Plan a Beach Vacation at the Best Beaches in the World
Plan a Beach Vacation in Asia
As you plan a beach vacation remember that Asia has some of the best beach resorts in the world.
Cambodia
Saracen Bay is located on Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia and is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is actually situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and to get there, you have to take a ferry from Sihanoukville, one of Cambodia’s major cities.
34. Saracen Bay Beach
Saracen Bay Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and the most visited. However, the island is still considered slightly ‘off the beaten path, as many tourists don’t visit during their time in Cambodia.
Saracen Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with beautiful blue water that is dotted with small boutique hotels and hostels, as well as bars and restaurants. The island is quiet, and everything runs slowly. It’s one of those places where you can just laze around, enjoying your surroundings.
Things to Do on Saracen Bay
There’s plenty to enjoy on Saracen Bay, simply relax and enjoy the water before laying in the sun, or you can opt to go snorkeling, kayaking, or stand up paddle-boarding. There’s also endless spots to sit and enjoy a drink or meal with incredibly peaceful views, making It the perfect beach destination.
Contributed By: Emmaadventures.com
Malaysia
35. Langkawi
Langkawi is a small Malaysian island often overshadowed by her neighbor named Phuket from Thailand. A duty-free island, Langkawi is ideal for shopping, relaxing, and indulging in a few wildlife adventures in the ancient rain forest or dense mangroves!
Langkawi archipelago has more than 90 islands and is listed in the UNESCO heritage list however only two of the islands are inhabitable humans.
Pantai Cenang
We spent 3 days in Langkawi during our week-long escape to Malaysia. We explored all the beaches however it was Pantai Cenang in particular that blew our mind! Firstly, Pantai Cenang has some of the most beautiful sunsets in Asia! Add to that the beach is always bustling with vibrant energies of the locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Pantai Cenang
Islanders play football during sundown and they are happy to include you in the team. From the crack of dawn to the last light of the sun, parasailing takes place here. Jet Ski and banana boats are some of the other attractions. If you are keen, you can also go paddleboarding!
If you have only one night in Langkawi, I would recommend spending the day at the sky bridge and come down to Pantai Cenang during sundown. It is worth it. The road adjacent to Pantai Cenang is teeming with beautiful night markets and stalls serving delicious local food, beer, etc.
Contributed By: Orangewayfarer.com
36. Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park
One of the relatively unexplored gems of Malaysia is the state of Sabah located on the northern part of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu is the lovely capital of Sabah, and just a boat ride away amid the South China sea stands an exotic group of islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches. These islands collectively form the Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park.
Manukan Island
The second-largest island here is the Manukan Island. The beautiful island is embellished with a gorgeous beach with spotless white sands caressed gently by the aquamarine waters of the sea. A long wooden jetty leads from the embarking point to the island, and visitors fall in love with the place at first sight.
Things to Do in Manukan
The crystal clear waters make the beach an excellent place for snorkeling. One can see colorful schools of fishes gliding just below the surface of the water. The beauty of the place hypnotizes one to either jump into the inviting waters and swim with the fishes or just sink into the white sands and lose oneself in the beauty of the moment.
The best part of the Manukan beach is that it is relatively secluded and one can always find a stretch of beach to oneself.
Contributed By: Imvoyager.com
Philippines
37. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is located on the island of El Nido in The Philippines, and it’s actually been voted as the most beautiful beach in Asia, so you already know it’s going to be amazing!
Thankfully it lives up to that reputation. This stunning beach stretches for 4 km and is lined with beautiful palm trees and soft golden sand. Since the beach is so large, it’s easy to get a spot all to yourself, you simply just keep walking until you’re alone.
Things to Do at Nacpan Beach
The water is also wonderful to swim in, a perfect temperature and it’s super clear. You could easily spend all day here! Nacpan Beach has lots of great restaurants, and bars that you can chill at, or if you seek some thrills, you can go parasailing with “Mad Monkey Hostel”.
You can even go beach glamping too which presents an awesome opportunity for stargazing. But, one of the most awesome things about Nacpan beach is the sunsets.
This beach is one of the best sunset spots in all of El Nido, and it’s such a memorable moment.
Contributed By: Dreambigtravelfarblog.com
India
Goa
India is truly a land of diverse landscapes from deserts to mountainous regions and even pristine beaches. One such must-visit tropical getaway in this geographically diverse country is Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India.
38. Palolem Beach
Goa is home to countless stunning beaches but this particular one in the South of Goa called Palolem beach deserves to be on the World’s best beaches list. A crescent-shaped shore bordered by the blues of the Arabian sea on one side and swaying palm trees over colorful beach accommodations on the other, with shacks serving flavorful food bursting with Indian spices, fresh seafood, and even scrumptious vegan options.
Things to Do at Palolem Beach
This beach is also a nature lover’s haven, with secret coves just a boat ride away and resident dolphins playing around in the sea a little further away from the shore into the deep blues. The beach gets lit up &; shimmers with bioluminescent plankton at night and turns into a beautiful sea garden in the early mornings, as the receding water leaves behind shells and other sea treasures.
This was just a glimpse of why Palolem needs to be on the list of the world’s best beaches. Check out all the fun things to do in Palolem beach that contribute to making this place heaven on earth and one for your bucket list of world-class beaches.
Contributed By: Trot. world
Thailand
39. Koh Phangan
Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Thailand. You can find the beach on the island of Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon parties, but lovely otherwise.
It’s not easy to get to the beach from the developed West of the island – there are basically only two options – either to take a boat from the village of Chaloklum or to hike.
I can highly recommend hiking! Both Bottle Beach trails are amazing and take you through the jungle. A coastal path is slightly longer, offers stunning views, but you won’t be spared from hearing the boats speed by. A jungle path, on the other hand, is shorter and a lot calmer.
Bottle Beach
Bottle beach is secluded but not deserted. There are 4 small resorts occupying the long beach and each has a restaurant too. The amenities are sufficient and fortunately don’t crowd the beach.
The beach is located in a beautiful bay but the waves can still get pretty big on days with strong wind.
