The Whitsunday Islands are a group of islands off the eastern coast of the Australian state of Queensland. The most iconic beach by far is Whitehaven Beach, that will remain imprinted on your memory forever. Just a gentle easy 15-minute walk up a natural bush track will find you at the destination that so many people rave about. From the lookout you’ll see a sparkling white beach, which meanders through an incredible panorama five miles along the coast.

Here you will ask yourself how sand can actually be so extremely white. Here, you can take a break from everyday life. With sand that is so powder soft that it squeaks under your feet and so pure, that you can even use it to polish your jewelry (what people actually really do!) If there is something like paradise, this is pretty much it. If you’d like to see more of Clemens Sehi, visit his blog at Anekdotique.com.

Barrientos Beach, Aitcho Islands, Antarctica

Beaches don’t have to be all about golden sands, surfing, big waves and getting a sun tan. For an ice cool beach experience, I recommend heading to the tranquil beach at Barrientos in Antarctica. This is a special place. Less than 10,000 tourists a year visit Barrientos, but this beach has its own population…of seals and penguins. As a snowstorm brews, you can forget the need for sunscreen, sunglasses, a deckchair or an ice cold beer. Bring your camera only. Take some photos, leave some footprints in the snow and savor the memories.

This is a pure white paradise, and for many travelers to Antarctica, this will be remembered as your first landing point on the continent, as the Aitcho Islands group are part of the South Shetlands, as your ship docks for the first time in the world’s coldest, purest and most extreme continent. A feast for your eyes in tranquil Antarctica. And yes, if you really want you can build a sandcastle and a snowman. If you’d like to see more from Jonny, visit his blog at DontStopLiving.net.

Carl Smith Beach, located in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii

To put short, it’s simply stunning.  During the week you will have the place to yourself with the exception of the enormous sea turtles that inhabit the area.  The water is refreshing, the turtles love getting up close and personal, and it is located close to Hilo, the airport, and even the cruise port making it easily accessible no matter how long or short your stay is. If you’d like to see more of the Bohemian Family, visit their blog at BohemianTravelers.com.

Piñones State Park outside of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Piñones State Park, located just a few short miles outside of downtown Old San Juan, is a nice stretch of land the boasts of marine life, tropical birds and, of course, miles of secluded beach.  It’s a fantastic place to take a nice stroll and truly enjoy the view. 

Some common activities would be snorkeling in the shallow waters, exploring the nature trails, biking, eating local cuisine from the street-side vendors or simply enjoying a bit of rum from the local distillery while lounging around with friends.  Want to indulge yourself in a bit of pirate history?  Then don’t forget to visit Fort Castillo San Cristobal.

Abandoned Beach in Montezuma, Costa Rica

If you’re ever venturing through the jungles of Costa Rica, take a few days and explore the Pacific Peninsula around Montezuma.  It’s definitely considered one of those “hippie paradises” where you won’t find a 5-star resort.  Nope, just the great vibe of friendly, whole loving people, a little ganja and miles of beautiful beaches.

If you’re looking for something to do on the side, rent some bikes and go see one of Costa Rica’s largest fig trees, eat tons of the affordable local cuisine, crack open some fresh coconuts or simply hitch-hike to one of the close cities.

What is the best beach you’ve ever been to?