Guides

Two free, sheltered, shallow coves on the Costa Blanca compared on sand, water, facilities and crowds, with a clear winner for each kind of beach day.

An honest head to head on two Corsica beaches. Arone for a wide family bay and sunset light, Erbaju for empty sand and silence.

Two west coast beaches in Corfu, one honest verdict. Pick Agios Georgios Pagon for easy open sand and water sports, Glyfada for a polished club day.

An honest head to head between Praia da Aberta Nova and Praia do Pego in Comporta, with a clear winner for each kind of beach day.

A straight head to head between Altinkum Beach and Delikli Koy in Cesme, with a clear winner for families, snorkellers and anyone chasing a cheap wild day.

An honest head to head between Cemetery Beach and Smith Cove on Grand Cayman, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and anyone short on time.

An honest head to head between two sheltered Cascais town beaches, with a clear winner for families, couples and anyone chasing clear calm water.

An honest head to head on Bocagrande Beach and Playa Blanca Baru in Cartagena, with a clear pick for swimmers, sunset walkers and postcard chasers.

An honest head to head between two Capri beaches. Which suits families, which suits day trippers, and the exact conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between Bakoven and Clifton on Cape Town's Atlantic seaboard, with a clear pick for couples, sunbathers, swimmers and sunset chasers.

Two Calabria swims compared. Arcomagno is a wild arch cove for self reliant couples. Le Castella pairs clear water with a castle view and a village.

An honest Byron Bay head to head on Belongil Beach and Cosy Corner. Who each shore suits, and the conditions that flip the winner.

A straight head to head between Azeda and Praia Brava in Buzios, with a clear winner for swimmers, surfers, families and anyone chasing space.

An honest head to head on Angol Beach and Diniwid Beach in Boracay: sand, water, crowds and facilities, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller.

An honest head to head on Anau and Motu Piti Aau in Bora Bora. We pick a winner for snorkellers, resort guests and day trippers, and say when each one flips.

An honest head to head on Akyarlar and Camel Beach in Bodrum, with a clear winner for families, windsurfers and anyone after a quieter day.

An honest head to head on two very different Bocas del Toro beaches, with a clear winner for walkers, surfers, snorkellers and families.

An honest head to head between Church Bay and John Smiths Bay in Bermuda, with a clear pick for snorkellers, families and anyone reading the swell.

An honest head to head between Accra Beach and Carlisle Bay in Barbados, with a clear winner for families, snorkellers and anyone chasing a calm swim.

An honest head to head between Balangan and Canggu in Bali, with a clear winner for surfers, swimmers, club goers and sunset chasers.

An honest head to head on Cabbage Beach and Gold Rock Beach in the Bahamas, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, walkers and photographers.

An honest head to head between Andicuri Beach and Druif Beach in Aruba, with a clear pick for swimmers, families, surfers and quiet seekers.

A straight head to head between Darkwood Beach and Half Moon Bay in Antigua: who each shore suits, and the conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between Adrasan and Kemer near Antalya, with a clear pick for families, distance watchers and anyone who wants a park and a Blue Flag.

An honest head to head between Barnes Bay and Meads Bay in Anguilla, with a clear winner for swimmers, couples, diners and sunset chasers.

An honest head to head between Arienzo and Duoglio on the Amalfi Coast, with a clear winner for sun lovers, swimmers, families and quiet seekers.

Benagil Beach and Cave versus Praia da Bordeira in the Algarve. Who each shore suits, the conditions that flip the answer, and where to enquire.

An honest head to head between Borsh and Himare on the Albanian Riviera, with a clear winner for space, for a base, and for the day the answer flips.

A candid head to head on Avsallar Beach and Kargicak Beach in Alanya, with a clear pick for families, couples and quiet seekers alike.

An honest head to head between Al Bateen Beach and Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi, with a clear winner for calm mornings and for easy central city days.

An honest head to head between Bwejuu and Jambiani on Zanzibar's southeast coast, with a clear winner for kiters, couples and slow travellers.

A straight head to head between Agios Nikolaos and Gerakas in Zakynthos, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

Betty's Beach or Catseye Beach in the Whitsundays? An honest head to head on sand, water, facilities and crowds, with a clear winner for each traveller.

An honest head to head between Cala Martina and Feniglia on the Tuscany Coast, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families, walkers and shade seekers.

An honest head to head between Bambarra Beach and Grace Bay, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Boca Paila and Playa Pescadores in Tulum, with a clear winner for quiet seekers, swimmers, day trippers and club lovers.

An honest head to head between Bacolet Beach and Mt Irvine Beach in Tobago, with a clear pick for families, snorkellers, couples and surfers.

