10 Beaches Around the World for Your Travel Wishlist

Ten coastal places to consider

The list ranges from compact town beaches to lively city shorelines. Each creates a different kind of day.

• 1. La Concha, San Sebastián, Spain: The bay and central promenade make a strong combination for travellers who want beach scenery alongside a city visit. Leave time to walk, sit and enjoy the view rather than planning only a quick stop on the sand.
• 2. Praia da Rainha, Cascais, Portugal: This small beach sits between cliffs in the town centre and is reached on foot. It suits a coastal pause within a wider Cascais visit; its compact size is a reason to keep a large group's plans flexible.
• 3. Grande Plage, Biarritz, France: A central beachfront and promenade bring the coast into the heart of town. Choose it for a seaside walk and a relaxed city outing, then decide how much beach time fits the day's conditions and your group.
• 4. Banje, Dubrovnik, Croatia: This beach lies near Dubrovnik's Old City, giving you a coastal setting close to a historic visit. Consider a beach break on a separate part of the day, with enough time to change and regroup before dinner.
• 5. Bondi, Sydney, Australia: Combine the beach with a coastal walk or time in the surrounding area. Some travellers may want a longer outing, while others prefer the shoreline itself. Pick a clear meeting point before the group follows different interests.
• 6. Camps Bay, Cape Town, South Africa: Mountain scenery and an Atlantic beachfront create a memorable setting. A walk and a meal can be the main experience; plan around the conditions on the day rather than assuming the ocean will suit every swimmer.
• 7. South Beach, Miami Beach, United States: The sand, Beachwalk and nearby Art Deco streets offer more than a single beach activity. Give people a choice between a seaside break and a neighbourhood walk, with a shared meal or meeting afterwards.
• 8. The Beach at JBR, Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The beachfront promenade brings dining and shops into the outing. This is a useful option for a group that wants different activities within one area. Check the day's conditions and agree where to gather before leaving.
• 9. Kata, Phuket, Thailand: Add a beach day to a Phuket stay and keep the programme simple. A clear arrival and return plan matters more than filling the day with activities. Follow local flags and guidance before considering time in the water.
• 10. Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The beach and its patterned promenade form a distinctive city shoreline. Take time for the walk and the neighbourhood setting, then choose a specific place to meet. Avoid making a crowded stretch of sand your only point of reference.

Choose the day, not just the photograph

Compare the season, weather forecast and the group's interests before committing to an outing. Ask who wants a walk, who prefers a seat and who hopes to swim. Check local beach information and respect lifeguard instructions. Pack for the actual day, including water and appropriate sun or weather protection, and keep an alternative if the conditions are unsuitable.

Keep the return straightforward

Use a meeting point that remains easy to identify after people have changed clothes or moved away from the shore. Share the return time, transport arrangements and a contact person before splitting up. If booking a vehicle, specify the beach access you intend to use and confirm a suitable passenger meeting location. Leave room for changing, collecting belongings and the walk back.