The World's Best Beach Destinations

When picking a summer destination, the beach matters as much as the hotel. Here are 8 cities with the world's best beaches and which neighborhoods to pick in each.

Konyaaltı, Lara, Patara — each a different beach experience. Blue Flag beaches, 5-star resorts, and the ancient Lycian Way.

Patong is nightlife central, Kata and Karon are family-friendly, Surin and Bang Tao are luxury. Check the season for wind and rain.

Seminyak is chic, Uluwatu is surf heaven, Nusa Dua is family-friendly, Ubud sits inland but is a must for the full experience.

South Beach Art Deco, Mid-Beach luxury, North Beach quieter. Latin food, nightlife, and the ocean in one trip.

Copacabana and Ipanema are world-famous; Leblon is upscale; Barra da Tijuca is quieter. March-May is ideal.

Jumeirah, Marina, Palm Jumeirah. The capital of luxury resort culture. November-March is best; summer is brutal.

Türkbükü, Yalıkavak, Gümüşlük — a bay-by-bay Aegean route. Historic Bodrum Castle and the ruins of ancient Halicarnassus complete the picture.

Naama Bay is touristy, Nabq Bay is quieter, Sharks Bay is the budget option. World-class diving sites.