The 25 best beaches in the world

Bora Bora is exactly what you'd hope to find in the South Pacific — blue lagoons, calm water, palm trees, dolphins, and volcanoes in the background.

New Zealand’s Karekare Beach is just 20 miles from Auckland, but is packed with natural wonders — think lagoons or a walk through the volcanic cliffs of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.

Unlike the stylish beaches found in Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez, the remote L’espiguette Beach is known for its natural beauty and spans for six miles, giving you a good shot at finding a quiet area. Only a 40 minute drive from Montpellier, the beach is also close to the town of Aigues-Mortes.

Bocas del Toro is a true paradise, providing a break from the fast-paced Panama City. A province on the Caribbean coast, its small main island town goes by the same name and is a short plane journey from Panama City's Allbrook Airport. There are nine main islands in total, all of which make a stunning day trip by boat.

Brazil's long coastline is packed with stunning beaches including Búzios, located 105 miles from Rio. This is the perfect place to relax, visit one of its 23 beaches, and enjoy nearby small hotels and stylish restaurants.

Whether sprawling on a blanket or playing in the sand is your priority, Cape Town has room for all. The busiest beach, full of rocks and natural formation, is Clifton Third — though there are a number of beaches that go by the name Clifton.

Some of the whitest sand and most turquoise waters in the world can be found at Varadero Beach, which lies 140 km north east of Havana's nightlife.

White sand and green hills make up the stunning Knip Beach in Curaçao, one of many smaller individual beaches found on the island that is usually deserted during the week.

Truly relax at Vietnam's China Beach, known to locals as Non Nuoc Beach. Empty during the day, it has clear water and incredible views of the South China Sea.

One of the most unique beaches on the list is Northern California's Glass Beach. Once a public dump, the beautiful spot, which has colourful glass-like stones covering its shores, is now a State Park.

The sun-soaked clothing-optional Es Cavallet Beach proves that Ibiza isn't all crowds and parties. Treat yourself to a massage or grab a beach chair and take in the natural beauty of the island.

Hawaii offers beaches unlike no other, and Hanalei Bay Beach is no exception. Wide and almost always deserted, see the cliffs of the Napali coast in the background as you watch surfers — or kite surfers make the most of the stunning spot.

One of Australia's best beaches for surfing is found in the south of Melbourne. The site of the famous Rip Curl Pro surfing competition, Bells Beach is known for its waves and straight beach scattered with plants and flowers in the green hills that rise around it.

One of the most stunning spots in the beautiful collection of islands that is Tahiti, Moorea and Temae Beach, offer white sand, palm trees, cliffs, and clear waters perfect for snorkelling to find the nearby coral reefs.

Stay away from the party beaches on Mykonos island and instead head to the golden sand at Elia, accessible by local bus from the town. Nothing beats the blue of the Aegean Sea, especially when you have a cocktail or a plate of fresh fish in hand, which can be ordered from the nearby bars and restaurants straight to your beach chair.

Oahu, which sits opposite Honolulu's Pali cliffs, offers the best and most casual beach parties as people flock to the sandbar that rises up in the middle of the water.

The journey to Barafundle Bay, part of southwest Wales’ Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, is part of the fun — you'll see sharp cliffs drop down to the sea as you make your way in a car, while walking down the long dirt path that leads you to the beach will offer a stunning view. Before you hit the bay, however, you'll reach open green pastures with hills and a view of the water in the background.

Cape Cod has a true seaside vibe, and Herring Cove offers sandy trails leading to a stunning beach — however, you'll be lucky to find any shade, so be sure to bring a hat.

The Hamptons of South America, Punta del Este is the top spot for sun-seekers who are also looking for the best of the best in terms of accommodation.

Ipanema Beach has earned its spot in pop culture — the trendy spot also offers an incredible view of Rio's mountains as well as restaurants, bars, and shopping.

Once you've had your fill of the Trevi fountain, head to the peaceful Il Buco beach, just south of Rome's Fiumicino airport.

Extending from Coronado Island to Imperial Beach, San Diego's Silver Strand State Beach is perfect for a quieter day in the sand away from the tourists. Find silver shells on the coast, or take a dip in its warm water.

A popular destination in 2016, Tel Aviv's shops, office buildings, restaurants and bars meet with sandy beaches which extend from the old north port to Jaffa in the south.

Dune Beach sits on Italy's Versilia Riviera, just a short bike ride from the town of Torre del Lago. It features sun loungers, umbrellas, beach huts, drinks and food, as well as beach volleyball, and parties in the summer months.

While it is unknown why Robin Hood’s Bay is named as such, the Yorkshire village and surrounding beach makes a perfect day or weekend trip thanks to its stunning cliffs and low tide, which make for the perfect photo opportunity.