Recommended Beaches in South America

Add the reef to the South American rainforest (telegrapho.co.uk): "Imagine a solitary hammock strung between two palms; bleached-white powdery sand; silver fish leaping out of an azure sea. Where are you? You're probably thinking of the Maldives or Phuket or Tahiti. How about South America? Some of the world's best beaches are in a region more often associated with Inca ruins, jungle and carnival."

The author recommends beaches in Brazil, including those of the the island of Fernando de Noronha, off the north-east coast, and the beaches around the southern coast island of Santa Catarina, "flanked by long, golden beaches, is a perfect base for exploring the coast."

Next, the author discusses Venezuela's "Los Roques archipelago is one of the most astounding clusters of islands off South America. Enjoy lazing, snorkelling and some of the trickiest fishing in the book: for bonefish."

In Uruguay, "Punta del Este, Latin America's hedonistic hotspot, is the true beach hideaway of the rich, where high-end hotels and high-rolling casinos split the stunning sands of Brava and Mansa. Along the coast is La Barra, with the seafront's best boho-chic shopping and nocturnal dance floors."

In addition to the beaches of the Galapagos islands, mainland Ecuador has the coastal Machalilla National Park which "extends as far as Isla de la Plata, 15 miles offshore, with its nesting colonies of waved albatrosses, frigates and sea lions. Humpback whales migrate past here between June and September."

Peru's "northern coast is opening up, with beaches such as Máncora becoming increasingly well known among surfers. Just north of here is lovely Playa Punta Sal, almost two miles of sandy beach with simple accommodation."

And two offshore islands of Colombia, "the remote Caribbean islands of San Andrés and Providencia, of which the latter is a much better bet. It has only one road, rugged mountains, good snorkelling and a lively nightlife." Also recommended are the "Rosario Islands, with white-sand beaches, coral reefs and some stylish new accommodation," not far from Cartagena.

The author includes some suggestions for add-on tours of attractions for each country.

Photo of Bertioga beach, with 43 km of hard sand, about 106 km Sao Paulo, is displayed with the kind permission of Peter and Jackie Main.