27 Best Beaches in the World You Can’t Miss Out On

Thinking about wading in emerald green water while feeling the sand under your toes? Start making your travel dreams a reality with these best beaches in the world!

What makes an excellent beach world-class? What magic ingredient made those in this list the best of the best? The answers to those questions could be as varied and unique as there are beach lovers of every stripe. 

Some come for the color and fineness of the shore, some for the mesmerizing waters. An adventurous few may venture deep and meet fascinating sea creatures, while some play with the elements, riding a Perfect 10 wave, getting the coolest tan, building elaborate sand castles, or viewing an awe-inspiring sunset.

With such diverse wish lists and criteria coming from a variety of beach bums, naming the best beaches on the planet may be a tall order. But we’re up to it, coming up with a shortlist that commonly features dream-like waters, unspoiled natural beauty, and that remoteness factor that keeps it away from the tourist hordes. 

Asia’s Best Beaches

1. El Nido – Philippines

Located in the Philippine province of Palawan, El Nido is adorned with majestic cliffs, caves, and waterfalls, making it a must-see destination. El Nido means “the nest,” pointing to its role as a sanctuary where turtles are hatched and released into the ocean. 

Home to over 100 hubs, some of El Nido’s most notable spots include Nacpan Beach, Marimegmeg Beach, and Pinagbuyutan Island.

El Nido’s popularity among international travelers cannot be understated—it’s an ideal place to witness glistening shores, go snorkeling, and join island hopping tours. Wherever your adventures in El Nido take you, expect to see towering rock formations and coconut trees sprouting from the sand.

Where To Stay in El Nido

• Casa Cecilia (Budget)
• Sea Cocoon Hotel (Mid-range)
• El Nido Viewdeck Cottages (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

2. Pileh Lagoon – Thailand

For a serene vacation surrounded by natural beauty, consider Pileh Lagoon in Thailand. Known for its stunning blend of azure waters and lush cliffs, it ranks among Thailand’s top destinations. Situated near the renowned scuba diving site of Koh Phi Phi, it attracts visitors seeking tranquility and adventure, making it one of the best beaches in Thailand. The crystal-clear water at Pileh Lagoon is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to spot fish before even taking the plunge!

At Pileh Lagoon, the glassy water provides the perfect setting for swimming and snorkeling. And since the water is unbelievably see-through, you’ll spot fish waving at you even before jumping in!

Where To Stay in Pileh Lagoon

• Sweed Dee Hostel (Budget)
• The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort (Mid-range)
• Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort (Luxury)

3. Phra Nang Beach (Most Pet-Friendly Beach) – Thailand

Set in the Krabi province of Thailand, Phra Nang Beach appeals to history enthusiasts, depicting mythological tales of Shiva and the goddess Phra Nang, whom it was named after. Its idyllic coastal views and vast stretches of sand are not to be missed. 

Despite its serene façade, Phra Nang Beach features thrills for adrenaline-seekers: look forward to cliff diving, kayaking, rock climbing, and cave exploring. Plus, if you’re bringing a furry companion, Phra Nang Beach is an ideal travel spot. It accommodates dogs with soft sands that are safe to roam.

Where To Stay in Phra Nang Beach

• Vacation Village Phra Nang Inn (Budget)
• Panan Krabi Resort (Mid-range)
• Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi (Luxury)

4. Railay West Beach – Thailand

Railay West Beach in Krabi, Thailand, is famous for being the complete vacation package: a spotless beachfront, relaxing atmosphere, and the emerald gleam of the Andaman Sea will make your beach excursion memorable. Those with an adventurous streak can look forward to scaling cliffs, island hopping, and venturing deep into stalactite-filled caves.

To access Railay West Beach, tourists must ride a longboat, so they’re treated to spectacular views of the peninsula before they even set foot on Railay West Beach.

Where To Stay in Railay West Beach

• Sand Sea Resort (Budget)
• Railay Great View Resort (Mid-range)
• Rayavadee (Luxury)

5. Hidden Beach, Palawan – Philippines

While El Nido often steals the spotlight, we think Palawan’s Hidden Beach deserves a place on this list. Embraced by immense limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, the beauty of Hidden Beach in the Philippines is simply unrivaled. Because it’s reachable only by boat, the journey to this secret spot is extraordinary in itself.

Palawan’s Hidden Beach features a small cove concealed from the outside. After the heart-pumping journey, travelers will discover natural rock formations blanketed by green plants and shallow waves, forming a landscape that is just otherworldly.

