The 50 Greatest Beaches in The World
The debate over the world's best beaches will always evoke personal preferences. Some beaches are perfect for pure relaxation, where one can simply drift off under a clear sky. Others are ideal for play, with families pitching tents and building sandcastles. There are beaches meant for fun, lined with bars, and always close to a party. And then, there are beaches so secluded that you might not encounter another person.
Our specialists have chosen their top 50 beaches worldwide. While some are popular destinations in Australia, Brazil, and the Caribbean, others are far from the usual tourist paths in places like Iceland, Mozambique, and South Korea. To cater to every type of traveler, we've highlighted remote beaches filled with wildlife, locations offering stunning panoramic views, areas with lively beach bars and attractions, destinations boasting luxurious hotels, peaceful secluded spots, family-friendly sandy stretches, and more.
Best for Wildlife
1. Nihiwatu - Sumba, Indonesia
Reaching Nihiwatu is an adventure: a one-hour flight from Bali, followed by a 90-minute SUV journey through mountains and mahogany forests, past waterfalls and rice valleys, leading to a sweeping one-and-a-half-mile-long bay. Wild horses roam this unspoiled arc of sand and giant black boulders stretch into an ethereal blue Indian Ocean.
Expert’s highlight
Watch horses trot across the sands.
2. Calblanque - Cartagena, Spain
Mountain massifs, coastal trails, white salt lakes, and mustard sands make Calblanque Regional Park one of the best-preserved, unspoilt landscapes on Spain’s south-east coast. This beach epitomizes perfection with its soft, sink-into sands and warm waters in various shades of blue.
Expert’s highlight
The beach is part of the protected Regional Park of Calblanque. Keep an eye out for Bonelli’s eagles in the early morning and eagle owls late at night.
3. Playa Gemelas - Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
Surrounded by volcanic rock and unspoiled jungle, this tiny pristine cove with white sand and turquoise waters is much smaller than other beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park, and it rarely gets visitors. You’ll likely share it only with resident iguanas and turtles. The journey involves a one-mile walk from the park’s entrance through dense forests home to capuchin, howler, and squirrel monkeys, as well as sloths and toucans.
Expert’s highlight
Spotting abundant wildlife.
4. Wharariki - South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s landscape is breathtaking, especially in Abel Tasman National Park. On the northernmost point of the South Island, before the road turns into Farewell Spit, lies a crescent strip of sand. Wharariki Beach unfolds below wind-rippled dunes – a paradise for a game of cricket while watching waves chase young fur seals into rock pools.
Expert’s highlight
Fur seals performing stunts in the rock pools.
5. Dungeness Beach - Kent, England
Dungeness, the UK’s only desert, seems desolate and eerie, yet it’s perfectly beautiful. Located on the tip of the Romney Marsh peninsula in Kent, this vast expanse of shale is interrupted only by an abundance of wildlife, lighthouses, and abandoned boats. Autumn and winter bring their own unique beauty to Dungeness.
Expert’s highlight
The Old Lighthouse, with views that stretch to eternity.
6. Starfish Beach - Panama
Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro boasts sugar-white sand and completely transparent warm waters, making it an ideal spot to relax and do nothing. However, it’s worth getting up from your sun lounger to swim with the area’s most famous residents – the starfish.
Expert’s highlight
Swimming with the starfish.
7. Bahia Gardner - Española Island, Galapagos Islands
The distant bark of sea lions merges with the sound of lapping water as you cross the rocks to reach the long curve of pristine white sand known for its large colonies of these marine mammals. Groups of sea lions lounge on the sandy shores with their young, while others cool off in the vividly blue sea.
Expert’s highlight
Observing marine life up close – sea lions, marine iguanas, and green turtles.
Best for views
8. Three Cliffs Bay - Gower, Wales
At low tide, the beach at Three Cliffs Bay boasts expansive golden sands intersected by the serpentine flow of the Pennard Pill river toward the ocean. Pathways from the coastal trail of the Gower Peninsula lead adventurers across dunes to a shoreline framed by a striking set of cliffs and a natural limestone archway, which gives way to rock pools teeming with sea life. Even as the tide reclaims the sand, the remnants of the 12th-century Pennard Castle stand resilient on the grassy dunes.