If you’re tired from hiking, you can easily take a boat back to civilization – a 15-minute boat ride gets you back to the fishing village of Chaloklum.
Contributed By: Travelgeekery.com
40. Koh Samet (Island Near Bangkok)
Getting to Koh Samet
Things to Do on Koh Samet
The Koh Samet island is quite big and has several picture-perfect white-sand beaches; therefore, to be able to visit all those shores, make sure to rent a bike for a day or two. Otherwise, there are green pickup truck taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
South Korea
41. Hamdeok
Plan Your Trip
Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island is one of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in the world.
Located just off the island of Flores, in Indonesia, Pink Beach is part of the infamous Komodo National Park.
43. Pink Beach
It’s one of only seven pink beaches on the planet and it gets its color from a microscopic organism called Foraminifera. These tiny creatures have been around for millions of years and they produce a red pigment on the coral reefs that give off a pink hue when mixed with the soft, white sand.
The shallow waters and well-protected corals mean visitors have perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. There are thousands of fish here as well as soft and hard coral.
Komodo Island
Komodo Island may have a beautiful, and rare beach, but it’s also home of the Komodo dragon! Most of these legendary beasts prefer to stay in the forest where their prey live so there’s no need to panic.
Although sightings of dragons on Pink Beach are rare, if you see one of these huge lizards walking along the coast then it’s best to stay clear of their deadly serrated teeth and venom!
Contributed By: AlifeofY.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Africa 
Africa has miles and miles of coast. It is a great place to plan a beach vacation.
South Africa
Driving the 300km of glorious coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route is on many traveler’s wish lists and if you’ve ever seen a picture, it’s not hard to see why.
44. Brenton Beach
Things to Do and See on Brenton Beach
Egypt
45. Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt
Dahab is a small beach town located on the Red Sea coast in the South Sinai governorate in Egypt. It is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt among backpackers, nature lovers, divers, and hippies.
Dahab’s golden sand beaches, turquoise clear water, and reddish mountains made it on the top of National Geographic’s best beaches in the Middle East list in 2019.
Diving in Dahab’s
Dahab’s fame came from its unspeakable beauty of its coral reef and marine life. It has some of the best diving spots in Egypt and the whole world. This made Dahab the diver’s paradise. Also, Dahab is one of the cheapest diving destinations in the world.
In the past decade, Dahab has gained a lot of fame as a hippie destination. It has transformed from a small Bedouin village where fishing is the main activity to a famous tourist destination. And even after this transformation, Dahab preserved a lot of the Bedouin’s simple and peaceful lifestyle.
Things to Do in Dahab
Dahab is not only a place to lay your back and relax, it offers a variety of activities. While the most famous activities are diving and snorkeling, there are also centers that offer paddle boarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. And because this beach town is surrounded by desert, mountains, and canyons, hiking is also a very enjoyable activity in Dahab.
Contributed By: Thewandererpharaoph.com
Plan a Beach Vacation!
I hope as you plan a beach vacation you can use this resource to decide what “the best beach in the world” is right for you.
There are so many amazing beaches that really are incredible! If you know of an amazing beach that is not on this list comment below and let us know!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Plan a Beach Vacation in Australia and New Zealand
Australia is an extraordinary place to plan a beach vacation. Known for some of the best surfing waves in the world.
South Australia
South Australia’s capital Adelaide has over 20 beaches along its metropolitan coastline. While each has its own personality, Port Noarlunga stands out as one of the best beaches in Adelaide.
What makes a fantastic beach will be different for everyone. But if you like a beach with a great vibe and lots to do you can’t beat Port Noarlunga.
31. Port Noarlunga
The main feature of the beach is the long reef that runs parallel to shore and can be accessed from a jetty. The reef attracts all sorts of marine life and makes the area a great spot for snorkelers and divers. The jetty is also a popular fishing spot.
The sand and water are beautiful. Protected by the reef, the water is a safe place to swim and on a hot summer day turns as blue as the water around a south pacific island. The sand is fine and white – perfect for relaxing in the sun or playing with the kids.
Sunsets
As is the case with all Adelaide beaches, Port Noarlunga faces west so it’s a great place to watch the sun go down at the end of a long summer’s day. Red cliffs at the one end of the beach light up as the sun dips below the horizon.
Things to do at Port Noarlunga
Port Noarlunga attracts a diverse crowd of beachgoers. The steady parade of people with diving gear, fishing rods, kayaks, towels, and sun hats creates a wonderful atmosphere.
There’s a great café on the beachfront so between swims you can get a cool drink, a coffee or the best fish and chips in town!
Contributed By: Curiouscampers.com.au
Port Fairy Australia
Lots of people who travel to Australia prioritize seeing the 12 Apostles and The Great Ocean Road, but sadly they don’t all continue beyond the Port Campbell star and reach the charming seaside town of Port Fairy.
Port Fairy boasts a history as well as a great coastal-country feel. Port Fairy beaches offer great views, long walks, peace, and tranquility, as well as great waves to surf, paddle, swim, or body surf.
East Beach is a popular destination for Summer holidaymakers to spend days sprawled on the sand with a remarkable outlook. During the Summer months, the beach is patrolled on weekends and daily during the peak Summer period.
South Beach
South Beach, or “Pea Soup” as it is known to locals offers a protected beach and is popular for families. The water temperature is slightly warmer than the main beach and you will often see people snorkeling among the rocks.
Taking a walk around Griffiths Island you will find some lovely little pockets of protected beach to enjoy, explore and marvel in.
On a beautiful Victorian day, Port Fairy beaches will never disappoint.
Contributed By: Australian Mountains To Sea
32. Esperance Australia
This is a huge beach and although it can get a little bit busy during the summer you simply have to walk 5 minutes along the sand to find your own quiet slice of paradise. Although it is rare there are even waves here sometimes which means you can surf.
Kangaroos
Lucky Bay is famous for having Kangaroo’s that spend their days hopping along the beach and lounging around on the white sand. They are so used to humans being around that they aren’t really too bothered by people and you can snap the perfect photo of them on the beach.
