Latin America's Corner Among World's 8 Best Beach Destinations

The BBC's exploration of global beaches, as reported by La Nación, reveals a world beyond the typical sandy shores, highlighting unique coastal experiences that redefine the concept of a beach vacation. From the tranquil, environmentally conscious shores of Havelock Island in the Andaman Islands to the secluded, untouched beauty of Icacos in Puerto Rico, these destinations offer more than just sun and sand.

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Although my heart is Mediterranean, I must say that the best beach in the world is in the Andaman Islands. Specifically, the small beach next to the Full Moon cafe on Havelock Island.

Havelock Island, specifically the beach near the Full Moon cafe on Havelock, is lauded for its luminous shallow waters, ethereal white sand, and surreal moonlight. The experience is enhanced by a sophisticated dining option served in a bamboo hut and a palpable commitment to environmentalism, with local youth actively working to prevent plastic pollution. This blend of natural beauty, mindful tourism, and intellectual stimulation—where a writer found inspiration for a bestseller—makes it a standout.

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The shallow, luminous water, the unreal beauty of the white sand, and the surreal glow of the moon at night. Absolutely serene.

Icacos, an uninhabited island off Puerto Rico, offers a starkly different yet equally compelling escape. A short boat ride from Fajardo transports visitors to a Robinson Crusoe-like paradise, where the absence of crowds and commercialism allows for a truly relaxing, albeit challenging, experience. The need to bring all provisions, including shade, underscores its wild, untamed nature, rewarding visitors with a day of pristine beach bliss.

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There is a great attention to the environment. I met young people there who work to prevent plastic from reaching the islands.

Finally, La Baia di Ieranto on Italy's Amalfi Coast is presented as a hidden gem, a secluded cove rumored to be the home of Homer's sirens. This contrasts sharply with the often-crowded, pebble-strewn beaches typically found along the Amalfi Coast, offering a more mythical and tranquil seaside experience. These selections underscore a global appreciation for diverse coastal landscapes, from the serene and eco-friendly to the adventurously isolated and historically resonant.

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The uninhabited island of Icacos is the epitome of the idyllic beach: turquoise waters, white sand, tempting waves, and radiant sun.