Expert’s highlight
Engage in hiking, explore rock pools, or scale the cliffs.
9. Praia da Marinha - Algarve, Portugal
Praia da Marinha is a scenic marvel with its heart-shaped rock formations and vibrant turquoise waters. The beach is also notable for its Arcos Naturais, which protrude into the sea and form an iconic 'm' with their arches. Though the descent of 115 steps can be daunting, it's a worthy trek to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and stunning coastal vistas, especially on breezy days.
Expert’s highlight
Trek the renowned Seven Hanging Valleys trail along the cliff tops.
10. Reynisfjara Black Beach - Iceland
A visit to the starkly beautiful Reynisfjara Black Beach is essential when in Iceland. Situated a few hours from Reykjavik along Route 1, this beach captivates with its dark, volcanic sands and dramatic ocean vistas under often cloudy skies. Immense basalt stacks reminiscent of organ pipes dominate the landscape, while the mythical Reynisdrangar sea stacks loom offshore, enhancing the beach's mystique.
Expert’s highlight
Best viewed at sunset for a spectacular scenic experience.
11. Second Beach - Washington, United States
Washington's rugged coast offers a stark contrast to the sunnier shores of California, with Second Beach showcasing the dramatic Pacific ambiance. The coast here features grey sands and obscured horizons, broken only by monumental offshore rocks and driftwood scattered along the shore.
Expert’s highlight
Experience the intense Pacific scenery—ideal for photographers.
12. Holkham - Norfolk, England
Holkham Beach, known from the final scenes of Shakespeare in Love, retains its allure with miles of golden sands under vast skies, bordered by rippled dunes and pine forests. Accessed via the Norfolk Coast Path, it's a perfect spot for observing local wildlife such as plovers and oystercatchers, especially when the tide recedes.
Expert’s highlight
Enjoy the expansive sands and panoramic views.
13. Maya Bay - Phang Nga, Thailand
Maya Bay has rebounded from its fame-induced hiatus with new visitor regulations ensuring sustainable tourism. Enclosed by towering limestone cliffs and overlooking the radiant Andaman Sea, the bay now offers a rejuvenated sanctuary for marine life enthusiasts.
Expert’s highlight
Discover diverse marine life close to the shore.
14. Cannon Beach - Oregon, United States
Renowned for its vast and serene beachscape, Cannon Beach in Oregon is a site of frequent childhood visits, offering unspoiled views and the iconic Haystack Rock—a natural monument emerging from the ocean. The beach's landscape transforms with the tides, providing a reflective, glass-like surface that captivates visitors.
Expert’s highlight
Observe a variety of wildlife, including migratory whales and diverse bird species.
Best for atmosphere
15. Ipanema - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Ipanema gained global fame through a 1960s hit song that describes a “tall and tan and young and lovely” girl from the area. The beach remains a hotspot for fashionable crowds. An early morning stroll offers breathtaking views of the Dois Irmãos peaks to the west and Arpoador rocks to the east. The beach doubles as a lively venue for sports like soccer, beach volleyball, and footvolley—a fusion of the two. The beach culture is segmented by lifeguard stations, with Posto 9, Garota de Ipanema, known for its stylish and fit visitors, yet it welcomes everyone.
Expert’s Highlight
The celebration-like atmosphere is endlessly vibrant.
16. My Khe Beach and Non Nuoc Beach - Vietnam
Historically, beaches and conflicts don't mix well, yet these two beaches on Vietnam's east coast tell a different story. Da Nang, Vietnam’s fifth largest city, was an important American air base during the Vietnam War, providing soldiers with ample downtime along Mỹ Khê and Non Nuoc beaches. These beaches, once dubbed “China Beach” in a U.S. television drama, now boast luxury hotels and stylish resorts, presenting a peaceful contrast to their wartime past.
Expert’s Highlight
Echoes of history alongside serene waves.