An honest head to head between Atlantic Avenue Beach and Flying Point Beach in The Hamptons, with a clear winner for families, surfers and day trippers.

A straight head to head between two black sand beaches in Tenerife, with a clear winner for surfers, swimmers, whale watchers and families.

A straight head to head between Alma and Bograshov in Tel Aviv, with a clear winner for each type of family and the exact conditions that flip the answer.

A straight head to head between Avalon Beach and Bronte Beach in Sydney, with a clear pick for families, surfers and pool swimmers.

A straight comparison of Anse Chastanet and Marigot Bay in St Lucia, with a clear winner for snorkellers, couples, families and calm water swimmers.

An honest head to head between Colombier Beach and Grand Cul de Sac on St Barths, with a clear winner for families, snorkellers, kitesurfers and couples.

An honest head to head between Ahangama and Hikkaduwa on the Sri Lanka south coast, with a clear winner for surfers, snorkelers, swimmers and families.

An honest head to head between two Skiathos beaches. Which suits families, which suits a lively crowd, and the exact conditions that flip the pick.

A straight head to head between Balestrate and Cefalu, with a clear winner for families, culture lovers and space seekers, and the days each one flips.

An honest head to head between Alegria Beach and Daku Island in Siargao, with a clear winner for walkers, surfers, swimmers and families.

An honest head to head between Coral Bay and Nabq Bay in Sharm El Sheikh, with a clear winner for families, value hunters, snorkellers and windsurfers.

Two wild Seychelles beaches compared on sand, sea, facilities and crowds, with a clear winner for walkers, swimmers, photographers and couples.

An honest head to head between two wild jungle walk beaches near Sayulita, with a clear winner for surfers, walkers and sunset chasers.

An honest head to head between Cala Brandinchi and Cala Mariolu in Sardinia, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and boat day trippers.

An honest head to head between Agios Georgios and Caldera Beach in Santorini, with a clear winner for sunbathers, swimmers, couples and families.

An honest head to head between Playa Cabuya and Playa Malpais in Santa Teresa, with a clear winner for walkers, surfers, seafood lovers and tide pool hunters.

Blacks Beach or Imperial Beach in San Diego? A straight comparison of sand, water, facilities and crowd, with the exact conditions that flip the pick.

An honest head to head between Al Haffa and Fazayah, two very different Salalah shores, with a clear pick for families, couples and swimmers.

We compare Akumal and Mamitas Beach on sand, water, crowd and facilities, then pick a winner for turtle snorkelers and for beach club fans.

A straight head to head between Afandou and Elli on Rhodes. We pick a winner for each kind of swimmer and name the day the other one wins.

An honest head to head between Boucan Canot and L'Hermitage on Reunion, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, couples and the sundowner crowd.

An honest head to head between Al Hamra Beach and Bird Island in Ras Al Khaimah, with a clear winner for every kind of beach day.

A straight head to head between Playa Bikini and Playa El Emir, with a clear pick for surfers, value travellers and the sunset crowd.

An honest head to head between Arena Gorda and El Cortecito in Punta Cana. Which suits families, which suits casual visitors, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Baia dei Turchi and Marina di Pescoluse, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and anyone chasing the clearest water.

An honest head to head between two very different Puerto Vallarta beaches, with a clear winner for couples, snorkelers, families and city stayers.

A head to head on Ao Sane Beach and Kamala Beach in Phuket, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and couples, and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Bai Dai and Bai Truong on Phu Quoc, with a clear winner for families, sunset seekers and anyone chasing quiet sand.

A candid head to head of Bathers Beach and Floreat Beach in Perth, with a clear pick for calm swimmers, history lovers and quiet sunset afternoons.

A straight head to head on Penang's resort strip versus its jungle cove. We pick a winner for each type of traveller and name what flips it.

A candid Paros head to head between Faragas and Krios, with a clear winner for calm swimmers, families, water taxi day trippers and the wind.

An honest head to head on Banol Beach and Ditaytayan Island near Coron: sand, water, crowds and the exact day that flips the winner for your family.

An honest head to head between Aksazlar Beach near Fethiye and Calis Beach, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

A straight head to head between Araha and Kondoi in Okinawa. Who each beach suits, what flips the answer, and the tide and travel that decide it.

A straight head to head between Ala Moana Beach Park and Hanauma Bay on Oahu, with a clear winner for swimmers, snorkellers and families.

An honest head to head between Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida, with a clear winner for swimmers, photographers and families.

An honest head to head on Noosa's wild walk in crescent versus its calm patrolled town beach, with a clear winner for every kind of visitor.

