Every beach has its own pace and personality — long, smooth sweeps of golden sand with brilliant blue waves, palm-shaded coves where you can go all day without seeing another soul, white-sand stretches that are just a short swim from a coral reef.

There is a worldwide selection of coastal retreats, from private islands in the Seychelles and polished resorts in Dubai to secluded Caribbean villas. Here, you’ll find the best options of the places you can escape to when you need to take a deep breath and just relax.

Many of the hotels and beaches considered are far from everyone and everything — tranquil retreats where you can enjoy your beach stay in privacy and seclusion. Whether you’re looking for an over-water villa with ample opportunities to snorkel, a secluded cottage with butler service or a boutique hotel near a turtle nesting site, our expert can suggest the best beach holiday to suit you.