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40 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

Are you searching for beautiful beaches for a destination wedding, a honeymoon, a romantic getaway, or a family beach vacation? Are you into watersports like snorkeling, swimming, surfing, diving, and parasailing? Or are you more of a lay-on-the-beach-and-get-a-tan type of beach bum?

From pastel pink, sparkling white, and golden tan to black, purple, and even green, the world’s most beautiful beaches offer a wide array of textures, shades, and colorful mixtures.

Swaying palm trees and turquoise water tinged with sapphire, aqua, azure, and more blue words complete this serene scene.

Beach activities like catching a wave, building sandcastles, scooping up seashells, and just relaxing in the sun are popular on city beaches, tropical islands, and any secluded beach around the world.

Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
f11photo / Adobe Stock

While beach surfaces can consist of pebbles, rocks, and gravel, soft sand is a favorite among beachgoers. Sand is made up of tiny crystals of quartz, red foram, olivine and basalt lava, silica, iron oxide, and lots of other scientific-sounding things.

There are endless expanses of white sand beaches perfect for a sunset wedding or days of fun in the sun and surfing. All you have to do is grab your flip-flops and go (and maybe grab a bottle of sunscreen as well).

From the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, the Great Barrier Reef, Matira Beach, and beyond, we’ve gathered a list of the most beautiful beaches in the world to get you started.

While there are buckets and buckets of beautiful well-known beaches – like Australia Whitehaven Beach, Princess Alexandra Marine Park in Turks and Caicos, Whitsunday Island, Clearwater Beach, Cannon Beach, Grace Bay Beach, Champagne Beach, Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town South Africa, and French Polynesia Matira Beach – we decided to go with some of the more exotic tropical beaches around the world. Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

1. Ipanema Beach: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ipanema beach with mosaic of sidewalk
Ekaterina Belova / Adobe Stock

Located in exciting Rio de Janeiro, Ipanema Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world (think: the ’60s song “The Girl from Ipanema”). The 1.5-mile strand of white sand beach features mountain views, footvolley (a game that’s a mix of soccer and volleyball), and beautiful beach-goers.

This famous beach is divided into sections that appeal to different interests such as the fitness set, families, and partiers. There are a variety of bars and cafes around the beach area. The surf at Ipanema can be rough at times, so pay particular attention to posted signs.

The equally famous Copacabana Beach (think: Barry Manilow and “Copacabana”) is just a walk away from the pristine beach of Ipanema.

2. Anse Source d’Argent: La Digue, Republic of Seychelles

View of Anse Source d’Argent beach in Seychelles
Chris / Adobe Stock

Anse Source d’Argent, located in La Digue, Republic of Seychelles, is popular for its nature reserve. Found on the southwest coast of La Digue, this bay beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the world due to the towering cliffs, rugged rocks, lush greenery, and pink sand.

Birdwatchers will want to bring binoculars to catch sight of the rare black flycatcher bird found in this beach destination. The tiny island republic of Seychelles sits in the Somali Sea of the western Indian Ocean. For romantic beaches and tropical vacations, this is one of the best.

3. Hidden Beach: Marieta Islands, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Inside the Hidden Beach at the Marietas Islands
TomásSánchez / Adobe Stock

Hidden Beach, found along the Marieta Islands about 22 miles off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a beautiful and intimate beach. You have to either swim or kayak into the interior part of this location.

Also called the “beach of love,” this amazing beach is found within Marietas Islands National Park. It’s surrounded by lush greenery (great for shade access) and consists of an open cavern with soft white sand and the beautiful blue water of the Pacific Ocean. It’s like having your very own private island.

One of the best things to do on the beach is to join a snorkel cruise.

See Related: Best Fishing Spots in the World

4. Plage de St. Jean: St. Barths

White sand at St. Jean beach in Saint Barthélemy
napa74 / Adobe Stock

Plage de St. Jean is one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. It’s located in St. Barths in the French Caribbean. Located at the end of the island’s airport, the beach features a gently curving coastline perfect for families and kids. Turquoise water and pristine sand make this one of the best beaches for snorkeling, swimming, and windsurfing.

