World's Best Beaches

From the hot spots of Mexico and the coolest surfside hangouts in California to unknown exotic beaches in Ecuador we shortlist the best beaches in the Americas. And we spice things up with surfing dogs in Hawaii, and breathtaking ancient ruins and underground rivers of Cancun.

Most people know someone who's been to beaches in Bali, Thailand or Goa but can they also tell you about Con Dao in Vietnam, Lombok in Indonesia and Redang in Malaysia? This deep dive into the best beaches of Asia will point out the plus points of every perfect piece of sand as well as adding some perspective with remarkable historical footage of this fascinating continent.

The decadent holiday resorts of Monaco, Italy, and France contrast with the upcoming beach destinations of Crete and Mauritius, and the well-trodden sands of Greece, to bring a stunning list of beaches in Europe. Compelling archive film adds another dimension with sultry beach parties and racy royalty.

The dream paradise beach is probably in the Pacific Islands. But which one? Bora Bora, Palau and Vanuatu all have perfect coral sand and tropical seas. This comprehensive look at Pacific Island beaches is the only way to choose which one to visit next, and uses classic film of ancient ceremonies and traditional customs to give every island its own unique character.

Some of the best beaches in the world are only just being discovered by travellers to Africa and beyond. Raratonga, New Caledonia and Hokianga offer a range of beaches like no other. Beautiful restored Movietone films add a splash of colour and culture to bring these beaches alive.

The beach-lovers capital of the world welcomes our cameras to reveal a kaleidoscope of Australian beaches including surfing hotspots, tropical delights and unspoilt wilderness. Heron Island, Port Wilunga and the Bay of Fires offer some of the wildest, most beautiful sand and surf in the world.