A straight head to head on Bai Dai and Hon Chong in Nha Trang: who each shore suits, and the exact conditions that flip the verdict from one to the other.

A straight comparison of Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios in Naxos, with a clear pick for families, swimmers and windy days, plus when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between two Mykonos shores. Agios Ioannis for sunset romance, Elia for space and swimming. We pick a winner for every reader.

A candid head to head between Al Bustan Beach and Bandar Jissah near Muscat, with a clear pick for calm swimmers, snorkellers, early risers and families.

An honest head to head between Doi Duong Beach and Hon Rom Beach in Mui Ne, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, photographers and quiet seekers.

An honest head to head between Cook's Bay Beach and Ta'ahiamanu Beach on Moorea, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and couples.

An honest head to head between Becici and Jaz on the Montenegro coast. Sand versus pebble, calm versus chop, families versus watersports. Pick your shore.

A straight head to head between Agia Kyriaki and Gerontas on Milos. We pick a winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Bal Harbour and Haulover in Miami, with a clear winner for couples, families, kite surfers and naturists alike.

An honest head to head between two Menorca coves. Binibeca for easy family days, Cala Mitjana for wild turquoise. We pick the winner for each reader.

An honest head to head between Albion and Blue Bay in Mauritius. Snorkeling, sunsets, sand and crowds compared, with a clear pick for each kind of visitor.

An honest head to head between Baldwin Beach Park and Hamoa Beach on Maui, with a clear pick for families, road trippers and confident swimmers.

An honest head to head between two Marsa Alam wildlife bays. Who each one suits, the conditions that flip the answer, and where to enquire about a club day.

An honest head to head between Akyaka Beach and Cleopatra Island near Marmaris, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, kiters and boat day romantics.

A straight head to head between Armier Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha in Malta, with a clear pick for families, walkers and swimmers, and the day that flips it.

A straight comparison of two northeast Mallorca beaches. We pick a winner for families, for swimmers and for anyone chasing real waves.

A straight head to head between Carbon Beach and El Pescador in Malibu, with a clear winner for walkers, for privacy seekers, and the day each one flips.

An honest head to head between two Maldives bikini beaches, with a clear winner for families, for couples and for anyone chasing a quieter shore.

A straight head to head between Calheta and the Lido in Funchal. Golden sand or saltwater pools, calm swims, facilities and crowds, with a pick for every reader.

An honest head to head between Bluewater Maribago and Hilton Cebu on Mactan. Who each shore suits, and the exact conditions that flip the winner.

A straight comparison of Cabo Pulmo and Lovers Beach in Los Cabos, with a clear winner for divers, couples, families and anyone chasing the Arch.

A straight head to head between Are Guling and Mawi on Lombok's south coast, with a clear winner for surfers, swimmers and beach watchers alike.

A straight head to head between Alassio and Camogli in Liguria, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and anyone chasing a beautiful village day.

An honest head to head between Agiofili and Kathisma on Lefkada. Who each beach suits, and the exact conditions that flip the answer either way.

A straight head to head between El Jablillo and La Garita in Lanzarote, with a clear pick for families, snorkellers and seafood lovers, and the days each one wins.

A candid head to head between Beras Basah Island and Pantai Cenang, with a clear winner for couples, families and sunset chasers in Langkawi.

Kanawa Island Beach or Padar Island Beach in Labuan Bajo: an honest head to head on sand, water, crowds and who each shore really suits.

An honest head to head between Ao Nang and Klong Muang in Krabi, with a clear winner for couples, first timers, boat chasers and anyone who wants calm.

An honest head to head between Agios Stefanos and Marmari on Kos, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, windsurfers and history lovers.

An honest head to head between two Koh Tao snorkel bays, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Bang Kao and Bophut on Koh Samui, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Ban Tai and Haad Khom on Koh Phangan, with a clear winner for value bases, families, snorkellers and quiet seekers.

A straight comparison of Hin Ngam Beach and North Point Beach on Koh Lipe, with a clear winner for boat day snorkelers and for quiet seekers.

An honest head to head between Bamboo Bay and Klong Khong on Koh Lanta, with a clear winner for swimmers, sunset chasers and quiet seekers.

An honest head to head between Bang Bao and Klong Son on Koh Chang, with a clear winner for boat days, seafood, quiet paddling and families.

A straight comparison of two quiet Kefalonia swims. Sunset and easy access at one, a wild earned cove at the other. Find the right beach for your day.

An honest head to head between two calm Kauai swims. Which suits families, which suits the north shore, and the day the answer flips.

An honest Jeju comparison of Geumneung Beach and the Hagwi coastal road, with a clear winner for swimmers, families, sunset walkers and cafe hoppers.

