim boarding on the island, and another very beautiful strip. The sand for both is about the same - volcanic mix with coral - a tan color.

High surf can get rough, especially during the northern hemisphere winter months. And be careful as strong currents around Black Rock may occur at times. Monitor ocean conditions closely. Remember to obey all postings and warnings.

Whatever your whim in beaches, you'll find it here. The snorkeling and scuba diving are absolutely the best on Maui. Swimming and sunbathing are ideal. Boat tours, fishing, kayaking, sailing, and my favorite - people watching, are just a few of the many activities.

So what you give up in isolation you make up FUN!

And if you're the one in your party who can't spend an entire day at the beach, dozens of shops and wonderful restaurants are within walking distance.

Here, a group of scuba divers start out near the famous Black Rock. The water is so clear, divers often describe it as floating in air.

The variety and color of fish is second to none. The waters of the Pacific Ocean have the most awesome specimens. It's no wonder they call it the best beach of the Hawaiian Islands - Maui's Kaanapali Beach.

Once you take a trip here, you'll be back again and again, and it only makes sense to plan ahead and find the very best pricing on hotel rooms near Kaanapali Beach. There are many to choose from. You don't have to buy right now, just lock in your price and wait. You may not feel the same later, or when you do check some months from now, you'll find that the price has literally skyrocketed. So take your time and check Maui listings now and see what the best price is for the time you are interested in.

Kaanapali Beach - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - gold, medium to coarse, clean.
• Facilities - full service.
• Shade - trees, umbrella rentals.
• Sports - watersports lover's paradise.
• Notes - highly recommended, busy.

Satellite view of Kaanapali Beach in Maui.

Well worth the stop. Now one place sure to get your feet moving. Let's drop in on Ipanema Beach, Rio - the world's most charming. Next! >>

South Beach - Miami, Florida

Finding the Best Beach takes us to the USA. It's been called The American Riviera, Hollywood of the East. Some know it as Sobe, or the Art Deco District, but whatever you call it, Miami's South Beach (or South Miami Beach), is open year-round. This is excess to the max. What makes South Beach an international playground is the non-stop nightlife in the beautiful Art Deco hotels and night clubs - and of course the wide, sandy shores. Want to visit?

It doesn't hurt that the water is nearly crystal clear and medium shallow. Plus the waves are gentle, perfect to slip into after relaxing in the sun. Soft to the feet, and always a gentle breeze to keep you cool, South Beach, Miami, welcomes you with open arms.

A perfect place to people-watch, South Beach, Miami enjoys great weather. During the busy winter months you will go weeks with warm sun. South Beach, Miami is a popular Spring Break destination as well. Even so, the beach is very big so there's room for everyone.

You'll fit right in as the locals make you feel special. And the city rolls out the carpet as well, caring for the beach and surrounding area. Just note the strange, but curious lifeguard huts. Each one is more interesting than the next. Here you'll find that even the lifeguard stands are in style.

But you won't be alone. Native Floridians flock to Ocean Boulevard as well as tourists. Yes, there are crazy street parties, and picturesque neon-lit buildings. Cruising in luxury cars up and down "The Strip" is where it's at.

Famous for winter vacations from the 1930's into the '50's, many of the "Art Deco" buildings are still standing. Not only that, you will find that they make up the soul of South Beach. When you see that style, you'll know you're here. Hotels that went for $18 a night are now $280. But bargains can still be found in the Florida haven on the sea.

Even today, many Americans and foreigners alike call South Beach home during the winter months. What brings them back is the wonderful hospitality, the gracious hotels, the beachwalk, and of course the beautiful beach.

Now, the beach in South Beach-Miami, Florida is man-made. But don't let that stop you. (So is Cancun!) It's huge and the sand is nice and soft. It hugs the Atlantic for miles and is the perfect place for joggers and walkers each morning, and afternoon. From the beach you can see the whole "South Beach Scene" at night; neon lit buildings that have a warm glow taking you back to the 30's.

You will find tons of culture; many tourists come to South Beach simply to get a taste of the world. The city is a melting pot of nationalities. The Latin-American population has inspired affected the area, and the diversity of the people is apparent in the various ethnic neighborhoods, food and music. Each meal can be a new adventure. The restaurants along the strip are top notch. State Hwy A1A, behind Ocean Drive, has fair food as well. It's worth the walk to check it out. Many places stay open late to cater to the party crowd. And don't worry - there's a Starbucks at the end of Ocean Drive.

Pack your shades and cut-offs and get ready for a break from the stress. Book your South Beach hotel soon and come bake in the Southern Florida sun.

Watch the cruise ships pull out through the channel as you relax on the beach. At night, if you're the partying type, just walk down Ocean Drive and take your pick.

If you're more reserved, there are a few places to choose as well. Plus, you can walk over to A1A and shop or dine the night away. Then to the hotel so you can re-energize for another day at this fantastic beach.

BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - tan, fine powder, some debris
• Facilities - full service
• Shade - none, but umbrellas are available for rent and sale along the strip
• Sports - a few rental facilities, note that ocean bottom is all sand, no coral
• Notes - shopping close by, never too crowded, great for people watching.

Next, let's travel across the globe to Poipu Beach. Some call it the best in the world. Check here! >>