Best Beaches

If you're thinking of visiting the Algarve this year, you'll be glad to know that it boasts not just one, but two beaches on our Top 10.

The Praia Da Falesia in Acoteias is named after the huge red cliffs that loom over it's long stretch of gorgeous golden sand. Located just a few kilometres away from Sao Joao, Albufeira and Vilamoura, this award-winning beach sums up the ideal sun, sea 'n' sand holiday. Soak up some rays. Head out for a refreshing swim. Or perhaps enjoy a gentle stroll along the cliff-top paths to the nearby villages of Acoteias and Olhos d'Agua.

And once you've done that, why not visit one of our other Algarve favourites? After all, when it comes to finding somewhere to lay your beach towel, the Algarve really does know how it's done. The beach near Praia da Rocha has plenty of die-hard fans, and it's not surprising to see why. It's soft sands and sheer space simply go without saying, while around every corner is another eerie rock formation or quiet little cove. So get your explorer hat on and enjoy the experience, or find your own private nook and settle down for a snooze in the sun.

Where to stay?

Acoteias, home of the red-rocked Praia Da Falesia beach, has yet another fabulous little gem up its sleeve. The swanky Hotel Falesia is just over a kilometer away, and will charm the flip-flops off you with its elegant lobby and extensive gardens. And don't forget its great location. Olhos d'Agua, Albufeira and Vilamoura are a matter of minutes away by car, perfect for a visit to a chic restaurant or perhaps a night out on the tiles. Talk about location, location, location!

If you're more in favour of a stay in Praia da Rocha, then check out the Plaza Real Apartments. These self-catering apartments gather comfortably around a large central pool, and are within walking distance of shops, bars, restaurants, Portimao town centre. They are also just minutes away from that most important holiday accessory - the Praia Da Rocha beach.

Think sandy beaches, think the Canary Islands. Both Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, both on our Top 10 hit list, have a simply stunning variation to the type of beach we know and love. Both destinations flaunt a staggering stretch of sand dunes, making you feel like you're right there in the Sahara. But panic not, as there's plenty of shops, bars and restaurants within easy walking distance, so you needn't worry about getting lost in the desert just yet.

Gran Canaria's famous sand dunes in Maspalomas seem endless, and the fact that they're only passable by foot or by camel will take you to a different world altogether. The dunes provide a home for rare plant species, so pack your camera, hop on a camel and enjoy this unique experience to the full. Once you're ready to relax by the water's edge, the island's long stretch of sandy beach, hugging the south coast, boasts a number of great little bays. There are also plenty of watersports to choose from, should you feel it necessary to tear yourself away from your sunbed...

If sand dunes are your thing, then you'll find yet more at Corralejo. Fuerteventura's largest resort was once a quaint little fishing village, and it's beach is definitely high up the list of reasons to visit. Playa Grande beach is a long ribbon of sand that is often adorned with windsurfers and kite flyers, thanks to its fresh coastal breeze. And with 11km worth of beach, if that sounds too much like hard work, you'll certainly have plenty of sunbathing spots to choose from.

Where to stay?

If you fancy a break in Gran Canaria this year, you really can't go wrong with the fabulous Hotel Maspalomas/Tabaiba Princess. It's huge swimming pool is accompanied by terraces and plenty of sunbathing space, so don't forget your suncream!

The Oasis Papagayo Apartments in Fuerteventura are just a couple of kilometres from the sand dunes, while the nearest beach and the resort centre are a few hundred metres away. If you enjoy your own space, then these apartments are perfect. Big gardens, five pools, and plenty of sports facilities. In short, the Oasis Papagayo Apartments certainly don't compromise on space.

One of the jewels in the crown of Halkidiki is Sani Beach, and it's not hard to see why. Found on a peninsula near the resort of Sani, this award-winning beach has got it all. White sands, a turquoise sea and an attractive harbour. Combine all this with a dash of ancient history, a modern resort and stunning views, and you've got the recipe for a perfect holiday.

Where to stay?

Sani Beach Club sits smack on the beachfront, so you can enjoy the Sani Beach experience to the full. You can also lap up the delights of a great pool with it's very own bar, not to mention sunset cruises and excellent evening entertainment that'll get your knees up in no time.

Well-loved for their fabulous beaches, both Costa Dorada and Costa del Sol are a firm favourite among holidaymakers to the Spanish 'Gold Coast'. And it's not hard to see why.

Costa Dorada's Platja de Llevant beach, near Salou, is around 1200 metres long. Just think of all that sunbathing space - and it's golden sands shelve gently into calm clear waters. There is often an area roped off for sports on the beach, but otherwise you can take advantage of the local sunbeds and lie flat out to your heart's content.

Costa del Sol's outstanding collection of beaches are enough to make you want to pack your case and head out to Spain before you can say bucket and spade. But which one to choose? We particularly like Nerja's Playa Burriana beach, the largest and most famous. Cafes, shops and restaurants line the seafront, and for the more energetically minded, you can enjoy a spot of scuba-diving or dabble in a few watersports while you're here.

Where to stay?

