Shell Beach, Isle of Purbeck, Dorset.

Take the chain ferry at the millionaires' playground of Sandbanks and jump off, just three minutes later directly on to the sand of a completely unspoilt beach. Although the Isle is actually a peninsula you get the feeling you are cut off from the main land.
Heading south or west out of London Purbeck marks the point when the scenery gets really interesting and wild. There is a huge expanse of sand with miles of dunes. Spend a happy summer day here watching the boats – everything from small yachts and fishing boats to mega ferries heading to France - sailing in and out of Poole harbour. Near the entrance to the chain ferry the Shell Bay Bar and Restaurant has a lovely view of the harbour. It's the perfect spot for an early or late afternoon beer! Or, for a real treat, fantastic seafood in the restaurant right on the water’s edge.Where to stay: Purbeck District Council has a list of accommodation and agencies.

· More on DorsetIsolation can be the factor that makes a beach special in an increasingly populated world - which is the main reason that, for most of us, the world´s finest beaches remain something we can only dream about.