Where To Stay in Hidden Beach Palawan

• Hidden Garden Pensione (Budget)
• The Nest El Nido Beach Resort (Mid-range)
• Cadlao Resort (Luxury)

South America’s Best Beaches

6. Ipanema – Brazil

Craving a beach trip that keeps the party going after sundown? Ipanema is the place to be! Renowned for its lively nightlife scene, Ipanema boasts well-kept surroundings even amidst the samba-fueled parties. Wander the 4.3-mile-long (6.9 km) beachfront with its signature pearly white sands, and you’ll instantly fall for Ipanema’s charm.

As a widely recognized cultural hub in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the beach is close to art galleries, bookstores, and theaters, showcasing the creativity of many artists inspired by Ipanema’s vibrant atmosphere. 

West of Ipanema Beach, the Two Brothers mountain peaks serve as the perfect vantage point for sunset views. Gazing out from such heights, you’ll be left breathless by the dramatic hues of the sky.

Where To Stay in Ipanema

• Bossa Nova Ipanema (Budget)
• Ipanema Inn Hotel (Mid-range)
• Sol Ipanema Hotel (Luxury)

7. Copacabana Beach – Brazil

Known for its impressive ocean views, heart-pumping live music, and energetic vibe, Copacabana Beach is one of the best sun-soaked destinations in the world. Set in the southern region of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the beach is named after the Virgen de Copacabana. 

Copacabana Beach is 2.5 miles (4 km) in length, with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and clubs right at the edge.

The world-famous nightlife scene at Copacabana can’t be replicated anywhere else. It’s the ultimate place to show off your dance moves, savor refreshing cocktails, or simply watch other party-goers in their element. The beach hosts some of the world’s most massive celebrations, including a New Year’s Eve party welcoming up to two million attendees.

But the high-energy locals don’t stop when the sun rises; in fact, it’s a whole new party of its own! Copacabana Beach is a mecca for lovers of sunshine, with a hive of attractions like football and volleyball matches, spirited street performers, vendors selling snacks, and surfing.

Where To Stay in Copacabana Beach

• Riale Vilamar Copacabana (Budget)
• Windsor California Copacabana (Mid-range)
• Copacabana Palace (Luxury)

8. Praia Dona Ana (Best Beach for Families) – Portugal

Praia Dona Ana envelopes travelers in magnificent scenery: cliffs overlooking the strikingly blue Atlantic Ocean light the way for your inner explorer. Located in the charming town of Lagos, Portugal, this 525-foot-long (160-meter) beach showcases the area’s finest natural beauty within a relatively compact space. 

Praia Dona Ana is perfect for families with young children, thanks to watchful lifeguards who ensure a carefree beach outing. For those seeking a physical challenge, rock climbing is also a great setting.

Where To Stay in Praia Dona Ana

• Dom Jose Beach Hotel (Budget)
• Hotel Avenida Praia (Mid-range)
• RR Hotel da Rocha (Luxury)

9. Playa Blanca – Colombia

Found on the Isla Baru Peninsula of Colombia, Playa Blanca captivates visitors with its beautiful sunset vistas. The beach’s slender shore encourages ankle-deep strolls in the gentle caress of the ocean. Packed with lively vendors and fellow sunshine-seekers, this tropical paradise teems vitality and zest.

Playa Blanca’s combination of warm sun, swaying palm trees, and the refreshing breeze is hard to beat. You may rent beach chairs or bring a towel to lounge around without a care in the world.

Where To Stay in Playa Blanca

• Hostal Playa Blanca (Budget)
• Playa Tortuga Cabaña (Mid-range)
• Cabaña Coral Azul (Luxury)

10. Cabo San Juan – Colombia

Cabo San Juan is truly a feast for the eyes, with all-natural landscapes comprised of dense forests and cream-colored sands. It is located in Colombia’s beloved Tayrona National Park, which boasts of rare wildlife species amidst stunning jungle trails. If you’re eager to immerse in the wilderness, you’re in luck, as there is hiking and camping galore.

With many areas for swimming, snorkeling, or snoozing on a hammock, your trip to Cabo San Juan will be one for the books.

Where To Stay in Cabo San Juan

• Hammok or Tent (Budget) priced at $8 and $16 per night
• Hostal Recuerdos del Tayrona (Mid-range)
• Luxury accommodations are not offered directly within Cabo San Juan, as it’s remote and rugged.