There is a campsite right by the beach and it’s definitely worth staying for a couple of nights here to enjoy this magnificent beach.”
Contributed By: thecoastalcampain.com
New Zealand
Described as one of the best beaches in New Zealand, Mount Maunganui’s main beach has long been a local and tourist favorite.
33. Mount Maunganui
It makes up a small part (700m) of the coastline that stretches around 25 km long. Our family has holidayed and lived here for the past 80 years.
Things to Do
The main beach is set on one side of a peninsula with the picturesque Pilot Bay on the other. With its white sand beach, it’s the perfect spot to sunbathe and swim.
There are volleyball nets too for those looking to be active. You could also grab a surfboard or take a surf lesson from one of the surf schools dotted along the coast. There are plenty of cafes too that serve a range of food options as well as everyone’s favorite coffee.
Mauao
At the top end of the main beach stands Mauao, (meaning caught by the dawn in Te Reo) a 253m mountain. It’s a popular favorite by walkers and runners alike.
There is a gentle walking track around the base or if you fancy a hike take the track to the top. When you reach the summit you will be rewarded with some specular views of the coastline, surrounding islands as well as the port and city of Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Nestled under Mauao is the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, its the perfect place to stay with facilities and amenities to meet everyone’s budget.
Most camp spots offer unbeatable views of the either beach or the bay. Set in the middle of the Holiday Park is a real treasure, the Mount Hot pools, it’s the best spot to relax and soak at the end of your day.
Contributed By: 4degreesofdestination.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Asia
As you plan a beach vacation remember that Asia has some of the best beach resorts in the world.
Cambodia
Saracen Bay is located on Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia and is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is actually situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and to get there, you have to take a ferry from Sihanoukville, one of Cambodia’s major cities.
34. Saracen Bay Beach
Saracen Bay Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and the most visited. However, the island is still considered slightly ‘off the beaten path, as many tourists don’t visit during their time in Cambodia.
Saracen Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with beautiful blue water that is dotted with small boutique hotels and hostels, as well as bars and restaurants. The island is quiet, and everything runs slowly. It’s one of those places where you can just laze around, enjoying your surroundings.
Things to Do on Saracen Bay
There’s plenty to enjoy on Saracen Bay, simply relax and enjoy the water before laying in the sun, or you can opt to go snorkeling, kayaking, or stand up paddle-boarding. There’s also endless spots to sit and enjoy a drink or meal with incredibly peaceful views, making It the perfect beach destination.
Contributed By: Emmaadventures.com
Malaysia
35. Langkawi
Langkawi is a small Malaysian island often overshadowed by her neighbor named Phuket from Thailand. A duty-free island, Langkawi is ideal for shopping, relaxing, and indulging in a few wildlife adventures in the ancient rain forest or dense mangroves!
Langkawi archipelago has more than 90 islands and is listed in the UNESCO heritage list however only two of the islands are inhabitable humans.
Pantai Cenang
We spent 3 days in Langkawi during our week-long escape to Malaysia. We explored all the beaches however it was Pantai Cenang in particular that blew our mind! Firstly, Pantai Cenang has some of the most beautiful sunsets in Asia! Add to that the beach is always bustling with vibrant energies of the locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Pantai Cenang
Islanders play football during sundown and they are happy to include you in the team. From the crack of dawn to the last light of the sun, parasailing takes place here. Jet Ski and banana boats are some of the other attractions. If you are keen, you can also go paddleboarding!
If you have only one night in Langkawi, I would recommend spending the day at the sky bridge and come down to Pantai Cenang during sundown. It is worth it. The road adjacent to Pantai Cenang is teeming with beautiful night markets and stalls serving delicious local food, beer, etc.
Contributed By: Orangewayfarer.com
36. Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park
One of the relatively unexplored gems of Malaysia is the state of Sabah located on the northern part of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu is the lovely capital of Sabah, and just a boat ride away amid the South China sea stands an exotic group of islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches. These islands collectively form the Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park.
Manukan Island
The second-largest island here is the Manukan Island. The beautiful island is embellished with a gorgeous beach with spotless white sands caressed gently by the aquamarine waters of the sea. A long wooden jetty leads from the embarking point to the island, and visitors fall in love with the place at first sight.
Things to Do in Manukan
The crystal clear waters make the beach an excellent place for snorkeling. One can see colorful schools of fishes gliding just below the surface of the water. The beauty of the place hypnotizes one to either jump into the inviting waters and swim with the fishes or just sink into the white sands and lose oneself in the beauty of the moment.
The best part of the Manukan beach is that it is relatively secluded and one can always find a stretch of beach to oneself.
Contributed By: Imvoyager.com
Philippines
37. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is located on the island of El Nido in The Philippines, and it’s actually been voted as the most beautiful beach in Asia, so you already know it’s going to be amazing!
Thankfully it lives up to that reputation. This stunning beach stretches for 4 km and is lined with beautiful palm trees and soft golden sand. Since the beach is so large, it’s easy to get a spot all to yourself, you simply just keep walking until you’re alone.
Things to Do at Nacpan Beach
The water is also wonderful to swim in, a perfect temperature and it’s super clear. You could easily spend all day here! Nacpan Beach has lots of great restaurants, and bars that you can chill at, or if you seek some thrills, you can go parasailing with “Mad Monkey Hostel”.
You can even go beach glamping too which presents an awesome opportunity for stargazing. But, one of the most awesome things about Nacpan beach is the sunsets.
This beach is one of the best sunset spots in all of El Nido, and it’s such a memorable moment.
Contributed By: Dreambigtravelfarblog.com
India
Goa
India is truly a land of diverse landscapes from deserts to mountainous regions and even pristine beaches. One such must-visit tropical getaway in this geographically diverse country is Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India.
