Whatever you want, there’s a beach for you

Whether it’s pure luxury, water sports, perfect isolation or a party you’re after, somewhere in the world is a stretch of sand that is your personal idyll

Abroad stretch of sand is the foundation for a great holiday – but which beach is right for you? Whether you’re a reveller or a recluse, travelling solo or en famille, there’s a shoreline that will suit your needs. But the perfect beach is rarely stumbled upon by chance; let our experts point you in the direction of the ideal spot for you to plant your umbrella this year.

Best for complete luxury

Whatever your image of the perfect beach or island escape is, you’d be hard pushed not to find it in the Seychelles. Sea, of the duck-egg blue variety, and powder-white sand are the mainstays of this Indian Ocean idyll, as is luxury. There are more one-island (North Island, Denis Island, Fregate Island Private), oneresort hideaways and 24-hour butlers in the archipelago than you can throw a magnum of Krug at.

Turquoise Holidays (turquoiseholidays. co.uk) is currently offering a discounted seven-night trip to Constance Lemuria, which has access to three stunning beaches, from £1,735 per person, which includes b&b accommodation and international flights and transfers.

Best for budget

For savings in the sun, Portugal is the place to beat this year. Self-cater in the Algarve’s lively Albufeira, 45 minutes west from Faro airport. There is plenty to do here – rent pedalos and kayaks, explore caves, and dine on the beach. For quiet, drive 30 minutes to Praia de Albandeira, a jewel of a beach which is completely off the tourist radar. Tiny, with white sands pinched between ochre rocks, it has no watersports, no sunbeds and few visitors.

Thomas Cook offers seven nights’ self-catering from £164 per person at Ouratlantico Apartments in Albufeira, including flights and transfers.

Best for water sports

Due to its position on the Ionian Sea and its topography, Lefkada is Greece’s top water sports destination. In the island’s north, you’ll find kite-surfing at Agios Ioannis. Vasiliki Bay, in the south, is exposed to local thermal winds, creating conditions perfect for beginner surfers in the mornings, and more experienced ones in the afternoons. And then there are Lefkada’s spectacular west coast beaches, including Kathisma and the must-visit Porto Katsiki. Simpson Travel (simpsontravel.com) offers one week in a self-catering villa from £1,267 per person, including flight and car hire.

Best for fly and flop

Nevis is one of the most beautiful and relaxing islands in the Caribbean. Dominated by the 3,232ft Nevis Peak, it is an intensely green, sun-hat-shaped sanctuary with long stretches of beach, attractive hotels and villas, and an old-style charm. The fine white sand of Lovers Beach, a 10-minute drive away on the north of the island, is hidden from the road and has a castaway appeal with no facilities – all you have to do while here is stare out over the clear, blue water.

Scott Dunn (scottdunn.com) offers seven nights at the Four Seasons Nevis (telegraph.co.uk/tt-fourseasonsnevis) from £2,100 per person, based on two people sharing a one-bedroom cottage on a b&b basis, including flights and transfers.

Mykonos, Greece, is a good place for a party