Big Best Beaches

Zanzibar

2008-07-05T21:35:00.000-07:00

Best Beaches of Zanzibar

When most Americans hear the word Zanzibar, they think Spice Island, that tropical paradise east of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. It appears today as it did more than a century ago when famed missionary/explorer Dr. David Livingstone lived just before his last safari into deepest, darkest Africa.

Narrow street in Stone Town, ZanzibarAs a matter of fact, you can walk down the streets and alleys of Stone Town, a world heritage site, and feel as if you're in an old movie. Zanzibar is an island only 50 miles long, but full of variety. For instance, you can visit the ruins of the palaces created with "spice" wealth for the Sultans of Oman.

Red Colobus monkey in Jozani Forest, ZanzibarOnce the eastern gateway to Africa, Zanzibar is home to the enchanted Jozani Forest, where curious red colobus monkeys are found. At Nungwi, on the northern shore, you can see boat builders, hewing out the same designs handed down to them centuries ago.

Boat building in Nungwi, ZanzibarAnd, of course, miles and miles of the best beaches in this part of the world. The majority are along the East Coast, where the quaint fishing villages dot the landscape. The big secret hasn't been told to the major resorts. You'll find one or two along this Island paradise.

Nungwi Beach, ZanzibarThe very best beaches of Zanzibar lie along the east coast and Nungwi, near the northern tip of the island. A great runner-up is the enchanting Mangapwani Beach located on the west coast.

There are more than 30 beaches in Zanzibar with some of them so isolated, time has literally stood still. Waves lapping these brilliant shores for eons have hewn such an artistic pattern of natural beauty, we're kind of glad they're not that close to civilization.
Turtle at Mnemba Atoll, ZanzibarOkay, so if the beaches are so unattainable, but they're spectacular - what should we expect when we visit?

Zanzibar's coastline is mainly a shallow slope allowing lush coral build-ups and providing a natural home for thousands of marine animals. Because of its location, Zanzibar enjoys warm currents almost year-round. Perfect for spawning, you'll see a wealth of life just beneath the surface.

Bungalow beach side in Nungwi, ZanzibarThe northeast coast is where you'll find the unspoiled beaches of Matemwe. Nearby is the grand Mnemba Atoll, a prime dive site known world wide. Of course, snorkeling is unparalleled along the rock outcroppings of Zanzibars many beaches. Bring that underwater camera. Check out our extra report on Mnemba Island and Atoll. It's out of this world!

Sunset along Matemwe Beach, ZanzibarZanzibar's climate is equatorial. Days are filled with sun, but some heavy rainfall occurs during April and May. Best months to visit are from July through March, with February and March the warmest months.

Mauritius

2008-07-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

The Beaches of Mauritius
One of the most exotic beach destinations we've reviewed is Mauritius. Sometimes, maybe what makes these places so attractive is that they are so hard to get to.It's like digging for gold. When you do find it, it is a pleasure not many have experienced. So we invite you to take a few minutes and see the pictures and videos of one of our favorite spots on earth. You will be delighted and intrigued by what may be your next vacation destination.

Just north of the Tropic of Capricorn lies the island country of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. It's actually a few islands; a main island and three other islands, and about 22 largely uninhabited islands.

Ile Aux Benitiers Beach, MauritiusMark Twain, who visited the island in 1896, so impressed by its beauty, said, "God first made Mauritius and from it, He created Paradise. Mauritius is striking because it once was a volcano. Extinct for some 100,000 years, you have peaks and rock strutting right down into the sea. And, as if icing on the wondrous landscape, a coral reef surrounds the islands.

The Dodo bird, a large, flightless critter, once lived here. When the Dutch arrived around 1600, they killed off most of them. Their pets killed the rest and they were extinct by 1681. Yes, the Dutch sailors might have eaten a few, but it was actually something else that did them in.

In the 17th century, the Dutch cut down most of the ebony trees and sold them in Europe. This was home and food source for the Dodo bird. Along with the animals brought from the ships; rats, cats, dogs, pigs... these destroyed most of the nests. The Dutch did bring one thing you may see while you're on Mauritius: deer. The Sambhar Deer is actually a protected species. For pictures of deer and their habitat, we'll post more pictures of Mauritius Sambhar shortly.

Sunset on the Beaches of MauritiusYou're here for the beaches, and we have a total of 13. If you're anxious to go, know that December to April are generally hot and humid. June to November are the cooler, drier months. A cyclone could arrive during the warm season.

Orient Beach

2008-06-29T03:24:00.000-07:00

Orient Beach - St Martin
Depending on who you talk to, who is more traveled, the answer will be different. But there is no doubt that Orient Beach, St. Martin, is quite the beach. And if you've been to St. Martin, and were bound to the Dutch side - sorry - the spectacular beach is here, on the French side. Every local knows where this place is, so don't be shy, but ask where Orient is and you'll get directions. We drove from our hotel on the Dutch side and it took us through some of the strangest looking growth. Even in paradise, there's poverty and you'll find as we did, that the money follows the coast. We did not follow the coast and went through the island.

