Tamarindo - Best Surfing Place (Costa Rica)

All it took was the popular surfing film, The Endless Summer 2, to feature Tamarindo's awesome waves and most perfect weather, and surfers and tourists alike were waiting standby to get here. Now Tamarindo is a Central American hotspot with world-class resorts and top shelf service. None of that took away from natures' exclusive surf destination.

It's a boomtown! Tamarindo has a mix of mostly small hotels with a variety of price ranges to the larger players slowly moving in. There doesn't appear to be much rhyme or reason, with some strip malls just totally out of place.

Breaks like Little Hawaii and Witches Rock are legends thanks to consistently huge waves and picture-perfect weather. There are waves for everyone here - longboarders and shortboarders - just ask the locals what are your best options.

Tamarindo is a long beach, but remember if your friends come to watch and swim, it can get a little rough. And, be careful where you swim - rocks are just offshore, barely below the surface. Of course, this is what makes it ideal for surfing! But if you're bodysurfing, take note - you could get hurt.

Swimming near the mouth of the estuary is a little dangerous at times because of the strong currents. Try to do your swimming down at the southern end, near Punta Langosta.

Easy to get to, Tamarindo, Costa Rica is a top tourist destination as well, with the winter months (October through March) being the peak weeks. Don't get discouraged. Here wave action is "totally awesome" from April through July.

The biggest waves you'll ride can get up to 9 feet. Tamarindo is a great place to use as home base as you explore many of the breaks to the north and south. There are several breaks in town including Rivermouth and Langosta, but the real attraction is that you're centrally located between world famous Playa Negra (south) and Witches Rock (north).

So logistically, Tamarindo offers the easiest place to explore the most surf in the shortest amount of time. And Tamarindo is big on nightlife.

Tamarindo is connected by paved road all the way from San Jose (4 1/2 hours) or by shuttle plane (no boards over 7 ft). If you come without a board, don't fret. Local surf shops will rent everything - even snorkeling equipment, boogie boards, sea kayaks, and surfboards. They have half-day and hourly rates for most of these items.

And if you're totally lost and want to learn - there are a couple of surf schools in Tamarindo. Tamarindo Surf School - 653.0923, or Witch's Rock Surf Camp - 653.1262.

We rate the surf destinations on best waves, ease of access, weather and enjoyment. Sure, there are more surf locations across the globe, but some are not easy to reach, or are always under the weather.

Veligandu Island

This best beach is nestled in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, about 700 Km south-west of Sri Lanka. Theory states a volcano may have pushed the ocean bottom near the surface, nature took over creating over 1190 small islands, 200 which are inhabited by the people of the Republic of Maldives.

Veligandu Island is our choice for best beach, and best overall resort. It is accessible from the airport at Male (capital) by plane - a short 15 minute breath taking flight. You'll fly over many Maldivian islands and reefs, most uninhabited, and land right at the beach.

And what a beach! 80 meters to be precise, of the cleanest sand found in these parts. It's white with a tinge of gold to give it a warm look. Just offshore you will find the atoll with a spectacular reef full of the most colorful fish. So your choice is to swim in the lagoon, or snorkel out to the inner reef and watch the beauty. Just remember to take one of those waterproof cameras - you'll want to remember every nuance.

We gave Veligandu our highest honor because it is wonderful for both beachside activities such as relaxation and tanning, and has all the amenities of water sports - probably the best diving available in the Maldives. And the resorts are first class. Overwater bungalows are air-conditioned, family friendly, and spacious. You'll find no complaints.

Book your visit early as Veligandu is popular year-round - however you will have problems finding many people on the beach. It's big enough to make you feel you have your own piece of paradise. Expect warm weather and humidity in the slightly damp range - tropical. Gentle breezes will keep you comfortable. Remember to use plenty of sunscreen.

Beach Index

• Sand - white with a touch of gold, medium/fine grain, no debris
• Shade - plenty near palms, watch for falling coconuts
• Sports - full service at the resort, snorkel/dive gear rentals
• Notes - no crowds - recommended

Maldives Sun Island - Nalaguraidhoo

One of Maldives best beaches (of the inhabitable ones, that is), happens to be in the South Ari Atoll. The island is named Nalaguraidhoo and it is simply stunning. Some 62 miles from the Maldive airport at Male, some call Sun Island the flower of the Indies! You'll get away from it all, here. Among the 1190 islands that make up this wonderful place, Sun Island carries many excellent recommendations. When you land, you'll know you're somewhere special.

