What the world’s most popular beaches look like now
What does going to the beach involve today?

Bournemouth Beach, UK

One of Britain's largest stretches of sand, Bournemouth Beach has long been a favourite for day-trippers from London and beyond. The wide, sandy beach and vast Atlantic Ocean beyond lure visitors throughout the summer. And this year, despite the coronavirus pandemic, is no different. Take a look at more of the UK's most beautiful beaches from above.
Bournemouth Beach, UK

Bournemouth Beach, UK

The result was not only damaging for the spread of the virus, but also for the environment. Litter was left strewn across the beach and allowed to wash into the ocean. The beach hasn't been closed, but Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the government will do so if necessary. These images show the true impact of plastics on our oceans.
South Beach, Miami, USA

South Beach, Miami, USA

South Beach, Miami, USA

Rabat, Morocco

Rabat, Morocco

Málaga, Spain

Last summer, Málaga's main beach saw thousands of holidaymakers enjoying its sunny sands. The city and its coastline is a hugely popular destination for Brits, and in 2018, almost 120,000 UK residents visited the region for their summer vacation.
Málaga, Spain

Málaga, Spain

As a heatwave swept across Europe in June, hundreds of people gathered along the coast to enjoy the sun and a refreshing swim. On Malagueta Beach in Málaga, social distancing wasn't too difficult as most beach-goers managed to stay six feet (2m) apart.
Cádiz, Spain

In Cádiz, though, it was another story. Located on Spain's southwest coast, this fortified city has long attracted visitors thanks to its naval history and brilliant beaches. This photograph, taken on 26 April 2020, shows how quiet the city was during the country's lockdown measures.
Cádiz, Spain

Bang Saen Beach, Thailand

Bang Saen Beach, Thailand

Bang Saen Beach, Thailand

Copacabana Beach, Rio, Brazil

This is what a typical summer's day looks like on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Thousands of locals and international visitors come here to soak up the sun and party vibes throughout the hottest months. The 2020 summer season, though, looks rather different for Rio.
Copacabana Beach, Rio, Brazil

Copacabana Beach, Rio, Brazil

Lübeck Bay, Germany

In Germany, the Bay of Lübeck is a popular getaway for both domestic and international tourists, especially at the height of summer. This image, from 2016, shows just how crowded it can get here when the weather is good. But lockdown across the country meant that very few people have been able to enjoy its sands over the last few months.
Lübeck Bay, Germany

Now, despite lockdown being reinstated in one German region thanks to a localised outbreak, people are able to gather on the beach once again. The crowds aren't quite back to usual capacity though, and social distancing is generally adhered to by most. The country is now even welcoming visitors from other European nations, as its borders reopened on 15 June. Take a look at these stunning sights you won't believe are in Germany.
Venice Beach, LA, USA

Venice Beach, LA, USA

Venice Beach, LA, USA

This weekend, Venice Beach will be completely closed off for visitors as the government attempts to stem overcrowding as a result of 4 July celebrations. These often popular volleyball nets will remain unused, as they have been closed since lockdown began in California in March.
Cape St Vincent, Algarve, Portugal

Cape St Vincent, Algarve, Portugal

The lack of British tourists has been described as an "absolute body blow" by experts in the region, as the UK is yet to confirm whether or not Portugal will be included in its 'air bridges' agreements or the proposed traffic light system designed to get international travel off the ground again. Cape St Vincent's beaches are unusually quiet now, as only domestic visitors are gracing their sands. Take a look at the world's empty and beautiful beaches from the above.
Pescadores Beach, Oeiras, Portugal

Pescadores Beach, Oeiras, Portugal

Glyfada Beach, Athens, Greece

Glyfada Beach, Athens, Greece

Today, though, the coronavirus pandemic means sun loungers and umbrellas have to be far more spaced out to allow room for social distancing. The beaches in Greece are, as expected, far quieter than usual for this time of year, especially with the lack of overseas visitors.
Now discover the countries that are starting to welcome tourists back
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