USA TODAY International Edition
10BEST: Beaches fit for a supermodel
M. J. Day knows something about beaches — and bikinis. As the editor of Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit editions, she has traveled to more than 100 countries in search of perfect waves, resorts and sandy strands. This year’s issue, for instance, was shot in
TULUM MEXICO This popular Yucatan resort area blew away Day with its style. “It’s one of the hippest, chicest places I’ve been in my life. We shot in some of the most visually stunning boutique hotels. And the beaches are amazing. I’m planning on going back with my family.” visitmexico. com
BONDI BEACH AUSTRALIA Day loves the location of this famed strand on the edge of Sydney. “You have this beautiful, extraordinary, pristine beach and you’re right in the footsteps of the city. There’s not garbage. It’s perfect and amazing and it will blow your mind every time,” she says. “Everyone hears about Bondi, but it delivers.” australia. com
PARROT CAY TURKS AND CAICOS Day visited this island nation recently and was amazed by the beaches that can be reached with an easy flight from the eastern U. S. “They are just so pretty. I’ve never seen bluer water,” she says. It’s where she shot model Christie Brinkley, 63, with her daughters. “This is the perfect place if you want privacy.” parrotcay. com
SUMBA ISLAND INDONESIA The private island resort of Nihiwatu offers laid- back luxury, treehouse accommodations and even a signature wave. “It’s the stuff surfer’s dreams are made of: It’s one of the most extraordinary, beautiful, long- breaking waves,” Day says. “One of our models has gone back with her boyfriend, and another is planning to.” nihiwatu. com
CAPE MAY N. J. Day was raised in South Jersey and spent a lot of time on its beaches, even working there as a lifeguard. “The whole New Jersey shore is one of the most unsung areas,” she says. One of her favorite spots is the historic town of Cape May. “It’s really familyoriented, so quaint and sweet and lovely. It’s a classic Americana vacation.” capemay. com
ANGUILLA This British Caribbean island is a go- to for Day when she wants a perfect beach setting. “It’s a sure thing. It has great weather, great beaches and great accommodations. There’s no risk in my mind,” she says. “If you want to make sure you have a great vacation, go to Anguilla.” ivisitanguilla. com
NECKER ISLAND BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS How spectacular is Richard Branson’s 74- acre private island? It’s where former president Barack Obama vacationed after he left office. It’s also where Day worked on her first photo shoot 19 years ago. “It’s extremely decadent, but you don’t feel that way. At 3 p. m., they would find us every day and bring us a plate of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. You’re basically the king of the castle while you stay.” virginlimitededition. com
AITUTAKI COOK ISLANDS One of Day’s favorite locations, this is where she shot the cover of 2014’ s 50th anniversary swimsuit issue. “I’ve never seen clearer water. It was kind of crazy. I didn’t even know how many feet I was seeing down. And there was golden light that I have never seen before in my life,” she says. “It’s a tourism destination that hasn’t been overrun by tourists. It’s like a next- level experience.” cookislands. travel
EXUMA BAHAMAS While Day loves the entire Atlantic island country of the Bahamas, if forced to pick a favorite spot, she’d head to the Exuma district. “There’s so much variety, and it’s a bit off the beaten path.” Ride a rope swing into the ocean or try snorkeling that’s “just insane,” she says. “You can chill out and there’s so much to do, but it’s a no- pressure chill. You can unwind, put down your phone and bond with your family.” bahamas. com