The dream getaway for many people is having a vacation on a white sand beach looking out on warm turquoise waters. Vacations are planned where the waters are bathtub-warm, there are swaying palms, and you can kick back and really relax. Breathtaking beaches are found in every continent in the world. A few of them are highlighted here.
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.
While you're on Kauai, be sure to visit Poipu Beach if you want a little more activity. There are water sports to attract every member of the family. Snorkeling is particularly great here due to the clarity of the warm water. You can see hundreds of species of tropical fish in all colors.
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.
Our next stop is Ipanema Beach in Brazil. It became famous during the 60s with the popularity of the song "Girl From Ipanema". It is situated in Rio de Janeiro, noted for its festivity, and filled with beautiful men and women, wearing little clothing. If this kind of atmosphere attracts you, then this is one of the best places on earth to enjoy it. You will find miles of white, sandy beaches to spend your happy vacation days in the sun, watching the beautiful people. Not as serene as some beach getaways, but definitely a fabulous time.
Going north again, we'll take a look at Long Beach in beautiful Tofino British Columbia, Canada. Most of us don't think of Canada as being beach country, but this is a spectacular exception. The town of Tofino is a unique and charming fishing village populated by lots of eccentrics. The beach is a great place to surf, take long walks, and explore the many tide pools filled with sea life such as starfish.
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.
There are literally hundreds of beaches around the world that draw many visitors each year. Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Bali, Australia, the list goes on and on. People have appreciated the natural beauty of the beach for centuries and they continue to be a hot spot for tourists today. |
