Top three beach holidays for 2012

Around 80% of the world’s population lives within 60 miles of the coast. Despite this relative closeness we still want to get even closer. Britons aren’t generally satisfied with their own beaches. Instead they head off to warmer, sunnier climes and golden, palm fringed beaches.

But where will everyone be heading in 2012? Where will we find the most appealing beaches? Here are three of the hottest beach holidays for 2012 and we aren’t talking about the local air temperature. All of these destinations are available as beach holidays from On The Beach.

Cape Verde

Paradise is just five hours from London. The Cape Verde Islands are a lush, green archipelago off the West African coastline. Defined by white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and a heady mix of African and Portuguese cultures and cuisines these islands are more than just appealing, they are addictive.

The main island is Sal and its beaches are to die for. You can expect azure, clean, fish-filled waters, gentle salty breezes, sweeping bays and isolated coves and sunshine almost everyday. Throughout the year, temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C on average. Find out more on Lonely Planet’s Cape Verde page.

Bermuda

You don’t need to worry about the Bermuda triangle; getting stuck on one of the 200 Bermuda islands really wouldn’t be a bad thing. This sprawling archipelago, with around seven large tourist-friendly islands, is dazzling. The sands imitate the architecture and are pale pink in colour rather than white or golden; the deep green of the abundant vegetation complements that cool blue of the ocean and the sun shines overhead throughout the year.

This archipelago is a water-lovers paradise. You can sail, windsurf, kite surf, snorkel and scuba dive, but land lovers will be more than satisfied too with more golf courses per square mile than any other country and plenty of hiking and biking trails. Another reason to visit? The average temperature never falls below 28°C.

Phuket

It is a well-known fact that Thailand lays claim to some of the best beaches in the world – some are so good they are regularly used as film locations – and although Thailand deals with a lot of tourism, you can still find your own slice of heaven even in the larger resorts. Phuket is an oldie but a goody.

Tropical rainforest line white sand beaches; cute little restaurants skirt the beach serving fresh seafood and local Thai cuisine; the climate is warm throughout the year and the people are among the friendliest and most welcoming you’ll ever have the pleasure of meeting.