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You are here: Backpacker Resources > Travel Tips > Best Beaches

Best Beaches

Palm trees, Pina Coladas and paradise. For most of us, that pretty much sums up our ideal beach. But when your plans of palmy perfection are spoiled by those two killjoys ‐ budget and time ‐ don’t despair. A resourceful backpacker makes do with what’s around them and that means heading for the beach nearest to you, whether it’s Bondi or Brighton. Even if the weather’s bad and the water’s cold, let’s face it, there’s something about the seaside that makes any trip a holiday. Now we can’t guarantee you a sunny day at the seaside but we can make you a better beach bum so this month we not only help you scope out the best beaches, but once you get there, we’ve also got some tips to help you leave those shores as pristine as you find them!

Blue Flag Beaches

Smooth sand, clear water, rocky coves ‐ whatever you want in a beach, look for the Blue Flag standard. It’s an assured quality ‐ seal of approval of sorts and a programme created in 1985 to protect, and promote the sustainable development of beaches and marinas. To get the Blue Flag nod, beaches have to meet the 32 qualifying criteria set out by the programme. High water quality, for example, is a must. Also safety measures and other services ‐ like lifeguards, first aid equipment and disabled access ‐ should be available.

In addition, beaches have to display a certain amount of information about environmental education. This means showing details on current water quality, the local ecosystem and information on the Blue Flag programme. Finally the beach operator also has to have a plan in place to maintain and manage that beach for the future. It’s a tall order, but to date over 3,000 beaches in 41 countries have been awarded Blue Flags. For more information on the programme or to find your nearest Blue Flag beach, check out www.blueflag.org

Seaside Sense

Before all that sea air goes to your head, it’s good to know where your beach stands on things like barbecues and camping, so check before you go. It’s also worth noting that while Blue Flag regulations make provisions for safety services, Blue Flag is a voluntary thing and not every beach participates. In some places the beach may be unmonitored and if this is the case, then swimming is at your own risk. Pay attention to beach conditions and watch for riptides, and drop offs into deeper water. Don’t get caught by surprise.

Beach Bum Behaviour

Other beach regulations vary according to culture. Nudity for instance might be acceptable in some parts of Europe, however it’s against the law in many places across the US so if in doubt, don’t disrobe.

This next tip will depend on your destination, but if you’re heading for the coast in high season, then pack your patience along with your sun cream. Be prepared for crowds and queues, and if you want peace and quiet come back in a few months! Once you’ve got your patch on the sand however, do be neighbourly. Ask before you put your music on speakerphone (some places may not allow this), don’t spread out everywhere and because most beaches have a family vibe, try and watch your language. Just be considerate.

Riptides, regulations and cultural differences in swimwear aside, everyone loves a day by the sea. So whether your perfect beach is sandy or rocky or quiet or crowded ‐ it doesn’t matter. Whatever kind of beach you like, just be a better beach bum.

‐ Jackie Reddy