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La Baia di Ieranto, Sorrentine Peninsula, Italy

“Most tourists to the Amalfi Coast envision sandy shores, only to find that its beaches are typically craggy, scattered with sharp pebbles. For me, that wildness is the appeal. The Amalfi Coast and the neighbouring Sorrentine Peninsula hover over a volcanic caldera, resulting in a topography full of dramatic inlets where swimmers strew beach towels and the atmosphere is pure unbridled joy. I love La Baia di Ieranto, a secluded bay accessible via a 1.5 mile (2.5km) hillside trail from the village of Nerano. The going is steep (bring water, head out early), but the reward is a sublime panorama of ink-blue water, green cliffs and cerulean sky. Homeric legends rule Southern Italy; the bay is said to have been home to the treacherous mermaids who tempted Ulysses with their song. Avoid those – just relax by the water, dive off the cliffside promontory and enjoy a panino caprese, bursting with buffalo mozzarella, basil and tomatoes. The shore is indeed pebbly, so bring water shoes. I always forget and sputter like Yosemite Sam while charging to the water. Worth it.” – Eva Sandoval

Grand Case Beach, St Maarten

“Every great beach has three main ingredients: soft sand, crystal clear water and idyllic scenery. Grand Case Beach has all three, with the warm and calm turquoise water staying in my dreams for months after I return home to the concrete of New York. Just off the beach, however, is the true showstopper. A short walking distance from Grand Case is some of the most diverse French Caribbean food that exists anywhere in the world – from high-end, white tablecloth meals of duck liver and bouillabaisse to Caribbean lobster served in a beach shack.” – Geoffrey Rogow

Achmelvich Beach, Scotland

“Scotland isn't the first place you'd think of for a beach holiday, but the jagged West Highland coastline is one of the most spectacular in the world. Hidden among its many coves, you'll find Achmelvich beach, tucked into a bay. On the right day, you'll find turquoise waters to rival the Mediterranean and a glorious quiet 200m stretch of white sand that feel strangely out of place amid the craggy landscape.

At the height of summer there might be a few families paddling (even swimming) in the shallow, brisk waters of the Atlantic Ocean but in spring and autumn it isn't unusual to have the bay to yourself. The weather here can change quickly – one visit I made a few years back saw blue skies and emerald-green water, but that night our tent blew down in a vicious storm. Paired with the dramatic Scottish scenery on the drive through the highlands, it's worth making the journey to this hidden gem (you can get public transport but be prepared for a much longer travel time). Pause along the way at Lochinver's famous pie shop before making the 20-minute journey to the beach. Nearby, you can also visit Hermit's Castle (Europe's smallest). Remember to take a hat and waterproof, just in case.” – Richard Gray