Guides

A straight head to head between Ao Sane and Karon in Phuket, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families, couples and anyone chasing clear water.

An honest head to head between Bai Dai and Cua Can in Phu Quoc, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

A straight comparison of Bathers Beach and Hillarys Beach in Perth, with a clear winner for calm swims, families, atmosphere and the conditions that flip it.

An honest Penang comparison of Batu Ferringhi and Pasir Panjang beaches, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

An honest head to head between Faragas and Lageri on Paros, with a clear winner for calm club days, wild quiet sand and windy afternoons.

Banol is a calm Coron cove for little ones; Duli is a wild El Nido sweep for roaming and surf. Here is which Palawan beach suits your trip.

A straight comparison of Aksazlar Beach near Fethiye and Gemiler Beach near Oludeniz, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller and the days that flip it.

An honest head to head on Araha Beach and Manza Beach in Okinawa, with a clear winner for families, snorkellers and anyone chasing a real reef.

An honest head to head between Ala Moana Beach Park and Kahala Beach on Oahu, with a clear winner for swimmers, couples and families.

A straight comparison of Atuh Beach and Gamat Bay in Nusa Penida, with a clear winner for swimmers, snorkellers, couples and anyone chasing calm.

An honest Noosa head to head on sand, surf, facilities and crowds, with the exact conditions that flip the answer between these two beaches.

An honest head to head between Bai Dai and Hon Tam, with a clear pick for every type of traveller and the conditions that flip the verdict.

A straight head to head between Agia Anna and Alyko on Naxos, with a clear winner for families, couples and anyone chasing wild turquoise coves.

An honest head to head between Agios Ioannis and Fokos in Mykonos, with a clear winner for couples, solitude seekers and anyone chasing a sunset or a taverna lunch.

A straight head to head between two Muscat shores. One is a calm roadside bay for an easy swim, the other a boat in snorkel reserve. Pick yours here.

A straight head to head on sand, water, facilities and crowds, with a clear pick for families, swimmers and the kite and windsurf crowd in Mui Ne.

An honest head to head between Cook's Bay Beach and Temae Beach on Moorea, with a clear winner for snorkellers, families and anyone chasing a long sand day.

A straight comparison of Becici and Kamenovo on Montenegro's Budva Riviera. Soft sand and calm swimming against a clear pebble watersports bay.

An honest head to head between Agia Kyriaki and Kleftiko on the Milos south coast, with a clear winner for every type of reader and the days that change it.

An honest head to head between Bal Harbour Beach and Hollywood Beach near Miami, with a clear winner for couples, families and budget days out.

An honest head to head between Binibeca and Cala Pregonda in Menorca, with a clear winner for families, walkers and value travellers.

An honest head to head between Albion and Flic en Flac in Mauritius, with a clear winner for swimmers, families, sunset chasers and quiet seekers.

An honest head to head between Baldwin Beach Park and Hookipa Beach Park on Maui, with a clear winner for swimmers, families, surfers and spectators.

An honest head to head between two Marsa Alam shores. Abu Dabbab for turtles and turquoise, Port Ghalib for convenience and a walkable marina town.

Akyaka Beach or Icmeler Beach near Marmaris, compared on sand, water, crowds and wind so you pick the right shore for your day and your swimmers.

An honest head to head between Armier Bay and Gnejna Bay in Malta, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and anyone chasing a quieter local shore.

An honest head to head between Cala Agulla and Cala d'Or in Mallorca. We pick a winner for families, couples and space seekers, and name the days each one wins.

An honest head to head between Carbon Beach and La Piedra in Malibu, with a clear winner for walkers, couples and anyone chasing privacy over space.

An honest head to head on Dhiffushi and Gulhi bikini beaches in the Maldives, with a clear winner for families, couples and short stay travellers.

An honest head to head between Calheta and Machico, Madeira's two golden sand bays. Who each one suits, and the single thing that flips the answer.

An honest head to head on Mactan: which shore suits families and first timers, which suits value groups, and the exact conditions that flip the call.

An honest head to head between Cabo Pulmo and Medano Beach in Los Cabos, with a clear winner for divers, swimmers, families and the sociable crowd.

An honest head to head between two quiet south Lombok coves, with a clear winner for surfers, swimmers, photographers and families.

An honest head to head between Alassio and Finale Ligure in Liguria, with a clear winner for families, car free travellers and anyone chasing soft sand.

An honest head to head between Agiofili Beach and Milos Beach in Lefkada, with a clear pick for couples, snorkellers and anyone chasing a calm, quiet swim.

A straight head to head between El Jablillo and Las Cucharas in Costa Teguise, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and windsurfers.

An honest head to head between Beras Basah Island and Pantai Kok in Langkawi, with a clear winner for couples, calm seekers and day trippers.

Kanawa Island Beach versus Pantai Waecicu in Labuan Bajo. We pick a winner for snorkellers and for easy afternoons, and name when each one flips.

One is your lively base with sunsets and dinners, the other a timed look at a famous cove. Which Krabi shore suits you, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between two sandy Kos beaches. We pick a winner for families, swimmers, culture lovers and the wind chasers, and name when each flips.

