What defines a luxury beach resort? Unmatched service, relaxing spas, breathtaking sunset views and lavish cuisine are a few factors that come to mind. But where do you begin to narrow down the list for your next escape to paradise? You could spend hours browsing the internet for the most dazzling beaches in every corner of the globe.
We’ve completed much of the work for you and selected our top choices for the best luxurious beach hideaways. From the aqua-blue waters of the Mediterranean to unspoiled archipelagos, beach nirvana is only a few clicks away. Read on and discover our top picks for the best luxury beaches in the world.
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Seychelles
More than just a honeymoon destination
- Couples
- Luxury
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Comprised of over 100 islands, the fabulous resorts along the white-powdered sands of Seychelles are perfect for a relaxing getaway. Serene beach hideouts like Anse Intendance and Baie Lazare have a secluded vibe for lazing on the shore. Anse Source d'Argent is a popular destination thanks to its mesmerising rock formations, tranquil waters and snorkelling areas.
We love the VIP treatment guests receive at the world-class resorts lining the islands of the archipelago. Arrive in style at Hilton Seychelles Labriz on Silhouette Island by riding in a helicopter or luxurious boat ride. Feel rejuvenated with a stay at Maia Luxury Resort & Spa by indulging in Hatha Yoga, Balinese massage and qigong.
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Turks and Caicos
5-star service and world-famous dive sites
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- Couples
- Luxury
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The Turks and Caicos Islands are a fantastic setting for luxury travellers seeking a little adventure. The 8 inhabited islands are easy to reach by plane, boat or ferry from the main hub of Providenciales. World-renowned Grace Bay Beach is home to numerous resorts offering beachfront villas, impeccable dining and invigorating spa treatments. Explore the wonders of the sea by scuba diving at the island’s breathtaking barrier reef system. The network of caves on Middle Caicos is one of the most expansive in the entire Caribbean.
Head to the privately-owned island of Parrot Cay for a more secluded getaway. Enjoy a wide range of activities at the island’s resort-like massage therapies, yoga classes and sunset cruises.
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Oia, Santorini
Breathtaking sunsets and white-washed buildings
- Couples
- History
- Luxury
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We love Oia, tucked away on the northern tip of Santorini, for its iconic Greek architecture and panoramic views of volcanic landscapes. The charming village is teeming with cosy boutiques perfect for enjoying the incredible views of the horizon. Luxury suites and villas often include private pools, spas and masterful dining establishments. Boutiques like Perivolas are a stone’s throw from the village but simultaneously provide solitude hugging the cliff. Mystique offers top-notch service complete with a wine cave, Greek cuisine and infinity pools perched above the Aegean Sea.
Admire the famous white-washed buildings at sunset and snap that postcard image of the village nestled along the Caldera. For a refreshing swim, head to the bottom of the rugged hill and take a dip in the crystalline waters of Amoudi Bay.
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Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia
Discover cultural landmarks surrounding opulent resorts
- Adventure
- Couples
- Families
- History
- Luxury
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Nusa Dua is the top destination for a lavish beach stay while getting a fabulous introduction to Balinese culture. Surround yourself with local décor and lush palm trees at The Laguna with scenic ocean views. The resort provides relaxing lagoon pools, personalised spa treatments and round the clock butler service. Explore the nearby Uluwatu Temple or Bali’s cultural hub of Ubud to learn about the local customs. Enjoy an exquisite collection of cuisine and therapeutic treatments at the world-class spas attached to Nusa Dua's 5-star resorts.
Pantai Mengiat Beach is popular for its snorkelling sites and scenic fishing trips. Escape the crowds at Pandawa Beach and take in the marvellous views of white statues carved into the adjacent limestone cliffs.
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Martha's Vineyard, MA, USA
Find charming summer cottages and lighthouses
- Couples
- Food
- History
- Luxury
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Martha’s Vineyard is a delightful seaside retreat where you can cool off during the summertime. The idyllic Menemsha Beach is famous for its astonishing sunset views and delicious lobsters. East Beach provides seclusion from the crowds and the peaceful sounds of the waves crashing against the shore. For mesmerising scenery, head to Aquinnah to gaze at the famous cliffs facing the sea.
Cosy accommodations like Menemsha Inn and Cottages and the Harbor View Hotel masterfully combine the island’s rich history with the latest modern amenities. Menemsha Inn and Cottages lets you snuggle up by a wood-burning firehouse while enjoying stunning views of the harbour. The newly refurbished Harbor View Hotel has an exquisite décor highlighting Martha’s Vineyard’s maritime history.