Why did we choose this spectacle, set on a tiny dot in the Indian Ocean? Here's what we found: Sun Island was probably a coral/sand island with tropical vegetation and no refinements. Since the Maldives took a great interest in tourism during the past 20 years, over 65 resorts have sprung up. Companies visited the larger, more compatible islands and made decisions to build resorts. Many islands have only one resort.

Sun Island didn't need much work. You can tell that much of the beauty is not man-made at all. First, the shape of the island lends to a grand lagoon, perfect for water sports such as snorkeling or canoeing. The barrier reef starts close enough to swim to and nature responds with a myriad of colorful fish and coral, sea life and crystal clear water. So clear, as a matter of fact, many say they feel as if they are flying over the reef. But, if you're not the water lover - you're in luck.

It's absolutely crazy, but there are parts of the island where you can see the reef right from the beach - with no need to get in the water! Plus, if you choose an overwater bungalow, you can literally day dream for hours while watching the fish and other creatures do their thing from your lanai. Here's a few tips while snorkeling: Rentals are around $7/day. Get a mask that fits well - no leaks. Fins must be comfortable. Ask the resort where the best snorkel spots are - don't waste time. Ask about any potential problems. Wear a t-shirt and suntan lotion. Finally, don't stand on the coral - it's fragile!


Next, the other shore is a stunning pure white beach that you can walk, jog, relax, take pictures of - whatever you dream. Even in high tide the shore is full and inviting. Catch the sunset here, or be catered to by the staff in grand style. There's nothing like sipping on a drink, listening to the surf, feeling the gentle breeze and the soft touch of the sun on your skin as you unwind on holiday so far from home no one could find you if they had to. Isn't that what you're here for?

Sun Island is a "sun" spot - most days full sun with little cloud cover. You know the daytime routine - tanning, snorkeling, reading, diving, windsurfing. But at night, you're in for a treat. Most come here with little regard to night life - by the time the sun is setting, you are, too! However, make sure you plan to go on one of the nighttime fishing trips - just a few hours right after sundown, which end in a fantastic fish fry and bake right on the beach. Nothing could end the evening better than a Maldivian customary meal under the stars.

BEACH INDEX

• Sand - medium bright white powder
• Facilities - at the main house northside, and at the water sports area
• Shade - palm trees along the northeast end, umbrellas available elsewhere
• Sports - diving, snorkel, windsurf, jetski rentals

Maldives - Beach

The Beaches in the Maldives are spectacular. What you'll find here is a great place to play Robinson Crusoe - tiny islands with soft, sandy beaches, sparkling turquoise lagoons and a bungalow on the beach. Crusoe would have been blown away by the comfort of some of the upscale resorts here.

Largely unexplored by Americans due to the lack of direct flights to the Maldives, the islands have long been the playground of Europeans seeking the awesome beaches and tranquil lagoons. But that's probably why the Maldives and the Seychelles remain unspoiled for the most part.

Take a dip below the surface, and you'll be rewarded with an amazing variety of breathtaking colorful fish. And some of the world's best dive sites are here, too. But don't think the resorts just happened. The government planned and has a master tourism plan in place.

The Maldives (pronounced MAHL-deeves) are now a part of a great master plan - after the overwhelming tourist boom of the 70's and 80's. The idea here was to emphasize quality over quantity. And they did just that. Granted, you can't go just anywhere in the some 1190 islands - and luxury doesn't come cheap - but... well worth it, we feel. Just find a traveler who came home from here unhappy.

Okay - so where is this place?

Officially known as the Republic of Maldives, a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean about 417 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. The best time to visit any of the beach resorts is November to Easter.

You land in Male and are transferred by air or boat to your resort. Depending on the sea, it may be better to transfer by air. We have heard reports of visitors getting sea sick on the transfer vessel, (this after a 12 hour flight - you get the picture.)

Where else can you find local women caring for the beaches by hand? That same care is displayed to every visitor to their country. In fact, the people are so friendly here, we guarantee you will make friends. The country prides itself on how warm the people are. And they love to tell of their beautiful islands - ask many questions and you'll soon consider moving here! Enough dreaming - So now we're off to our First Beach.

