Shore to impress

Sunbathing on idyllic powder sands in darkest winter? Yes please, says KATHRYN WILLIAMS on a getaway to the Caribbean island of Aruba

- KATHRYN WILLIAMS

As the Irish weather continues to get colder, thoughts might turn towards booking a break and getting some winter sun. And while Ireland might boast a healthy roster of sandy beaches tucked away on stunning coastlines, we wouldn't blame you if you had something a little more sunny in mind.

Step forward the Caribbean island of Aruba, a frequent cruise stop dropping thousands at the capital, Oranjestad - currently undergoing a steady revamp of its brightly-coloured classic, often neo-Baroque, Latin American-style buildings - weekly, the island boasts one of the best beaches in the world.

The phenomenal Eagle Beach is a huge pull and one of Aruba's 20-plus beaches, all of which are open to the public. Recently claiming the top spot for best beach in the Caribbean at Tripadvisor's Traveller's Choice Awards, it's really easy to see why.

A 1.2-mile stretch of pure, white coral sand populated by striking fofoti trees and palm shades and cabanas, Eagle Beach is stunning. The widest on the island, it wouldn't be over-egging it to say it's up there with the best on the planet.