The ocean breeze and sun-soaked sands may be calling, but with an array of seascapes to choose from, you may be stuck with where to head for the best beach experiences of 2023. For couples who are looking for a romantic break, adventurers who want to tackle their bucket list or families that are out to craft unforgettable memories - the ideal beach getaway awaits!
Laid Back Luxury
Rosewood Baha Mar, Bahamas
As a stunning archipelago of sun-drenched islands set in serene seas and topped by brilliant blue skies, The Bahamas are a first choice for many considering a beach holiday. Its white sands, turquoise waters and picture-perfect palm trees lend themselves to the carefree ambience of the area. And overlooking its own private section of the dazzling Cable Beach is Rosewood Baha Mar . With an extensive beach food and bar service, as well as its elegant yet laid back dining options and luxurious spa treatments, this is the ideal spot to wash away all of life's stresses.
Romance in the Maldives
Amilla Maldives, Maldives
Experience an island welcome as warm as its climate with a beach break in the Maldives. Fusing luxurious sophistication with a laid-back ambience, Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences sits on the edge crystal-clear waters that are home to a collection of unspoiled coral reefs and colourful marine life. Head out to the house reef to create some unforgettable memories together searching for Whale Sharks and Manta Rays in a UNESCO-listed biosphere; or enjoy Feeling Koi, the overwater restaurant with sunset views for a romantic evening meal. For an extra-special experience, try out the resort's 'Amilla Glamping' - a unique and private beachfront stay that features champagne, a private chef, sauna, and plunge pool.
Take to the Water
Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius
The warm waters of Mauritius are tantalising for any beachgoer, but if just one luxurious beach isn't enough Shangri-La Le Touessrok benefits from the rolling waves of both the Trou d'Eau Douce Bay and Ilot Mangéni, the paradisiacal island exclusive to hotel guests. Explore spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean with the resort's PADI- and CMAS-certified Diving Centre, with night and wreck dives also available to experienced divers. Youngsters can embark on an array of water activities including windsurfing, whilst couples can sail the blue waters together with romantic and complimentary sailing trips.
A Stylish Spanish Escape
Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay, Spain
Spain is a blissful choice for short haul sun, with glistening seas, laid back living and renowned gastronomy. Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay sits overlooking the turquoise waters of Talamanca Bay and is designed to reflect the relaxed ambience that Ibiza is famed for. Soak up the Mediterranean rays on a chaise longue or enjoy the Spanish quintessence of fruity sangria and delicious fish and exotic salads at the Chambao Beach Club. You can also turn the bay into a playground with snorkelling, sailing, water-skiing and windsurfing available just a short walk along the shore.
Activities for all Ages
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, St Lucia
St Lucia holds a rightfully earned reputation as one of the most scenic islands of the Caribbean, with an abundance of rainforests, waterfalls and pristine beaches to explore. Nestled amidst rainforest and fringed by a white-sand beach, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort promises pure escapism for everyone. Cruise on a luxury yacht with glass of bubbly in hand or explore the waters of the Caribbean snorkelling at the foot of Petit Piton, a protected Marine Reserve. The children's club is ideal for little ones with activities such as treasure hunts and coconut bowling, as well as fish feeding and sand castle building!
Soak Up the Sun
Elounda Mare, Greece
Immerse yourself in the glorious sunsets, spotless beaches and bright blue sea that make Greece an icon for beach holidays. Sitting majestically at an inlet of Mirabello Bay, Elounda Mare promises a sophisticated space to soak up the Cretan sun, where all rooms feature a private balcony or terrace to embrace the surroundings and guests have access to a private, "Blue-Flag" awarded beach. Take to the waves with a spectacular array of watersports, enjoy the sunshine atop a luxury sun lounger or sample the seafood at the elegant Yacht Club that overlooks the beach below. Guests may even use the nine-hole, par 3 golf course golf facilities at Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort surrounded by stunning views across the sun-drenched horizon.
An Up-And-Coming Arabian Gem
The Oberoi Al Zorah, Ajman
Though Ajman is one of the lesser-known Emirates of the UAE, it is a hidden gem of the Middle East, with its golden sandy beach being home to a growing number of luxury hotels. Set in the protected area of Al Zorah, which is home to significant flora and fauna and an array of birdlife, The Oberoi Al Zorah is just steps away from its own private section of sandy beach, where guests can enjoy the peace of this charming area. While you can savour the tranquility of this hidden haven, it is also well connected with the city of Dubai being just a short drive away.
Soft Sands and Ancient Sites
Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico
The golden coast of Mexico's Riviera Maya may be one of the best kept secrets of beach escapes; possessing a treasure trove of adventures. Banyan Tree Mayakoba showcases the region's awe-inspiring nature with nine kilometres of lagoons and mangroves that lead to the sparkling Caribbean Sea. The resort's backdrop of white sand and shimmering sea lends itself to a luxurious beach ambience, but beyond this, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is perfectly placed for exploring some fascinating ancient sites. Discover one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza, which is a convolution of Mayan ruins that includes the striking El Castillo pyramid. Or take to the ancient and mysterious Mayan city, Coba, and look out for Howler Monkeys, butterflies and tropical birds.
A Respectful Island Retreat
JOALI Maldives, Maldives
Where powder white sands meet crystal clear waters, it is hard to get more pristine that the beaches of the Maldives. But with such beauty to protect, many luxury resorts are now putting a spotlight on sustainability, including JOALI Maldives. The stylish and sophisticated resort offers a unique stay in paradise, combining luxury with a respectful approach; protecting the Maldivian ecosystem by being free of single-use plastic and designed so that 1000 trees were preserved in its construction. Still ensuring an authentic experience you can try out locally inspired activities during your stay, from cultural music and dancing, to talks from the sustainability and marine biology team. You can even join a chef to cook local recipes!
Luxury, All To Yourself
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
There are many show-stopping stretches of sand lining the British Virgin Islands that are ready to welcome you to an ultra-private paradisiacal beach holiday. Necker Island is a seventy-four acre, totally private tropical retreat, complete with a team of over one-hundred staff who will ensure that your getaway is completely worry-free. Whether enjoying the island privately or sharing with likeminded guests, the crystalline waters house a superb range of dives, with Necker Island even offering in-house training for beginner divers, and there are plenty of other activities on offer, from kite surfing and cruising to traversing striking volcanic landscapes. Necker Island also demonstrates that private tranquillity doesn't have to mean a huge environmental footprint with their sustainability initiatives that focus on renewable energy, reducing food miles and wildlife conservation, making the most of everything that is available on the British Virgin Islands.