When we go on holiday, whether it’s a short city break, a week in the countryside or a long-haul adventure, we all have different ideas about what makes the perfect escape. This can also be said for what makes the perfect beach, from kite surfing winds and beach party madness or idyllic desert islands to kiss-me-quick hats and sticks of rock (hmm… maybe not!).
I was delighted to recently have been asked to submit my favourite photograph of a beach, to an invite-only competition being run by On the Beach. I’ve been to many beautiful beaches around the world but what makes a beach really ‘beachin’ to me?
I love crystal clear warm water and fine white sand, preferably with a palm tree or two offering a little shade. I’d certainly enjoy a few hours in such a paradise relaxing in the sunshine but would that picture of an idyllic beach be really memorable? Possibly not.
I’ll never forget the day, however, that I was walking along the sand of Sanyang beach in The Gambia, having grown a little restless from relaxing under a palm tree. I could see in the distance the brightly painted fishing boats of the local fishermen and, with camera in hand, thought I might get some interesting shots.
Before I knew it, not only was I getting some great photos, but I found myself deep in conversation with the local ladies about what types of fish their husbands caught, how they prepared the fish, smoked the fish, even how to cook the fish. I’ve no idea how long I was there chatting, laughing and snapping away with my camera but it was an afternoon I’ll never forget.
So while the water at Sanyang beach may not be crystal clear and the sand is not fine white-powder sand, this is without doubt my favourite beach shot!
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Hi,
I found your blog from etramping by Agness! Nice tales and tips ! Just follow your Google plus page ! keep going
Much as white sand is lovely – it will as a result be busy and so won’t be pristine! My favourite beaches are normally ones hard to get to – there are some great ones on Cape Cornwall and other bits near the Lizard, and reams of sand in North Norfolk too. Hotel beaches are often pristine, but ruined by the people – we always get up early to enjoy them though!! Gorgeous ladies and the boats are pretty – Jamaica beaches are stunning due to all their boat colour too
I love this post because you have emphasized that beaches just don’t have to be all about the clear white, perfectly manicured paradises that we all stereotypically associate with the best throughout the world.
The real beach experiences involve meeting the locals and random exchanges that you can never plan for but just take your breath away when they occur! Plus they allow for the most amazing pictures also.
Thanks Chris 🙂
What great smiles! 🙂
For me, the perfect beach is a quiet one, with beautiful sand and a climate to match. I found it off the coast of Zanzibar… 🙂
Sounds lovely, just the name Zanzibar conjures up so many exoctic images to me – I really need to go there one day!
yes, I also love beaches where you get more local characters and interesting people outside of the vistas….it’s more fun taking pictures when these unique opportunities pop up when you don’t expect it to.
This is one of my favourites of your photos – good luck with the competition 🙂
Thanks Suzanne! 🙂
First, great headline! Second, we love the direction you took in this post. While we too enjoy a smokin’ cool beach (pass the umbrella drink…), we agree with you that the best of everything in life is off the beaten path. It’s where the magic happens, as we like to say. Beautiful photo – those women look truly happy. Great sentiments. Keep up the good work Kat.
Thanks guys. These lovely ladies couldn’t have been more welcoming. 🙂