5 Best Urban Beaches around the World
The best beaches are typically well known to local beachgoers. Though the designation “best” is exclusive to the beholder, there are beach destinations delivering a perfect mix of seaside resort and city sophistication. These are some top picks:
1. Miami Beach – Miami, Florida
Tourists flock to Miami every day for the opportunity to sunbathe on Miami Beach and enjoy the year-round warmth. An urban resort life abounds in this famous city. The flashy club scene is a night attraction, surrounding cafés satisfy your hunger, and shopping urges soothed on Lincoln Road or Espan᷉ola Way. The Art Deco district is filled with quirky shops, galleries and restaurants. When you shopped till you’ve dropped, it’s back to the beach to enjoy the sun and sand. (http://www.miamiandbeaches.com/places-to-see/miami-beach)
2. Bondi Beach – Sydney, Australia
The land down under is peppered with some pretty famous beaches, some more popular than others. Bondi Beach doesn’t disappoint. The name Bondi is of Aboriginal origin which means water breaking over rocks. Bondi Beach has a rich pop culture history having been featured in a number of films, television series, music videos, and video game. Surfers flock to ride the waves being challenged by its potentially dangerous surfs. Beachgoers may be entertained by an uncommon sighting of fairy penguins. The surrounding town of Bondi has a lot to offer in entertainment and dining. If you’re planning a trip to Australia, Bondi Beach should be on your agenda. (www.sydney.com/…/sydney/sydney-east/bondi/beach-lifestyle)
3. Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii
In the 1800s, this stretch of beach was a resort for Hawaiian royalty. Today, beautiful Waikiki Beach is a sought after getaway for many. Every room on the island are steps away from this popular beach. Travelers are a mere half hour away from sights like Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace. (http://www.gohawaii.com/en/oahu/regions-neighborhoods/honolulu/waikiki/#customOrder:random^newCustomSearch:false)
4. Tamariz Beach – Estoril, Portugal
One of several beaches in the resort of Estoril, a popular spot for a relaxed afternoon on the beach or a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Easily accessed by public railway, it’s a pretty busy getaway during summer months where locals and tourists enjoy the local cafés, bars, and nightclub scene. Monaco’s royal family owns an impressive castle adorning the eastern end of Tamariz beach. (http://www.travel-in-portugal.com/beaches/tamariz-beach.htm)
5. Sugar Beach – Toronto, Canada
On the water’s edge of Lake Ontario is the magnificent beach getaway of Sugar Beach. The Cormier & Associates’ design features three components: beach, plaza and a tree-lined promenade. This beach is located next to the Redpath Sugar Factory for which it got its name. Though not designed for wading or swimming in the lake, the location is a perfect setting for public entertainment events. (http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/explore_projects2/east_bayfront/canadas_sugar_beach)
