Here on Brandenburg Beach, the combination of rough North Sea waters and strong winds draws windsurfers from more than 30 nations for the biggest event of its kind.

BBC: Exploring Germany��s northernmost island

But there have been beach libraries dotting the Dutch coast of the North Sea for six years now, including branches in Katwijk, Makkum and Kijkduin.

BBC: The Dutch beach library

Leaving popular Whitehaven Beach, paddle towards Peter Bay, 19km north on Whitsunday Island, where you may see a sea eagle gracefully plucking dinner from the ocean and perhaps a humpback whale breaching the surface.

BBC: Kayaking Australia��s Whitsunday Islands