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Positano, Italy
Take in colourful, cliffside vistas along the Amalfi Coast
- Couples
- Food
- History
- Luxury
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We think the scenic village of Positano offers the most glamorous stay along the dramatic Amalfi Coast. The kaleidoscope of colours hugging the craggy cliff is set in beautiful contrast to the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Feel like the ancient Roman elite who vacationed here centuries ago by staying in an extravagant hillside villa perched above the sea.
Watch the village twinkle at night with a candlelit dinner along the exquisite terraces of Palazzo Santa Croce. Lavish gardens surround the private pool of Villa Magenta and the interior is complete with stunning artwork and stylish décor. Celebrities flock to Spiaggia Grande, which rests just below the extravagant homes of the village. For a more exclusive vibe, hit Fornillo Beach and lounge along the pebbled shore.
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Búzios, Brazil
Lively activities & nightlife along Brazil's Sun Coast
- Couples
- Food
- Luxury
- Nightlife
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- Shoppers
We adore Búzios for its gorgeous white sand, splendid boutiques and bustling social scene. The peninsula offers an impeccable variety of appealing guesthouses and private villas with lovely seaside views. Ferradurinha Beach is a popular hangout with its rugged surroundings and numerous water sports. Praia do Canto provides a more private setting as boats decorate the peaceful waters just off the shoreline.
Búzios stands out for its fine dining, upscale night clubs and designer shops along its cobblestone streets. Stroll along Rua das Pedras to shop for the latest beach accessories from all the stylish brands and party at the most fashionable night clubs after sunset. The Rocka Beach Lounge and Mistico Sunset Lounge serve delicious seafood with incredible sunset views.
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Plage de Pampelonne, Cote d'Azur, France
Pristine sands and iconic beach clubs
- Couples
- Food
- Luxury
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Read moreThe star-studded Plage de Pampelonne is a swanky stretch of powdered-white sand in the Côte d'Azur, an area renowned for its classic resorts and chic clubs. Extravagant yachts are a floating playground for glitzy parties just offshore. The legendary Club 55 hosts A-list celebrities, politicians and entrepreneurs away on summer vacation. Tahiti Beach offers a lavish setting complete with lush gardens, a private beach and unmatched poolside service. Guests can even arrive by helicopter, landing on the hotel’s private landing pad.
Receive 5-star treatment at La Réserve Ramatuelle while relaxing inside a luxurious villa or suite overlooking the striking blue waters of the Mediterranean. World-class chefs highlight the resort’s restaurant and the spa offers a bevvy of programs to leave feeling revitalised.
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Palm Beach, FL, USA
Glamorous beachfront properties and Florida sunshine
- Couples
- Families
- Luxury
- Nightlife
- Photo
- Shoppers
We think Palm Beach is one of the best tropical getaways for unbeatable hospitality. Palm trees line the beautiful mansions and first-class resorts in this iconic resort town. The Breakers and Eau Palm Beach are among the most notable seaside resorts in the United States. Flawless service, inclusive amenities and nearby shopping create a beachfront paradise for guests. Take a stroll down Worth Avenue to shop at the most distinguished brands and dine on cuisine from around the world.
The dazzling white sands of Palm Beach are the perfect place to sunbathe and soak up the bright Florida sun. Wander to the nearby Delray Beach which is well known for its immaculate shores, stylish shops and vibrant nightlife.
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Langkawi, Malaysia
Sweeping jungle views, retail heaven and beachfront resorts
- Adventure
- Couples
- Families
- Luxury
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The resorts lining the gorgeous beaches of Langkawi provide superb value for luxury travellers. Ocean and jungle views, excellent scuba diving sites and festive nightlife are all minutes away. The tranquil shores of Pantai Kok are packed with elegant resorts and a myriad of shops and restaurants. Ride the cable car to the top of Mat Cincang Mountain for breathtaking views of the sea.
The Andaman is surrounded by the lush Malaysian jungle and is footsteps from the peaceful waters of Datai Bay. The ambience of the resort is capped with its posh furniture, scenic terraces and decorative lounges. Casa del Mar is a stone’s throw from the popular Pantai Cenang Beach which is noted for its sparkling sunsets and soothing waters.
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