From Ireland’s unspoilt west coast to the sun-soaked islands of Thailand, the experts at Total Management Travel reveal the world’s best beaches.
“It’s gorgeous here; white sand, crystal clear water, very shallow and calm.”
Meeting all our tropical getaway expectations, Thailand delivers an endless list of white-sand, clear-water beaches. The sheer volume of islands is difficult to navigate for even the most astute jetsetters so we’ve narrowed it down to one that cannot be missed. Located a two-hour ferry ride from Koh Samui (the country’s second largest island), Koh Tao is home to Sai Nuan Beach–a peaceful cove accessible only by foot or boat. Fringed by towering palms and just one restaurant overlooking the sea, the beach promises a relaxing moment away from the crowds and some of the best snorkelling in the world.
Where to Stay: Six Senses Samui, Koh Samui
Sai Nuan Beach can easily be ticked off with a day trip from Koh Samui, welcoming a longer stay at the luxurious Six Senses. Book a stay with Total Management Travel and receive an upgrade on arrival, daily breakfast, a complimentary 50-minute massage, early check-in/late check-out and complimentary Wi-Fi. 
“Beautiful and off the beaten track, enjoy the Atlantic Ocean from Ireland’s very own piece of paradise. With the azure blue water and immaculate sand, you could easily be fooled into thinking you’re in the Maldives!”
Ireland isn’t and probably will never be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of the world’s best beaches, but that’s all part of the magic of it. Underrated and overlooked, one search of the stunning Dogs Bay in Connemara and it’s no wonder why it’s Laila’s top pick. A horseshoe shaped, postcard-worthy stretch of beach, Dogs Bay is in an area of the world notoriously known for not-so-great weather; but catch it on a good day and it holds its own against even the most tropical sun-soaked spots. Located on Ireland’s west coast, it’s just under a two-hour drive from Galway and is perfect for swimming and watersports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Where to Stay: Glenlo Abbey Hotel
A five-star manor just over an hour from Dogs Bay, Glenlo Abbey is the perfect home from home for exploring the country’s rugged west coast. Accommodating visitors since 1740, the historic hotel’s grounds span 138 acres and play host to a 9-Hole Championship Golf course plus a selection of dining spots including the award-winning Pullman Restaurant.
“Combines white sand beaches with dramatic limestone backdrops, whilst still remaining relatively under the radar. Water is crystal clear, and amazing for snorkelling and diving.”
With too many beautiful beaches to choose from, Sarah gives the ‘world’s best beach’ title to an entire archipelago. El Nido, a municipality at the northern tip of Palawan Island in the Philippines is the main base for exploring the mesmerising cluster of Bacuit islands. Dotted in and around blue lagoons, the rugged, untouched islands with their towering limestone cliffs are encircled by the most picturesque pristine beaches and clear blue water. For the travellers itching to see as much as possible, head off by boat for a day of island-hopping.
Where to Stay: El Nido Resorts, Pangulasian Island
A collection of eco-conscious hotels, El Nido Resorts are scattered across the various islands: Alpulit, Miniloc, Lagen and Pangalasian Islands. Our pick of choice is the eco-luxury Pangalusian Island. With the beach at its doorstep and a tropical forest behind, this is seaside luxury at its finest.
“Soft white sands; a gorgeous reef that’s perfect for snorkelling and spying on the gorgeous colourful fish; cocktails served to you on the beach–what’s not to love.”
With over 300km of talcum-white sand, all the beaches of Mauritius could be contenders for the world’s best. If she had to pick, Chanti deems Troux aux Biches, a 3km stretch located at the northern coast of the island, number one. A haven for families, the public beach is lined with shady casuarina trees, the water’s flat and shallow and offers some of the best snorkelling on the island. With plenty of street food options, cafes and restaurants lining the adjacent coast road, grab and bite to eat and set in for an early evening of sunset-watching.
Where to Stay: Shangri La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa
We’d recommend visiting Troux aux Biches for a day trip and spending the majority of your island break at the beautiful Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa. Only an hour away by car, the uber-luxe five-star resort is tucked away in a secluded bay for ultimate privacy and tranquility.
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