Laying on a sun drenched beach, having absolutely nothing that you have to do, surf rolling in, surfboard resting next to you... you get the picture.  Beach holidays are so good whether you're looking for an activity holiday for the family, or simply a chance to unwind with your partner or travel buddies.  We love escaping for some much needed rest and relaxation time before hitting the surf, so here are our best beach holiday destinations for summer 2013:
 
  • 1- Hossegor, France



After approximately a hundred years of people visiting the surf town of Hossegor in the south western corner of France, it is little wonder that the town does the summer surf holiday perfectly.  Golden sand beaches stretch on endlessly up the western coast of France to your right, whilst to your left the Pyrenees can be seen rising on a clear day.  Stretch out on Hossegor's main beach, watching pro-surfers try for the best shots, whilst eating la glace (ice-cream) during the hot day, or simply sipping on une blonde (a beer) as the sun sets over the Atlantic.  Perfect. 

 
  • 2- Corralejo, Fuerteventura



If you're looking to disappear into endless stretches of beach, falling asleep in the warm afternoon breeze, before maybe getting in a sunset surf... then basing yourself in the northern town of Corralejo in Fuerteventura has to be done.  There are countless beaches around Fuerteventura's coastline, but Corralejo is within walking distance to a beautiful national park, where surf meets Sahara-esque golden sand dunes.  Explore the beach breaks along the north west coast for beginner waves, or hire a car to discover the famous north track if you're in search of more of a challenge.

 
  • 3- Lagos, Portugal



Miles upon miles of unspoilt beaches are offered by Portugal's Algarve town of Lagos.  Whether you're looking to learn to surf with a surf camp, or simply want to explore a ruggedly stunning coastline in the search of waves, Lagos provides the lot.  Stay at the Surf Experience Surf House in the centre of Lagos for more social accommodation, or the self catered Vilabranca apartments for somewhere more relaxed.  Then spend your time either surfing the local beach of Maia Praia or simply wandering the beautiful old town of Lagos itself. 

 
  • 4- Santa Barbara, California, USA



One of the most beautiful towns in California, if you want to know where to hangout at the beach for bonfires, barbeques, and perfect surf, then Santa Barbara is the spot.  It was the training ground for the controversial professional surfer Bobby Martinez, and has amazing hollywood weekend homes hidden in its hills.  Make the most of the amazing Mexican food that's found its way up to the town after spending the day surfing in great surf.
 
  • 5- Balangan, Bali, Indonesia



Framed by the dramatic stone cut steps leading down to the long golden sand beach, Balangan is one of Bali's infamous beaches.  It has a brilliant lefthand point break to try your surfing abilities on, or simply to stare at from your sun-lounger. Make the most of your time there by trying out the local cuisine of freshly caught fish in one of the warungs overlooking the stunning view, before sipping the local beer-Bintang, as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
 
This article was added by Francesca Bingley