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Best Secret Beaches on Earth

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best secret beaches on earth: Happy Bay, St. Martin

Picture Contact BV / Alamy

Happy Bay, St. Martin

North of Friar’s Bay Beach on the French side of St. Martin, Happy Bay is a happily underpopulated stretch of vanilla sand. It’s a hike to get there: 10–15 minutes on a well-marked footpath through the underbrush, which requires just enough effort to ensure the kind of privacy that has made it popular for those who prefer to sunbathe au naturel. (Nudity is tolerated, although this is not officially a clothing-optional beach.) Snorkelers are rewarded with tropical fish in the crystal waters, some of the best on the island. Services are virtually nonexistent, so stock up on supplies at one of the bars in Friar’s Bay.

—David A. Keeps



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