In Our Opinion...
Best Beaches Ever
The Bay of Bengal is lined with swaying palm trees, and a growing number of hotels have popped up along the 15 miles of coastline. Still, this stretch of sand keeps its laid-back fishing village vibes and is often named one of the best beaches in the country.
On the Pacific side of narrow Costa Rica, this beach is backed by the lush rainforests of the national park. Reach it after a short hike through the park, then dive into the refreshing waters as a reward.
Aptly named, this beach on a small Philippines island overlooks smooth, gentle water, with its namesake sand gently sloping down to meet the warm waves. Unsurprisingly, the snorkeling and scuba diving here is spectacular.
Cape Verde’s small collection of islands off the coast of Africa has endless beaches, but this crescent of sand is one of the best. A clear horizon view and fishing boats bobbing in the turquoise water lend it wow factor, but abundant fresh fish, plenty of sunlight, and roaring waves make it a must-visit.
Also pretty good...
Located in a popular resort town on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, Fig Tree Bay—so named for a single fig tree that has stood in the area since the 1600s—has golden sands and clear waters, with public beach facilities and plenty of dining options.
Cruises
Right now, more than 4,000 West Coast recreational boaters — commonly referred to as “yatistas” — are preparing to head south this fall into Mexican waters. From mega-yachts to cruising sailboats to trailerable fishing boats, these vessels and their owners will be members of the Cruising “Class of 2013.”
Some boaters visit Mexico every winter — especially those aboard sportfishers and larger motoryachts — making the annual circuit between Alaska in summer and Mexico in winter. Some of them plan to spend six to eight months in Mexico and keep going south into Central America, then transit the Panama Canal into the Caribbean.