Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching about 13 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal, boasting a lively atmosphere with numerous vendors selling food, refreshments, and souvenirs. The beach is also home to the Marina Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Nearby, you can find the Chennai Marina Aquarium, which showcases marine life, though it is more modest compared to large aquariums.

Cala Jondal has a bit of a posh feel, but it’s also pretty laid-back. The beach is mostly pebbles, but the water’s clear and perfect for swimming. Beach clubs like Blue Marlin draw in a crowd for drinks and tunes. If you're after a beach day with a little more style and some good food, this is the spot.

Diriyah, the original seat of the Saudi dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies northwest of central Riyadh. Founded in 1446 along the banks of Wadi Hanifah, its historic At-Turaif district is a remarkable collection of mud-brick ruins that was the nation's first capital. The area now functions as a vast cultural and heritage destination, where visitors can explore restored palaces, museums housed within original structures, and walk ancient streets. Beyond the core historical site, the development offers parks, traditional markets and seasonal events, creating a multifaceted glimpse into the kingdom's origins.

If you could draw an almost perfect Robinson Crusoe style beach, Dolly would definitely be a contender. Natural food supplies, shelter, and a source of fresh water would keep most castaways happy, and this beach has been known to do just that. As you arrive, especially if you are the first person of the day, you may be drawn to the turtle tracks in the sand. You can follow them until you find the signs of a nest. Both hawksbill and green turtles have been spotted. At the northern end of the beach, the hills are marked by fantastic rock formations with plenty of resident seabirds. More interesting, though, are the sea-level rock pools. Waves crash over the golden-toned, stony reef edges, which doesn't discourage marine life. Red algae and small hard corals paint different colours across the surfaces, while small fish dart about between the pools. Tiny moray eels hunt in ankle-deep water, and if you stay still they will swim up to you. The opposing end of the beach has slightly deeper pools to explore. Depending on the tides, these allow safe, shallow swimming. Going over the rocks to the sea isn't advised, as currents can be strong.