"The wide ocean, sand underfoot, waves crashing, gulls calling -- what's not to like about any beach?" When it comes to sun and sand, we've got to agree with IndependentTraveler.com member wannabe; we've rarely met a beach we didn't like. But let's face it, some beaches are more memorable than others, whether it's for their ultra-soft sand, crystal-clear waters, beautiful sunsets or spectacular scenery. So which ones are the world's best?

To answer that question, we turned to our well-traveled members, who've toted their beach towels and flip-flops everywhere from Cape Cod to Cape Town. Many of you wrote in praise of exotic destinations like India and Tahiti, while others found their own beach paradise a bit closer to home, in popular family vacation spots such as Montauk, NY, and Oceanside, CA. Start the slideshow to see your diverse list of the world's best beaches.