An honest head to head between Bloody Bay in Negril and Cornwall Beach in Montego Bay, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller and the day that flips it.

An honest head to head between Ambrela Beach and Kamenjak in Istria, with a clear winner for families, couples and wild swimmers.

An honest head to head between two very different Ibiza shores, with a clear winner for swimmers, sunset chasers, families and free spirits.

An honest head to head between Dahar and Magawish in Hurghada, with a clear winner for swimmers, kiters, couples and value hunters.

An honest head to head between Cha Am Beach and Khao Takiab Beach in Hua Hin, with a clear winner for value, seafood, temple views and family paddling days.

An honest head to head between two Halkidiki beaches. Armenistis for room and water sports, Kalogria for a compact serviced cove. We pick a winner for you.

A straight head to head between two Guanacaste shores. We pick a winner for surfers, families and sunset chasers, and say when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Bathway Beach and La Sagesse Beach in Grenada, with a clear pick for swimmers, families, foodies and turtle chasers.

An honest head to head between Amadores and Las Canteras in Gran Canaria, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, surfers and city lovers.

An honest head to head between Broadbeach and Currumbin Beach, with a clear winner for families, beginner surfers, couples and food lovers.

An honest head to head between Agonda and Ashwem, two calm Goa beaches at opposite ends of the coast. Who each one suits, and when the answer flips.

Two sunrise shores, two free reef snorkels. We pick the winner for value hunters and for anyone chasing quiet on the Gili Islands.

An honest head to head between Ajuy and El Cotillo in Fuerteventura, with a clear winner for every type of traveller and the days that flip it.

An honest head to head between Carras in Nice and Garoupe on Cap d'Antibes, with a clear winner for each kind of Riviera reader.

A straight head to head on the Florida Keys: Anne's Beach for a shallow family wade, Fort Zachary Taylor for the best shore snorkel in Key West.

An honest head to head between Campeche Beach and Lagoinha do Leste in Florianopolis, with a clear pick for surfers, families and nature walkers.

Blue Lagoon or Liku Beach in Fiji: the Yasawa lagoon versus the adults only Likuliku bures, who each shore suits and when the answer flips.

Baia do Sancho or Praia da Conceicao? An honest head to head on sand, water, crowds and facilities to pick the right Fernando de Noronha beach for you.

An honest head to head between Almog Beach and Dolphin Reef in Eilat, with a clear pick for snorkellers, families and slow curious travellers.

A straight head to head between Al Mamzar Beach Park and JBR Beach, with a clear pick for families, swimmers, couples and anyone chasing the promenade.

An honest head to head between Chale Island Beach and Gazi Beach in Diani, with a clear winner for every kind of traveller and the day that flips it.

Bacvice or Dubovica on the Dalmatian coast? An honest head to head on sand, water, crowds and facilities, with a clear winner for each kind of visitor.

An honest head to head between Bac My An and My An in Da Nang, with a clear winner for families, longer stays and calm days, plus when the pick flips.

An honest head to head between Ayia Thekla and Finikoudes in Cyprus, with a clear pick for families, couples and anyone travelling without a car.

A straight head to head between Cas Abao Beach and Jan Thiel Beach in Curacao, with a clear winner for snorkelers, families and social beach days.

A head to head between Agiofarago and Balos Lagoon in Crete. We pick a winner for swimmers, walkers, families and view seekers, and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head on Artola and Cabopino near Marbella, with a clear pick for walkers, naturists, families and anyone chasing a marina lunch.

An honest head to head between Bolonia and El Palmar on the Costa de la Luz, with a clear winner for surfers, families, couples and photographers.

An honest head to head between Aiguablava and Cala Sant Francesc on the Costa Brava, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and day trippers.

An honest head to head between two wild western bays in Corsica, with a clear winner for families, couples and anyone chasing quiet or the last light.

An honest head to head between two very different north Corfu beaches, with a clear winner for each kind of couple and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Praia da Aberta Nova and Praia do Carvalhal, with a clear winner for walkers, surfers, families and long lunch lovers in Comporta.

A straight comparison of Altinkum Beach and Cark Beach in Cesme, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and windsurfers and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Cemetery Beach and Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, with a clear winner for snorkellers, swimmers and families.

An honest head to head between Praia da Conceicao and Praia da Poca, two calm town beaches near Cascais, with a clear winner for every kind of visitor.

An honest head to head between Bocagrande Beach and Isla Grande, with a clear winner for every kind of Cartagena traveller and the days that flip it.

An honest head to head on two very different Capri swims. One is a calm family cove, the other a famous splurge on the rocks. We pick a winner for you.

An honest head to head between Bakoven and Camps Bay on the Atlantic seaboard, with a clear winner for couples, families and sunset chasers.

