Imagine the warm sand between your toes, the gentle caress of a sea breeze, and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. For beach lovers and summer enthusiasts, these moments are pure paradise. Whether discovering the untouched beauty of Voutoumi Beach in Greece or relaxing in the serene waters of Green Lagoon in French Polynesia, the best beaches in the world offer a perfect slice of paradise just waiting for you. So pack your sunscreen, grab your favorite beach hat, and get ready to dive into the ultimate beach lover’s dream.
1. Trunk Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is one of the best beach destinations in the Virgin Islands National Park. This pristine paradise is safeguarded from commercial development, preserving its natural splendor. The bay’s crown jewel is a 225-yard-long underwater snorkeling trail adorned with submerged signs that share fascinating details about the vibrant coral formations and marine life.
With crystal-clear, turquoise waters and powdery white sand, Trunk Bay paints a picture-perfect scene framed by lush greenery and the charming islet of Trunk Cay. The calm, pool-like waters attract swimmers and snorkelers, offering a chance to explore the vibrant reef teeming with colorful fish and indigo-blue tunicates.
Visitors can snorkel along the captivating underwater trail to swim in tranquil waters and sunbathe on the soft, inviting sand. The beach has amenities like snorkel gear rentals, showers, restrooms, and a snack bar. The ideal time to visit Trunk Bay is during the dry season, from December to May when the weather and minimal rainfall are delightful.
2. Cala Mariolu, Italy
Nestled on the eastern coast of Sardinia in the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Mariolu is one of the best beaches in the world. This enchanting beach blends finely crushed pink shells and tiny white pebbles, creating a distinctive mauve hue, which is especially magical at sunset.
Cala Mariolu exudes a sense of seclusion and tranquility framed by rugged limestone cliffs and lush greenery. It is only accessible by boat or a challenging hike from Altopiano del Golgo, making it exclusive and an adventure for those seeking it out.
Visitors to Cala Mariolu can indulge in a variety of activities. They can swim in the calm, clear waters, snorkel among the vibrant marine life, or dive deep to explore underwater wonders. The surrounding cliffs and hidden caves beckon hikers and explorers, promising breathtaking views and thrilling adventures.
For the best experience, schedule your flights to Italy during the shoulder months of June or September. The weather is delightful during these times, and the beach is blissfully less crowded than during the bustling peak summer months.
3. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beach vacation destinations, gracing Hawaii’s south shore of Honolulu. This two-mile beach offers soft, golden sands and clear, warm waters perfect for swimming and surfing. The majestic Diamond Head crater stands sentinel in the background, adding a dramatic touch to the picturesque scenery.
What sets Waikiki apart is its unique combination of natural splendor and urban convenience. Gentle waves make it an ideal spot for beginner surfers, and its consistent surf breaks have etched it into the annals of surfing history. Waikiki has luxury resorts, high-end shops, and world-class dining options alongside the surf.
Visitors to Waikiki Beach can participate in various activities, from surfing and paddleboarding to catamaran cruises and snorkeling. The beach also has cultural experiences like traditional Hawaiian hula performances and ukulele lessons.
The best time to visit Waikiki Beach is from mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. These shoulder seasons bring pleasant weather, fewer crowds, affordable accommodation rates, and cheaper flights to Hawaii.
4. Voutoumi Beach, Greece
Voutoumi Beach is one of the top beaches in the world, promising untouched beauty and serenity. This secluded paradise is accessible only by boat and unspoiled by the bustling crowds that often flock to more accessible Greek beaches.
As your boat glides over the azure waters, you’ll be greeted by a sight that seems straight out of a dream – crystal-clear turquoise waters gently lapping against a shore of fine white sand and glistening pebbles. Towering above the beach, a lush green hill adorned with cypress trees cascades down to meet the sea, showcasing Mediterranean beauty. Voutoumi’s shallow, tranquil waters are a haven for swimmers and floaters.
After a day of sun-soaked bliss, indulge your taste buds at the charming tavernas nearby, where you can savor the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine while overlooking the shimmering sea.
