Destin-Nations

Nothing like chilling on an Australian beach. The island continent is ringed by a shoreline that is in turns sheltering and forbidding, bordered by both desert and forest. There is something for everyone, but few people around. The sheer size of Australia, along with its low population density, allows this sunburnt country to be a mecca for beach bums without losing its off the edge of the map appeal.

It isn't easy picking Thailand's special beaches. First, its been done before. Second, the whole damn coast is a best beaches highlight reel. So here's at least some cream of a bumper crop, to be squabbled and huzzahed over.

It may not be tropical, but Italy is surrounded by the temperate Mediterranean, making for beautiful beaches up and down its three coasts.

With coasts on both the Pacific and Caribbean, Costa Rica is defined both physically and culturally by its 750 miles of parenthetical shoreline. To the traveler, that means not only that there is no shortage of beaches backed by tropical forests, but also that sun-bathing can count as a cultural activity. Whether it's relaxing seclusion or seaside parties, Costa Rica has a beach for any travel type.

There's a reason so many songs have been written about our southern neighbor. Mexico is home to nearly 114 million people, with 78% of the population living in urban areas such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.