Best beaches around the world

In one of the world’s most exclusive locations, Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi boasts a beautiful natural coastline where a tropical spirit meets sophistication and premium service.

Saadiyat Beach is home to five miles of pristine, silky white sands that are carefully preserved and undeveloped.

Native wildlife is allowed to thrive here, such as the critically endangered hawksbill turtles, which use parts of the beach to nest from March to September, and their hidden hatching sites are protected and patrolled by expert naturalists. Protection of its surrounding dunes means you access the beach by elevated wooden boardwalks.

Once on the beach, you have magnificent views over the Persian Gulf, where if you’re lucky you might spot playful humpback dolphins in the waters. Slow down and breathe with a beach yoga class or take to the waters for thrilling non-motorised watersports like windsurfing and sailing. Linger until dusk to embrace the stunning sunset sights over the sea.

You only need to wander a few minutes to find your own sandy spot, plus there’s an exclusive beach club where you can lounge in contemporary comfort while you enjoy exceptional hospitality. However, to make the most of Saadiyat Beach, there are several luxury beachfront resorts you can choose.

The eco-conscious Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort has adopted a revolutionary plastic-free approach, and even features an on-site marine biologist who shares local wildlife and sustainable initiatives with guests.

In the northeast of Fuerteventura is one of the largest and most idyllic of beach destinations, the Grandes Playas (Big Beaches) of Corralejo, located within Corralejo Natural Park. Five and a half miles of powder white sands are sandwiched between dunes and hidden coves and lapping turquoise waters. The waves here are ideal for surfing and kite surfing, and you can enjoy the sunshine all-year round.

Across the Atlantic Ocean, the neighbouring Canarian islands of Lanzarote and Los Lobos shimmer in the distance. To experience this beach beauty, look no further than the adults-only oasis of the newly renovated Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa, which opens right onto the sands. Just a minute’s walk to the beach through tranquil exotic gardens, the soothing sound of waves will be your heavenly holiday soundtrack.

Sun-drenched Sardinia is your perfect summer and winter sun holiday spot. However, beyond its warm rays, the south of this Italian island is also home to some of the Mediterranean’s finest beaches.

For your ultimate family holiday in style, there’s one resort that triumphs: the multi-award-winning Forte Village, which is just a 45 minute drive from the international airport.

This sprawling resort on the Cagliari coast is actually a resort within a resort, with a total of eight five- and four-star hotels and 13 luxurious pool villas tucked away within beautiful gardens. There are an infinite number of restaurants, swimming pools and activities tailored to all ages to appreciate, but one of its main highlights is undoubtedly its location.

Its private beach is already set up with umbrellas and loungers so you can just show up! Edged right along powdery white sands with a mountain that protects it, Forte Village benefits from its own tropical microclimate, ensuring it’s never too windy but never too hot.

Even the crystalline turquoise waters feel perfectly heated and boast shallow shores that allow non-swimming visitors to wade safely. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush then you can hire a kayak or catamaran, or even receive scuba diving lessons.

Once you’re in this sublime corner of Sardinia, you’ll find it hard to leave.

Winning the crown for this year’s best Caribbean beach has to be the award-winning Grand Anse, located in the exclusive southwest area of Saint George Parish in Grenada.

It’s hard to believe, but this amazing sweep of sparkling fine sands is only a few minutes’ drive from the international airport. Sandwiched between verdant hills and the vibrant blue of the Caribbean Sea, the beach stretches across two miles in a striking crescent moon shape, allowing it to never feel too crowded.

It’s so easy to fill your days as you flit between swimming in the sea and sunbathing in your tropical surroundings, with swaying palms and almond trees as your shade.

For your dreamy stay in Grand Anse, it’s got to be the family-run Coyaba Beach Resort, where you can enjoy a premium, all-inclusive stay, which boasts an on-site PADI diving centre.

Are you ready for a beach break? At Sovereign Luxury Travel we have over 50 years’ experience in tailormade luxury holidays. We take care of all the finer details, so you don’t have to. Our Personal Travel Planners are on hand every step of the way to ensure your luxury holiday is memorable and enjoyable.                          

Visit sovereign.com to start planning your next luxury escape today!

Read more: Exploring the Greek isles

Read more:  Top 5 places to spend your bank holiday

Keep up with the top stories from Reader's Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter