From the glittering Arabian Gulf to the white sands of east-coast Mauritius, hit the beach with British Airways Holidays. Whether you’re dreaming of yachts and watersports or lounging in a sun-dappled cabana, beach-seeking travel writer Elizabeth Winding knows where to stay – and what to pack – for the ultimate beachside break

Caesars Palace Dubai

The lowdown: This polished offshoot (pictured above) of the Las Vegas legend is set on beach-fringed Bluewaters island. It’s perfectly placed for exploring Dubai – if you can bear to leave its palm-edged pools, nine restaurants and state-of-the-art spa.  
The vibe: Sculptures and frescoes reference Roman inspiration, but the tech and interiors are 21st-century sleek. Think five-star luxury with a playful side – not least at the buzzing Cove Beach club. There’s also an action-packed kids’ club and a designated hangout for teens. 

Best room: Take your pick from coolly contemporary apartments, rooms and suites, with their floor-to-ceiling windows and beach-inspired palettes. You can’t go wrong with a Palace Ocean Suite, where you’ll wake to a sublime seascape.
Spot for a swim: Head to the hotel’s pristine, 500m private beach for front-row views of the Arabian Gulf. Watersports include wakeboarding , kayaking and sea bob rides, though lounging in a private cabana is pretty tempting, too.
Worth leaving the beach for: Take a spin on the neighbouring Ain Dubai observation wheel, or stroll across Wharf Link bridge to the yacht-dotted marina or JBR neighbourhood, with its bars, boutiques and eateries.
The bonus: The hotel’s continent-hopping destination dining: try the Peking duck at Zhen Wei or sublime beef Wellington at Hell’s Kitchen Dubai. 

Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita

The lowdown: This show-stopping, secluded hideaway (pictured above) on Mauritius’ east coast overlooks a turquoise lagoon and is backdropped by the Bambous mountains. It’s beachfront living at its best, complete with two stellar golf courses.
The vibe: Laidback but thoroughly luxurious, with flawless service and surrounds. Interiors feature local woods and volcanic stone and flow into stunning outdoor spaces, with tiered pools, landscaped gardens and soul-soothing sea views.

Best room: There are no short straws here. Each villa has a private pool and sun-dappled garden. Families and friends can check in to the spacious residences or Presidential Suite Sanctuary – an opulent three-bedroom retreat looking out on the Indian Ocean.
Spot for a swim: White sands and azure shallows come as standard at the Four Seasons’ three beaches. The lagoon’s ideal for watersports: snorkelling through the mangroves, diving the reefs, windsurfing or learning to sail. Alternatively, hop on a speedboat to its private cove on the Île aux Cerfs, then lunch barefoot at La Plaz Beach Grill on ceviche and grilled rock lobster.
Worth leaving the beach for: The waterfront yoga pavilion and serene spa, with its stilted treatment rooms.
The bonus: Unlimited access to the hotel’s oceanfront, Ernie Els-designed golf course, and nearby Bernhard Langer signature course.

Stylish summer essentials
So now you’ve decided where to go, the only question is, what to pack? Here are the beach brands of the moment. 

The best... beach towel
Lazy Beaches’ beautiful beach towels are dreamt up by Warsaw art director Eliza Dunajska. Handmade from lightweight linen in pared-back geometric prints, they’re quick drying, capacious and all kinds of covetable.

The best... swimwear
It’s all about the details at this Esquire-approved swim shorts label. Designed in Amsterdam and made in Portugal, Mr Marvis’ shorts are mid-length, mesh-lined and tailored, with a handy zippered pocket. 

The best... pool accessories  
A Paris fashionista launched this cult startup, known for its cool inflatables. Banish any thoughts of gimmicky, puncture-prone unicorns and dolphins – The Nice Fleet designs are stylish, hardwearing and BPA- and phthalate-free. 

To discover all the reasons to book your next trip with British Airways Holidays, click here

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This article has been tagged Destination, Travel Tips