This was published 5 years ago
Six of the world's best beach clubs
By Ute Junker
MALAMALA, FIJI
A tip for those visiting Fiji's newest beach club, located on a private island a half-hour boat trip from Denarau: grab yourself a daybed by the infinity pool as soon as you disembark; these prime lounging spots are in demand. If you would rather spend some quiet time with your significant other, opt for one of the more private beachside cabanas, complete with butler service (there is an extra charge). When you have had your fill of relaxing, take a kayak out for a spin to work up an appetite for the delicious food, which ranges from blackened fish tacos to spiced goat curry pie. See malamalabeachclub.com
MISTURA, MEXICO
Perched on Mexico's scenic Caribbean coast, the beachside town of Tulum has become a hotspot in recent years, and its buzzing beach clubs draw a cool crowd. Overlooking Xpu-Ha beach (try saying that after a few margaritas), Mistura – part of the trendy Hotel Esencia – ticks all the boxes, from a breezy al fresco setting to colourful furnishings and killer cocktails. What sets Mistura apart from its rivals is its food, a Peruvian-Japanese fusion that includes dishes such as oysters with mango, salmon caviar and mezcal. See hotelesencia.com/restaurants/
CARPE DIEM BEACH, CROATIA
Croatia's island-studded coastline is home to some super-cool beach clubs, and Carpe Diem Beach is one of the best. The fact that you need to catch a water taxi there from Hvar town – unless you have your own private yacht, that is – is all part of the fun. Relax on one of the daybeds shaded by white drapes, or join the revellers splashing around (anyone after a ride on an inflatable unicorn?). Carpe Diem Beach has also taken a cue from its Asian cousins and hosts full-moon parties helmed by some of Europe's top DJs. See carpe-diem-beach-hvar.com
KU DE TA, BALI
Bring your most stylish linen pants and floaty kaftans to fit in with the chic crowd at Ku De Ta. Seminyak's most famous beach club offers so many diversions that you may never get around to setting foot on the beach. Start with a stint by the pool, move on to cocktails on the terrace, then treat yourself to some fine food (gourmands will want to settle in for a degustation at Restaurant Mejekawi). If you have the energy, you can kick on until the wee hours as DJs lay down beats. Ku de Ta is also known for hosting some of Bali's best parties; the White Party, held every August, is the one not to miss. See kudeta.com
JACKIE O BEACH CLUB, GREECE
Ah, Mykonos. They say there is a Greek island to suit everyone, but for party people, it has to be Mykonos. The daytime action takes place not in the whitewashed town but in the string of beach clubs lining the coast. Jackie O, overlooking Super Paradise Beach, has a welcoming vibe that makes it popular with everyone from Insta-happy snappers to families. The something-for-everyone attractions include a pool, a restaurant that serves some of the best food on the island, and rows of sun loungers on the beach (book ahead for these). The sunset drag show has become a local institution. See jackieomykonos.com
STRANDBAR MITTE, GERMANY
If there is one thing Berliners are good at, it is throwing a party. In summer, the city's best parties take place in the beach bars that spring up on the banks of the Spree river. The original and best, Strandbar Mitte, has a central location near Museum Island and real palm trees, as well as plenty of deckchairs and a raised dance floor. The beach club hosts tango, salsa and cha-cha-themed dance parties; arrive early if you need a dance lesson to spruce up your moves. If you need to refuel, the thin-crust pizzas are recommended. See facebook.com/strandbar.mitte
See also: The best bargain destinations for 2019
See also: Avoid: 10 destinations overrun with tourists (and where to go instead)
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