17. Palm West Beach - Dubai
Dubai's Palm West Beach is a vibrant strip where athletic visitors in sporty attire bask under the sun, surrounded by luxury accommodations, energetic beach clubs, and eclectic bars. The promenade, inspired by Miami’s vibrant beachfronts, is perfect for a leisurely rollerblade session, accompanied by music from nearby eateries. Besides people-watching, water sports like E-foiling and flyboarding are popular here.
Expert’s Highlight
Observing the lively crowd is as engaging as the aquatic activities available.
18. Playa Coral - Varadero, Cuba
Two hours from Havana, Varadero entices visitors with its idyllic beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. The pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets make it a perfect retreat. Whether relaxing on the beach or enjoying water sports, the experience is enhanced by the lively Avenida 1ra, bustling with music, cocktails, and traditional cuisine.
Expert’s Highlight
Snorkeling here offers a vibrant underwater tableau reminiscent of a colorful animated reef scene.
19. Hamdeok Beach - Jeju, South Korea
Just a short drive from Jeju City, Hamdeok Beach features powdery sands, stark volcanic formations, and vivid blue waters, akin to a tropical paradise. Initially a quiet spot, it’s now flanked by a lively town filled with dining, shopping, and lodging options that contribute to its charming ambiance.
Expert’s Highlight
Experiencing a slice of the tropics in South Korea.
20. Playa de La Concha - San Sebastián, Spain
La Concha beach in San Sebastián captivates visitors with its seamless blend of natural beauty and urban elegance. The golden sands edge up to historic city buildings, with lush hills and Santa Clara Island enhancing the scenery. A walk along the shore or a swim in the gentle waters complements an evening of sampling local cuisine at the beachfront bars and cafés.
Expert’s Highlight
A picturesque scene worthy of a postcard, enhanced by local culinary delights.
Best for luxury accommodation
21. Dhigurah Island - Maldives
Having visited over fifty Maldivian resorts, Dhigurah Island’s Residence, nestled in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll at the equator’s edge, emerges as the top spot with the most stunning beach. This southern island extends like a serpentine for two miles, flanked by ultra-fine, powder-white sands. Beyond its generous shoreline, an additional remote beach is accessible by wading through the shallow waters.
Expert’s highlight
Opt for the sunset beach villas over the typical overwater bungalows for an unforgettable stay.
22. Seven Mile Beach - Grand Cayman
Contrary to its name, Seven Mile Beach spans only five and a half miles but dazzles with pristine sands and vibrant waters, as depicted on every local postcard. Despite its acclaim, the area retains a natural charm. Activities range from beach volleyball and paddleboarding to snorkeling, with gear available for hire, followed by dining at superb local eateries along the coast.
Expert’s highlight
Enjoying boozy milkshake-like mudslides at a beachfront bar.
23. Le Morne Beach - Mauritius
On the southwest corner of Mauritius, the tranquil Le Morne Beach mirrors a hammerhead from above, with the monumental Le Morne Brabant mountain—a haven for fugitive slaves—rising dramatically at its back. Ascend to a viewpoint to marvel at the coral-infused blue hues stretching across the lagoon.
Expert’s highlight
A helicopter tour showcasing the mesmerizing optical illusion of an underwater waterfall.
24. Princess Diana Beach - Barbuda
Approaching Princess Diana Beach, the vibrant pink sands and azure waters intensify rather than diminish. Named to honor its royal visitor, this two-mile stretch is distinguished by the pinkish hue derived from tiny coral organisms in the sand.
Expert’s highlight
The unforgettable first sight of the vividly pink sand.
25. Pink Sands Beach - Harbour Island, Bahamas
Nestled at the end of a modest dirt path lies Pink Sands Beach, a paradise of soft pink sands and clear blue waters, shielded from the Atlantic by a barrier reef. This beach, a hotspot for celebrities, offers relaxation with its open-air eateries serving local delicacies and potent Bahamian drinks.
Expert’s highlight
Observing horses carrying riders through the shallow, colorful waters.