38. Palolem Beach
Goa is home to countless stunning beaches but this particular one in the South of Goa called Palolem beach deserves to be on the World’s best beaches list. A crescent-shaped shore bordered by the blues of the Arabian sea on one side and swaying palm trees over colorful beach accommodations on the other, with shacks serving flavorful food bursting with Indian spices, fresh seafood, and even scrumptious vegan options.
Things to Do at Palolem Beach
This beach is also a nature lover’s haven, with secret coves just a boat ride away and resident dolphins playing around in the sea a little further away from the shore into the deep blues. The beach gets lit up &; shimmers with bioluminescent plankton at night and turns into a beautiful sea garden in the early mornings, as the receding water leaves behind shells and other sea treasures.
This was just a glimpse of why Palolem needs to be on the list of the world’s best beaches. Check out all the fun things to do in Palolem beach that contribute to making this place heaven on earth and one for your bucket list of world-class beaches.
Contributed By: Trot. world
Thailand
39. Koh Phangan
Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Thailand. You can find the beach on the island of Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon parties, but lovely otherwise.
It’s not easy to get to the beach from the developed West of the island – there are basically only two options – either to take a boat from the village of Chaloklum or to hike.
I can highly recommend hiking! Both Bottle Beach trails are amazing and take you through the jungle. A coastal path is slightly longer, offers stunning views, but you won’t be spared from hearing the boats speed by. A jungle path, on the other hand, is shorter and a lot calmer.
Bottle Beach
Bottle beach is secluded but not deserted. There are 4 small resorts occupying the long beach and each has a restaurant too. The amenities are sufficient and fortunately don’t crowd the beach.
The beach is located in a beautiful bay but the waves can still get pretty big on days with strong wind.
If you’re tired from hiking, you can easily take a boat back to civilization – a 15-minute boat ride gets you back to the fishing village of Chaloklum.
Contributed By: Travelgeekery.com
40. Koh Samet (Island Near Bangkok)
Getting to Koh Samet
Things to Do on Koh Samet
The Koh Samet island is quite big and has several picture-perfect white-sand beaches; therefore, to be able to visit all those shores, make sure to rent a bike for a day or two. Otherwise, there are green pickup truck taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
South Korea
41. Hamdeok
Plan Your Trip
Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island is one of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in the world.
Located just off the island of Flores, in Indonesia, Pink Beach is part of the infamous Komodo National Park.
43. Pink Beach
It’s one of only seven pink beaches on the planet and it gets its color from a microscopic organism called Foraminifera. These tiny creatures have been around for millions of years and they produce a red pigment on the coral reefs that give off a pink hue when mixed with the soft, white sand.
The shallow waters and well-protected corals mean visitors have perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. There are thousands of fish here as well as soft and hard coral.
Komodo Island
Komodo Island may have a beautiful, and rare beach, but it’s also home of the Komodo dragon! Most of these legendary beasts prefer to stay in the forest where their prey live so there’s no need to panic.
Although sightings of dragons on Pink Beach are rare, if you see one of these huge lizards walking along the coast then it’s best to stay clear of their deadly serrated teeth and venom!
Contributed By: AlifeofY.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Africa
Africa has miles and miles of coast. It is a great place to plan a beach vacation.
South Africa
Driving the 300km of glorious coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route is on many traveler’s wish lists and if you’ve ever seen a picture, it’s not hard to see why.
44. Brenton Beach
Things to Do and See on Brenton Beach
Egypt
45. Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt
Dahab is a small beach town located on the Red Sea coast in the South Sinai governorate in Egypt. It is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt among backpackers, nature lovers, divers, and hippies.
Dahab’s golden sand beaches, turquoise clear water, and reddish mountains made it on the top of National Geographic’s best beaches in the Middle East list in 2019.
Diving in Dahab’s
Dahab’s fame came from its unspeakable beauty of its coral reef and marine life. It has some of the best diving spots in Egypt and the whole world. This made Dahab the diver’s paradise. Also, Dahab is one of the cheapest diving destinations in the world.
In the past decade, Dahab has gained a lot of fame as a hippie destination. It has transformed from a small Bedouin village where fishing is the main activity to a famous tourist destination. And even after this transformation, Dahab preserved a lot of the Bedouin’s simple and peaceful lifestyle.
Things to Do in Dahab
Dahab is not only a place to lay your back and relax, it offers a variety of activities. While the most famous activities are diving and snorkeling, there are also centers that offer paddle boarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. And because this beach town is surrounded by desert, mountains, and canyons, hiking is also a very enjoyable activity in Dahab.
Contributed By: Thewandererpharaoph.com
Plan a Beach Vacation!
I hope as you plan a beach vacation you can use this resource to decide what “the best beach in the world” is right for you.
There are so many amazing beaches that really are incredible! If you know of an amazing beach that is not on this list comment below and let us know!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Plan a Beach Vacation in Australia and New Zealand
Australia is an extraordinary place to plan a beach vacation. Known for some of the best surfing waves in the world.
South Australia
South Australia’s capital Adelaide has over 20 beaches along its metropolitan coastline. While each has its own personality, Port Noarlunga stands out as one of the best beaches in Adelaide.
What makes a fantastic beach will be different for everyone. But if you like a beach with a great vibe and lots to do you can’t beat Port Noarlunga.
31. Port Noarlunga
The main feature of the beach is the long reef that runs parallel to shore and can be accessed from a jetty. The reef attracts all sorts of marine life and makes the area a great spot for snorkelers and divers. The jetty is also a popular fishing spot.
The sand and water are beautiful. Protected by the reef, the water is a safe place to swim and on a hot summer day turns as blue as the water around a south pacific island. The sand is fine and white – perfect for relaxing in the sun or playing with the kids.
Sunsets
As is the case with all Adelaide beaches, Port Noarlunga faces west so it’s a great place to watch the sun go down at the end of a long summer’s day. Red cliffs at the one end of the beach light up as the sun dips below the horizon.
Things to do at Port Noarlunga
Port Noarlunga attracts a diverse crowd of beachgoers. The steady parade of people with diving gear, fishing rods, kayaks, towels, and sun hats creates a wonderful atmosphere.