11. Playa Montañita – Ecuador

Playa Montañita, Ecuador, paints a picture of the quintessential beach vacation: sun, sand, and sea unite to create a refreshing escape for any traveler. Powered by the pulsating energy of Ecuador’s beaches, Playa Montañita is hard to resist.

As the country’s surfing capital, Playa Montañita is a haven for wave riders from around the world. The beach welcomes surfers of all skill levels, from beginners looking to catch their first wave to seasoned pros seeking a challenge.

Where To Stay in Playa Montañita

• La Gondola (Budget)
• Dharma Beach (Mid-range)
• ME Hotel & Villas (Luxury)

North America’s Best Beaches

12. Playa del Amor – Mexico 

Playa del Amor stands in the Marietas Islands off Mexico’s west coast, approximately 186 miles (300 km) from Guadalajara. Dubbed the “Hidden Beach” for its secluded charm, Playa del Amor is tucked away inside a cave, accessible only through a winding tunnel. You can relax in unmatched privacy on this sandy beach cavern, kissed by crashing waves.

Playa del Amor’s distinctive crater-like shape is rumored to have been formed by military explosive testing. However, a 2005 ordinance prevented any further testing to preserve marine life. Today, it’s a go-to spot for couples seeking a romantic getaway; what could get more intimate than an uninhabited beach shaded from view?

Where To Stay in Playa del Amor

• Playa Esperanza Tulum (Budget)
• Posada Real Los Cabos (Mid-range)
• Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

13. South Beach, Miami – USA

South Beach, Florida, is a vibrant hub of boldness and eccentricity. Known for its whimsical architecture and diverse dining scene, this urban beach attracts characters from all walks of life. As one of the world’s top vacation spots, South Beach offers endless blue waves and powdery white sands for your adventure.

In the Art Deco District, buildings burst with vivid colors, and renowned eateries serve Miami’s best pizza and seafood. Explore Ocean Drive at night, where iconic movie scenes were filmed. While South Beach has a reputation among the wealthy and glamorous, its multicultural mix—featuring Italian, Spanish, and Mediterranean influences—welcomes everyone, regardless of background.

Where To Stay in South Beach Miami

• Viajero Miami (Budget)
• Marriott Stanton South Beach (Mid-range)
• The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

14. Carnash Bay Beach – Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Carnash Bay Beach is popular for its incredibly fine sand and soothing aquamarine waves. Moreover, a grand canopy of trees shades visitors needing a cool respite. Nestled in the low-key Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, this hidden gem remains untouched, with no roads or buildings in sight.

Whether you’re a laid-back beachcomber or a sports aficionado, Carnash Bay Beach offers a bevy of activities for you. Try scuba diving, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, or sunbathing as much as you please.

Where To Stay in Carnash Bay Beach

• The Islander’s Inn (Budget)
• Palm Island Resort (Mid-range)
• Mandarin Oriental (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

15. Pink Sand Beach – Antigua and Barbuda

The Pink Sand Beach invites tourists with its lovely rose-tinted sand, painted by microscopic sea shells and crushed corals that washed ashore. Stretching 8 miles (12.9 km) on Barbuda Island, Pink Sand Beach is a great place to survey the picturesque Caribbean Sea.

So, what makes it one of the most fantastic beaches in the world? Pink Sand Beach is barely populated so you can enjoy the blush-colored landscape without any disturbances. Moreover, the peaceful waves are excellent for snorkeling and light swimming.

Where To Stay in Pink Sand Beach

• Cocobay Resort Antigua (Budget)
• Galley Bay Resort & Spa (Mid-range)
• Jumby Bay Island (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

Oceania’s Best Beaches

16. Bora Bora – French Polynesia

With its exquisite natural beauty, alluring mountains, and luxurious bungalows, it’s easy to see why Bora Bora reigns as one of the world’s most buzzed-about tropical getaways. Bora Bora is a cluster of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, nestled in French Polynesia. 

Originally called Pora Pora (“firstborn”), this name traces back to a creation myth where the island was the first to emerge after a god fished it from the waters.

The highlight of Bora Bora is a deep blue lagoon encircled by lush coral reefs. Resorts are perched on stilts on islets (small islands) dotting the barrier reef. A diverse selection of activities awaits: book scuba diving tours, indulge in massages and facial treatments, or simply unwind by the picture-perfect shoreline.

