Beach

Beach life is all about having fun, so here are five beach bars guaranteed to impress you and maybe even inspire you to get that adrenaline fix on!

Negril's Tranquil Setting

Rick’s Cafe, Negril, Jamaica

If you really want to make a beer taste even better, why not take a 60 foot plunge straight into the ocean from Rick’s Cafe in Negril Jamaica. Perhaps the beer is just fine and you’ve come for the sunset, either way you are sure to enjoy a good time. Although it can get crazy at Rick’s the main idea is to chill.

Hidden in These Waters is the Willie T!

Wet Willie, Norman Island, British Virgin Islands

The Wet Willie, aka the Willy-T aka The William Thornton, is not your typical beach bar. In fact, it isn’t even on the beach; it is on the water. This floating restaurant/bar pirate ship, located in the waters of the Blight on Norman Island in the British Virgin Islands, is a cultural experience on it’s own, especially at night. Have a couple of pain killers (the signature Virgin Islands drink), definitely have a go at the shotski (an ingenious idea which is basically a long piece of wood shaped like a ski which holds several shot glasses from which everyone drinks in one go!), and if you are feeling risque enough, strip down and jump off the stern rail…just ask the bartender for a peek at the album, you’ll understand. Let’s just say, if you lean towards modesty its best if you leave right after dinner.

How Could You Not Relax in Anguilla

Planet Dune Live Music Lounge, Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla

Live music and beautiful eco-minded architecture come together on Rendezvous Bay to create one of the funkiest beach bars in the world. With regards to the eco-minded architecture – the entire bar is constructed of ship wreckage which has drifted ashore.

Ibiza, Spain's Party Island

Jockey Club, Ibiza, Spain

Just because it is casual does not mean it is not classy. The beautifully built Jockey restaurant/bar is positioned perfectly for you to enjoy your cocktail and relax on the most famous of the Balearic Islands. No gimmicks or wet t-shirt contests here, just pure relaxation.

Malibu's Beautiful Colors

Duke’s, Malibu, California, USA

If there ever was a signature California beach bar atmosphere, it is definitely alive in Duke’s. The barefoot bar scene is coupled with an amazing view of the southern California coast. What else do you need to do but enjoy?

by Barbara Ann Weibel of Hole In The Donut

Grab a chaise lounge and prepare to relax in the shade or bake in the sun

If the packed public beaches of Jamaica are not your style, then Rose Hall Beach Club will give you a relatively secluded option. Billed as one of the top four beaches in Montego Bay, Rose Hall is located a bit off the beaten path but the amenities are worth the trouble to get to there. The white-sand beaches and crystal waters are as good as any on the island, and beach-goers have access to a restaurant, two bars, a covered pavilion, and a variety of rental equipment and activities. Whether you want to sunbathe, snorkel, sail a catamaran, wind surf, or join in a beach-volleyball match, Rose Hall ensures that the crowds won’t spoil your beach experience.

A short distance from the beach, the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course offers challenging play and spectacular scenery

Rose Hall is also located next to the exquisite Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, where rolling fairways parallel the Caribbean, offering challenging shots as well as stunning scenery. In the evening, the Rose Hall Resort lights giant bonfires on the beach and coordinates a variety of entertainment, including limbo competitions and treasure hunts. Rose Hall Beach Club is located on the northwest coast of Jamaica, 11 miles east of Montego Bay.

Photos courtesy of Barbara Weibel

by Barbara Ann Weibel of Hole In The Donut

Much of the time I prefer secluded beaches in out-of-the-way places that few people know about and fewer people visit. Once in a while, however, I prefer a beach that is smack dab in the middle of the action. A beach where I can stroll across the street to a great restaurant or walk to the end of an ocean pier. A beach where I can cool off under a cabana or rent a wave runner. A beach that offers plenty of opportunity for people watching but allows me to blend in with the crowd. On those occasions, I head for Clearwater Beach.

With its three miles of pure white sand and warm Gulf Waters, Clearwater Beach is the best city beach in Florida.