See Related: Most Beautiful & Best Vacations in the US

5. Seven Mile Beach: Negril, Jamaica

7 Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica
Debbie Ann Powell / Adobe Stock

Seven Mile Beach is in Negril, Jamaica, and features gentle and crystal clear water, powder white sand, and watersports such as snorkeling, swimming, and diving.

One of the longest and most beautiful beaches in the world, Seven Mile Beach consists of a four-mile-long section and another three miles that extends into Bloody Bay.

The beach area offers concession stands and food vendors. Watch the sunset while sipping a Red Stripe for an authentic Jamaican experience.

See Related: Best Beaches on the East Coast

6. Maya Bay: Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

Longtail boats anchored at Maya Bay at Ko Phi Phi, Thailand
Don Mammoser / Shutterstock

Maya Bay is situated in Ko Phi Phi, Thailand. If it looks familiar, you’ve probably seen it in the 2000 movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio (or 1995’s Cutthroat Island, starring Geena Davis and Matthew Modine).

This secluded Andaman Sea beach is about an hour’s boat ride from Phuket and 22 miles off the coast of Railay Beach.

With gorgeous turquoise water, a beautiful white sand beach, a May Bay day trip, and towering cliffs all around, it’s a picture-perfect slice of heaven. Railay Beach also has stunning limestone cliffs if you’re looking for another beach in Thailand to visit.

7. Plage de Tahiti: Nevez, France

Plage de Tahiti, Nevez, France
Ronan Davalan / Shutterstock

Plage de Tahiti in Nevez, France epitomizes French glitz and glamour. Located along the Bay of Biscay on the northeastern coast of France, Plage de Tahiti is visited by celebrities and rock stars for its wide sandy beaches, restaurants, and beachfront hotels, making it one of the best places to visit in France.

This naturalist (read: nude) beach features all the amenities one could hope for in a luxury vacation, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate in France, Plage de Tahiti should be at the top.

See Related: Where To Stay In St. Thomas

8. El Castillo: Tulum, Mexico

Ocean view at El Castillo beach
jkraft5 / Adobe Stock

Backed by the Mayan ruins of El Castillo, tropical trees, limestone cliffs, and rugged beach boulders, the beach at El Castillo features a sparkling strand of sandy beach and sapphire waves. This Tulum, Mexico, beach sits in the Caribbean Sea between Cancun to the north and Quintana Roo to the south.

You’ll want to get there early, as this spectacular beach is quite popular (and rightly so).

9. Baia do Sancho: Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Aerial view of Sancho Beach on Fernando de Noronha Island
Alexandree / Shutterstock

Situated on the volcanic island of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, Baia do Sancho offers turquoise water accented with coral reefs and sparkling white strips of sand. Located off the coast of Brazil in the South Atlantic Ocean, this stunning beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Look for exotic fish, sea turtles, and dolphins while enjoying untouched beaches at this National Marine Park area.

See Related: Most Photographed Cities in the World

10. Bells Beach: Victoria, Australia

Top view of Bells Beach in Victoria, Australia
Benny Marty / Shutterstock

Bells Beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in Victoria, Australia. The beach is located along the Great Ocean Road, about 150 miles from Melbourne. Bells Beach is known for its tall cliffs, beautiful coastline, and great waves.

There are many great things to do in Bells Beach, Australia. One of the most popular activities is surfing, and the waves at Bells Beach are some of the best in Australia. The beach is also popular with hikers, with several beautiful trails along the coast.

Bells Beach is also home to several events throughout the year, including the Bells Beach Surf Classic, one of the world’s most prestigious surfing competitions.

If you’re traveling to Victoria, Bells Beach is a great place to visit – even if you don’t surf, it’s fun to watch the experts catch some waves.

See Related: Best Family Vacation Spots in the World

11. Paradise Beach: Mykonos, Greece

Paradise beach on Mykonos island, Greece
Pit Stock / Shutterstock

Paradise Beach is found in Mykonos, Greece. This party beach is popular with the young and hip crowd. Enjoy full-moon parties and the Tropicana Beach Bar, as well as other restaurants and bars.

