Lost paradise is found at 5 unassuming beaches

SINGAPORE - Beach holidays are an all-time favourite among travellers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. However, there’s nothing worse than going to your once favourite beach haunt, only to realise it’s been overtaken by the sun-worshipper masses. Thankfully, leading online travel agent Zuji has handpicked five unassuming beach locations that will take you away from the crowds while still being a stone’s throw from civilisation.

1.Banana Beach – Phuket, Thailand

Locals know it as Haad Hin Gluai, or Banana Rock Beach, for the shape of a rock formation jutting out of the sea on the bay’s south end. While savvy tourists know it for being one of Phuket’s last secret beaches and a peaceful escape from the city’s tourist hustle. Found on a tiny bay, the beach is reached only by long tail boat or a jungle path. Although it may be a little tricky to get to, it promises tranquillity and beauty with its crystal clear waters.

2.Phu Quoc Island – Vietnam

Floating in the warm turquoise waters in the Gulf of Thailand is Phu Quoc Island, a gorgeous tropical paradise fringed with white-sandy beaches. Known for its untouched natural environment, chilled atmosphere, friendly locals and amazing scuba diving and snorkelling, Phu Quoc’s peak season runs from November to March. Night life is a little quieter, so opt for daytime adventures instead, like exploring in the reefs or kayaking in the bay. For something more laid back, indulge in a massage or dine on the freshest seafood by the beach.

3.Al-Mamzar Beach Park, Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Situated in the Al Hamriya area, Al Mamzar Beach Park has not one, but four inviting beaches with protected swimming areas and lifeguards. Spread out across 106-hectres, the part surf and part turf manmade beach park offers white sandy beaches with bristling palm trees, winding foot and bike paths, and a couple of pools. Not too far off you will find kiosks and open grass patches that are great for picnics and barbeques. Rentable chalets are also available, especially if you’re looking to pamper yourself with a little VIP treatment.

4.Fort Tilden – New York, U.S.A.

At Fort Tilden, you’ll have plenty of sand all to yourself. This unspoiled beach has to be one of the best “undiscovered” New York City finds. Located near an abandoned military installation in Rockaway Peninsula, Queens, you will find the one of the most serene stretches of sand within the city limits. Even on a weekend at the height of summer, you will get a 45 metre stretch of beach to yourself. On weekdays, the entire expanse is all yours. Although it can be tough to get there, just rent a car out of the city, gather your friends and make it a mini road trip.

5.Amed – Bali, Indonesia

"Amed", refers to several small fishing villages located along Bali's East Coast. With breath-taking sunrises and great diving and snorkelling, it is surprising that this gem is still a tourist secret. The seaside villages are part of Amed’s wonderful charm, and the views of Gunung Agung are another reason for visitors to stay on and take it all in. Approximately two and a half hours from the south, passing through the Karangasem and Klungkung regencies, it is also a great base for travellers to explore other local attractions such as the Tirta Gangga Water Palace and Goa Lawah Temple.

Travellers with the beach itch can leverage the Zuji Cheap and Chic sale taking place from now till May 11. Destinations on sale include Bali, Brisbane, Dubai, Phuket and New York. To enjoy the lowest lead-in fares, travel must take place by October 31, 2014. To sweeten the deal, Zuji is also offering a 10% hotel discount coupon code which can be used on any accommodation booked via ZUJI. To add, MasterCard cardholders get an exclusive 12% off hotel bookings, and 5% flight and package bookings.

Sourced: TravelDailyNews