One of the main things to think about when it comes to choosing your white sand beach is what types of activities you want to participate in upon your arrival. Not all white sand beaches offer the same selection of activities. If you're the active type and are looking for activities such as snorkeling, deep sea diving and wind surfing, you might choose to go to Kauna'oa Bay, Hawaii, which National Geographic lists as one of the top ten beaches and advertises Kauna'oa Bay as a hot spot for water activities. If relaxing in the sand, taking romantic walks along the beach and receiving spa treatments is your bag, you might select other white sand beaches, such as Bora Bora, Tahiti or the Maldives.
Since white sand beaches exist all over the world, another factor to consider when it comes to selecting a suitable vacation spot is the climate. Certain white sand beaches, such as those in the Caribbean, may be subject to hurricane seasons or stormy weather during the time when you want to plan your trip. This may be a determining factor for eliminating one of your choices. Find out what season the white sand beach is in, depending on its hemisphere. Just because you're planning to go to the beach during your summer doesn't mean it's summer weather at your destination across the globe.
Most likely you will have to take one or two planes -- possibly even a boat -- to get to your final destination on the white sand beach. Transportation can become an important factor for those who don't want to take a 20-hour commercial flight or hop on a six-passenger plane to land on a private island. Another transportation factor is whether or not your destination requires you to get or renew your passport. White sand beaches in the U.S., such as in Hawaii, may be a more convenient option for someone who doesn't want to hassle with as many transportation issues.
It may seem like all you need to pack for a trip to a white sand beach is a swimsuit and some flip-flops. However, traveling to islands and far-off beaches leaves the potential for unexpected inclement weather, so it's important to bring along a jacket or sweater, pair of pants and closed-toe shoes just in case. Also consider that the beach might have a formal restaurant that you're interested in trying, so it's essential to pack a pair of slacks or a dress so that you have proper attire once you arrive.