Costa Dorada's Aparthotel Golden Avenida Suites in Salou have become a favourite for families, thanks to its dedicated Superfamily team, separate kids' pool and child-friendly entertainment. But even if you decide to leave the kids behind, the Suites still boast an excellent track record. It's large pool, spacious, modern apartments and excellent service keep visitors returning year after year.

If Nerja is your next sun stop, then you can't go wrong with the Hotel Riu Monica. With a fabulous beachfront location, this hotel simply sums up everything you could wish for. Indoor and outdoor pools, well-kept gardens, evening entertainment, fitness facilities - need we say more?

When it comes to beaches, let's face it. The Caribbean has well and truly got it covered. And Cancun is certainly not the weakest link when it comes to the best sunbathing spot, the clearest shores or the prettiest seascape.

So how does the thought of white sands, swaying palm trees and an afternoon on a hammock grab you? If you're looking for something a little more get-up-and-go, there are also plenty of watersports to be found. Why not take a few windsurfing skills home with you? Or bounce around on the back of a jet-ski? Or join in on a game of volleyball? Once you've exhausted yourself on the beach, and your sun-bronzed body needs a little cooling off, you could always wander over to one of the resort's many bars for a refreshing cocktail before dinner.

Where to stay?

If you're determined to get a little Caribbean sun this year and Cancun is calling your name, then that only means on thing - the Riu Cancun. This fantastic hotel boasts a staggering location right on the beach, and manages to please action-seekers and relaxation gurus all at the same time. And if you're bringing the kids, you'll find plenty to keep them busy. Three pools, four restaurants, daily entertainment, sports facilities, sauna and whirlpool bath - and that's just for starters. In a nutshell, you won't want to come back.

If the Cape Verde island of Sal can't match your perfect beach getaway, there's not a lot that can. Santa Maria is the local resort, and it's pretty pastel shades will captivate you in no time. Not forgetting white sand beaches. Crystal clear waters. Endless sun. Combine this with a fabulous blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian culture and you're getting warmer.

This wonderful island has a laid-back personality but it's definitely not afraid to flaunt it's livelier side. Watersports, jeep hire and scuba-diving are just some of the activities you'll find here. And don't forget a stack of shops, bars and great restaurants, perfect for stretching your sun-warmed legs inbetween keeping your sunbed company. Nightlife in this beautiful corner of the world is enjoyably low-key, but if you plan to dine out, then you won't be disappointed. Along with old favourites such as tapas and pizzerias, expect to have your taste buds well and truly tingled with freshly caught swordfish, lobster and prawns cooked to local recipes. Delicioso!

Where to stay?

In a nutshell? Cool, elegant and spacious. You certainly won't be compromised on space or style at the Clubhotel Riu Funana, but you might have difficulty deciding what to do first. Just a few steps away from the beach, this hotel has a fabulous location complete with loads of facilities, so whether you'd rather spend your days by the pool or on the beach, you won't have to go far to please yourself. Why not serve up a storm on the tennis court, try your hand at a new watersport or perhaps make the most of the fabulous sauna? And as if there's not enough to do at the Clubhotel Riu Funana, you've even got the use of the Riu Garopa next door! You might decide to extend that week to a fortnight after all...

Although the Red Sea's star attraction may well be diving, it's beaches go a long way in keeping that reputation high. Sharm el Sheikh is the most popular resort along the Red Sea, and has fast become the place to visit for sun, sea and sand.

You'll find plenty of sandy havens that will lead you away from the long stretches of golden sand fringing the resort. Perfect for disappearing for a quiet afternoon with a book. Or if you would rather save the book for the plane,

Where to stay?

The Renaissance Golden View Beach Resort is an impressive hotel that certainly lives up to its 5T rating. Elegant, regal and impossibly stylish, this fabulous accommodation will make you feel totally spoilt. And - beachlovers take note - this hotel even has it's own private beach. Perfect for winding down after a session in the hotel's own fitness centre, a volleyball game or maybe even a spot of water aerobics. Or if that's just too much like hard work, you could always rejuvenate your senses with a relaxing massage...

Our very own Thomson New Media team members have their own ideas on what makes a great beach. See if you agree with us...

"Cancun in Mexico. Fine soft white sands and the most beautiful clear blue waters I have ever had the pleasure to walk through." Gerry

"St Augustine in Florida - crescent beach, white sand, warm clear sea. Need I say anymore!" Katie

"All the beaches on the west side of Lefkas! The best is probably Porto Katsiki - it's a white pebble beach which makes the sea look a fantastic blue colour. You have to mountaineer down the cliffside to get to it but when you get there, it's worth it!" Kate

"I'd have to say the spearhead beach at Bol on Brac Island, Croatia. Pebbly but absolutely gorgeous!" Jo

"My favourite beach is Isola Bella, which is in Taormina, Sicily. It's a beautiful beach on the east coast of Sicily, not very big but there is an island separated by a small causeway connected to the beach - the island is a nature reserve so it's got wonderful plants and animals. I spent two days there and fell in love with it." Pete

"My favourite beach is Bournemouth beach! Every summer as a kid we went to Bournemouth for a week as a family, and I spent 4 years at University there. It is the longest beach in the UK and it changes dramatically if you walk east to west from the surf at Boscombe, to the busy main beach with the pier, to the secluded bays at Sandbanks. A lot of good memories for me there!" Tom