Arcomagno Beach or Grotticelle Beach in Calabria? An honest head to head on sand, water, crowds and facilities, with a clear winner for each kind of visitor.

A candid head to head between Belongil Beach and Clarkes Beach in Byron Bay, with a clear winner for walkers, swimmers, dog lovers and calm seekers.

Azeda Beach or Ossos Beach in Buzios, compared on sand, water, service and crowd, with a clear winner for swimmers, couples and easy days out.

An honest head to head between Angol Beach and Cagban in Boracay. One is a calm family swim, the other your arrival port. Here is who each suits.

An honest head to head between Anau and Matira Point in Bora Bora, with a clear winner for snorkellers, couples and manta chasers, and when each flips.

An honest head to head between Akyarlar and Bitez in Bodrum, with a clear winner for families, windsurfers, couples and anyone chasing lunch on the water.

An honest head to head on Bluff Beach and Paunch Beach in Bocas del Toro, with a clear winner for surfers, walkers and couples, and the day a club beats both.

An honest head to head between Church Bay and Jobsons Cove on Bermuda's south shore, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and calm day swimmers.

An honest head to head between Accra Beach and Browns Beach in Barbados, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, snorkellers and quiet seekers.

An honest head to head between Balangan and Bingin on Bali's Bukit, with a clear pick for surfers, sunset chasers, walkers and anyone weighing the stairs.

A straight comparison of Cabbage Beach and French Leave Beach in the Bahamas, with a clear winner for swimmers, walkers, families and couples.

Andicuri Beach or Boca Catalina in Aruba? An honest head to head on sand, water, access and crowds, with the winner for snorkelers, families and thrill seekers.

An honest head to head between Darkwood Beach and Galley Bay in Antigua, with a clear winner for snorkellers, couples, families and sunset chasers.

An honest head to head between Adrasan and Kaputas in Antalya. Who each shore suits, and the exact conditions that flip the answer for families.

An honest head to head between Barnes Bay and Maundays Bay in Anguilla, with a clear winner for swimmers, couples, sunset chasers and diners.

A straight head to head between Arienzo and Cetara on the Amalfi Coast, with an honest winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

A straight head to head between the Benagil cave cove and Praia Dona Ana in the Algarve, with a clear winner for each type of beach day.

A straight compare of Borsh and Gjipe on the Albanian Riviera, with a clear pick for space seekers, hikers, swimmers and anyone weighing the walk.

A candid head to head on Avsallar Beach and Incekum Beach in Alanya, with a clear winner for families, slow travellers and anyone chasing pine shade.

A straight head to head on Abu Dhabi's western shore. Al Bateen for a quiet swim, Bateen Beach and Marina for an active day. Here is who wins.

An honest head to head between Bwejuu and Fuji Beach in Zanzibar, with a clear pick for each kind of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Agios Nikolaos and Dafni on Zakynthos, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Betty's Beach and Cateran Bay, with a clear winner for swimmers, snorkellers and seclusion seekers in the Whitsundays.

An honest head to head of two wild Tuscan coves. Who each suits, how the water and access differ, and the exact day that flips the winner.

An honest head to head between Bambarra Beach and Governor's Beach in Turks and Caicos, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller.

An honest head to head on Boca Paila and Playa Paraiso in Tulum. Who each shore suits, how sand, water and access differ, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Bacolet Beach and Englishmans Bay in Tobago, with a clear winner for every kind of reader and the conditions that flip it.

A straight head to head on two Hamptons ocean beaches: the easy Amagansett family day versus Montauk's famous surf. Who each one suits, and when the answer flips.

A straight comparison of El Bollullo and Los Cristianos in Tenerife, with a clear winner for surfers, families and gentle swimmers alike.

An honest head to head between Alma and Banana in Tel Aviv, with a clear winner for each type of family and the conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between Avalon Beach and Bondi Beach in Sydney, with a clear winner for families, surfers, first timers and calm swimmers.

A straight head to head between two Soufriere coves. Snorkel reef or jungle quiet, we name the winner for each type of visitor and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head on two wild St Barths beaches. Colombier for snorkelling you earn on foot, Gouverneur for a big empty cove you drive to.

An honest head to head of Ahangama and Dalawella on the Sri Lanka south coast, with a clear winner for surfers, swimmers, couples and cafe travelers.

A straight head to head between Achladies and Agia Paraskevi on Skiathos, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and anyone chasing space and water.

An honest head to head between Balestrate and Capo d'Orlando in Sicily, with a clear winner for families, tourers and calm water swimmers.

