Best Beach Vacations

College students on spring break, families looking for a tropical get away, and individuals searching for a quiet retreat are all looking for the best beach vacations. Locations around the world are ready to cater to the tourist trade, but what ranks a beach among the best? ABC's Best Vacation Spots lists beach spots for travel enthusiasts looking for new sites, while Caribbean Magazine's top 10 also provides locations around the world.

1.

 ABC News lists St. Lucia as number one among its best beach vacations. This secluded Caribbean island offers everything from quaint fishing villages to plantation villas. Fishing is excellent and guides are available to take visitors through 19,000 acres of rain forest to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife.

2.

 Little Palm Island is located among the collection of small islands between Florida's mainland and Key West and noted as one of the top 10 beaches by Biloxi's WLOX Channel 13. Little Palm Island's resort is said to be one of the best in the country, with great accommodations, tasty food, and one of the best beaches in the entire stretch of the Keys. The area also boasts a great time for wildlife enthusiasts, scuba divers and snorkelers.

3.

 Forbes lists the Weekapaug Inn as a great place for those looking to vacation at the beach. Built at the turn of the 19th century, Weekapaug Inn is nestled a few miles outside of Watch Hill. It's a family-run business and operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Staying here is like traveling back in time. There's no telephone, bar or spa but children are welcome, the beach is pristine and the food is delicious.

4.

 Located along the northeast coast of Australia, Hayman provides mild weather and a laidback atmosphere. In fact, many people just sleep on the beach under the stars rather than getting a hotel room. However, luxury accommodations are available, too, at the Hayman Hotel located in Queensland.

5.

 The Gasparilla Inn, located on Gasparilla Island, is visited by well-known celebrities including President George Bush, Sr. and his family. Accommodations are available as well for families and individuals who want to stay directly on the beach.

6.

 Five Star Alliance lists the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows among the best beach vacations. Guests receive VIP treatment. The Big Island offers a varied topography with a range of climates. Helicopter tours offer sights like active lava flows, rainforests, magnificent waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, whales and hidden beaches.

7.

 Diani Beach is one of Kenya's best waterside locales and offers pristine tropical beaches covered in soft, white sand and a reef just 20 minutes off shore. Hotels offer amenities like boat rides and windsurfing for a price. Snorkeling equipment can also be rented. After you've relaxed on the beach you can also enjoy wildlife in the nearby Jadini forest.

8.

 The Los Angeles Time names Puerto Escondido the best overall beach value in Mexico with its world-class surfing. Those looking for an affordable vacation will find value for their money.

9.

 With its superb beaches and perfect weather, Ocean Club offers a touch of paradise to its guests with almost 100 guest rooms and villas. Other amenities include fine dining, golf and gambling at the casino in Nassau.

10.

 Set on 171 acres of the Virgin Islands National Park, Caneel Bay offers seven beaches for guests to enjoy. The clear blue waters are ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving and windsurfing. Families are welcome and resorts offer numerous children's programs.

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