Located in the Aegean Sea, Paradise Beach is within walking distance of numerous beaches in the area. If you’re looking for other gorgeous beaches in Greece, consider Navagio Beach.

It’s situated off the western coast of the Ionian Sea. Navagio Beach is definitely not within walking distance, but it’s a great Greek beach to check out.

12. South Beach: Miami, Florida

Aerial View of South Beach Miami Beach,  Florida
miami2you / Adobe Stock

Miami, Florida’s South Beach is one of the most spectacular beaches in the U.S. for nightlife, people-watching, and South Florida glitz, cruise, and glamour. This Atlantic Coast beach is one of the most popular on the East Coast. Enjoy beach bars, nightclubs, and live music after a day of sun and sand.

With its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, South Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the views. You can also find some of the best restaurants and bars in Miami here, so you can grab a bite to eat or a drink while you’re enjoying the sun.

When you’re ready to cool off, head to one of the many pools in South Beach. Whether you’re looking for a place to swim laps or want to relax in the water, you’ll find the perfect pool for you. And when you’re ready to hit the town, South Beach is home to some of the best nightlife in Miami. Like what you are hearing? Check out these best things to do in Miami, Florida.

13. Sunrise Beach (Haad Rin Nok): Koh Phangan, Thailand

Koh Phangan Beach in Thailand at Sunset

Sunrise Beach in Koh Phangan, Thailand, is the perfect place to experience a Full Moon Party. The swaying palms and impossibly blue water create a festive and relaxing atmosphere. Sunrise Beach is also the perfect place to watch the sun rise or set.

The beach is just through the palms on the other side of the cove, so you can watch the sun rise or set over the water. either way, you’re sure to enjoy your time at Sunrise Beach. While you’re in this amazing country, be sure to check out these other best places to visit in Thailand.

14. Bahia Gardner: Espanola Island, Galapagos

Group of Galapagos sea lions resting on the sandy beach in Gardner Bay
donyanedomam / Adobe Stock

Part of the Galapagos Islands, Bahia Gardner is the place to go if you like sea lions with your sand and surf. You might also see red lava lizards, iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and the mockingbird of Espanola along this strand of white sandy beach and calm, clear water.

Go snorkeling for glimpses of tropical fish, rays, sea turtles, and white-tipped reef sharks (and more sea lions). You may also enjoy Galapagos island hopping on your visit.

15. Mosquito Bay: Vieques, Puerto Rico

Mosquito Bay is in Vieques, a small island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea. You can expect warm water and beautiful views of towering cliffs.

It’s world-famous for the bioluminescent light show that happens due to dinoflagellates, a species of phytoplankton that glows when agitated. We don’t really know why these creatures get so agitated (they must have kids), but they put on an incredible show of glowing blue light. You may enjoy seeing the blue light by joining an overnight kayak tour.

There are only five of these ecosystems in the world (there are two others in Puerto Rico as well as one each in Vietnam and Jamaica). Mosquito Bay is the most spectacular and magical.

As you can imagine, it’s a popular spot for nighttime visiting, snorkeling, and kayaking.

16. White Bay: Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands

Boats at White Bay Beach in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
napa74 / Adobe Stock

White Bay sits peacefully in Jost Van Dyke, one of the smallest of the British Virgin Islands. Soft white sand and turquoise-tinged waves wash gently ashore, making this one of the most pristine beaches we can imagine.

With its casual bars, palm-tree-lined front, and white net hammocks, it’s a popular spot for boaters and day-trippers from other islands in the British Virgin Islands and the United States Virgin Islands.

You can’t miss the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar. It gets its name from the fact that boaters have to anchor out and wade ashore (thereby running the risk of having soggy dollar bills).

No worries, though. The water is only about three to four feet deep. And the bar does accept soggy dollars. Wouldn’t you?