An honest head to head between Aow Leuk and Sai Nuan on Koh Tao, with a clear winner for snorkelers, value seekers and quiet chasers.

An honest head to head between Bang Kao and Chaweng on Koh Samui. Who each beach suits, where the sand and water differ, and when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Ban Tai and Haad Rin on Koh Phangan. We pick a winner for value stays, families and the party crowd, and the day that flips it.

An honest head to head on Koh Lipe. Hin Ngam Beach for a wild snorkel stop, Pattaya Beach for the lively main strip. We pick a winner for each reader.

An honest head to head on Bamboo Bay and Klong Nin on Koh Lanta, with a clear winner for families, couples and quiet seekers, plus when each one wins.

An honest head to head between Bang Bao and Lonely Beach on Koh Chang, with a clear pick for boat days, seafood nights, parties and quieter alternatives.

Two small Kefalonia pebble coves, two different days out. We pick the winner for swimmers, snorkellers and sunset chasers, and say when the answer flips.

An honest head to head between Anini Beach and Poipu Beach on Kauai, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and value seekers, and when to switch.

An honest head to head between Geumneung and Hamdeok on Jeju, with a clear winner for families, sunset chasers and short city stays.

An honest head to head between Bloody Bay and Doctor's Cave Beach in Jamaica, with a clear winner for families, couples and independent travellers.

An honest head to head between Ambrela near Pula and Lone Bay near Rovinj, with a clear pick for families, couples and anyone chasing shade.

An honest head to head between Aguas Blancas and Cala Jondal in Ibiza. Who each shore suits, and the exact conditions that flip the winner.

A straight head to head between Dahar and Mahmya in Hurghada. We pick a winner for each kind of traveller and name the conditions that flip it.

A straight comparison of Cha Am Beach and Khao Tao Beach near Hua Hin, with a clear winner for families, food lovers and anyone chasing quiet.

A straight head to head between Armenistis and Karydi on Sithonia, with a clear winner for families, swimmers and active days, and the conditions that flip it.

Two wild surf beaches near Tamarindo compared on sand, water, facilities and crowd, with a clear winner for surfers, walkers and turtle watchers.

An honest head to head between Bathway Beach and Levera Beach on Grenada's wild north coast. Who each shore suits, and the day that flips the answer.

An honest head to head on two Gran Canaria beaches: calm, groomed Amadores versus the wild golden dunes of Maspalomas, with a clear winner for each reader.

An honest head to head between Broadbeach and Greenmount Beach on the Gold Coast, with a clear winner for families, couples, swimmers and food lovers.

An honest head to head between Agonda and Baga in Goa, with a clear winner for couples, groups, swimmers and night owls, plus when each one wins.

Gili Air East Beach has the whitest sand and a free shore snorkel. Gili Meno Sunset Beach wins the still evening. Here is which Gili shore suits you.

Black sand drama at Ajuy or white dunes at Corralejo. An honest head to head for Fuerteventura, with a clear winner for every kind of beach day.

An honest head to head between Carras in Nice and Gigaro near Saint Tropez, with a clear winner for each kind of beach day on the French Riviera.

An honest head to head between two Islamorada beaches. Who each one suits, and the exact conditions that flip the answer in the Florida Keys.

An honest head to head between Campeche Beach and Praia Brava in Florianopolis, with a clear winner for surfers, couples, families and value seekers.

An honest head to head between Blue Lagoon and Long Beach in Fiji, with a clear winner for each type of traveller and the conditions that flip it.

Baia do Sancho or Praia do Americano on Fernando de Noronha, compared on sand, water, access and crowds, with a clear winner for each kind of traveller.

An honest head to head between Almog Beach and Mosh Beach in Eilat, with a clear winner for snorkellers, loungers and the days that flip it.

An honest head to head on Al Mamzar Beach Park versus Jebel Ali Beach: who each shore suits, and the day that flips the answer.

An honest head to head between Chale Island Beach and Kongo Beach in Diani, with a clear pick for couples, snorkellers, nature lovers and anyone on a budget.

Sand and nightlife at Bacvice or a clear calm swim under the Marjan pines at Kasjuni. An honest head to head for Split beachgoers, with a winner for each reader.

An honest head to head between Bac My An and My Da in Da Nang, with a clear pick for families, calm seekers and anyone who wants full facilities.

An honest head to head between Ayia Thekla and Governor's Beach in Cyprus, with a clear winner for families, couples and calm water swimmers.

An honest head to head between Cas Abao Beach and Mambo Beach in Curacao, with a clear winner for snorkelers, for families and for the days that flip the answer.

An honest head to head between Agiofarago and Damnoni on Crete's south coast. We pick a winner for walkers, for swimmers and for families, and say when to switch.

A clear head to head between Artola and Costabella near Marbella, with a winner for walkers, swimmers and families and the days that flip it.

An honest head to head between Bolonia and La Barrosa on the Costa de la Luz. We pick a winner for families, for wild beach lovers and for the day the answer flips.

An honest head to head between two Costa Brava favourites, with a clear winner for families, swimmers, snorkellers and anyone who travels for atmosphere.

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.