An honest head to head between Alegria Beach and Cloud 9 in Siargao, with a clear winner for surfers, walkers, photographers and swimmers.

An honest head to head between Coral Bay and Naama Bay in Sharm El Sheikh, with a clear winner for families, snorkellers, value hunters and night owls.

Anse Cocos is the wild walk in beach, Anse Georgette the sheltered resort bay. Here is which Seychelles shore suits you, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head on two wild walk in beaches near Sayulita. Who each shore suits, and the exact conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between two Sardinian coves. Which suits families, which suits boat day trippers, and the conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between Agios Georgios and Baxedes on sand, water, facilities and crowd, with a clear winner for every kind of Santorini visitor.

An honest head to head between Playa Cabuya and Playa Hermosa near Santa Teresa. Who each beach suits, and the exact conditions that flip the answer.

Blacks Beach or Del Mar Beach in San Diego? An honest head to head on sand, surf, facilities and crowds, with a clear winner for each kind of visitor.

An honest head to head on Salalah's two city beaches. Which suits families, quiet mornings and the khareef surf, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Akumal and Isla Blanca. Turtles and calm water, or a wild kite lagoon. We pick a winner for each kind of traveller.

A running order for four days of Rio beaches, each day set to contrast with the last, with honest calls on crowds, wind and what to swap when a plan sours.

A straight head to head between two very different Rhodes shores, with a clear winner for swimmers, snorkelers, families and anyone chasing space.

An honest head to head between Boucan Canot and Grande Anse on Reunion, with a clear winner for every kind of beach day and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Al Hamra Beach and Al Rafaah Beach, with a clear winner for each type of visitor to Ras Al Khaimah.

A straight head to head between Punta del Este's scene beach and its calm naturist bay, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the days that flip it.

A straight head to head between Arena Gorda and Cabeza de Toro in Punta Cana, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and the wind chasing crowd.

An honest head to head between Baia dei Turchi and Lama Monachile in Puglia, with a clear winner for swimmers, families and photographers.

An honest head to head between Conchas Chinas and Mismaloya Beach in Puerto Vallarta, with a clear winner for snorkelers, couples and easy days out.

An honest head to head on Ao Sane and Freedom Beach in Phuket, with a clear winner for snorkellers, couples and anyone chasing white sand.

An honest head to head between Bai Dai and Bai Sao on Phu Quoc, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Bathers Beach and Cottesloe in Perth, with a clear winner for each type of reader and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between two very different Penang shores, with a clear pick for swimmers, families, naturalists and sunset chasers.

An honest head to head between Faragas and Kolymbithres on Paros, with a clear winner for calm swimmers, rock lovers, families and budget days.

An honest head to head between Banol Beach and Caalan Beach in Palawan, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the day that flips it.

A straight head to head between Aksazlar Beach near Fethiye and Butterfly Valley near Oludeniz, with a clear winner for every type of traveller.

Araha Beach or Furuzamami Beach in Okinawa? A straight head to head on sand, water, facilities and crowds, with a clear winner for each type of traveller.

An honest head to head of Ala Moana Beach Park and Bellows Beach on Oahu, with a clear pick for swimmers, families and beginner bodyboarders.

A straight head to head between Atuh Beach and Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, with a clear winner for swimmers, snorkellers and anyone chasing a real beach day.

An honest head to head on Noosa's wild walk in bay versus its sheltered hidden cove, with a clear winner for swimmers, couples and solitude seekers.

An honest head to head between Bai Dai and Doc Let near Nha Trang, with a clear winner for calm floaters, families, easy access and slow days.

A straight head to head between Agia Anna and Agios Georgios in Naxos, with a clear pick for families, town stayers and anyone chasing calm shallow water.

A straight Mykonos head to head between Agios Ioannis and Agrari, with a clear pick for sunset lovers, quiet swimmers and everyone in between.

An honest head to head between Al Bustan Beach and Azaiba Beach in Muscat, with a clear winner for each kind of morning swimmer.

A straight head to head between Doi Duong Beach and Hon Ghenh Beach in Mui Ne, with a clear winner for families, snorkelers and photographers.

An honest head to head between Cook's Bay Beach and Motu Fareone on Moorea, with a clear pick for snorkellers, families, couples and quiet water lovers.

Two sandy shores, two very different days. Which suits families and paddlers, which suits quiet swimmers, and the conditions that flip the answer.

A straight Milos head to head. Agia Kyriaki gives you shade, lunch and a Kleftiko boat dock. Firopotamos gives you a tiny fishing cove and a calm swim. Pick yours.

An honest head to head between Bal Harbour Beach and Crandon Park Beach in Miami, with a clear winner for couples, families and every condition in between.