Orient Beach - St Martin, The Orient Beach signA full two miles of soft white coral sand, and water that will have you wondering if you're not staring into crystal, Orient Beach is really in a league of its own. We'd have to journey to the Seychelles to find something comparable. I suppose the only thing that ruins the whole thing is having people here. But that's part of tourism. Time your trips here to arrive when the cruise ships are out of port. As at your hotel for information.

The French hype their side of the island, and rightly so, as the "Riviera of the Caribbean", although some would argue that the title belongs to the Mayan Peninsula of Mexico. French also declare Orient and the best in the Caribbean - and will tell you it's "certified" - even though there is no global authority on beaches. And that's good, because we all have different tastes. But believe me when I tell you if there is not much here, it's probably not worth the effort to visit. Orient is not this way - there's more than enough and it's all great fun. Just watch what you gaze at. You may burn that memory in for ages. Oooooh.

Topless, Orient Beach - St MartinOkay, it's not the Cote de Azur - but Orient Beach does deserve a look. It has been made famous because - one, it's a big stop on the cruise ship tours and two, it is clothing optional. The second reason makes it one of the most popular search term for beaches.

But you want to know what Orient Beach is really like. Orient Beach, St Martin, Plage Orient - Nude BeachThere are parts of the beach that are known as topless. Other areas are deemed family. And still others, as we said, clothing optional. Let's take them one by one starting with the one you'll probably hit first, Bikini Beach!

Agia Kiriaki Beach

2008-06-29T03:06:00.000-07:00

Agia Kiriaki Beach - Milos, Greece..
It's little wonder that Greece is considered one of the most popular travel spots on the globe. Beauty surround you. This video of the Grecian countryside will prove my point. Spectacular and ready to be explored - full of scenic beaches just for you. Let's take a look at one of our favorites, Agia Kiriaki! We found similar landscapes in Rio, Dominican Republic, France, and Dominica. White sand, striking mountains, and blue ocean. What a recipe for wonderment. When God's handiwork passed through Greece, He left a spectacular contrast of magnificent colors and unique rock formations. The landscape of Milos is breathtaking, and yet, what in some places is dark and dreary, the Cyclades are stunning. Volcanic activity created rock formations that rise stoic among the azure blue seas. A small port serving the town of Trikeri, Agia Kiriaki is as picturesque as can be. In fact, we found ourselves staring at the antiquity and small fishing boats, more than the beach. Don't think the port has no personality. Goodness - it exudes old Greece in so many ways. Trikeri, Agia Kiriaki - Milos, GreeceTake your camera. The colors are outstanding. They are inviting. This peaceful port has a quaint road that runs through it. You won't get lost as we found the people to be open and friendly, welcoming. Maybe this is why Agia Kiriaki is known throughout the area as the best dry dock around. People treat you right. Enjoy the many small restaurants and "tavernas". Octopus is a favorite meal. The crystal clear waters of Agia Kiriaki Beach - Milos, GreeceAgia Kiriaki Beach is an isolated crescent of sand with pebbles. The water is so clear here, it's like crystal blue. There aren't many visitors, so expect hardly any company. The high season is in summer when the Beach Bar is in full swing and the place has a nice party atmosphere. To arrive here, head toward Zefyria. You'll see signs for Agia Kyriaki (also spelled with a "y") - that will lead you down a rough road to the beach.

Cat Island

2008-06-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

Cat Island Bahamas

The elite around Miami consider this a great weekend getaway, but you don't need to own a yacht to make this your vacation destination. And maybe some write off the beaches as being simple muggy atolls; they're not. And Bahamian Cat Island is a great starting place - no muggy here!

An easy getaway, the Bahamas has something for everyone. And on beautiful Cat Island, the sixth largest island in Bahamas, we found quiet beaches, historical places, as well as tons of places to hang the hammock.

One of the coolest places, and the highest point in the whole of Bahamas is the “Hermitage” at the top of Mt. Alvernia. The journey is just as beautiful as the destination, taking you through quaint villages and a wonderful flora. One of the oldest buildings on the island, the Hermitage Monastery was built by a Roman Catholic priest by hand in 1901.

Don’t miss the Arawak Cave at Columbus point, the old cotton plantation ruins, the Ambrister Plantation ruins in the vicinity of Port Howe, and the luxurious Deveaux Mansion.

Of course coming to Cat Island, water sports is the name of the game. Stop by the Cat Island Dive Center to enjoy the exploration of marine life and enthralling geological formations. Choose from the variety of water recreation packages or just rent water sport equipment on your own.

