The World's Most Beautiful Beaches

For many of us the perfect vacation existing in our fantasies is sitting on a white sandy beach while a warm, turquoise ocean laps at our feet. We long to go somewhere and unwind while tall palms sway above us. Let's explore some of these prime locations throughout the world.

Hawaii boasts some of the most romantic sun- drenched beaches year round in the United States. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then the island of Kauai is the place for you. It has balmy temperatures no matter when you head there. Kauai is the least developed of any of the Hawaiian Islands and has very lush, green surroundings. You can find sections of pristine white sandy beaches that you can enjoy all to yourself.

When in Kauai be sure to visit Poipu Beach. Its variety of water sports is perfect for the entire family. Since the waters are crystal clear and there are many species of beautifully colored tropical fish, Snorkelling is especially popular here.

South Beach, Florida is another excellent beach vacation destination. Since it's topless, it isn't considered a family beach. Many adults frolic there, however. The miles long beach is entirely manmade and the warm, tropical water is very clean. Actually, more visitors are attracted by the down home art deco culture, intermixed with the stunning natural scenery. You'll also find numerous martini bars and live Latin music for your listening and dancing pleasure.

Further south is the Ipanema Beach in Brazil. Ipanema Beach located in festive Rio de Janeiro, was made famous by a song in the 60s bearing its name. Ipanema Beach is the place for you if you want to be surrounded by scantily clad beautiful people (both men and women). A visit to the surrounding area and this beach is a wild ride worth taking. Miles of white sand beaches equals many days worth of sun, fun, and excellent people watching.

We now head back north to Canada. While many people don't think of Canada as having beautiful beaches, Long Beach in Tofino British Columbia will prove them wrong. While the waters are not turquoise, Long beach is simply breathtaking. Perfect for surfing and taking long walks down the shore. There are plenty of tidal pools full of interesting sea life such as starfish. Tofino itself is a quaint little fishing town full of eccentric locals.

Finally, we head over to the French Riviera to St. Tropez. Once a hideaway for movie stars, this is now one of the most popular hot destinations in Europe. Close to Cannes, St. Tropez is filled with those who appreciate the finer things in life and aren't afraid to flaunt it. The beach is stunning with its bright blue waters, and there is plenty to do if you're not in the mood for the beach. People watching at one of the beachfront cafes is a must while visiting this exciting local.

Many visitors each year draw to the literally hundreds of beaches around the world. Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Bali, Australia, the list goes on and on. The natural beauty of the beach has been appreciated by the people for the centuries. They continue to be very sought after destination for tourists today.

About the author: Britney Barnet is the chief writer at Yay! Beach!, there's a wealth of knowledge on the website, plus their free newsletter is well worth signing up for too.

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