There’s a great café on the beachfront so between swims you can get a cool drink, a coffee or the best fish and chips in town!
Contributed By: Curiouscampers.com.au
Port Fairy Australia
Lots of people who travel to Australia prioritize seeing the 12 Apostles and The Great Ocean Road, but sadly they don’t all continue beyond the Port Campbell star and reach the charming seaside town of Port Fairy.
Port Fairy boasts a history as well as a great coastal-country feel. Port Fairy beaches offer great views, long walks, peace, and tranquility, as well as great waves to surf, paddle, swim, or body surf.
East Beach is a popular destination for Summer holidaymakers to spend days sprawled on the sand with a remarkable outlook. During the Summer months, the beach is patrolled on weekends and daily during the peak Summer period.
South Beach
South Beach, or “Pea Soup” as it is known to locals offers a protected beach and is popular for families. The water temperature is slightly warmer than the main beach and you will often see people snorkeling among the rocks.
Taking a walk around Griffiths Island you will find some lovely little pockets of protected beach to enjoy, explore and marvel in.
On a beautiful Victorian day, Port Fairy beaches will never disappoint.
Contributed By: Australian Mountains To Sea
32. Esperance Australia
This is a huge beach and although it can get a little bit busy during the summer you simply have to walk 5 minutes along the sand to find your own quiet slice of paradise. Although it is rare there are even waves here sometimes which means you can surf.
Kangaroos
Lucky Bay is famous for having Kangaroo’s that spend their days hopping along the beach and lounging around on the white sand. They are so used to humans being around that they aren’t really too bothered by people and you can snap the perfect photo of them on the beach.
There is a campsite right by the beach and it’s definitely worth staying for a couple of nights here to enjoy this magnificent beach.”
Contributed By: thecoastalcampain.com
New Zealand
Described as one of the best beaches in New Zealand, Mount Maunganui’s main beach has long been a local and tourist favorite.
33. Mount Maunganui
It makes up a small part (700m) of the coastline that stretches around 25 km long. Our family has holidayed and lived here for the past 80 years.
Things to Do
The main beach is set on one side of a peninsula with the picturesque Pilot Bay on the other. With its white sand beach, it’s the perfect spot to sunbathe and swim.
There are volleyball nets too for those looking to be active. You could also grab a surfboard or take a surf lesson from one of the surf schools dotted along the coast. There are plenty of cafes too that serve a range of food options as well as everyone’s favorite coffee.
Mauao
At the top end of the main beach stands Mauao, (meaning caught by the dawn in Te Reo) a 253m mountain. It’s a popular favorite by walkers and runners alike.
There is a gentle walking track around the base or if you fancy a hike take the track to the top. When you reach the summit you will be rewarded with some specular views of the coastline, surrounding islands as well as the port and city of Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Nestled under Mauao is the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, its the perfect place to stay with facilities and amenities to meet everyone’s budget.
Most camp spots offer unbeatable views of the either beach or the bay. Set in the middle of the Holiday Park is a real treasure, the Mount Hot pools, it’s the best spot to relax and soak at the end of your day.
Contributed By: 4degreesofdestination.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Asia
As you plan a beach vacation remember that Asia has some of the best beach resorts in the world.
Cambodia
Saracen Bay is located on Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia and is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is actually situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and to get there, you have to take a ferry from Sihanoukville, one of Cambodia’s major cities.
34. Saracen Bay Beach
Saracen Bay Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and the most visited. However, the island is still considered slightly ‘off the beaten path, as many tourists don’t visit during their time in Cambodia.
Saracen Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with beautiful blue water that is dotted with small boutique hotels and hostels, as well as bars and restaurants. The island is quiet, and everything runs slowly. It’s one of those places where you can just laze around, enjoying your surroundings.
Things to Do on Saracen Bay
There’s plenty to enjoy on Saracen Bay, simply relax and enjoy the water before laying in the sun, or you can opt to go snorkeling, kayaking, or stand up paddle-boarding. There’s also endless spots to sit and enjoy a drink or meal with incredibly peaceful views, making It the perfect beach destination.
Contributed By: Emmaadventures.com
Malaysia
35. Langkawi
Langkawi is a small Malaysian island often overshadowed by her neighbor named Phuket from Thailand. A duty-free island, Langkawi is ideal for shopping, relaxing, and indulging in a few wildlife adventures in the ancient rain forest or dense mangroves!
Langkawi archipelago has more than 90 islands and is listed in the UNESCO heritage list however only two of the islands are inhabitable humans.
Pantai Cenang
We spent 3 days in Langkawi during our week-long escape to Malaysia. We explored all the beaches however it was Pantai Cenang in particular that blew our mind! Firstly, Pantai Cenang has some of the most beautiful sunsets in Asia! Add to that the beach is always bustling with vibrant energies of the locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Pantai Cenang
Islanders play football during sundown and they are happy to include you in the team. From the crack of dawn to the last light of the sun, parasailing takes place here. Jet Ski and banana boats are some of the other attractions. If you are keen, you can also go paddleboarding!
If you have only one night in Langkawi, I would recommend spending the day at the sky bridge and come down to Pantai Cenang during sundown. It is worth it. The road adjacent to Pantai Cenang is teeming with beautiful night markets and stalls serving delicious local food, beer, etc.
Contributed By: Orangewayfarer.com
36. Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park
One of the relatively unexplored gems of Malaysia is the state of Sabah located on the northern part of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu is the lovely capital of Sabah, and just a boat ride away amid the South China sea stands an exotic group of islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches. These islands collectively form the Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park.
Manukan Island
The second-largest island here is the Manukan Island. The beautiful island is embellished with a gorgeous beach with spotless white sands caressed gently by the aquamarine waters of the sea. A long wooden jetty leads from the embarking point to the island, and visitors fall in love with the place at first sight.
Things to Do in Manukan
The crystal clear waters make the beach an excellent place for snorkeling. One can see colorful schools of fishes gliding just below the surface of the water. The beauty of the place hypnotizes one to either jump into the inviting waters and swim with the fishes or just sink into the white sands and lose oneself in the beauty of the moment.