26. Île Sainte-Marguerite - Cannes, France
A brief ferry journey from Cannes introduces Île Sainte-Marguerite, the largest in the Lérins archipelago, veiled by lush eucalyptus. The island is dotted with secluded swimming spots and rocky vistas overlooking a sea dotted with yachts. An underwater sculpture garden nearby offers a unique snorkeling experience.
Expert’s highlight
Exploring hidden swimming areas and the underwater eco-museum.
Best for remoteness
27. Elafonisi - Crete, Greece
Located at the secluded southwestern corner of Crete, Elafonisi boasts a unique shoreline adorned with pinkish sand that spans across a thin, dune-lined isthmus. While most visitors prefer the beach's eastern section, a quest for solitude led me to traverse the shallow lagoon—barely knee-deep—to explore the peninsula’s tip, revealing a series of secluded coves.
Expert’s highlight
The journey to this location includes a thrilling drive along a serpentine road, with expansive views of the Topolia Gorge, enhancing the overall experience.
28. Freshwater Bay - Providencia, Colombia
The petite island of Providencia, once known as Providence Island, has a rich history dating back to its 1630 establishment by English Puritans and later served as a refuge for English privateers. Nestled closer to Nicaragua than mainland Colombia, this mountainous isle is enveloped in lush forestry and showcases several pristine beaches, with Freshwater Bay standing out as a gem.
Expert’s highlight
Submerge in the clear waters here to encounter an array of sea life including turtles and vibrant tropical fish.
29. Whitehaven Beach - Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia
The breathtaking hues of Whitehaven Beach are unforgettable, initially viewed from above and appreciated up close from the Hill Inlet lookout after navigating through hoop pine trees and balga grass. The encounter with the pure, cool sands and the gentle sea made for an irresistible day, topped off by our group's unanimous decision to anchor overnight.
Expert’s highlight
The beach’s fine, radiant sand and tranquil waters create a perfect escape.
30. Santa Carolina - Mozambique
Upon arrival at Santa Carolina, my partner and I quickly stumbled upon the remnants of a once-luxurious hotel that thrived here before Mozambique's independence in the 1970s. Exploring the deserted Art Deco structures, we later reached a pristine beach on the island's opposite side, framed by the vivid blues of the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Expert’s highlight
The island offers a serene escape amidst wildlife including flamingos and dolphins, providing a feeling of being at one with nature.
Best for being active
31. Waikiki Beach - Hawaii, United States
Waikiki is the birthplace of famed surfer Duke Kahanamoku. His bronze likeness greets visitors from the western edge of the extensive beach. Like many before me, my first encounter with this locale involved a surfboard, numerous tumbles, and the welcoming embrace of the warm, turquoise waters. After such an endeavor, enjoying a mai tai at the Beach Bar, nestled around a sprawling banyan tree with views of the pristine beach, feels like a fitting celebration for any surfing newcomer.
Expert’s highlight
Swimming at dawn.
32. Tai Long Wan - Hong Kong
Tai Long Wan, a series of four radiant, golden beaches washed by crystal-clear azure waters, remains a hidden gem on the Sai Kung Peninsula. Accessibility is limited to a six-mile trek through the stunning Maclehose Trail, featuring towering mountains, lush valleys, and deserted Hakka settlements, or a seasonal speedboat trip from the coastal town of Sai Kung.
Expert’s highlight
Encounter native wildlife such as wild boar, muntjac deer, and Asian porcupines.
33. Agadir Beach - Morocco
In the 1970s, Agadir Beach was a popular retreat for surfers and the free-spirited, known for its expansive golden sands and mesmerizing sunsets. Nowadays, surf schools are scattered along its shore, and despite the forceful waves that might challenge swimmers, the waters are ideal for both surfing and wading during the sultry summer months. The beachfront remains vibrant, with horseback and camel rides captivating visitors.
Expert’s highlight
Enjoy surfing, sunbathing, and unique animal rides.
