The bay, with the imposing Grand Hotel and the ruined castle overlooking it, has a natural beauty that still draws visitors, mostly daytrippers, in large numbers.

BBC: NEWS | UK | England | Renaissance in Scarborough

Despite the influx of daytrippers, the island of Porquerolles is wholly unspoilt: most of its white sandy beaches and pine woods are protected by the Parc National de Port-Cros.

BBC: Mini guide to coastal C?te d��Azur

Palolem, Goa's southernmost beach, which, though beautiful, sees few daytrippers hitting its sands - perhaps due to its reputation as a smugglers' stronghold for locally produced moonshine.

BBC: Uncovering the best beaches of Goa