Mykonos - Best Party Beach on the Planet Earth (Greece)

Mykonos, Greece does have it wrapped up when it comes to party beaches. If you love partying, you must get to Mykonos. What gave Mykonos the honor? The beach bars. Resorts and independents alike have beach bars that actually run oceanside.

What else makes Mykonos the Best Party Beach? The friendly locals; the minute you arrive on Mykonos, you're made to feel welcome. Locals are so hospitable that they go out of their way to make you feel accepted. We all have experienced the horror stories of arriving at a beautiful destination only to find out that the people don't really care if you're there. That won't happen on Mykonos.

Paradise Beach Bar is where you will find everything happening. The bar is centrally located on the beach and surrounded by trees and sand. Tables are placed throughout the property so you can gather and watch, or join in at any time. And partying starts early. Take the local bus from your hotel, or catch a cab, and find your spot around early afternoon. Many use the morning to lay out at the beach. By 2 PM, the partying starts and doesn't let up until early morning.

Why go to Mykonos? It is breathtaking. It's cosmopolitan - where hip and historical come together. And watch out; the Greek vistas have you coming back for more. Think right now where you're at - sitting in front of a computer, reading about partying in Mykonos. And think about an International jet setting island, with sunshine. Where would you like to be? Not a difficult question.

The clubs stay open till dawn and there is no nicer place to nurse a slight hangover then in an umbrella shaded beach chair a few feet from the sea where one can slowly build up his strength to face the next evening's festivities.

Mykonos is a cross-roads of chic. Everybody comes here, from Keith Richards laying on his back floating in the sea with a cigarette dangling from his mouth, to your favorite TV or movie star and their entourage, moving from club to club in search of action. Famous politicians, designers, newscasters, basketball players and coaches, kings, queens and commoners all make Mykonos their first choice in holiday destination.

Mykonos is quite easy to get to. There are many daily flights from Athens and ferries from Pireaus or Rafina. The ferry boat ride is about 5 hours with stops in Tinos and Syros. Avoid any boat stopping in Tinos a few days before the 15th of August if you are going to Mykonos, and after the 15th when you return. This is because thousands of Pilgrims go to the Holy Icon in Tinos for the Panagiri and unless you have a ferry ticket in advance you probably won't get on. If you do, you will wish you hadn't as it can be very crowded and uncomfortable.

There are also connections to Mykonos from Santorini and the other Cyclades islands. If you find yourself in a position where you have to travel on these days, ask your travel agent for help with another route. There are now highspeed boats from Pireaus and Rafina as well as Lavrion that can get you to Mykonos in about two hours.

Try to book a room in advance. Yes, it is possible to find rooms on your own when you arrive but difficult in July and almost impossible in August, particularly during the August 15 holiday.

If you do not book, as you arrive by boat, there will be people waving pictures of their rooms where you might stay. There is also a tourist information office that will help.

Mykonos is a great example of Cycladic architecture and is a maze of streets and alleys so that you never know where you will end up. Along the way you will see things that may surprise you; a branch of your favorite boutique that you thought only existed back home, to expensive french restaurants, traditional churches, gold shops, tavernas, to an internet cafe.

Best shops on the island: the Fruit Center, which of course, sells fruit and the International Press Center where you will probably be able to find your favorite newspaper, magazine or book, no matter where you come from.

Nearby, the Island of Delos is uninhabited. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It was once a thriving port and commercial center. According to mythology it is the birthplace of Apollo. The Delian games were held here and the ruins of the city are quite extensive - well worth a visit. Come especially in the spring when wildflowers are in bloom. There are numerous taxi boats and tours to the island advertised in the port of Mykonos.

The best beaches are found by taking the bus to Platyialos, which is more of a family beach, restaurants, beach umbrellas, and the small boats that can take you to the other beaches. The first beach is Agia Ana, which is usually quiet and still relatively undeveloped. The next stop is Paraga and then Paradise beach where there is a campsite, music, water sports and a restaurant or two. The next beach is Super Paradise which was a nudist beach. The last beach is Elia which was also a nudist beach and now has a couple of luxury resorts.

You can drive or get buses to all of these beaches. There are other beaches scattered around the island but these are the most well known and among the best in Greece. The locals like Agios Stefanos. It is small and quaint, near town and has a few hotels including the Princess of Mykonos. A nice little fish taverna overlooking the sea called Taverna Vasoula is right at Agios Stefanos.