Quiet places abound on the beach in the Bahamas Islands. Like other famous islands, the beaches on Cat Island are big enough for anyone to have their own privacy while enjoying beach activities, especially skinny dipping in Bahamas. Oops!

Cuisine is another spectacular must-do after the long day exploration on Cat Island. You'll be delighted with fresh grilled fish or roasted rack of lamb at Hawk's Nest Resort and Marina; local specialties at Fernandez Bay Village and light meal bread at Greenwood Beach Resort. Somehow you may realize the taste is never the same while on vacation as compare to the food you take in your hectic daily lives. The right mood does play an important part.

Peace and relaxation are the key words of vacationing on Cat Island, the sixth largest island in the Bahamas. Since it is much smaller in population than many of the other islands, you won't be in the crowd and thus able to enjoy its natural beauty more. Chances are you'll have a better understanding of their local customs and way of life than on many other islands. You don't feel like a tourist but rather an explorer on Cat Island. Do consider to include Cat Island in your next Bahamas vacation.

Sanur Beach

2008-06-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

Sanur Beach Bali, Indonesia..

Sanur Beach in Bali, Indonesia, is one long beach - with white/off white sand. As you see in the video, the water is calm and protected. Once home to a great reef, it is mainly gone due to erosion and Indonesia "progress"; silt and pesticide runoff from construction. So for Sanur, lot's of nice sand, but below the surface there are many problems. We were first interested in the beaches of Bali when a user e-mailed asking why we didn't include this beach. Unfortunately, this is one of the better beaches here. For some reason, probably corruption, these beaches do not get the treatment they deserve. There is little enforcement of the few laws Indonesia has for preservation. Feel free to comment.

One of Southeast Bali's gems is Sanur Beach. With its small tourist population, Sanur is a very attractive. The surf is gentler than other areas of the island and the hotels are quite nice. In the past 20 years Sanur has developed into a great resort for tourists, feasting on the sights and sounds of the Indonesian countryside.

There is hardly a beach in Bali that is unappealing and Sanur is no exception. Our most breathtaking experience happens around sunrise. Sanur Beach is about 10 minutes from Denpasar (depending on traffic). After the sunrise, be sure to hire a canoe to sail along the coast with and even to the outlying islands, if you would like an extra enjoyment. Sanur just happens to be surrounded by a large coral reef so snorkeling is very much recommended for the first time visitor. As we said, however, much of the reef is dead. Fish still try to make a home here.

Sanur is a very mellow town. There is an amazing contrast constantly going on here. There are hotels upon hotels, but there are also many aspects of the old village life going on as you will see when you find a place to stay. You may choose to stay in an 11-story hotel or you may choose to stay in a Balinese type resort. Aside from the accommodations, there are also many restaurants to enjoy near the beach. Indonesia is this way. Below is one of my favorite pictures; people relaxing around one of the temples in the area.

Kaanapali Beach

2008-06-04T00:59:00.000-07:00

Kaanapali Beach - Maui - Hawaii

This three mile spectacle goes by different names, so write these down before you head out. Keke'a Beach, Canoe Beach, Dig Me Beach, Kahekili Beach, Black Rock Beach and Hanakaoo Beach. It's like traveling through a big city and the street changes names depending on what neighborhood you're in. A large lava rock (the Black Rock) divides the beach.

Don't confuse this with Big Beach which is also totally awesome, with the best skim boarding on the island, and another very beautiful strip. The sand for both is about the same - volcanic mix with coral - a tan color.

High surf can get rough, especially during the northern hemisphere winter months. And be careful as strong currents around Black Rock may occur at times. Monitor ocean conditions closely. Remember to obey all postings and warnings.

Whatever your whim in beaches, you'll find it here. The snorkeling and scuba diving are absolutely the best on Maui. Swimming and sunbathing are ideal. Boat tours, fishing, kayaking, sailing, and my favorite - people watching, are just a few of the many activities. Tanning in paradise - Kaanapali Beach, Maui - Hawaii
So what you give up in isolation you make up FUN!

French Riviera

2008-06-04T00:50:00.000-07:00

Cote de Azur - The French Riviera

Have you ever thought of renting an apartment here on the French Riviera, with the pristine sunny beaches, the homes perched among the green hills, great cars, superstars - wow - is it really possible? And the answer surprisingly is "yes". What is unusual here is that you "can" fit in and you "will" find something just for you. The charm here takes me back to the 1920's.

Not far from Nice or Cannes, St. Tropez is a lively town, full of grand culture and shopping during the summer and can be a nice hideaway during the winter months. Hotels abound, and some great bargains can be made if you plan far enough in advance. Tourists planning vacations from all over the world make it once to St. Tropez, and with good reason. The area around the beaches is full of culture, gourmet food and exciting nightlife.

