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Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue, Seychelles
Soft sands, shallow seas, warm, weathered rocks - the Seychelles are a picture-perfect location for a luxurious getaway. As the sun sets over the calm seas, why not sample the local Creole cuisine at the nearby restaurants.
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Dune du Pilat, Arachon, France
This enormous sand dune is found in La Teste-de-Buch, not far from Bordeaux. Its steep bank offers and unparalleled view of the Arcachon Bay makes it the ideal spot for quiet sunbathing and exhilarating paragliding.
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Koh Kradan, Trang, Thailand
If there's one place on Earth known for its beaches, its Thailand. Of all, Koh Kradan in Trang Province might be the most beautiful. Protected by the Hat Chao Mai National Park, its unbelievably clear waters and unspoilt sands are perfect for a day's rest from partying.
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Fakistra, Pelion, Greece
White pebbles and crystal clear waters welcome you at this secluded bay near the historic village of Mouresi. To find this hidden paradise, head east along the ancient, winding, clifftop stone paths - known as kalderimia.
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Playa La Chiva, Vieques, Puerto Rico
Turquoise waters and abundant greenery await you at Playa La Chiva, found on the Carribbean island of Vieques, just off Puerto Rico. When you're done snorkelling in the glassy water, take a walk along the undisturbed coastline and discover the island's wildlife.
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Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales
The county of Pemborkeshire is well-known in Britain for the quality of its beaches. This secluded stretch of sand is hard to get to, but that makes it all the more worth it. You'll be sharing the beach with no-one except the shrimps and fish.
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Playa escondida, Islas Marietas, Mexico
The waters of this surreal circular beach, surrounded on all sides by cliffs, caves, and arches, were a favourite of scuba diver-extraordinaire Jacques Coustea. Follow in his flippers, grab your snorkel and go exploring.
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Bora Bora, French Polynesia
You're spoilt for choice on Bora Bora. This small island group in Pacific Ocean is surrounded by shallow lagoons, barrier reefs, and gleaming soft, white sands. You could pick one beach, or you could visit them all.
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Yyteri, Pori, Finland
Sun, sea, and snow? The Nordic nations aren't exactly known for their warm waters or sandy beaches, nonetheless, Yyteri isa very popular destination. But perhaps they're also attracted by the beach's nudist section, one of only two in the whole of Finland.
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Praia da Fortaleza, Ilha do Mel, Brazil
The boundless sands of Praia da Fortaleza are the star attraction of Ilha do Mel, or Honey Island. The beach lies far, but not too far, from the island's centre of hotels, bars, and restaurants.
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Mudeford, Dorset, England
Probably the most picturesque beach in England. This narrow spit of sand separates the English Channel from Christchurch Harbour. The rows of quaint wooden beach huts make the perfect backdrop to a warm summer's day.
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Amanohashidate, Kyoto, Japan
This view of the forested sandbar that spans the mouth of Miyazu Bay in the scenic, coastal region of northern Kyoto was named as one of the canonical Three Views of Japan by the scholar Hayashi Gahō in 1643. Continue the tradition with a wander along its tranquil shores.
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Arpoador, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Lying between Ipanema and Copacabana, the powerful waves and strong currents of this stretch of coast make it one of the best spots in Brazil for surfing. Competition can be fierce, but you can always settle things over a cold Caipirinha in the many shoreline cafes.
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Psarou Beach, Mykonos, Greece
If the yachts and gleaming villas weren't enough of a giveaway, Psarou Beach is a five star resort, and said to be a favourite of international stars. If you're looking for a private getaway or a tabloid fling, this is the place to be.
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Durdle Door, Dorset, England
The limestone arch of Durdle Door is one of the county's most photographed sights. If you visit at just the right time, you'll be able to see the sun rising over the horizon, and golden light shining through rocky portal.