Best for families
34. Zlatni Rat - Brac, Croatia
Often called Golden Horn by those who know it well, Zlatni Rat beach transforms constantly due to the whims of the sea. A leisurely 20-minute walk along the promenade from Bol takes you to a serene spot lined with pines on the southern tip of Braç. Here, a series of bars and restaurants nestle behind a pebble beach. The beach itself, a 500-yard spit of land, juts into the Adriatic, attracting surfers and those looking for a breezy escape.
Expert’s highlight
The shallow waters make it perfect for snorkeling.
35. Pacific Beach - California, United States
Referred to as PB by residents, this beach is a vibrant scene of skateboarders, surfers, and joggers with portable stereos along its two-mile oceanfront walkway, dotted with coffee shops and nightlife spots. The broad sandy beach faces the vast Pacific, viewed beautifully from the nostalgic Crystal Pier. Heading north, you’ll find towering palms along the cliffside. As evening approaches, locals set up chairs to catch the spectacular sunset.
Expert’s highlight
A prime location for people watching, surfing, and sunset views.
36. Porthcurno Beach - Cornwall, England
Nestled between towering granite cliffs near Land’s End, this beach boasts incredibly clear waters and a sheltered golden sand bay. During low tide, a path opens up to Pedn Vounder, which is frequented by both naturists and families. Swimming to a sandy islet that emerges as the tide falls is a favored activity, or one can climb the cliffside steps to catch a play at the open-air Minack Theatre, perched dramatically above the beach.
Expert’s highlight
The stunning setting of the open-air theatre.
Best for swimming
37. Seychelles - Ikaria, Greece
Ikaria boasts the Seychelles Beach, distinguished by its pristine white pebbles and clear turquoise waters, enclosed by towering cliffs and smoothly shaped stones. Accessible through a challenging trail peppered with boulders near the secluded, taverna-dotted port of Magganitis—marked by a distinct arrow on the road—it takes a strenuous and sometimes thrilling 20-minute trek to reach the shoreline. Fortunately, there are numerous water taxis available from Magganitis that provide a swift ride to Seychelles Beach throughout the day.
Expert’s Highlight
Leaping the cliffs to investigate the small cave located directly across.
38. Nilaveli Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
This stretch of soft, peach-hued sand on Sri Lanka’s eastern seaboard is framed by towering palm trees, perfect for seeking shade during sunny afternoons. Observe the local fishermen as they venture into the ocean with their seine nets, continuing a fishing tradition that dates back to prehistoric times. For those seeking adventure, take a short boat ride to Pigeon Island, where snorkeling opportunities abound with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and a kaleidoscope of reef fish.
Expert’s highlight
Experience the artistry of the local fishermen at work.
39. Bondi Beach - Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
A typical morning at Sydney's renowned beach could start with a quick coffee at Café Bru, followed by a sprint across the sandy shores to the welcoming ocean. The extraordinary panorama of Bondi's vibrant blue expanse, where sea meets sky, is far from ordinary. As the sun sets, a reflective walk along the beach’s gentle arc brings you to the balcony at Icebergs Dining. Here, one can observe the rhythmic swimming below while sipping a Terzini Martini, contemplating the unique allure of the place—is it the natural setting, the atmosphere, or perhaps a magical mix of both?
Expert’s Highlight
Spotting well-known figures, soaking up the sun, and catching waves.
Best for the ‘hidden gem’ factor
40. Frenchman's Cove, Jamaica
Jamaica is a top-tier destination for beach enthusiasts, with Frenchman's Cove being a gem among its coastal offerings. This quaint stretch of brilliant white sand is nestled between small, lush headlands and boasts a strikingly clear turquoise lagoon. Visitors can unwind in hammocks strung between palm trees while enjoying local dishes from Le Pirate Cafe, a modest beachside establishment.
Expert’s highlight
Best experienced at lunchtime, complemented by a Rum Punch or Red Stripe from the nearby bar.
41. Cala Tuent, Majorca, Spain
The journey to Cala Tuent is a thrilling ride along a winding mountain road, offering expansive views. This unspoiled pebble beach is a sanctuary where one can spot dolphins and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings, minimal facilities, and crystal-clear waters framed by pine-clad cliffs.
Expert’s highlight
The six-mile hike to and from Soller along the Sa Costera trail is a must.