17. Kite Beach: Cabarete, Dominican Republic

Kitesurfing in Kite Beach, Cabarete, Dominican Republic
Matyas Rehak / Adobe Stock

Kite Beach is in Cabarete, Dominican Republic on the northern coast. It gets its name from the incredible kitesurfing. There’s a huge competition held each year. If you’ve ever wanted to learn to kitesurf, this is the place to do it. There’s a school that teaches everything related to the sport.

Lazy tubing is among the best things to experience in Cabarete. Just north of Cabarete, in Turks and Caicos, is Caicos Grace Bay Beach.

Grace Bay Beach, on the island of Providenciales, is another Caribbean location for fans of sand and calm clear water. Grace Bay is about three miles long and home to luxury hotels.

18. Manu Bay: Raglan, New Zealand

Scenic Manu Bay in Waikato, New Zealand
Jordan Tan / Shutterstock

Home to the most famous surf break in the world, Manu Bay is in Raglan, New Zealand. It is known for being the most famous surf break in the world. Don’t know how to surf? Take surfing lessons in Raglan.

It was featured in the 1966 surf documentary Endless Summer. Regular surfing competitions are held at this central western coast beach along the Tasman Sea.

Similar to Hawaii, it’s known for its black sand beaches. Those huge swells are just an added bonus for the surfing set.

19. Glass Beach: Kauai, Hawaii

Stunning glass beach near Port Allen town on Kauai
MNStudio / Adobe Stock

Glass Beach, in Hanapepe Bay on the south shore of Kauai, Hawaii, is not necessarily a great swimming beach (it’s rocky and small), but it’s a must-see for any beach bum’s (sand) bucket list (pun intended, by the way).

The sheltered bay of black sand is covered in small stones and colorful polished sea glass. If you’re not in the know, sea glass is broken glass that’s been twisted, tossed, and tumbled in the surf and sand to a smooth finish. It then gets deposited ashore as a sparkling blob of blue, green, or brown (bonus points if you find red). Voila! Sea glass.

The tide and current are responsible for the amount of sea glass you can find on any given day. If you’re in the mood for more sand and surf, head up to the coast of Kauai to Polihale Beach on the central western coast. Polihale Beach is the longest stretch of beach in Hawaii.

The water can get rough, but it’s a stunning sunset-watching location. Other great Kauai beaches include Tunnels Beach and Shipwreck Beach. Popular for surfing, Shipwreck Beach is about 30 minutes away.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the United States

20. Lake McKenzie: Queensland, Australia

Small Crowd on Lake Mckenzie, Fraser Island, Australia
Chee-Onn Leong / Adobe Stock

The calm, clear waters of Lake McKenzie (also known as Boorangoora) are found on Fraser Island just off the eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, near Brisbane. It’s located in Great Sandy National Park along the Coral Sea.

While not as well-known as the Whitsunday Islands, it’s one of the most popular sites in the area. The sand is made up of super soft white silica that’s an absolute dream to walk on.

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. This freshwater lake is one of the world’s cleanest because of its status as a “perched” lake. The water only comes from rain (no groundwater or stream inflow). The matter layer at the lake’s bottom keeps the water from draining away.

21. Rabbit Beach: Lampedusa, Italy

Turquoise water and white sand at Rabbit Beach
jackbolla / Shutterstock

Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach, is situated on the tiny island of Lampedusa, Italy, in the Mediterranean Sea. You’ll find it off the southwest coast of Sicily near the coast of North Africa. If you’re wondering how it got the name rabbit, well, the island used to be inhabited by rabbits. Easy enough, huh?

Rocky cliffs surround the secluded cove and make a breathtaking place to spend the day perched on super fine sand while gazing at the gorgeous blue water. You might see dolphins. It’s also a favorite spot for loggerhead turtles.

While we’re on the African continent, you may want to visit Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town, South Africa. Camps Bay in Cape Town features mountain views with the convenience of bars and restaurants.

See Related: Most Beautiful Cities in the World

22. Gordon Beach: Tel Aviv, Israel

Aerial view at Gordon Beach
Joshua / Adobe Stock

Gorden Beach, in Tel Aviv, Israel, is situated along a cove in the Mediterranean Sea. The beach features a strip of golden sand backed by hotels, bars, restaurants, and dance clubs. It’s one of the area’s most popular beaches for locals and tourists.