The best time to experience Voutoumi Beach is during the warm summer, particularly from June to September. This period offers idyllic weather conditions, with minimal rainfall and temperatures ideal for basking in the sun and exploring the underwater wonders through snorkeling.
5. Turquoise Bay, Australia
The Turquoise Bay within the Cape Range National Park near Exmouth, Western Australia, is pristine and renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. What sets Turquoise Bay apart is its unique proximity to the Ningaloo Reef, one of the world’s largest fringing reefs.
One of Turquoise Bay’s highlights is the unique drift snorkeling experience. Here, the gentle current effortlessly carries snorkelers over the vibrant coral reefs. This experience captures the essence of Turquoise Bay’s allure and makes it a great beach holiday destination for underwater enthusiasts.
While snorkeling is the main draw, Turquoise Bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. For those looking to explore further, Cape Range National Park offers hiking trails that wind through stunning landscapes, providing glimpses of local wildlife, such as kangaroos and emus, along the way.
The best time to visit Turquoise Bay is from March to October when the weather is more temperate. You can fully experience the beauty of Turquoise Bay without the extreme heat of the Australian summer.
6. Pink Beach, Indonesia
Tucked away on the shores of Komodo Island in Indonesia, Pink Beach is a natural wonder with its breathtaking pink sand. This unique phenomenon results from Foraminifera, an organism that produces a red pigment that blends with the white sand and coral fragments. The interplay of the pink sand against the clear turquoise waters, framed by lush green hills, creates a stunning contrast.
There is no shortage of activities to enjoy at Pink Beach. Snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant underwater world with colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, tropical fish, and manta rays. Pink Beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the pink hue of the sand is the most vivid.
Plan your trip to Pink Beach during the dry season, from April to November, for the best beach vacation. This is the ideal time to visit, with pleasant weather, clear skies, and calm seas, perfect for all outdoor activities.
7. Anse Georgette, Seychelles
Anse Georgette is a gem renowned for its tranquil ambiance on the shores of Praslin Island in Seychelles. Here, powdery white sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, all embraced by lush vegetation. Unlike many other beautiful island beaches, Anse Georgette boasts a bay free of rocks or coral, offering uninterrupted soft sand and clear waters.
You can also indulge in swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling activities. The calm, clear waters are perfect for exploring vibrant marine life up close. Photography enthusiasts will find the beach a captivating subject, especially from the vantage points atop the surrounding hills. For those craving further exploration, hiking trails nearby offer panoramic views of the ocean and the unique Seychelles terrain.
The optimal time to visit Anse Georgette is from May to October, offering warm temperatures and minimal rainfall.
8. Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos is a masterpiece of nature, known for its exquisite beauty and exceptional features. This beach is a canvas of powdery white sands and mesmerizing turquoise waters, cradled by an offshore barrier reef. This natural barrier ensures calm and safe swimming conditions and protects the beach from seaweed.
Grace Bay Beach has consistently been hailed as one of the best beaches in the world. It has earned accolades for its crystal-clear, tranquil waters and stunning vistas. Enveloped by Princess Alexandra National Park, the beach is meticulously preserved, ensuring its ecological integrity and natural splendor.
Visiting Grace Bay offers many activities, from thrilling snorkeling and scuba diving to exhilarating parasailing and serene paddleboarding. The vibrant marine life around the nearby coral reefs makes it a haven for underwater enthusiasts, and horseback riding along the shore and sunset cruises are popular pastimes. The area is renowned for its luxurious resorts, upscale boutiques, and gourmet dining options.
The optimal time to experience Grace Bay’s wonders is during the shoulder season in April and May. During this period, the weather is delightful, the crowds are thinner, and the prices are more budget-friendly.
9. Horse Shoe Island, Myanmar
Horse Shoe Island, or Myin Khwar Island, is celebrated for its distinctive crescent shape resembling a horseshoe. It is embraced by crystal-clear turquoise waters and adorned with a pristine white sand beach. Accessing Horse Shoe Island requires some planning. From Yangon, take a domestic flight to Kawthoung, the closest airport to the Mergui Archipelago.