The best part of the Manukan beach is that it is relatively secluded and one can always find a stretch of beach to oneself.
Contributed By: Imvoyager.com
Philippines
37. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is located on the island of El Nido in The Philippines, and it’s actually been voted as the most beautiful beach in Asia, so you already know it’s going to be amazing!
Thankfully it lives up to that reputation. This stunning beach stretches for 4 km and is lined with beautiful palm trees and soft golden sand. Since the beach is so large, it’s easy to get a spot all to yourself, you simply just keep walking until you’re alone.
Things to Do at Nacpan Beach
The water is also wonderful to swim in, a perfect temperature and it’s super clear. You could easily spend all day here! Nacpan Beach has lots of great restaurants, and bars that you can chill at, or if you seek some thrills, you can go parasailing with “Mad Monkey Hostel”.
You can even go beach glamping too which presents an awesome opportunity for stargazing. But, one of the most awesome things about Nacpan beach is the sunsets.
This beach is one of the best sunset spots in all of El Nido, and it’s such a memorable moment.
Contributed By: Dreambigtravelfarblog.com
India
Goa
India is truly a land of diverse landscapes from deserts to mountainous regions and even pristine beaches. One such must-visit tropical getaway in this geographically diverse country is Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India.
38. Palolem Beach
Goa is home to countless stunning beaches but this particular one in the South of Goa called Palolem beach deserves to be on the World’s best beaches list. A crescent-shaped shore bordered by the blues of the Arabian sea on one side and swaying palm trees over colorful beach accommodations on the other, with shacks serving flavorful food bursting with Indian spices, fresh seafood, and even scrumptious vegan options.
Things to Do at Palolem Beach
This beach is also a nature lover’s haven, with secret coves just a boat ride away and resident dolphins playing around in the sea a little further away from the shore into the deep blues. The beach gets lit up &; shimmers with bioluminescent plankton at night and turns into a beautiful sea garden in the early mornings, as the receding water leaves behind shells and other sea treasures.
This was just a glimpse of why Palolem needs to be on the list of the world’s best beaches. Check out all the fun things to do in Palolem beach that contribute to making this place heaven on earth and one for your bucket list of world-class beaches.
Contributed By: Trot. world
Thailand
39. Koh Phangan
Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Thailand. You can find the beach on the island of Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon parties, but lovely otherwise.
It’s not easy to get to the beach from the developed West of the island – there are basically only two options – either to take a boat from the village of Chaloklum or to hike.
I can highly recommend hiking! Both Bottle Beach trails are amazing and take you through the jungle. A coastal path is slightly longer, offers stunning views, but you won’t be spared from hearing the boats speed by. A jungle path, on the other hand, is shorter and a lot calmer.
Bottle Beach
Bottle beach is secluded but not deserted. There are 4 small resorts occupying the long beach and each has a restaurant too. The amenities are sufficient and fortunately don’t crowd the beach.
The beach is located in a beautiful bay but the waves can still get pretty big on days with strong wind.
If you’re tired from hiking, you can easily take a boat back to civilization – a 15-minute boat ride gets you back to the fishing village of Chaloklum.
Contributed By: Travelgeekery.com
40. Koh Samet (Island Near Bangkok)
Getting to Koh Samet
Things to Do on Koh Samet
The Koh Samet island is quite big and has several picture-perfect white-sand beaches; therefore, to be able to visit all those shores, make sure to rent a bike for a day or two. Otherwise, there are green pickup truck taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
South Korea
41. Hamdeok
Plan Your Trip
Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island is one of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in the world.
Located just off the island of Flores, in Indonesia, Pink Beach is part of the infamous Komodo National Park.
43. Pink Beach
It’s one of only seven pink beaches on the planet and it gets its color from a microscopic organism called Foraminifera. These tiny creatures have been around for millions of years and they produce a red pigment on the coral reefs that give off a pink hue when mixed with the soft, white sand.
The shallow waters and well-protected corals mean visitors have perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. There are thousands of fish here as well as soft and hard coral.
Komodo Island
Komodo Island may have a beautiful, and rare beach, but it’s also home of the Komodo dragon! Most of these legendary beasts prefer to stay in the forest where their prey live so there’s no need to panic.
Although sightings of dragons on Pink Beach are rare, if you see one of these huge lizards walking along the coast then it’s best to stay clear of their deadly serrated teeth and venom!
Contributed By: AlifeofY.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Africa
Africa has miles and miles of coast. It is a great place to plan a beach vacation.
South Africa
Driving the 300km of glorious coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route is on many traveler’s wish lists and if you’ve ever seen a picture, it’s not hard to see why.
44. Brenton Beach
Things to Do and See on Brenton Beach
Egypt
45. Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt
Dahab is a small beach town located on the Red Sea coast in the South Sinai governorate in Egypt. It is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt among backpackers, nature lovers, divers, and hippies.
Dahab’s golden sand beaches, turquoise clear water, and reddish mountains made it on the top of National Geographic’s best beaches in the Middle East list in 2019.
Diving in Dahab’s
Dahab’s fame came from its unspeakable beauty of its coral reef and marine life. It has some of the best diving spots in Egypt and the whole world. This made Dahab the diver’s paradise. Also, Dahab is one of the cheapest diving destinations in the world.
In the past decade, Dahab has gained a lot of fame as a hippie destination. It has transformed from a small Bedouin village where fishing is the main activity to a famous tourist destination. And even after this transformation, Dahab preserved a lot of the Bedouin’s simple and peaceful lifestyle.
Things to Do in Dahab
Dahab is not only a place to lay your back and relax, it offers a variety of activities. While the most famous activities are diving and snorkeling, there are also centers that offer paddle boarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. And because this beach town is surrounded by desert, mountains, and canyons, hiking is also a very enjoyable activity in Dahab.
Contributed By: Thewandererpharaoph.com
Plan a Beach Vacation!
I hope as you plan a beach vacation you can use this resource to decide what “the best beach in the world” is right for you.