Take in a game of volleyball or go walking and bicycling. There are various events and activities during the summer months.

23. Paklinski Islands: Hvar, Croatia

Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia
Alen Ajan / Adobe Stock

Located off the southwest coast of Hvar Island in Croatia. This small chain of islands along the Adriatic Sea features secluded beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water. Cruising to Hvar is among the exciting things to do.

Also known as Pakleni, the island is accessible only by boat, so visiting this beautiful beach is an added benefit. There are several beaches for snorkeling, swimming, or relaxing.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia

24. East Beach: Santa Barbara, California

Panoramic View of Santa Barbara Beach

Whether you’re into swimming, surfing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, you can do it all and more at East Beach. Located in Santa Barbara, California, it’s the entry point to the sand and surf culture of Southern California.

The beautiful sandy Pacific Ocean beach has a nearby tree-lined park and amenities such as a volleyball court, a skate park, a restaurant, restrooms, and more. We think this is the perfect beach scene for families with members of all ages.

Looking for another Pacific Coast beach to visit? Head up the coast to Cannon Beach in Oregon for excellent views of Haystack Rock and other natural attractions.

25. Rockaway Park: Queens, New York

Rockaway Park beach skyline
carlos rivera/EyeEm / Adobe Stock

One of the best beaches in the world is located in New York? Absolutely. Rockaway Park in Queens, New York is a large beach that runs along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean and Jamaica Bay. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. There are also many restaurants and shops in the area along the boardwalk.

Enjoy concession stands, playgrounds, and year-round activities at this urban beach. Rockaway Park is a great place to spend a day with family or friends at the beach.

There is something for everyone to enjoy, and it’s not too far from New York City. Whether you want to relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or surf the waves, Rockaway Park is the perfect place.

26. Rainbow Beach: Queensland, Australia

Rainbow Beach colourful sand cliffs with white sandy beach
mantisdesign / Shutterstock

Found in Queensland, off the eastern coast of Australia, Rainbow Beach gets its name from the colorful sand dunes that flow down to meet gorgeous blue water. There are stunning mixtures of tan, red, orange, yellow, and black sand to sink your toes into.

The beach is an entry port into the Cooloola National Park. It’s also near the already-mentioned Fraser Island. So be sure to visit both if you’re in the area. A beach tour will give you a memorable trip.

Rainbow Beach is just south of the Great Barrier Reef, stretching from Bundaberg to Cape York’s tip along the Coral Sea. Consider the equally beautiful Whitehaven Beach for a Great Barrier Reef trip. Whitehaven Beach is about 465 miles from Rainbow Beach.

Accessible by boat or seaplane, Whitehaven Beach is on Whitsunday Island and features warm tropical waters for snorkeling, swimming, and daydreaming.

27. Aharen Beach: Tokashiki Island, Japan

Aerial view of Aharen Beach, Tokashiki island
eyetronic / Adobe Stock

Aharen Beach, situated along the western coast of Tokashiki Island in Japan, offers sparkling sand, sapphire water, and tropical fish for your snorkeling pleasure. Check out turtles, humpback whales, and other marine life while relaxing along this secluded cove.

It’s along the Okinawa island chain south of the Japanese mainland in the East China Sea.

28. Cayo Largo: Cuba

Cayo largo beach nipa huts and skyline
Mark Pitt Images / Shutterstock

With powder-soft sand and warm shallow water, Cuba’s tiny Cayo Largo is found off the island’s south coast in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.

Playa Sirena and Playa Paraiso are the two main beaches on this resort island. You’ll find mangroves, palms, iguanas, turtles, and colorful fish in the coral reef. This island destination is an excellent choice for beach and nature lovers.

29. Kauna’oa Bay (Mauna Kea): Hawaii

Aerial view of Kaunaoa Bay
MGambill / Shutterstock

Kauna’oa Bay (Mauna Kea) in Hawaii is a beach that is frequently mentioned as being one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Kauna’oa Bay is located on the northwestern Kohala Coast of Hawaii.

