This is not your typical view of white sand. White Sands National Park is the world's largest gypsum dune field.

Tucked away on the southern tip of a narrow, 16-mile peninsula in Belize, Placencia is a charming seaside village that effortlessly blends laid-back Caribbean vibes with an adventurous spirit. Known for its vibrant local culture and idyllic beaches, Placencia invites visitors to relax on its soft sandy shores or dive into its crystal-clear waters.

Pongara National Park protects a broad coastal landscape on the southern side of Gabon’s Komo Estuary, across the water from Libreville. Covering more than 96,000 hectares, the park includes Atlantic beaches, mangrove forests, tidal mudflats, lagoons, freshwater swamps, riverine forest and grassy savanna.

Known as the "Garden Island," Kauai is Hawaii's oldest island and a tropical paradise. Covered with verdant rainforests, glittering waterfalls, and immense cliffs, Kauai will astound you at every turn. This island is the perfect destination for outdoor adventures, with activities from kayaking, to ziplining, to snorkeling. Better yet, marvel at the island's natural beauty, from the scenic cliffsides of Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park to the resort beaches of Poipu.

Cut length wise by the Turkish/Greek border, the island of Cyprus leads two lives. The Turkish side is traditional and Islamic, while the Greek side is a very modern vacation destination.