And, there you have it - The World's Best Party Beach! Mykonos, Greece. Make sure you visit other beach destinations - especially Bora Bora, for out of the way perfection!

South Beach Miami

South Beach, Miami, offers all the partying you could possibly want - and then some. Coming in at number two on the World's Best Party Beaches - South Beach is for beautiful people (or those who aspire).

It's a place unto itself, yet part of Miami; only a few city blocks long, but every street in South Beach has bars, restaurants, hotels, shops, and the best clubs - each one better than the next. Good times await in the top clubs with the rich and famous and those looking for relaxing and posh partying.

But before you take the time to dress up (or down) to hit the clubs at sunset, be advised things don't get going here before 11 PM. And here's the dilemma: if you don't arrive in South Beach early enough, forget getting a parking space. (Valet's charge $20.) City lots fill up quickly - so plan on arriving early, stroll around (you'll love people watching and people watching you), eat something, or find a hotel bar and sip a drink.

Tip number two: Arrive before 11 PM to avoid a cover charge. Many clubs don't charge before 11 or midnight - just ask by calling ahead. All clubs are listed in the phone book. Calling early will avoid finding out that the club you planned hasn't turned into a food court. And make sure your concierge puts you on the guest list. That could save some bucks by the end of the evening.

The beautiful people come here to play - well, okay - to be seen, by scouts from Miami's thriving modeling community. So, make sure you take time during the day to stroll up Ocean Drive, the main strip in South Beach, where hotels, restaurants, and the "chic"est mansions lie. You'll find plenty to do.

And, since this is the "beach", don't forget to visit the awesome strip of powdery sand along the Atlantic. There's great food here during the day, and then after sundown, return for fun at the beachside beds on stilts at Nikki Beach.

Okay, but where to go to party? So much to choose from. The Crobar club boasts one of the largest dance floors and is themed differently each day of the week. Another is Automatic Slims - it's a bar, but partying goes on. The wait-staff is all female, some who are fire-breathers (just ask).

Rain has a Home Cookin' party every Tuesday night featuring great hip-hop and free cheeseburgers grilled right outside. Want a more upscale affair? Try Mynt for their tech music upstairs and the hip-hop/R&B downstairs. Tantra is another popular club with jazz and blues.

The Mansion is another club to see and be seen. The former Level (also formerly Club Z, Glam Slam, Deco's, etc.) is reincarnated as Mansion, with all the same glam factor left. Britney, J. Lo and even former President Bill Clinton have partied here. Go well dressed.

There are more clubs and party houses, but these are the most popular. And, South Beach, Miami may be just be your best choice - in the USA, yet exotic as anywhere else.

That's our number two pick - South Beach, Miami.

The Clubbing Beach

Ibiza (ee-bee-thah) Baleares, Spain, once practically unknown, now sometimes called the world's party capital. If it's nightlife you crave, Ibiza, Spain is the right place. They claim the best clubs and DJ's in the world and what may be more believable, the best cosmopolitan mix of "clubbers" and holiday makers on the planet.

In the 1950's, it was Europe's most favored destination by the flower children. Today, you'll find Ibiza crowded by the middle-class "tour package" foreigners, mostly from England, Germany, France, and Scandinavia. And just note that it's become a major mecca for gay travelers as well.

But don't let any of that keep you from visiting this Iberian paradise.

But stars, celebrities and models show up here as well. Seen as the "Summer Party Capital", Ibiza, Spain is set in one of the most picturesque places in the world.

So here's what you need to do first of all upon arrival; go see the sunset. On this Spanish Isle it is awesome! Make sure you take photos and take a friend. Enjoy a drink while you decide whether to sleep or to stay up all night partying. Remember, travel-lag may catch up with you. We suggest taking it easy on your first day.

This is a great choice for a winter vacation, but take care in July and August when temperatures can be hot.

Atlantis : Paradise Island

Where else can you have the legend of Atlantis re-created for you and your family in a fun way that you will remember for a lifetime? The legend comes alive at The Dig, an underground maze that simulates the ruined Lost Continent. It's complete with royal treasure, phantasmagorical flying machines, and hieroglyphics. And your kids will thrill to the live eels, lobsters, and piranha!