The water is crystal clear, and the sand is white and powdery. It’s no surprise that this place is so popular with tourists. There’s also an excellent golf course and resort hotel near this beautiful bay beach.

Palms and a shimmering white sand beach welcome beachgoers to this idyllic Hawaiian setting. If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, Kauna’oa Bay is the perfect spot.

Plenty of beach umbrellas and lounge chairs are available, as well as a few restaurants and bars. The bay is also great for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddle boarding.

30. Pantai Tanjung Rhu: Malaysia

Langkawi Beach of Pantai Tanjung Rhu
Holger Kleine / Shutterstock

Sitting peacefully on Langkawi Island, Malaysia’s Pantai Tanjung Rhu is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island hopping tour is among the best activities to enjoy here.

It offers aquamarine water and a sparkling white sand beach in a secluded cove along the Strait of Malacca.

31. Perhentian Kecil: Malaysia

Aerial view of Perhentian Kecil, Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Ruzaini Haron / Shutterstock

Located on Perhentian Island, along the northeastern coast of Malaysia, the exotic Perhentian Kecil beach features a stunning set of palm trees, emerald water, and red-roofed buildings.

A walking trail connects the island’s two beaches, Coral Beach and Long Beach. Coral Bay offers stunning sunsets, a rocky beach, and a relaxed vibe, while Long Beach has nightlife and an equally beautiful beach. Both have a few restaurants and hotels.

This island beach is popular with backpackers, snorkelers, and divers.

32. Ko Phi Phi Don: Thailand

Traditional longtail boats parking in Phi Phi island, Krabi Province
Serenity-H / Shutterstock

Ko Phi Phi Don is the largest of the Ko Phi Phi islands and is the only one inhabited by humans. The island has a population of about 2,000 people, most of whom live in the main village of Ton Sai. The rest of the island is covered in jungle, with several small beaches and coves.

The island is best known for its natural beauty and has been featured in several films and television shows. It is also a popular destination for scuba diving and rock climbing. Cliffs, palms, colorful coral reefs, and marine life invite nature lovers to this tropical beach.

Ko Phi Phi Don is located in the Andaman Sea, about midway between Phuket and Krabi. The island is approximately 6 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide.

Accessible by ferry or speedboat, the turquoise water and stunning rock formations of Ko Phi Phi Don make it a great choice for a tropical beach destination.

33. Tulum Beach: Mexico

Aerial view of Tulum Beach, Mexico
Pikachu Ink / Shutterstock

Tulum is widely considered to be one of the best beaches in Mexico. It’s perfect for a relaxing beach vacation, with its clear turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches. There are also plenty of activities nearby if you’re looking for something more than just lying on the beach.

The town of Tulum is located on the Yucatan Peninsula’s east coast, about an hour and a half south of Cancun. Tulum is a popular destination for both Mexican and international tourists.

Tulum Beach in Tulum, Mexico, offers stunning turquoise water and soft sand along the Caribbean Sea. The area has lots of beach bars and restaurants as well as shady palm trees.

See Related: Diving the Cenotes of Yucatan

34. Lanikai Beach: Hawaii, USA

Ocean view from Lanikai Beach, Hawaii
tobago77 / Adobe Stock

Lanikai Beach in Hawaii is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is also one of the busiest, with people coming from all over to enjoy the white sand beaches and clear blue waters. Lanikai means “heavenly sea” in Hawaiian, and it truly lives up to its name.

Located on the southeastern coast of Oahu, Hawaii, Lanikai Beach is accented with palm trees, golden sand, and sapphire water. The fringing reef provides miles of calm water for swimming and snorkeling.

The beach is situated between two mountains and has stunning views in every direction. The water is usually very calm, making it perfect for swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding.

There are plenty of beach amenities nearby, including restaurants, bars, and shops. There are also several hiking trails in the area, so you can explore the island’s natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking beach experience, Lanikai Beach is definitely the place to go.