Where To Stay in Bora Bora

• Raihei Auberge de jeunesse Chez l’habitant à Bora Bora (Budget)
• Maitai Bora Bora (Mid-range)
• Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

17. Awaroa Beach (The People’s Beach) – New Zealand

Situated in New Zealand’s Abel Tasman National Park, Awaroa Beach is remarkably well-maintained. In 2016, around 40,000 locals acquired the land through their combined efforts, naming it “The People’s Beach.” Since then, Awaroa Beach has been converted into one of the most remarkable beaches in the country.

Awaroa Beach spans 2,625 feet (800 meters) in length. Towards the north, the beach has a tidal estuary that links to the Abel Tasman Coastal Track during low tides. It is also a sanctuary for coastal birds.

Where To Stay in Awaroa Beach

• Abel Tasman Lodge (Budget)
• Marahau Beach Camp (Mid-range)
• Bay of Many Coves Resort (Luxury)

18. Ootu Beach – Cook Islands

Picturing the ultimate sun-drenched vacation? Meet your match: Aitutaki’s Ootu Beach, part of the Cook Islands in the vast South Pacific Ocean (on a world map, it looks like a tiny dot). Sought after for its pristine environment and remote location, you can enjoy a beach retreat feeling like you have a whole country to yourself.

Ootu Beach promises a secluded paradise far removed from the stresses of modern life—in fact, the entire island spans just 7.1 square miles (18 square kilometers) and has a population of 1,800. Ootu Beach’s resorts exude leisure, and as you unwind, you may encounter rays, bonefish, and turtles in the clear waters.

Where To Stay in Ootu Beach

• Aitutaki Village (Budget)
• Tamanu Beach (Mid-range)
• Sunny Beach Lodge (Luxury)

19. One Foot Island – Cook Islands

Here’s another top spot in Aitutaki: One Foot Island, right next to the azure South Pacific Ocean, brims with a kaleidoscope of marine animals. The waters in the deepest channels provide remarkable clarity, allowing you to peer at sea cucumbers 13 feet (4 meters) underwater.

One Foot Island offers a wide range of activities like swimming, snorkeling, and boat cruising—so don’t forget to bring your camera! As the name suggests, the beachfront is compact at just 1,600 feet (500 meters) in length. But with the awe-inspiring surroundings, you won’t mind lingering here for a while.

Where To Stay in One Foot Island

• Gina’s Garden Lodges (Budget)
• Paparei Beachfront Bungalows (Mid-range)
• Muri Beach Resort (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

20. Whitehaven Beach – Australia

Whitehaven Beach is one of the world’s best for several reasons: ivory sands, amazing surroundings, and crystal-clear waters offer a top-notch travel experience. This world-renowned paradise in Queensland, Australia covers over 4 mi (7 km) from end to end.

Whitehaven Beach earns its name from the color of its sand, composed of 98.9% pure silica, giving it a grainy and silky-smooth texture. It’s no wonder people from the far reaches of the globe journey to Whitehaven Beach to bask in the extraordinary sights.

Where To Stay in Whitehaven Beach

• Palm Bungalows (Budget)
• Reef View Hotel (Mid-range)
• InterContinental Hayman Island Resort (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

21. Honopu Beach – Hawaii

The name Honopu translates to “conch shell” in Hawaiian, referring to the sound made by the arch when winds breeze through. Honopu Beach is popular for its naturally-formed arch carved out of a massive rock, which stands 90 ft (27 m) tall and 124 ft (38 m) wide. 

This stone arch, framing the tranquil scene of cascading waterfalls and coastal views, was a shooting location for Hollywood blockbusters like “King Kong” and “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark.” 

Tucked away on the Kauai Island of Hawaii, the beach is so secluded that even boats are not permitted to land on its shore; swimming is the only means of arrival. It also holds cultural significance as the resting place of Hawaiian royal leaders.

Where To Stay in Honopu Beach

• Kauai Shores Hotel
• Hanalei Colony Resort
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Europe’s Best Beaches

22. Reynisfjara Beach – Iceland

Born out of volcanic lava, the pitch-black sands of Reynisfjara Beach are an aesthetic marvel. This beach on the southern coast of Iceland is home to basalt columns, dusky caves, and a cinematic landscape, making it one of the most special destinations on the planet.

Next to a quaint fishing village, Vík í Mýrdal, Reynisfjara Beach is a great place to spot puffins. Be careful near the waves, though—the conditions can be unfriendly and may topple you’re caught off guard. 