There are so many amazing beaches that really are incredible! If you know of an amazing beach that is not on this list comment below and let us know!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Plan a Beach Vacation in South America
As you plan a beach vacation consider South America as it is known to have some of the best beaches in the world.
20. Brazil
Pipa is a small holiday town on the North-East coast of Brazil. Surrounding the town are several expansive beaches, some of which can only be accessed by walking around the cliffs when the tide is out.
The sand is clean and the water is a vibrant blue. What makes Pipa special though is not the beaches themselves, but the fact that it’s so common for wild dolphins to swim near the shore, completely unafraid of swimmers, kayakers, or surfers.
Things to Do at Praia do Madeiro
One of the best of Pipa’s beaches to spot them from is Praia do Madeiro. Renting a kayak on this beach to take further out to sea gives you a better chance of having a dolphin pop up close to you!
If you go snorkeling, you might even catch sight of a turtle, too. When it comes to getting back onto the beach, there are plenty of coconut sellers and cocktail makers ready to provide a refreshing drink while you dry off. Paradise!
Contributed By: Cuppatocopatravels.com
21. Pernambuco State
“When people think of Brazil, the first thing they imagine is Copacabana or Ipanema beaches in Rio de Janeiro.
But what many tourists don’t know is that Carneiros Beach in Pernambuco State is by far one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil – far more impressive than those spots in Rio.
22. Carneiros Beach
Surrounded by swaying palm trees and turquoise water teeming with wildlife, Carneiros is without exaggeration an illustrative definition of paradise.
The calm sea, together with the awe-inspiring landscape, invites many tourists to this spot in the State of Pernambuco, only 90 km from Recipe Airport.
Beyond that, Carneiros is home to São Benedito Chapel, a little church from the 18th-century. So right there on the sand stretch, you can spot a lovely chapel among the palm trees. Isn’t that a perfect wedding spot?!
To get to this beach, you can take a boat or walk about 7 km along the sea from Tamandaré Beach.
As for the best time to visit this spot, the period between September and February is the sunniest and driest.
Contributed By: Iheartbrazil.com
Colombia
It’s all about the community in Rincon del Mar, a sleepy fishing village located three hours (plus a slightly hairy 30-minute moto ride) south of Cartagena, Colombia. And while this corner of the sea has long been special to the local residents, it’s recently come into the spotlight of backpackers seeking an alternative to the touristy beaches in the north.
Travelers visiting Rincon del Mar aren’t lured by dreams of white sand beaches and lounging under towering palm trees with an umbrella in their drink. The beaches are spacious and uncrowded.
And while perhaps you can request a dainty garnish in your local rum concoction, that’s not what makes Rincon del Mar one of the best beaches in the world.
What makes it special is watching a couple flirt in the surf while a group of kids play a rousing game of soccer on the beach. It’s the young boy with his father leading their donkey loaded with a hand of freshly harvested bananas through the unpaved streets. And in the evenings, it’s the older men playing dominos outside their home as the pool hall fills with a younger crowd.
23. Rincon Del Mar
Rincon del Mar is the type of place you don’t want to be discovered, but know it’s inevitable. Fortunately, as its popularity grows, there are stewards of the community who are forging development in a sustainable way so that it will continue to be a special corner of the sea for generations to come.
Contributed By: Culturestraveled.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Europe
Europe is a great place to plan a beach vacation. The Mediterranean Sea is so beautiful.
Croatia
Punta Rata Beach, also known as Dugi Rat Beach, is a real beach highlight and well known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.
International travel magazines e.g. Forbes Magazine and various travel blogs have already voted this place to be one of the best beaches in the world! And truly, this bright pebble beach with the turquoise blue sea colors is simply breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Croatia!
24. Dream Beach
This dream beach is located on the picturesque Makarska Riviera, in the popular holiday resort of Brela.
At the western end of the beach is the spectacular Brela Rock, a huge stone in the sea covered with green pine trees. Surrounded by the crystal clear turquoise blue sea, this rock formation is an eye-catcher.
Things to do at Dream Beach in Croatia
And around this rock, you will find plenty of fantastic spots for snorkeling!
Just behind the beach is a beautiful waterfront promenade, which leads past many beautiful other bays and towards the lovely Brela town.
This path is ideal for long walks, for jogging, but also for cycling. There are also many small beach bars along the promenade, which provide cool drinks and small snacks.
Contributed By: Placesofjuma.com
Greece
Ios is a Cycladic Island in the Aegean Sea. Whilst many know it best for its nightlife scene, it is also home to stunning 1km long Mylopotas Beach. The large length of this beach means that no matter how busy it is always possible to find a quiet stretch along its golden sands.
25. Hora
The end of the beach closest to Ios’ main town of Hora tends to be the busiest area with lots of sun loungers and umbrellas as well as water sports companies. The promenade along Mylopotas beach is filled with Greek tavernas and several beach clubs including the very photogenic FarOut beach club.
Restaurants and Beach Clubs
Most of the beach clubs and restaurants have their own sun loungers on Mylopotas beach. This means it is possible to recline in comfort and order food and drinks as you wish in between swims.
At the far end of Mylopotas Beach is my favorite restaurant in Ios Drakos. Enjoy amazing Greek cuisine with the freshest fish you can imagine whilst sitting on the actual harbor – just stretch a little and your toes will touch the sand while you eat!
Contributed By: Theboutiqueadventurer.com
Crete
The beautiful Balos Beach, located in the northwest of Crete is one of the best beaches not only in Chania but in the world. Created as a double cove between Cape Gramvousa and Cape Tigani, Balos Beach is a photographic tourist hotspot that is well worth a visit.
The beach boasts pristine white sand, clear turquoise sea, and shallow, family-friendly waters. In certain lights, the sand also takes on a light pinkish hue due to the crushed shells that have washed up on shore over the past few millennia!
