Top 5 Beach Destinations in the World

Author: Austin Ames

Looking for a vacation which consists of the most picturesque sandy beaches and the bluest of blue water, well look no further.  The following are the top five beach destinations in the world.

Providenciales is the travellers' Choice top beach destination for the second year in a row.  This little Caribbean island is best known for its uncrowded beaches at Taylor Bay and Grace Bay.  Many divers and snorkelers gather to Providenciales to explore the abundance of barrier reefs, including Smith's Reef and its ocean floor walk.

Palm/Eagle Beach, Aruba has been inhabited since the year 1000.  This island is rich in history and culture.  Eagle Beach is a peaceful Caribbean beach with white sands and the most turquoise colour of water you’ve ever seen.  Palm Beach, on the island's west side, offers ideal swimming conditions and sugar-like sand.  You won’t want to miss the wreck of the torpedoed tanker Pedernales, a popular diving site.  Aruba is only 20 miles long so you’ll easily be able to take in the whole country in one trip, not that you won’t want to come back again and again.

Tulum, Mexico can be described simply as being filled with relaxation and romance with an ancient angle.  You’ll be able to enjoy modern ideas on traditional Mayan massage and spa treatments or sunbathe on gorgeous Yucatan beaches within site of these ancient ruins.  A rare mix of beach, archaeology and village, Tulum is a romantic getaway like no other. You won’t be able to help yourself but to fall in love again and again.

Negril, Jamaica – you could leave the sunny sands in favour of a crocodile watch or horseback ride; however, when the main strand is called Seven Mile Beach, it's quite evident what draws most visitors to Negril.  South of the main Negri beach area is West End Road, known as the "cliffs", which is lined with resorts that offer more privacy. These areas offer easy access to waters good for snorkelling and diving, with jumping points reaching more than 40 feet.

Saint Pete Beach, Florida has the most sugary-white sand, dolphins splashing by the shore and eight major barrier islands make St. Pete Beach a postcard-perfect seaside destination.  Located on a peninsula off Florida's west coast, it is the perfect place to experience the state's wild beauty and the magical golden rays of the Sunshine State.