Where To Stay in Reynisfjara Beach

• Center Hotels Plaza (Budget)
• Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel (Mid-range)
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

23. Navagio Beach – Greece

Also known as “Shipwreck Beach,” Navagio Beach is located on the Greek island of Zakynthos. This destination reveals the intriguing story of the Panagiotis: a contraband-hauling ship hunted by the authorities before it was ultimately found wedged into the gravel in 1980. 

But beyond the centerpiece of the ship’s remains, the beach features unclouded seawater and beautiful scenery equally deserving of attention. Navagio Beach is a favorite subject of many travel photographers who flock here to capture its unique charm. 

While you’ll likely run into other visitors during your trip, arriving in the early morning grants you more space to roam and fully appreciate the stunning landscape.

Where To Stay in Navagio Beach

• Windmill Bay Hotel (Budget)
• Sea View Village (Mid-range)
• Arismari Luxury Villas (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

24. Stiniva Beach – Croatia

Awarded the title of Europe’s Best Beach in 2016, Stiniva Beach is a Croatian landmark featuring wondrous scenery that will exceed your expectations. The part where the shore meets the sea is sandwiched between colossal cliffs, perfect for snapping pictures or simply lying in the shade. Pebbles massage your soles as you walk along the coast’s edge.

Aside from sandy lounging areas, Stiniva Beach offers hiking trails amidst lush trees and thickets, so make sure to bring your hiking gear.

Where To Stay in Stiniva Beach

• Stiniva Beach House (Budget)
• Villa Luana (Mid-range)
• Holiday home Stiniva (Luxury)

Africa’s Best Beaches

25. Source d’Argent – Seychelles

Source d’Argent is a haven for travelers seeking the world’s most photogenic spots, featuring enormous granite boulders sculpted by natural forces. Set against shimmering blue waters and scenic coves, this beach on Seychelles’ La Digue island makes for an unforgettable trip.

Apart from its impeccable sights, Source d’Argent offers a vast array of exciting activities: swim, snorkel, or dive to discover the blooming flora and fauna beneath the Indian Ocean.

Where To Stay in Source d’ Agent

• Chez Michellin Pensions Residence (Budget)
• Coco de Mer Hotel and Black Parrot Suites (Mid-range)
• Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

26. Diani Beach – Kenya

Diani Beach, situated 19 mi (30 km) south of Mombasa in Kwale County on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya, is a renowned destination. With its 17-kilometer stretch of white sand, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it attracts locals and international visitors. At its northern tip lies the 16th-century Kongo Mosque, overlooking where the Kongo River meets the ocean. 

The Shimba Hills National Reserve is close to Diani Beach, offering wildlife encounters with a backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

Where To Stay in Diani Beach

• Sonrisa Villas (Budget)
• Seaclusion Diani (Mid-range)
• Baobab Beach Resort & Spa (Luxury)

For more accommodation options, click on the map.

27. Kipepeo Beach – Tanzania

Nestled in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Kipepeo Beach is a genuine hidden gem providing a peaceful retreat from bustling crowds. Located approximately 6 mi (9 km) from the city center, Kipepeo Beach provides a tranquil escape from urban life. Renowned for its tropical turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities, it offers a year-round getaway for visitors.

Where To Stay in Kipepeo Beach

• Kipepeo Beach and Village (Budget)
• M Hotel (Mid-range)
• Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam (Luxury)

How to Stay Safe During Your Beach Travels

When embarking on beach travels, prioritize safety by adhering to designated swimming areas, heeding water condition warnings, and protecting your skin with sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Stay hydrated, seek shade during peak sun hours, and remain vigilant of your surroundings to deter theft. Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and respect marine life.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions – Best Beaches in the World

What Is the Top 1 Beach in the World?

Navagio Beach in Greece stands out for its dramatic scenery, including a picturesque shipwreck on the shore, turquoise waters, and cliffs. Navagio Beach is often considered among the top beaches globally. Its unique and stunning landscape contributes to its reputation as one of the most captivating beach destinations in the world.

Which Country Has the Nicest Beaches?

Brazil is home to Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach, both renowned for their eclectic mix of urban skylines and exotic vibes. With bustling boardwalks, lively communities, and natural splendor at every turn, Brazil’s world-famous beaches are loved by many. 

Conclusion – Best Beaches in the World

Every one of the beaches described here deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list. Every person on this planet is entitled to enjoy its beauty in the form of marvelous beaches. 

If you are looking for the ideal beach destination, look no further; consider this guide on the world’s best beaches, take your pick, and get ready to float in bliss.

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