Located on one of the barrier islands just offshore of the Tampa Bay area, Clearwater Beach is home to Pier 60, deep sea fishing charters, dinner and adventure cruises, hotels, local restaurants, and attractions, all within walking distance of the beach. During the day, walk along three miles of pure white sand, or just bake in the Gulf Coast sunshine. Every evening offers stunning sunsets, live entertainment, and street performers.

Clearwater Beach wins awards and accolades every year. According to Dr. Stephen Leatherman (”Dr. Beach”), a Florida International University professor who has been ranking America’s beaches for more than 15 years, Clearwater Beach is the “Best City Beach On The Gulf Of Mexico.” USATODAY.com readers ranked Clearwater Beach in their Top 10 list of best beaches from Maine to Hawaii. Conde Nast Traveler has also recognized Clearwater Beach as the best city beach on the Gulf of Mexico. And an added bonus for families with small children: Clearwater Beach is also the only beach in Pinellas County with year-round lifeguards.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Weibel

Cabo

Well known as a major destination for US college students on spring break, Cabo San Lucas offers much more than the “party-hardy” scene. With only one inch of rain falling on this Baja California oasis annually, Cabo offers a perfect balance of beach life, water sports, fantastic seafood restaurants and resort after resort along both the Pacific coast and within the Sea of Cortez all year around.

One of the best aspects of area is its ideal location along the migratory path of humpback whales which make their appearance here regularly. The best time to see the whales is during their breeding season from January to March when hundreds of whales make their way up to the calm, warm waters of the Baja Peninsula. There are many outfitters ready to take you out and get you as close to Las Amistosas (the friendly ones) as possible.

Land

If you are looking for something more adventurous than whale watching, sport fishing is the way to go. Cabo’s marinas seem to have an armada of fishing boats ready to make any fishing trip an exciting one. Marlin is the name of the game in Cabo and this area is known to have some of the biggest sailfish around, so get ready for a fight.

After a long day out in the sea, wrestling massive sailfish or encountering the gentle giants of the ocean, you can find yourself relaxing on the beach, cocktail (or fresh juice) in hand watching the sun set into the pacific. Sunsets are absolutely beautiful here and the image of Land’s End Arch against a golden backdrop is one that many visitors will never forget.

by Barbara Ann Weibel of Hole In The Donut

The beach in Monterosso al Mare's old town, as seen from the walking trail leading around the rocky outcropping that splits the town in two

Like precious gems strung on a chain of rock, the five villages of Cinque Terre hang from high cliffs that tower over the Mediterranean in this northwestern corner of Italy’s boot. These crown jewels of the Italian Riviera sparkle with color – from the brightly painted buildings cascading down the mountainsides to the riotous beach umbrellas lining the shores of the Ligurian coast.

Of the five towns, the largest beaches are found at Monterosso al Mare. A rocky outcropping splits Monterosso into old town and new town. Although beaches are located on both sides of the rock, the long crescent that fronts the old town is by far the more popular because it is just steps from the train that carries most visitors to town.

Just steps from the train station, this is most visitors' first view of the beach that fronts Monterosso's old town

In addition to the spectacular scenery, Monterosso’s beaches are favorites with tourists because they provide easy access to the culinary delights for which the region is so famous. The grapes and olives cultivated on terraces carved into the surrounding mountainside are turned into award-winning wines, liqueurs, and olive oils. Anchovies are a local specialty, as is the pesto sauce, made from locally produced basil, garlic, pine nuts, and pecorino cheese.

Colorful umbrellas line the beach in Monterosso's old town

Visitor who seeks more than sun-drenched days and evenings filled with gourmet cuisine take to the Cinque Terre Trail, an ancient cliffside route that connect the five tiny towns. The unimproved pathway leading out of Monterosso is strenuous and in spots is barely wide enough for two people to pass. The trail becomes less rugged as it proceeds south to the other villages and by the time it reaches the southernmost village of Riomaggiore it is a level path with stone pavers and guard rails. The entire Cinque Terre trail can be walked in a single day, but to do so means missing out on the opportunity to spend time in the villages, each of which has a distinct personality just begging to be discovered.

