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If you're ready to get away and take the family to a beach that's relaxing and entertaining for adults, but that still keeps the trip fun and exciting for the kids, we've compiled a list of the top 5 beaches in the world for families. So, let's start the countdown from number five and work our way to the very best beach.

5. Trunk Bay, St. John in the Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, and probably the least known beach in our list. But, it is one of the best kept secrets of the Virgin Islands. With the offshore coral reefs, Trunk Bay beach is considered the best on the island of St. John.

Visitors can lounge in the sun, or explore the coral reefs in the pristine waters off the coast of St. John. You can even try your hand at underwater photography with the snorkeling equipment rentals available. For more adventure you can take the family hiking into the park to see old sugar plantations and the history of St. John.

4. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a popular hotspot and home to some of the best beaches in the world. The best time of the year to visit this Mexican paradise is around November or December. You'll avoid the spring breakers and the tropical storm season that usually hits in September or October. It's also the best time to get a deal, and when traveling as a family, good rates are important.

Since you'll want to find accommodations close to or on the beach, you'll find your best bets on the famous Hotel Zone, which is a 14 mile peninsula into the Caribbean Sea. Our pick for the best hotel in Cancun is the Barcelo Costa situated on the Playa Linda Beach in Cancun. This resort is close to the golf course, shopping and of course, the beach.

3. St. Tropez, France

Most people think of Hollywood stars and clothing optional beaches when they hear St. Tropez. However, there are several family friendly beaches in St. Tropez that feature beach playgrounds, and places to find snacks for the kids. Stay away in the summer months as there are hordes of people on the beaches and in the shops. June and September are the best months to take the family to the beach so you can still enjoy the warm climate, but avoid the masses.

The Amarante Golf Plaza Hotel sits on the Bay of St. Tropez and features luxury amenities like a swimming pool, fitness room, golf and tennis, and serves gourmet food in their on-site restaurant.

2. Paradise Island, Bahamas

Paradise Island is small at only 5 square miles, but it is heaven for beach goers. Besides the sandy beaches there are lots of fun things to do with the family including shopping along the quaint streets, eating local cuisine, or venturing through the 100-foot underwater tunnel to see sharks, barracudas, and stingrays.

The Atlantis is the premier location to stay in Paradise Island, with water activities for the kids and a full 18-hole golf course. On their Cabbage Beach you can parasail, jetski, and snorkel.

1. Surfers Paradise Beach, Australia

Surfers Paradise Beach is our top pick because of the selection of activities for people young and old. The beaches are gorgeous, the water clear and inviting, and a ton of fun attractions at the Gold Coast. There are plenty of theme parks like Sea World and Movie World. Activities run the range from shopping, laying on the beach, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, and even bungee jumping. At night they have hopping clubs and a casino.

The Gold Coast International Hotel is far and away the best pick for luxury accommodations in Surfers Paradise. Featuring spacious rooms, top rate service, clean swimming pool, world class restaurant and bar, the beaches should be the first destination when traveling to Surfers Paradise, on Australia's Gold Coast.

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