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“I shall wear white flannel trousers and walk upon the beach,” T.S. Eliot wrote in a wistful ode to life by the sea. We can relate to his admiration of the ocean, effortlessly revitalizing us with its salty breeze and hypnotic waves. Surely the best way to appreciate it is from the comfort of your own villa—ideally with a cocktail in hand.
There is something unspeakably calming about the sea gently rousing you from slumber. In a world of deadlines, meetings and noise, to be lulled awake by nature is the most soothing way to begin your day. When the world is an uncertain place and events are out of our control, there’s one thing we can rely on. The rise and fall of the tide, delineating our days with a comforting, rhythmic regularity.
Seaside vacations remain the most popular holiday choice, which is unsurprising considering their versatility. The best beach villas are endlessly adaptable to every wanderlust-filled traveller. So let’s respond to the call of life by the sea—from your luxury vacation rental, the world is your oyster.
The lush island of Koh Samui may have a growing reputation as a party island, but life at Napasai, A Belmond Hotel, Koh Samui is perfectly serene. It’s rather fitting that the word ‘samui’ derives from the Malay word saboey, meaning ‘safe haven’. Miles of sandy coastline await, lined with palm trees that sway gently in the breeze. Now picture stepping seamlessly from the beach to a private oceanfront villa, just a polished pebble’s throw from sparkling sea. Private balconies with uninterrupted views of the sea lead into polished wood interiors, teak furnishings and spacious bathrooms.
Oceanfront villas at Napasai
A kaleidoscopic array of blue—turquoise, azure, cerulean, sapphire—greets you at Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla. First there’s the Caribbean sea, sparkling and stretching as far as the eye can see. Then, moments away, there’s your private pool, rippling serenely by your palatial beachfront villa. It’s difficult to put into words how stunningly serene the island of Anguilla is. So it’s only right to spend your time there by the beach, just steps away from soft white sand and swaying palm trees. The very definition of exclusivity and luxury.
Beachfront villas at Cap Juluca
An island of contrasts, Bali is a paradise known for its forests, mountains, beaches and coral reefs. Luckily for travellers wanting to see it all, the deluxe pool villas at Jimbaran Puri, A Belmond Hotel, Bali, have the best of both worlds. Surrounded by lush greenery, they’re also just a short stroll from Jimbaran beach, considered by many as the best beach in Bali. With a private terrace and pool you can choose to spend your day in serene seclusion. Or if the waves in the distance sound too tempting, a short meander to the shoreline allows you to feel sand between your toes.
Deluxe pool villas at Jimbaran Puri
When the only thing separating you from long stretches of shoreline is a private pool, you’re doing St Martin right. The paradise island is a treasure trove awaiting exploration, from art tours to water sports. But you could be forgiven for whiling away your days in the sublime seclusion of your private villa by the beach. The recently refreshed villas at La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St Martin, exude opulence, with panoramic terraces, rain showers, floor-to-ceiling windows and Italian marble flooring.
Private pool villas at La Samanna
Sheltered by lush jungle and edged with turquoise sea, Maroma effortlessly reflects why it's one of the finest 5 star resorts in Mexico. Skip the crowds in touristy Playa del Carmen and find your slice of perfect privacy on the shores of the Riviera Maya at Maroma. These ultra-luxurious villas sit on the beachfront with stunning views of the ocean. Beautifully re-designed to honor Mexican artisanal traditions and authentic craftsmanship, enjoy your own private pool and spacious, furnished rooftop terrace, before heading inside to relax in your separate living areas, kitchenette, and two king-size beds.
Oceanfront villas at Maroma