Beautiful beaches for blissful holidays in 2016

Beach holidays are big in 2016 thanks to the arrival of new flights from the UK to superb destinations both far (Costa Rica, anyone?), and near (Spain's hidden gems looking more attractive than ever).

Research from Travelex reveals that British travellers are choosing a now more likely than ever to choose a relaxing beach holiday over a city break, adventure getaway or road trip in 2016, with Spain, USA and Italy some of the top places that people want to visit.

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SEE ALSO: Where to go on holiday in 2016

Budget travellers looking to go beyond Europe should consider South Africa and the Caribbean, according to Travelzoo, as the South African rand is currently very weak against the pound making top beach spots like Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth more affordable. The travel deals website is also seeing many cheap offers for Caribbean escapes this year, including week-long holidays in Barbados with flights and accommodation for as little as £499 per person.

Meanwhile, a Post Office Travel report found that that the Algarve is 2016's cheapest destination for UK tourists thanks to a 19 per cent fall in resort costs that include meals and drinks. Bargain hunters should also keep an eye on Croatia, Bulgaria, Kenya and Malaysia if they want to see their money go further.

On the luxury side, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Brazil are some of the hottest tickets for 2016. From family trips to Sri Lanka's south coast that combine UNESCO World Heritage sites with private stretches of beach, to new flights opening up mysterious Myanmar and its golden sands, luxury travellers will love what's in store for 2016.

Browse our pick of the most heavenly beach spots for 2016, from a romantic beach in Los Angeles to one of the last places in the Mediterranean to watch rare sea turtles nesting.

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