The aromas of salt hitting your nose, the sounds of huge waves crashing against the shore and the feeling of sand sinking beneath your toes drives all of us to the beach.  But not all beaches are designed the same. 

Some, like the 14km beach Dubai has in store, were created by the hands of man by carving sparkling waterscapes on land.  Looking for a different beach experience? Then take a dip in these artificial beaches which aim to be as pleasurable as any natural coastline.

London, England: Camden Beach

Whether it is curiosity that dives you to Camden Beach or the thought of sunbathing in the bustling city of London, Camden Beach provides all the right touches to make its beach life seem like the real thing.  And with the help from the folks of Roundhouse, it feels like Mother Nature’s creation with sand and deck chairs adding to the mirage.

During the summer, visitors flock here to find the right spot while sipping on a cocktail and enjoying London’s natural breezes.  And if you’re craving a bite to eat, there’s no better way to enjoy this British seascape then with a delicious plate of fish and chips.

Toronto, Canada: Sugar Beach

Overlooking Lake Ontario, the sands of Sugar Beach etched into Toronto’s cityscape may have all the makings of looking authentic except for one thing — no swimming is allowed.  But that doesn’t mean you cannot lie out on the Muskoka chairs, enjoy a great movie from the rocky amphitheater, and find shade from the hot sun under pink umbrellas.

With two acres of sand at your feet there are also plenty of opportunities to build sandcastles and leave trails of your footprints. This urban paradise is a summer favorite, and although the water is not ideal for riding the waves, it does provide a stunning backdrop.

Hong Kong, China: Golden Beach

The tropical trees, aquatic adventures and floral decorations dotting the Golden Beach would make anyone think it is one of Mother Nature’s creations. Yet, many are smitten by its naturalistic appeal donned by sand, water and plenty of sunshine.

Golden Beach is the first of its kind to grace the region of Hong Kong and the largest public coastline in the area, stretching over 540 meters. There’s also a volleyball court which adds to its beach feel, and a mall as well as a promenade located nearby — which continuously keep the beach's landscape buzzing with activity.

Male, Maldives: Artificial Beach

When your capital city lacks a beach, what should you do?  In the case of the Maldives, the country constructed its own beach that sits in the heart of Male.

Justifiably named the Artificial Beach, it rivals Maldives’ other natural beaches with pristine water and sand to match. When visitors aren’t enjoy its oceanic splendor they can be seen rocking out to live performances as well as other festivities including parades. It’s not like the Maldives needed to add another beach to its landscape, but the Artificial Beach not only serves as a beach, but also as a hangout spot, concert venue and festival location.