An honest head to head between Binibeca and Cala Macarella in Menorca, with a clear winner for families, photographers, swimmers and value hunters.

A straight head to head between two very different Mauritius beaches. We pick a winner for quiet sunsets, for wide white sand and for wind sports.

A candid head to head between Baldwin Beach Park and DT Fleming Beach Park on Maui, with a clear winner for families, bodysurfers and long beach days.

An honest head to head between two calm Marsa Alam snorkel bays. Who each shore suits, and the conditions that flip the answer in favour of the other.

An honest head to head between Akyaka Beach and Cennet Island near Marmaris, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, kiters and boat day travellers.

An honest head to head between Armier Bay and Fomm ir Rih in Malta, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and anyone chasing solitude.

A straight head to head between Cala Agulla and Cala Major in Mallorca, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Carbon Beach and El Matador in Malibu, with a clear pick for photographers, walkers, swimmers and couples.

A straight head to head between Dhiffushi Bikini Beach and Fulhadhoo. We pick a winner for families, for couples and for the days conditions flip.

An honest head to head between Calheta and Garajau in Madeira. Soft golden sand and calm swimming against a marine reserve full of fish. Pick your winner here.

An honest head to head between Bluewater Maribago and Crimson Resort Beach in Mactan. We pick a winner for each type of reader and say when the answer flips.

A straight comparison of Cabo Pulmo and Las Viudas Beach in Los Cabos, with a clear winner for divers, families and quiet cove seekers.

An honest head to head between Are Guling and Kuta Lombok Beach, with a clear pick for each kind of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Alassio and Bonassola in Liguria, with a clear winner for families, car free travellers and anyone chasing calm.

A candid head to head between two turquoise coves on Lefkada, with a clear winner for couples, snorkellers and anyone chasing a quiet swim.

A straight head to head between El Jablillo and Famara in Lanzarote, with a clear winner for families, surfers and everyone in between.

An honest head to head between Beras Basah Island and Datai Bay in Langkawi, with a clear winner for couples, day trippers and swimmers.

An honest head to head between Kanawa Island Beach and Long Beach Komodo, with a clear pick for families, snorkellers and photographers in Labuan Bajo.

A straight Krabi head to head. Ao Nang for sunsets, dinners and easy boats, Chicken Island for the sandbar and snorkelling. See which one your trip needs.

A candid head to head between Agios Stefanos and Lambi, two very different Kos beaches, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller.

An honest head to head between two quiet Koh Tao snorkel bays. Who each suits, what flips the answer, and when the other one wins.

An honest head to head between Bang Kao and Bangrak on Koh Samui, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Ban Tai and Chaloklum on Koh Phangan, with a clear winner for value bases, calm swims, families and slow travellers.

An honest head to head on two Koh Lipe boat trips. Stone shore or vast park sand, we pick the winner for snorkelers, couples and day trippers.

An honest head to head between two Koh Lanta beaches. Klong Dao for easy family days, Bamboo Bay for a quiet jungle cove. See which one wins for you.

An honest head to head between Bang Bao and Klong Prao on Koh Chang, with a clear winner for swimmers, families, seafood lovers and boat trippers.

A straight head to head between Agia Kiriaki and Avithos in Kefalonia. Who each beach suits, and the exact conditions that flip the winner.

An honest head to head between Anini Beach and Kee Beach on Kauai's north shore. Who each one suits, and the day that flips the answer.

An honest head to head between Geumneung and Gwakji Gwamul on Jeju, with a clear pick for families, sunset watchers and anyone chasing the spring baths.

A candid Jamaica comparison of Bloody Bay and Boston Bay: calm swimming versus surf and jerk, who each shore suits, and the day that flips the answer.

An honest head to head between Ambrela Beach and Hawaii Beach Pula on the Verudela peninsula. We pick a winner for families, couples and swimmers.

An honest head to head between Aguas Blancas and Cala Bassa in Ibiza, with a clear pick for families, couples, swimmers and free spirits.

An honest head to head between Dahar and Giftun Island in Hurghada, with a clear winner for city lovers, snorkellers, families and value hunters.

An honest head to head on two Hua Hin beaches. Cha Am for cheap seafood and deck chairs, Khao Kalok for wide, quiet, clear morning water. Pick your winner.

An honest head to head between Armenistis and Kallithea in Halkidiki. Who each shore suits, and the exact conditions that flip the answer.

A straight comparison of Playa Avellanas and Playa Danta in Guanacaste, with a clear pick for surfers, families and anyone chasing a calm cove.

An honest head to head between Bathway Beach and Grand Mal Beach in Grenada, with a clear winner for snorkelers, families and quiet seekers.