The beach to be seen? Plage Port Grimaud! Wealthy sunbathers and international beach bums cruise the beach. But don't let the crowds stop you. The Cote de Azur offers exciting beach options for any taste - and I mean any. Plage de Tahiti is notorious for its clothing-optional policy. And if you're bringing the whole family, make sure you stop by at least one of these gems: Plage de la Bouillabaisse, Plage des Graniers and Plage des Jumeaux, which also offers beachside playgrounds.

Plage de Pampellone has over three miles of beaches and hotels throughout the area. You'll find yacht harbors all along the famous Cote de Azur, or French Riviera. While you're taking a break and venturing from the beach or your hotel, check out the open-air markets, boutiques or local groceries. Pick up a bottle of olive oil from the area, or wine.

Maldives Beach..

2008-06-04T00:33:00.000-07:00

Sun Island - Nalaguraidhoo

One of Maldives best beaches (of the inhabitable ones, that is), happens to be in the South Ari Atoll. The island is named Nalaguraidhoo and it is simply stunning. Some 62 miles from the Maldive airport at Male, some call Sun Island the flower of the Indies! You'll get away from it all, here. Among the 1190 islands that make up this wonderful place, Sun Island carries many excellent recommendations. When you land, you'll know you're somewhere special.

Sun Island didn't need much work. You can tell that much of the beauty is not man-made at all. First, the shape of the island lends to a grand lagoon, perfect for water sports such as snorkeling or canoeing. The barrier reef starts close enough to swim to and nature responds with a myriad of colorful fish and coral, sea life and crystal clear water. So clear, as a matter of fact, many say they feel as if they are flying over the reef. But, if you're not the water lover - you're in luck.

Sun Island is a "sun" spot - most days full sun with little cloud cover. You know the daytime routine - tanning, snorkeling, reading, diving, windsurfing. But at night, you're in for a treat. Most come here with little regard to night life - by the time the sun is setting, you are, too! However, make sure you plan to go on one of the nighttime fishing trips - just a few hours right after sundown, which end in a fantastic fish fry and bake right on the beach. Nothing could end the evening better than a Maldivian customary meal under the stars.

Cancun Beach, Mexico

2008-06-04T00:19:00.000-07:00

Cancún (pronounced as IPA: [kanˈkun]) is a coastal city in Mexico's easternmost state, Quintana Roo, on the Yucatán Peninsula best known as the Mexican Caribbean or at the northern section of the Mayan Riviera; however Cancun does not share a similar climate or topography to the Mediterranean.

It is the municipal seat of Benito Juárez municipality and a world-renowned tourist resort. The city center is located on the mainland which connects over the Nichupté and Bojórquez lagoons to a narrow "7" shaped island where the modern beachfront hotels are located. The island of Isla Mujeres is a nearby island located off the coast and is accessible by boat from Puerto Juarez or Punta Sam.

The older section of the city, known as "El Centro" follows the original master plan, consists of neighborhoods called "supermanzanas" (superblocks) that are formed by the intersections of the boulevards and traffic circles (roundabouts). This area is characterized by winding streets with cul-de-sacs that tend to keep out the main flow of traffic, including market places such Xel Ha. They usually have one or more parks, green spaces, paseos (pedestrian walkways) and various national historical monuments. Ave. Tulum is the main north-south artery (connecting downtown to the airport some 30km to south). Tulum is bisected by Ave. Coba (pronounced Koh bah). East of Ave. Tulum, Coba becomes Ave. Kukulcan which serves as the primary road that runs through the long "7" shaped hotel zone. Ave. Tulum is terminated on the north side by Ave. Paseo José López Portillo which connects to the main highway to Chichen Itza and Merida. Another major north-south road is Ave. Bonampak which runs roughly parallel to Ave. Tulum. The main ferry to Isla Mujeres is located off Bonampak.

The original master plan was repeatedly modified and, on the mainland, often ignored. To save on the cost of installing sewage systems and other public services, the design of much of the rest of the city reverted to the grid plan after Hurricane Gilbert (1988). The newest upper-middle-class residential areas reflect the original plan, but are much less intimate. Less expensive developments are comprised almost entirely of identical one- or two-story small row houses, sometimes built around interior plazas. Almost all buildings on the mainland are under four stories high.

Copacabana Beach

2008-06-03T23:46:00.000-07:00

Copacabana Beach (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

The Copacabana beach stretches from Posto Dois (lifeguard watchtower Two) to Posto Seis (lifeguard watchtower Six). Leme is at Posto Um (lifeguard watchtower One).

Historic military forts stand at both ends of Copacabana beach, at one end is the above mentioned Fort Copacabana, built in 1914, and at the other end Fort Duque de Caxias, built in 1779.

The promenade is dotted with hotels, restaurants, bars, night clubs, and residential buildings.

Copacabana Beach plays host to millions of revelers during the annual New Year's Eve FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. celebrations and, in most years, has been the official venue of the