Photos courtesy of Barbara Weibel

by Barbara Ann Weibel of Hole In The Donut

Soak up the sun or cool off under a thatch-roofed Palapa at Nungwi Beach

Within moments of stepping onto the beach I am bombarded by people trying to sell me something.

From the sarong-clad women who roam the beach carrying reed mats: “Hello, good morning, welcome to massage, you like massage today?”

From the chocolate skinned boys who are always eager to earn a few cents:  “I bring you nice fresh fruit, green coconut?”

When I politely decline, their response is always, “Hakuna Matata” – no problem.

I slather on the suntan oil, sigh contentedly, and settle down in the hot sun to soak up some rays, but my peace is interrupted by a tour guide who insists I must let him take me to some yonder island that has a beautiful beach. Under normal circumstances I would accept his offer, but I cannot imagine any beach more beautiful than the one I am lying on.

Each day, fishermen bring back fresh fish caught from these hand hewn boats

Nungwi Beach, located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, is nothing less than spectacular. With sugar-fine, soft white sand and unbelievably clear turquoise waters, this beach must rank as one of the world’s best. Few tourists make their way  to this undiscovered paradise because the roads are in such terrible condition, but those who do are rarely disappointed.

Walk to the end of the beach and round the point to visit the village or Nungwi, with its histpric lighthouse. But be sure you time your trip to catch the low tide or you may be stranded.

Zanzibar is all about relaxing. Do as little or as much as you like. Hungry? Grab a bite at one of the outdoor restaurants scattered along the beach or dicker with a local fisherman for his fresh catch of the day. Sleepy? Move under a thatch covered Palapa and take a snooze. Walk the beach, visit the nearby village and lighthouse, or take a sail on a traditional Dhow. Lounge on the beach long enough to catch a stunning sunset and then dance the night away around the bonfire that is lit on the beach every evening.

Hakuna Matata….there is no better way to describe Zanzibar.

Photos courtesy of Barbara Weibel

by Barbara Ann Weibel at Hole In The Donut

Magens Bay on the island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Island has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the most stunning beaches in the world. Although located on the northern side of the island, a narrow arm of land protects the bay from the Atlantic’s rough waters. Deep within this wide sheltered bay, Magen’s white sand beach stretches for nearly a mile. With its clear water, soft sand, and palm trees, the beach is the island’s most popular destination.

Looking down at Magens Bay from Mountain Top, Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

This lovely beach offers something for everyone. While there is plenty of beach for sunbathing, there are also plenty of shaded areas under the trees. Families with young children especially love this beach for its gently sloping bottom, shallow water, and year-round life guard service. Coral reefs scattered along the rock formations on the northern and southern end of the beach provide snorkelers the opportunity to see conch, sea turtles, grouper, snapper, sharks, barracudas, parrot fish, doctor fish, surgeon fish and other marine species such as humpback whales and dolphins.

Behind Magens’ shimmering strip of sand is a restaurant and beach bar that is famous for its tropical drinks. In addition to food and drink, the local family that operates the facility also offers rentals of sail boats, sail boards, chaise lounges, masks, fins and snorkels. Showers, changing rooms, and restrooms, and camping sites area also available on site.

Whether vacationing on St. Thomas or day tripping from a cruise ship, Magens Bay is an absolute must see.

Gay Head Lighthouse

Martha’s Vineyard is famous for it’s a-list crowd and a little farther up this Massachusetts island are the Gay Head Cliffs which are labeled as a national landmark. It is underneath these cliffs where Moshup Beach lies, hidden away under the very noses of the hordes of travelers who come to admire the cliffs.

Moshup Beach is a treasure often overlooked by many who stay on the island’s more popular areas but it is one not to be missed. The beach itself is very clean and the sands are very soft, which is surprising for an eastern coast US beach. The waters here on Moshup are not surprisingly cool but is still worth taking a dip in. Be mindful of the undertow as it can be quite strong at times.

Atop the Gay Head Cliffs, overlooking Moshup Beach is the Gay Head Lighthouse, an old 200 foot lighthouse

Gay Head Cliffs

built in 1844. Despite these two main attractions, the beach remains uncrowded during the summer months. It is worth noting that this beach is remote and lacks the amenities which cater to children such as food and entertainment.