35. Starfish Beach: Panama

Group of Starfish at Starfish Beach, Panama
JUAN CARLOS MUNOZ / Adobe Stock

Starfish Beach in Panama is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is also one of the busiest and most popular tourist destinations in Panama.

Starfish Beach is situated on the tiny island of Bocas del Toro, just north of mainland Panama and is known for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and lush vegetation. It’s on the northwestern coast of the Caribbean Sea. Don’t forget to experience the fun snorkel and zip line tour in Panama.

As the name suggests, the beach has an abundance of starfish in its crystal clear waters. Starfish Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the incredible views in Panama. There are plenty of things to do at the beach, including swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the many tide pools.

You can also find various restaurants and bars in the area, so you can grab a bite to eat or drink while enjoying the scenery. If you’re looking for a place to stay, several hotels and resorts in the area offer breathtaking views of the beach.

36. Cala Saona Beach: Formentera, Spain

Cala Saona beach, Formentera, Spain
robertdering / Adobe Stock

Known as the jewel of the west coast of Formentera, Cala Saona Beach is a stunning setting of crystal clear water, sparkling sand, and rich red cliffs. The tiny island sits off the east coast of Spain in the Balearic Sea. The small cove is one of the best beaches for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Don’t miss the sunsets.

37. Koh Kradan Beach: Thailand

Aerial view of Koh Kradan island in Trang, Thailand
pierrick / Adobe Stock

If you’re looking for a breathtaking beach to relax on during your next vacation, look no further than Koh Kradan Beach in Thailand. One of Thailand’s best beaches, Koh Kradan Beach, sits in the Andaman Sea.

A lush jungle surrounds this secluded beach and features crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling to check out the colorful fish. Or, if you prefer something without activity, relax in a hammock at this secluded beach. There’s also plenty of white sand to lounge on, and the nearby restaurants offer delicious Thai food.

38. Greenfield Beach: New South Wales, Australia

View of the beautiful Greenfield beach in NSW; Australia
Michael Evans / Adobe Stock

Located within Jervis Bay in the South Pacific Ocean, Greenfield Beach features some of the bluest water and whitest sand you’ll ever see. Greenfield Beach is on the southwest coast of Australia, just south of Sydney. Beach bums can enjoy a day of snorkeling, swimming, and picnicking. The park is part of Jervis Bay National Park and features a nearby forest, walking trails, and stone cliffs.

39. Yyteri Beach: Pori, Finland

Beautiful sandy beach Yyteri at summer, Pori , Finland
ArtBBNV / Shutterstock

Yyteri Beach is located in Pori, Finland, on the western coast. Dunes and pine forests back powder-soft sand. Situated along the Gulf of Bothnia, this beach is near the Yyteri Nature Trail and the Bothnian Sea National Park. It’s a popular summer destination for locals.

The water is fairly calm and shallow, which makes it a great beach for families with small children. Beachgoers can enjoy surfing, beach volleyball, and other beach activities. If you need a break from the beach, you can go birdwatching or explore the coastal forest.

40. Comillas Beach: Cantabria, Spain

Comillas city beach aerial view
saiko3p / Adobe Stock

Comillas Beach is a world-famous surfing destination located in the Cantabria region of northern Spain. The beach is known for its strong waves and beautiful scenery.

Situated on the north shore of Cantabria, Comillas Beach is also very popular for sailing, diving, and sunbathing on the fine golden sand. The trendy resort town is situated in a picturesque Cantabrian Sea location.

Enjoy views of the Picos de Europa cliffs and copper-colored rooftops of local homes. Comillas Beach is also home to several surf shops, restaurants, and bars. Comillas Beach is the place to be if you’re looking for an unforgettable surfing experience.

FAQs

Where are the most beautiful beaches in the world?

The world’s most beautiful beaches can be found in many different places, depending on what type of beach you’re looking for. If you want to find a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters, the Caribbean and Southeast Asia are your best bets. If you’re looking for a more rugged coastline with dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, Europe or North America might be your style.

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In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use Booking.com as they have the cheapest rates for guesthouses, hotels, luxury condos, B&Bs and so much more.

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Discover the Best Travel Tools
Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year.