World's Coolest Beach Hotels

Stretches of unspoiled white sand, shady palm trees, sparkling turquoise seas - beach holidays are still the most popular way to escape from it all!

Here are the 10 top spots to pose in your Chanel swimsuit with a cocktail in your hand; the coolest beach hotels in the world.

1. W Retreat and Spa, Maldives

One of the world's premier chains, W Hotels have truly outdone themselves at their Maldives retreat. Set on a private island, it's a favourite hideaway for VIPs. From the infinity pool to the six lavish dining options and designer cocktails at UMbar, this luxury hotel is the epitome of beachside chic.

2. Albergo della Regina Isabella, Ischica, Italy

Ischica has been famed for centuries for its thermal baths and, with one of the best spas in Europe, the Regina Isabella has become a home from home for the cream of Italian high society. Opulent, hand-carved furnishings and soft sorbet shades compliment the old-fashioned elegance of the island setting.

3. Aleenta Phuket - Phang Nga, Thailand

Luxurious villas and a long stretch of private beach make the Aleenta Phuket an idyllic place to indulge. In every room, pre-programmed iPods keep guests entertained with the latest tunes. Nearby, the Phang Nga National Park is home to many of the world's best dive sites.

4. The Chedi, Muscat, Oman

Oman might not be the first place that springs to mind for luxury beach hotels, but everything about The Chedi is fashionable. The emphasis on clean lines and exquisite gardens add to the oasis calm. For party-lovers, there are complimentary (and refillable) decanters of gin, whisky and vodka in each room.

5. Four Seasons Resort, Maui, Hawaii

Both the Four Seasons and Maui conjure up images of Hollywood stars sipping champagne, and this lavish hotel doesn't disappoint. Smooth service, seaside massages and free diving keep the iconic resort a firm favourite.

6. Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte, Salvador, Brazil

Eco-chic is hot on the celebrity scene right now, and this sumptuous hideaway offers sophistication, Ocean views and a five-star spa - all with a clean conscience.

7. El Hotel Pacha, Ibiza, Spain

Long a by-word for cutting-edge music, Pacha has the world's coolest clubbing clientele. This minimalist suite-only hotel is a stone's throw from the super club and includes free entry.

8. Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa Hotel, French Polynesia

Stranded on a tiny tropical island in the South Pacific, the Bora Bora Nui Resort is breath-taking from the moment of arrival. Refined service draws in the cream of the paradise-seekers.

9. Cap Estel, Cote d'Azur, France

The top hotel on the star-studded French Rivera, Cap Estel is so outrageously trendy that it looks like a set from a James Bond movie.

10. Floris Suite Hotel, Netherlands Antilles

Oozing elegant style, this luxury escape in the Dutch Caribbean is a top spot for hip urbanites. Philippe Stark's design brings New York cool to the minimalist interior.