Discovery Kid's Camp at Atlantis is the only one of its kind in the world. It integrates the resort's extensive marine habitat with modern technology. DKC is broken down into three age groups from 4 to 12 years old. There is a Base Camp with a replica of a wrecked Spanish galleon. At the Science Outpost, kids will be able to touch animals in their touch tanks and gaze at life under the high-powered microscopes.

Technology Lab offers up the latest in computer assisted marine science with access to the Internet and programs that teach and tell about the environment surrounding the island. Nature Crafts is an area where kids can make art from shark's teeth.

Children 1 to 5 will be able to participate in the hour-long Mommy, Daddy & Me sessions, twice a week with robotics, storytelling, and music. And don't miss the Aquatots program for kids 3 and older. Five children are chosen by lottery to join the Atlantis Sea-Keepers and enter the Estuary Lagoon to feed the baby marine life! Imagine the photo opportunity there.

New for 2005, an Earth and Fire pottery studio, where families can paint their own creations as souvenirs.

RESORT INDEX

• Size: 2,317 rooms and suites; a room with two double beds is about 475 sq.ft.
• Features: 11 swimming areas fully staffed by lifeguards - two "kids only" pools; widest range of water-rides from lazy river to the Leap of Faith where you are propelled through a clear tunnel submerged in a shark-filled lagoon; 29 restaurants with kids menus; 23 non-smoking floors; a theater that shows three recently released movies daily at no charge - free popcorn, of course
• For Mom & Dad: 11,500 sq.ft. Mandara spa with water therapy; fitness center complete with cardio center; adults only restaurant
• Selling Points: boasts a 34-acre outdoor aquarium with over 200 species of marine life, including huge sharks; aquarium runs throughout property

Almond Beach Village

This resorts does what every resort should do; they ask the parents what is working and what's not in their Mini-Club for 2 to 4 year olds and their Kids' Club for 5 to 12 year olds. And this is just what you want. Someone responsive to what matters to you.

Donna Maxwell, the resorts' program director says, "Over the years, we've responded to parents suggestions, moving the bulk of the Kids' Club outdoors, with fun activities such as swimming races, snorkeling, pool Olympics, and kayaking. We also added attractions families can enjoy together, such as puppet shows and outdoor fairs."

And Almond Beach Village does something special to incorporate the culture of Barbados into the family experience. The resort offers Calypso dancing and limbo on the pool deck. In addition, you can get involved in the arts and crafts using natural elements found on property. But our favorite would have to be the "Taste of Barbados" program where you can sample nut cakes and other local sweets. Bring it on!

RESORT INDEX:

• Size: 380 rooms and suites; a room with two double beds is 226 sq.ft.
• Features: swim-up movies (how cool!); junior chef classes; 77 pairs of connecting rooms; free shuttle to Bridgetown (capital) for local arts and crafts, shops; shaded playground
• For Mom & Dad: Island safari tours; privileges at adult-only sister property Almond Beach Club; traditional English afternoon tea
• Recently renovated
• Mile long beach on the Caribbean; village atmosphere
• Sports: Hobie Cats, aqua-cycle, kayak, limbo and Calypso dance lessons, nature walks

Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort

Winter in the Bahamas is temperate. So Westin and Sheraton at Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort alternates its events by season. For instance, Liselle Harris, manager of activities and entertainment says, "In August we might have coconut bowling, whereas in January we might have a bonfire at night to roast marshmallows."

What we find so cool, and you will too, is the way they incorporate local Bahamian culture and tradition into the camp's programming. In winter, young guests might learn about Junkanoo, a local celebration commemorating early historical figure John Canoe. A grand parade ensues and according to Harris, "we had child-sized Junkanoo costumes made, with crepe-paper skirts, feathers, and colorful headpieces, and we fit right in."

RESORT INDEX:

• Size: 1214 rooms and suites; a room with two double beds is 375 to 400 sq.ft. (These two hotels are sister properties and share the properties and share the children's program and amenities.)
• Features: seven swimming pools, all staffed by lifeguards; new shaded playground; full-sized cribs; inflatable castle on the beach
• For Mom & Dad: beachside massages; only resort in the world with tennis courts that have surfaces equaling the Grand Slam courts; 14 restaurants
• Facts: only a 45 minute hop from Miami making it a great choice for kids who haven't mastered long air travel; front desk calls young guests right after check-in making them feel special, telling them about camp
• Off property activities: dolphin encounters, eco-tours, and sailing