Beach profile: side view of a beach extending from the top of the dune line into the sea.

UNESCO: L O S S A R Y

During big south swells the beach area in view of the Teahupoo reef monster produces some fine waves, also great for beginners who can simultaneously watch the pros surf the big waves on the reef in the distance.

BBC: Learning to surf in the land of giants

From here, a short stroll along a white-sand beach offers a good view of Hangman Island.

BBC: The last piece of England

Casa Maravilla, located next door, is owned by Belgian immigrant Marc Bautil and his wife Elvira, who was born in the Philippines and grew up in the US. The highlight of Maravilla is the beautiful multi-storey wooden bohio (a shack made of straw or wood, whose main living area has open sides and a view of the beach), providing a real Robinson Crusoe feel.

BBC: Lodges Robinson Crusoe would love

On Malaysia's eastern coast, the Marang resort in the state of Terengganu provides both rooms with a view of the pristine beach and lodging in stilt-houses above a mangrove preserve.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia | Travel Watch

In particular, try the public beach at Jumeirah Beach Walk or a sky high bar with a view over the sea, such as Pure Sky Lounge at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah or the Observatory at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel.

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In Southern California, you can view snow-capped mountains from a warm sandy beach.

CNN: New York vs. Los Angeles: L.A. is a 'heavenly place'

"I've never seen the beach as packed as it's been the last two weekends, " said Judy Kuhl, general manager of the Best Western Plus Agate Beach Inn, whose ocean-facing suites offer a clear view of the hulk.

WSJ: Pilgrims Flock to Tsunami Relic at Agate Beach in Oregon

Ms. SETZFAND: I think it's a matter of not taking the point of view of the long-term being on the beach or imagining a life that the investment firms have been touting of a beautiful retirement, but really using this time to take a hard look at whether things are still on track.

NPR: Amid Meltdown, Retirement Ads Stay On Message