42. Le Dune Piscinas, Arbus, Sardinia
Dubbed the "little Sahara," Le Dune Piscinas features vast dunes and desert-like landscapes along Sardinia’s western coastline. Reached by a dusty road passing through abandoned mining ruins, this quiet wilderness hosts a sparse selection of beach bars and a lone hotel, with expansive dunes and pristine waters.
Expert’s highlight
Summer visits may reveal roaming deer and nesting sea turtles.
43. Saly, Senegal
Saly, located along Senegal’s Petite Côte, is a sun-soaked beach lesser known to British tourists compared to Gambia, yet cherished by French visitors for decades. Its golden sands are alive with surfers, fishermen, and yogis, providing a vibrant yet relaxed beach atmosphere.
Expert’s highlight
Morning visits are ideal for observing local fishermen at work.
44. Petani Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
While lesser-known compared to some of Kefalonia’s more famous beaches, Petani offers a secluded charm on the island’s western Paliki peninsula. The approach involves a challenging drive, but the reward is a serene beach flanked by cliffs, offering peaceful swimming conditions.
Expert’s highlight
The serene, Greek isolation it offers is unmatched.
45. Long Beach, Cape Town, South Africa
Accessed via the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, Long Beach in Kommetjie is a natural escape from Cape Town's urban bustle. This extensive white-sand beach is framed by mountains and fynbos, offering views of historical sites like the Slangkop lighthouse and the Kakapo shipwreck.
Expert’s highlight
An ideal getaway featuring historical shipwrecks and natural scenery.
46. Svinkløv, North Jutland, Denmark
Svinkløv captivates with its vast, untouched landscapes. The beach, devoid of commercial clutter, offers a tranquil environment perfect for enjoying the unspoiled Scandinavian coastline. Nearby Svinkløv Plantage provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities amid dense conifer forests.
Expert’s highlight
Its untouched natural beauty and fresh, salty air are profoundly rejuvenating.
Best for sunsets
47. Marimegmeg Beach, Palawan, Philippines
Nestled just a short journey from the town of El Nido on Palawan Island, Marimegmeg Beach competes with the best of them. Here, visitors embrace tropical tranquility, lounging under numerous palm trees and snorkeling in the clear waters. As the sun begins to set, a brief walk to the nearby La Cabanas Beach offers a spectacular view of the sky painted in bold hues of orange, purple, and red, best enjoyed with a drink in hand from the local beach bars.
Expert’s highlight
Discover sea turtles, vibrant tropical fish, colorful corals, and a diverse array of bird species.
48. Grand Anse, Grenada
Grand Anse features a magnificent one-and-a-half-mile stretch of fine, white sand that curves gently along the coast of St. George's. This beach not only offers breathtaking views of Grenada’s lush mountains but also retains a strong local vibe despite its proximity to tourist attractions like the Craft and Spice Market. It’s a place where visitors can mingle with residents and enjoy local flavors.
Expert’s highlight
Sip on a Carib beer at Umbrella Beach Bar while mixing with the local crowd.
49. Shichirigahama Beach, Japan
In Shōnan, a typical weekend involves cycling along the path that runs beside the volcanic sands of Shichirigahama Beach, nestled between Enoshima and Kamakura. This scenic beach, backed by lush mountains, is a magnet for surfers and a favored spot for both locals and visitors from Tokyo to watch the sun dip below the horizon, occasionally with a stunning silhouette of Mount Fuji in the distance.
Expert’s highlight
Witness an awe-inspiring sunset framing Mount Fuji.
50. Sarakiniko, Milos, Greece
Sarakiniko Beach on Milos is reminiscent of a lunar landscape with its smooth, white volcanic rocks and wind-carved caves that were once pirate hideouts. The terrain is dotted with caves and sea-carved coves where visitors can find respite from the midday sun in the cool waters. Its unique topography makes it an ideal spot for exploring or simply cooling off in its many secluded spots.
Expert’s highlight
Visit at dusk to see the rocks glow under the setting sun, offering a stunning view of this moon-like terrain.
