For those of us that worship the sun, we are perpetually searching for the perfect spot to worship. What makes a spot perfect? Well, that can vary greatly from one person to the next. Some of us prefer a quiet spot where we can enjoy the sun in peace. Some of us want to be where we can show off our designer swimwear and toned body. Still others are looking to worship without getting those annoying tan lines. Regardless of your personal tanning style, we would all agree that the three essential ingredients for a world class sunbathing spot are sun, sand and surroundings. With those three ingredients in mind, we’ve listed the best of the best. From famous to infamous, secluded to crowded and fashion conscious to bathing suits optional, you are sure to find a beach on the list that agrees with your style. This list is in no particular order.

The beaches of the Dominican Republic are renowned for their beauty and tranquility. Pristine, unspoiled and scenic, you almost can’t go wrong anywhere in the D.R. The only way to access La Minitas Beach is by a ten minute shuttle or golf cart ride, making this a great pick for those that prefer to sunbathe in relative seclusion. Despite being relatively secluded, there are restaurants fairly close if you get hungry, and, best of all, there is a massage room directly on the beach. Sunbathing and a massage – how can you go wrong?

Over two miles of powder soft white sands that never get hot. Can we say sunbather’s paradise? This little slice of heaven lay virtually untouched until about 30 years ago. It is now considered by most to be one the best tropical vacation spots in the world. Make sure you go during Amihan (roughly September through June) when the temperatures are moderate, there is little rain and the prevailing wind blows a cool breeze in from the East.

South Beach is the “see and be seen” beach. For those who love a little eye candy while soaking up the rays, this is the place for you. South Beach really comes alive at night, though, and you are almost assured of seeing someone famous if you spend any time there. If quiet and peaceful is not your idea of the way to worship the sun, then renew your gym membership and plan a trip down to Miami.

Santorini’s Red Beach is one of the most picturesque locations on the list. Surrounded by soaring red lava cliffs (hence the name), this beach also has some of the most beautiful and unique red sand in the world. The beach is only accessible by boat, or by a ten minute descent by foot from above. The entire island was formed from a now-sleeping volcano – sleeping but not dead. Santorini is said to be the true Atlantis, as much of the island literally slipped below the sea in the course of a night.

Mexico is hardly short of beautiful cities, with gorgeous beaches. What sets Tulum apart is the proximity to some of the most stunning Mayan ruins in all of Mexico. Tulum lies about 80 miles from Cancun, making it close enough to explore Cancun if you choose, yet far enough away to escape the crowds and over abundance of hotels. In fact, Tulum has yet to be completely invaded by tourism and is, therefore, still rather secluded and peaceful. If you have an interest in archeology, ancient civilizations or just love exploring, then Tulum is the perfect combination of sun and adventure.

Posted by Editor on 10:04. Filed under topten . You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0