The island’s allure is further enriched by its lush greenery and the vibrant marine life thriving in its surrounding coral reefs. The tranquil, shallow waters of the lagoon allow you to delve into the kaleidoscopic underwater world teeming with lively fish and intricate corals.
When you visit Horse Shoe Island, partake in various activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the island’s limestone caves and rock formations. The island is also a haven for birdwatching and wildlife observation. For those seeking cultural immersion, neighboring islands inhabited by the Moken, or “sea gypsies,” offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of this nomadic community.
The optimal time to visit Horse Shoe Island is from October to April, during the dry season. The weather and the seas are pleasant for water-based activities and exploration.
10. Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Wineglass Bay, within Tasmania’s enchanting Freycinet National Park, is a natural wonder renowned for its captivating crescent shape, reminiscent of a delicate wineglass viewed from above. This iconic bay is embraced by the majestic pink granite peaks of the Hazards mountain range, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape that is truly breathtaking.
The name “Wineglass Bay” dates back to the early 19th century when the waters were stained red by whaling activities, resembling the rich hue of a glass of red wine.
The bay’s pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters consistently earn it a place among the world’s most beautiful beaches, surrounded by a wilderness of rugged coastlines and lush forests,
You can hike to the Wineglass Bay Lookout for awe-inspiring views, swim in the pristine waters, snorkel, kayak, and explore the surrounding trails. Freycinet National Park also offers many outdoor adventures, including bushwalking, rock climbing, and birdwatching, ensuring there is something for every nature enthusiast.
The best time to experience Wineglass Bay is during summer, from December to February. Meanwhile, winter (June to August) offers fewer crowds and whale-watching opportunities.
11. Green Lagoon, French Polynesia
Green Lagoon is one of the best beaches in the world. Its mesmerizing emerald waters are sheltered by lush greenery surrounding its tranquil cove. This idyllic lagoon in Rangiroa, French Polynesia, is a five-minute boat ride from Avatoru Village, making it easily accessible yet remote enough to evoke a sense of discovering a secluded paradise.
The Green Lagoon’s calm, translucent waters and soft, white sandy beaches create a serene and picturesque setting, inviting you to indulge in leisurely swims and sun-drenched relaxation. You can partake in many activities, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling, all amidst the lagoon’s peaceful waters. Many tours include a traditional Polynesian lunch featuring local delicacies such as freshly caught fish, coconut bread, and tropical fruits, enhancing the cultural experience.
The best time to experience the Green Lagoon is during the dry season, from May to October when the weather is delightful, and the waters are calm and clear.
12. Broken Beach Arch, Bali
Broken Beach, along the rugged southwestern coast of Nusa Penida, Bali, is an enchanting natural formation renowned for its unique archway, a masterpiece sculpted over millennia by the relentless forces of wind and water.
As you approach, the vista reveals a circular inlet that gives the impression of a colossal hole in the earth, with crystalline turquoise waters ebbing and flowing from the vast ocean beyond. Towering limestone cliffs, standing sentinel at 50 to 200 meters (164 to 656 ft), frame this breathtaking panorama.
Visitors to Broken Beach can walk along the perimeter of the natural pool, explore the arch, and photograph the stunning scenery. While swimming isn’t advisable due to strong currents and waves, nearby Angel’s Billabong offers a natural infinity pool where visitors can cool off and enjoy a refreshing dip. There are also snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities at Crystal Bay and Manta Point.
The best time to visit Broken Beach’s splendor is during the dry season, from April to October. With cheap flights to Bali, seize the opportunity to experience the calm seas and predictable weather.
Takeaway
The best beaches in the world cater to all types of travelers, whether looking for luxury and relaxation, adventurous hiking and photography, or a tranquil escape from nature. Dive into the emerald waters of The Green Lagoon in French Polynesia for exceptional snorkeling, and marvel at the stunning limestone arch of Broken Beach in Bali.
When visiting beaches, take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Always swim in designated areas and know about local marine life to avoid potential hazards. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment, and stay hydrated, especially in tropical climates.
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