Perhaps better suited for couples, the area is serene, calm and beautiful. Venture beyond the beautiful houses, restaurants and cottages. Walk beyond the reach of the boardwalk, trust me, it is worth it.

by Barbara Ann Weibel of Hole In The Donut

Lovely Trunk Bay, seen here from the adjacent bluffs

There are no bad beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands. All have ribbons of powder-fine sand shaded by towering coconut palms and lush sea grape. In many respects, St. John’s Trunk Bay is much like any other Caribbean beach in that it has a gorgeous beach lapped by turquoise seas. But Trunk Bay has something not available elsewhere: an underwater snorkeling trail.

A short distance offshore lies Trunk Cay, a small rocky outcropping that sits in the center of Trunk Bay’s crescent cove. Here, fifteen underwater plaques identify the corals and fish that inhabit the bay as they lead snorkelers along a 675-foot long trail around the Cay. The waters are gentle enough for even the most inexperienced snorkeler and entire families – including tots and toddlers – are often seen bobbing their way around the island, kept afloat by life jackets. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent through the National Park Service, which operates the site, and beach facilities include showers, restrooms, changing rooms, public telephones, picnic tables, and a snack bar.

Underwater plaques identify the coral and fish varieties around Trunk Cay

The $4 per person admission fee charged by the Park Service also includes access to the historic Annaberg Plantation. A substantial portion of the mills used to crush the sugar cane, the sugar factory where the juice was boiled and condensed to make raw sugar, and the rum mill still stand. Unlike other archeological sites, here visitors are encouraged to climb in and around the ruins.

Trunk Bay is often ranked among the world’s top beaches and is well worth seeing. Visitors who relish lively entertainment will prefer to stay on nearby St. Thomas and hop aboard one of the many ferries that leave regularly from the town of Red Hook for a day trip to St. John. Those seeking a more laid-back vacation experience can choose from a wide range of accommodations available on St. John.

Photos courtesy of the National Park Service

by Barbara Ann Weibel of Hole In The Donut

St. Pete Beach is a wide expanse of sugary pinkish-white sand fronting the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Spanning much of the length of a six mile long barrier island, St. Pete Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. St.Pete Beach’s reputation as a first class beach destination has as much to do with the wide variety of recreational activities available as it does with its beautiful, wide beaches and crystal clear waters. A short stroll down the beach will provide opportunities to rent waverunners and beach buggies with giant wheels, or to sign up for parasailing, scuba diving, and fishing. Traditional wooden chaise lounges line the beach and are available for a nominal daily fee.

For those who prefer a more secluded beach, a 10-minute ride on a catamaran provides access to lovely Shell Key, an 18-acre undeveloped barrier island known for its shelling and birding. Bring a picnic basket and enjoy the unspoiled beach or the quiet lagoon behind the island.

On the southern tip of St. Pete Beach lies the historical district of Pass-a-Grille. Inhabited long before the rest of the island, Pass-a-Grille began life as a fishng village and has evolved into an Old Florida artists’ colony. Today, its galleries, restaurants, bed-and-breakfasts and shorelines draw tourists from all over the world.

The Don Cesar Beach Resort, locally referred to as the "Pink Palace." Photo courtesy of Don Cesar.

No visit to St. Pete Beach is complete without a stop at the famous Don Cesar Beach Resort. Located at the south end of the beach, this stately old hotel describes itself as “A flamingo-pink, Mediterranean landmark chiseled into the blue Florida sky, accented by Moorish bell towers, imperial turrets, clock tower, sun-splashed terraces and rows and rows of Palladian windows encased with French doors.” Now a National Historic Landmark, the Pink Castle is known for its famous guests such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Al Capone. Tours of the Don’s beautiful botanical gardens are available at very reasonable rates. If you’re looking for a hotel slightly less stately, St. Pete Beach has the highest number of hotel/motel rooms of any community along the Suncoast.

Photos not otherwise credited courtesy of Barbara Weibel