Amadores Beach or Guayedra Beach in Gran Canaria: an honest head to head on sand, water, facilities and crowd, with a clear winner for each type of visitor.

An honest head to head between Broadbeach and Coolangatta on the Gold Coast, with a clear winner for families, couples, learners and swimmers.

An honest head to head between Agonda and Arambol, two very different Goa beaches. We pick a winner for slow days, for scene seekers and for swimmers.

An honest head to head between Gili Air East Beach and Gili Air Sunset Beach, with a clear winner for snorkellers, sunset chasers and value travellers.

A straight head to head between Ajuy and Cofete on Fuerteventura, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Carras in Nice and Escalet near Saint Tropez, with a clear winner for swimmers, walkers, snorkellers and city day trippers.

An honest head to head between Anne's Beach and Coco Plum Beach in the Florida Keys, with a clear winner for families, dog owners and shell hunters.

A straight head to head on sand, water, facilities and crowd, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller and the day that flips it.

Blue Lagoon or Honeymoon Beach in Fiji, compared honestly on sand, water, facilities and crowd, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller.

An honest head to head on Baia do Sancho and Baia dos Porcos in Fernando de Noronha, with a clear winner for every kind of reader and the conditions that flip it.

A candid head to head between two very different Eilat shores. One is a quiet reef for snorkellers, the other a sociable lagoon built around food and music.

An honest head to head between Al Mamzar Beach Park and Dubai Islands Beach, with a clear pick for families, swimmers and anyone chasing new clean sand.

We put Chale Island Beach and Galu Beach side by side so you can pick the right Diani shore for couples, snorkellers, kitesurfers and slow days.

An honest head to head between Bacvice in Split and Copacabana in Dubrovnik, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and night owls on the Dalmatian coast.

An honest head to head between Bac My An and Man Thai in Da Nang, with a clear winner for each type of visitor and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between two Famagusta bays in Cyprus. We name who each shore suits, where the crowds bite and when the answer flips.

A straight head to head between Cas Abao Beach and Grote Knip in Curacao, with a clear pick for snorkelers, families and anyone watching the cost.

An honest head to head between Agiofarago and Almyrida on Crete. We pick a winner for walkers, swimmers and families, and say when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Artola and Burriana on the Costa del Sol, with a clear winner for walkers, families and anyone chasing a lunch on the sand.

An honest head to head between Bolonia and Canos de Meca on the Costa de la Luz. Which wild Atlantic beach suits you, and the day that flips the answer.

An honest head to head between Aiguablava and Cala Estreta on the Costa Brava. Which cove suits families, snorkellers and seekers of true seclusion.

A straight head to head between Cala Finestrat and Cala del Moraig, with a clear winner for families, snorkellers and value seekers on the Costa Blanca.

An honest head to head between Arone Beach and Capo di Feno Beach in Corsica, with a clear winner for families, surfers and sunset lovers.

Two very different Corfu beaches, one golden and open, one white pebble and polished. Which northwest or northeast bay suits your day, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head of Praia da Aberta Nova and Praia da Gale in Comporta, with a clear winner for surfers, walkers, families and couples.

An honest head to head on Cesme's two best value family beaches, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Cemetery Beach and Rum Point on Grand Cayman, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and everyone in between.

A straight head to head between two calm Cascais bay beaches, with a clear winner for families, couples and anyone chasing space or the station.

A straight head to head between Bocagrande and Isla Baru. We pick the winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between two quiet Capri coves. Which suits families, which suits swimmers, and the exact conditions that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between Bakoven and Boulders. We pick a winner for couples, families and penguin seekers, and name the day each beach flips.

Two clear water coves in Calabria, one straight comparison. We pick the winner for couples, swimmers and quiet seekers, and say when the answer flips.

A candid head to head on Belongil Beach and the Cape Byron coves, with a clear pick for walkers, swimmers, dog owners and dawn chasers in Byron Bay.

A straight head to head between two calm Buzios coves. Azeda for the purist swim, Joao Fernandes for the family day with lunch. Here is who each shore suits.

A straight head to head between Angol Beach and Bulabog Beach in Boracay, with a clear winner for calm family paddling and one for wind and kites.

An honest head to head between Anau and Matira Beach in Bora Bora, with a clear winner for swimmers, families, snorkellers and manta ray chasers.

A candid Bodrum head to head. Akyarlar suits windsurfers and quiet seekers, Bardakci suits town based beach club days. Read who each bay really serves.

An honest head to head on two Bocas del Toro shores: who each one suits, where the water flips the answer, and when to choose the other instead.

An honest head to head between Church Bay and Horseshoe Bay Beach in Bermuda, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and postcard hunters.