best beaches

The first and northernmost member of the Florida Keys is the self proclaimed diving capital of the world and leaves little room for argument. With Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary just off shore, divers can rediscover ship wrecks from the past while also experiencing some of the clearest water they will ever see.

A legendary mecca for fans of spicy food, Boston Beach is considered the birthplace of Jamaican jerk seasoning. It is located on the northeastern shores of Jamaica, the third largest island in the Greater Antilles, and attracts surfers and explorers seeking a glimpse of the secluded waterfalls in the nearby rain forest.

The modern city of San Juan holds a piece of history, with colorful architecture and the Castillo San Felipe, a fort built by the Spanish starting in the 16th century. Lounge on the packed beaches, or take advantage of surfing and watersports. Unwind in the evening at Old San Juans Barrachina Bar, the birthplace of the pina colada.

For a truly dreamy and romantic experience, travel to Pink Sands Beach in the Bahamas for 3 miles of pristine, clear water against sand with a rosy hue.

As Marylands only oceanfront park, Assateague State Park borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Sinepuxent Bay on the west. The 2 miles of ocean beaches offer swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing and exploring secluded coves by canoe or kayak.

Fowl Cay is part of the Exumas, a collection of tiny islands just south of the capitol of Nassau. Rent a secluded villa equipped with a personal speedboat, and get free range to explore the island, drift through a sunlit sea cave and feed the wild swimming pigs.

Miramar Beach is a Gulf shore paradise for ultimate relaxation. This beach neighborhood brings back the feel of classic coastal enclaves with its scenic beach roads, surf shops, fabulous restaurants, beachfront homes and beachside resorts and condos with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

At Spains southernmost point, a world renowned wind tunnel meets 5 straight miles of crystal clear water, soft white sand and a rush of surfers adrenaline. The result is a gathering of thousands at the undisputed kite surfing capital of the world.

One of the 10 municipalities in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, Isla Mujeres has been an important island since the time of the Mayans. Scuba dive, snorkel, or take a glass boat tour to experience the massive coral reef, or spot the underwater museum of handcrafted concrete statues designed to resemble members of the local community.

Florianoplis is a small island and strip of land in southern Brazil with no fewer than 47 stunning beaches, including Joaquina Beach. The area has been called the best place to live in Brazil by locals and expats alike. The amazing beaches offer spectacular surfing, sand boarding in the rolling dunes, and a boardwalk packed with delectable cuisine.