Beaches, by Belmond

Words by Belmond Editors
A person is jumping on a sandy beach, seen through the centre of a large green and white striped inflatable swimming ring with the sea and blue sky in the background.

January is a month for rest, rejuvenation and dreaming of sun-soaked escapes. From iconic coastlines to hidden shores, these are the world’s most beautiful beaches – experienced the Belmond way.

1 / 10

Maroma Beach, Riviera Maya

Set on the pristine shores of the Riviera Maya, Maroma Beach is widely considered one of the Yucatán’s finest. Powder-white sands meet the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, just offshore from the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef.

At Maroma, enjoy secluded picnics with chilled rosé, serene mornings on chic loungers and attentive beach service throughout the day. When refreshments beckon, vibrant Freddy’s Bar is always close at hand.

EXPLORE MAROMA
A guest lounging on a pristine white beach gazes at the dazzling blue sea ahead, seen in an angled view from behind foliage.

2 / 10

Funchal Bay, Madeira

Funchal Bay, which opens out into the breezy Atlantic Ocean, is a magnificent swimming spot. At Reid’s Palace, alternate between invigorating swims in the ocean and dips in the iconic seawater pool that rises and falls with the tide. Dive in from the sea-level platform before retreating to a sun lounger, gazing out across endless deep-blue horizons.

BOOK REID’S PALACE
Two people relax on a small, circular concrete platform by the edge of a rocky coastline, surrounded by sparkling blue ocean water under bright sunlight.

3 / 10

Collata Beach, Lake Titicaca

Stake your spot at Collata Beach on Lake Titicaca’s Taquile Island, which claims the title of the world’s highest beach. At 3,900 meters above sea level, its soft sands and gently sloping shoreline offers a rare marriage of high-altitude serenity and the tactile pleasure of sand beneath your feet.

The Andean Explorer train makes this extraordinary destination part of its regular itineraries across the Peruvian Andes – on arrival, you’re welcomed with traditional local dance before sinking into a plush lounger in the shade, with yoga or painting sessions also on offer.

BOOK THE ANDEAN EXPLORER
Breathtaking aerial view of the white-sand sweep and clear blue waters of Collata Beach on Lake Titicaca's Taquile Island.

4 / 10

Maundays Bay, Anguilla

We believe Maundays Bay may well one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Powder-soft white sand, calm waters free from sargassum and an almost unreal shade of turquoise combine to create a vision of pure paradise.

At Cap Juluca, this private crescent of sand offers exceptional seclusion, with direct beachfront access from every room and restaurant. Dedicated loungers await just steps from the sea, ensuring effortless days of barefoot luxury.

BOOK CAP JULUCA
A figure rides a horse through turquoise waters towards a swimmer just in front, in an image taken from the beach.

5 / 10

Spiaggia del Romazzino, Sardinia

Set along Sardinia’s glamorous Costa Smeralda, this coastline is famed for emerald waters, sculpted granite rocks and a lingering 1960s jet-set charm.

Romazzino hotel offers exclusive access to Spiaggia del Romazzino, one of the island’s most beautiful private beaches. Relax beneath secluded cabanas, stroll along white sands or set sail on a peaceful boat trip to nearby islands – the essence of an Italian seaside holiday.

BOOK ROMAZZINO
A small child in a yellow and black spotty top and red sunhat approaches the white foam shallows of the bright turquoise sea.

6 / 10

Baie Longue, Saint Martin

At Baie Longue, laid-back Caribbean beauty meets French sophistication. Golden sands, gentle waves and an atmosphere of effortless elegance invite guests to slow down and savour the moment.

Overlooking one of Saint Martin’s most beautiful beaches, La Samanna offers sweeping cliff-top views, vibrant gardens and endless opportunities for water sports and ocean adventures.

BOOK LA SAMANNA
A figure stands at the edge of the sapphire sea, seen from beneath a canopy in a sun-drenched view of the beach and cliffs.

7 / 10

Broadstairs, England

Along Kent’s Thanet coastline, the charming seaside town of Broadstairs offers seven sandy beaches, unspoilt streets and timeless English seaside appeal.

From picturesque Viking Bay to colourful cottages and cobbled lanes, it’s easy to see why Charles Dickens favoured this town as a holiday retreat. Arrive in style aboard the British Pullman, enjoying champagne and silver service in beautifully restored 1930s carriages.

BOOK A TRIP TO BROADSTAIRS
Three people play in the grey-blue sea as others walk on the beach, seen from above through pink-blooms in soft-focus.

8 / 10

Mazzarò Bay, Taormina

With crystal-clear waters framed by dramatic Sicilian scenery, Mazzarò Bay is an intimate beach destination designed for both relaxation and adventure.

At Lido Villeggiatura, the private beach club of Villa Sant’Andrea, begin the day with a refreshing swim, unwind in an elegant cabana or embark on a private boat tour around the nearby Isola Bella for the a quintessential Sicilian summer experence.

EXPLORE LIDO VILLEGGIATURA
In front of the beachfront parasols, two women in  swimming costumes sit in the shallows, heads tipped back, seen from above.

9 / 10

Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro

Few beaches are as instantly recognisable as Copacabana. Considered one of the best beaches in the world, four kilometres of golden sand stretch alongside the iconic black-and-white wave promenade, alive with music, sport and Carioca spirit.

Guests of Copacabana Palace can enjoy an exclusive beach experience in partnership with Havaianas, featuring reserved sunbeds, curated amenities, attentive service and complimentary refreshments: a refined retreat within Rio’s most famous setting.

BOOK COPACABANA PALACE
Three red-striped cabanas and ten pairs of loungers shaded by white parasols face the sea in a view of the beach over palms.

10 / 10

Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall

Cornwall – the land of sun, sea, shanties and seafood. One of its most beautiful beaches is Pedn Vounder, with its crystal-clear waters, coastal views and secluded feel.

It’s a stone’s throw from Penzance, the farthest west point of England, and a stopping point of the Britannic Explorer’s luxury train journeys to Cornwall. Dip into the bracing waters, then enjoy Cornish seafood back on board.

BOOK THE BRITANNIC EXPLORER
People relax and swim at a sandy beach surrounded by rocky cliffs and clear blue water under a sunny sky. Green hills rise in the background.

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