THE WORLD’S BEST SURFSIDE RESORTS FOR TOTAL SERENITY

It’s been a tough year. Allow the waves to wash over you at these luxurious beach hotels offering the ultimate in R&R.

It’s proven that the nurturing properties of the sea, sun and sand can improve your mood, sleep, creativity and relaxation. So, take a deep dive into the world’s most sensational beaches to boost your mind, soul and senses and open your eyes to the things that matter most.

The soothing blues: French Polynesia

As your feet touch down on the sand at The Brando in French Polynesia, the view of the private island of Tetiaroa is certain to take your breath away. As far as the eye can see, there is a medley of blues from the brightest azure to the purest cornflower and it’s an instant tonic for relaxation. It’s no wonder staring at the ocean has been proven to change the frequency of brainwaves and ignite a mild meditative state. With miles of pristine nature, sea turtles, manta rays and exotic birds, this remote turquoise paradise is perfectly placed to rejuvenate the soul.

Engage the senses: Turks & Caicos

At Amanyara in Turks and Caicos, beach life is centered around new sights, smells, tastes and sounds within the secluded shores of an 18,000-acre nature reserve. Take in the bright corals as you help preserve marine life, absorb the soft heat on your skin from a hot stone massage in the wellness sanctuary, and delight in succulent seafood mixed with the fresh salt of the ocean air during an al fresco evening meal on the sand. By enhancing the senses, you will invigorate your brain and reprogramme to this new way of being.

Meditation and mindfulness: Mexico

Focus on your inner self on the private beach of Hotel Esencia – a home away from home in Mexico. Originally built as the secluded house of an Italian duchess, this private retreat is hugged by the Yucatan jungle. Welcome each morning with a complimentary sunrise yoga session followed by a refreshing juice made from local fruits. Then in the evening, feel your mind and muscles relax with the comforting sip of a smoky glass of mezcal around an open bonfire. You’ll return home free of stress, swaying to the gentle rhythm of the tropics.

The sound of the sea: Maldives

The soothing ripple of waves across the ocean can de-stimulate the brain and slow us down. At LUX* North Ari Atoll they are masters at helping you feel relaxed and more engaged in the Maldives where relaxing by the water is part of daily life. Listen to the sea lapping against your private boat as you learn to sail a catamaran along the crystal waters or take it up a notch with the exhilarating thump of a jet ski and the boundless blue as your playground.

Total tranquility: Turkey

Sometimes the sound of silence is all we need to switch off from the distractions of the modern world and the stresses that come with it. D Maris Bay is a hidden paradise in Turkey surrounded by five unique beaches, each with its own soothing secrets. Take a nap under a beach cabana or float in a day bed set over the water on Silence Beach’s tiny pier. No phones, no emails, no distractions – just nature at its purest. Feel your spirit revitalize as the Mediterranean works its magic.

Calming ocean views: Madagascar

Research shows that people who have rooms with ocean views feel calmer than those without. That’s reason enough to check-in to Miavana in Madagascar where world-renowned designers Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens have created 14 villas dotted along the pristine African beach. The rooms are designed to connect the inside with the outside, with elements of the sea, sand and air reflected through hand-dyed turquoise textiles, Malagasy wood and local stone. Soak in a private pool on your oceanfront deck to take in the views, while a personal butler is at your beck and call to settle you into island life and free your mind of worries.

Lift your mood: Seychelles

Time on the beach can boost your self-esteem, making you feel happier and less isolated. Walking along the shoreline at North Island in the Seychelles is sure to transform your outlook, especially with the resident island ecologist guiding you. Afterwards, restore your happiness with a private picnic on the sand or retire to your villa for a soothing siesta. Each suite has been handcrafted by Seychellois and African craftsmen from wood, local stone and glass. The private pool will give you ample space to while away the hours with nothing but a book and the spirit-lifting sunshine for company.