26. Balos Lagoon
The Balos Lagoon connects the island of Crete to the tiny islet of Tigani that visitors can walk to at low tide. This gives you the chance to explore the islet, walking up to the viewpoint, and seeing the small Greek Orthodox church that is perched on the hillside. The area is also known for its birdlife, so don’t forget to keep your eye out for Eleonora falcons, cormorants, and black shags too!
Of course, as Balos Beach is such a gem it is most definitely on the tourist trail, so you should aim to arrive as early as possible to avoid large crowds that arrive by boat around mid-morning. In order to get there early, you may want to consider staying nearby in the town of Kissamos.
Contributed By: Travelpassionate.com
Italy
27. Sardina – Punta Molentis
Beaches
Private Paid Beaches
Spain
28. Tarifa
29. Bolonia Beach
Duna De Bolonia
Things to Do
Cadiz
Los Caños de Meca Beach in the Cadiz province in southern Spain is an astounding beach created by sand dunes from all the wind the Atlantic coastline receives. On a day with no wind, however, Los Caños de Meca is the perfect paradise for anyone looking for a less touristy, natural place where there is still a lot of local tourism in the summer months.
30. Los Caños de Meca
Los Caños de Meca Beach doesn’t have sunbeds or parasols set up, so you´ll have to bring your own parasol if you want shade. There are a few bars on the road leading down to the beach where you can have lunch or a cold drink.
The beach leads up to Trafalgar Lighthouse which is the symbol of the famous Battle of Trafalgar that found a place in the waters outside the Trafalgar Cape in 1805. If you get tired of sunbathing and swimming, head up to the lighthouse or check out Faro de Trafalgar Beach on the other side of the little cape. That is also an astounding beach, but the underwater swells make it dangerous to swim there.
Contributed By: Brainybackpackers.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Australia and New Zealand
Australia is an extraordinary place to plan a beach vacation. Known for some of the best surfing waves in the world.
South Australia
South Australia’s capital Adelaide has over 20 beaches along its metropolitan coastline. While each has its own personality, Port Noarlunga stands out as one of the best beaches in Adelaide.
What makes a fantastic beach will be different for everyone. But if you like a beach with a great vibe and lots to do you can’t beat Port Noarlunga.
31. Port Noarlunga
The main feature of the beach is the long reef that runs parallel to shore and can be accessed from a jetty. The reef attracts all sorts of marine life and makes the area a great spot for snorkelers and divers. The jetty is also a popular fishing spot.
The sand and water are beautiful. Protected by the reef, the water is a safe place to swim and on a hot summer day turns as blue as the water around a south pacific island. The sand is fine and white – perfect for relaxing in the sun or playing with the kids.
Sunsets
As is the case with all Adelaide beaches, Port Noarlunga faces west so it’s a great place to watch the sun go down at the end of a long summer’s day. Red cliffs at the one end of the beach light up as the sun dips below the horizon.
Things to do at Port Noarlunga
Port Noarlunga attracts a diverse crowd of beachgoers. The steady parade of people with diving gear, fishing rods, kayaks, towels, and sun hats creates a wonderful atmosphere.
There’s a great café on the beachfront so between swims you can get a cool drink, a coffee or the best fish and chips in town!
Contributed By: Curiouscampers.com.au
Port Fairy Australia
Lots of people who travel to Australia prioritize seeing the 12 Apostles and The Great Ocean Road, but sadly they don’t all continue beyond the Port Campbell star and reach the charming seaside town of Port Fairy.
Port Fairy boasts a history as well as a great coastal-country feel. Port Fairy beaches offer great views, long walks, peace, and tranquility, as well as great waves to surf, paddle, swim, or body surf.
East Beach is a popular destination for Summer holidaymakers to spend days sprawled on the sand with a remarkable outlook. During the Summer months, the beach is patrolled on weekends and daily during the peak Summer period.
South Beach
South Beach, or “Pea Soup” as it is known to locals offers a protected beach and is popular for families. The water temperature is slightly warmer than the main beach and you will often see people snorkeling among the rocks.
Taking a walk around Griffiths Island you will find some lovely little pockets of protected beach to enjoy, explore and marvel in.
On a beautiful Victorian day, Port Fairy beaches will never disappoint.
Contributed By: Australian Mountains To Sea
32. Esperance Australia
This is a huge beach and although it can get a little bit busy during the summer you simply have to walk 5 minutes along the sand to find your own quiet slice of paradise. Although it is rare there are even waves here sometimes which means you can surf.
Kangaroos
Lucky Bay is famous for having Kangaroo’s that spend their days hopping along the beach and lounging around on the white sand. They are so used to humans being around that they aren’t really too bothered by people and you can snap the perfect photo of them on the beach.
There is a campsite right by the beach and it’s definitely worth staying for a couple of nights here to enjoy this magnificent beach.”
Contributed By: thecoastalcampain.com
New Zealand
Described as one of the best beaches in New Zealand, Mount Maunganui’s main beach has long been a local and tourist favorite.
33. Mount Maunganui
It makes up a small part (700m) of the coastline that stretches around 25 km long. Our family has holidayed and lived here for the past 80 years.
Things to Do
The main beach is set on one side of a peninsula with the picturesque Pilot Bay on the other. With its white sand beach, it’s the perfect spot to sunbathe and swim.
There are volleyball nets too for those looking to be active. You could also grab a surfboard or take a surf lesson from one of the surf schools dotted along the coast. There are plenty of cafes too that serve a range of food options as well as everyone’s favorite coffee.
Mauao
At the top end of the main beach stands Mauao, (meaning caught by the dawn in Te Reo) a 253m mountain. It’s a popular favorite by walkers and runners alike.
There is a gentle walking track around the base or if you fancy a hike take the track to the top. When you reach the summit you will be rewarded with some specular views of the coastline, surrounding islands as well as the port and city of Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Nestled under Mauao is the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, its the perfect place to stay with facilities and amenities to meet everyone’s budget.
Most camp spots offer unbeatable views of the either beach or the bay. Set in the middle of the Holiday Park is a real treasure, the Mount Hot pools, it’s the best spot to relax and soak at the end of your day.
Contributed By: 4degreesofdestination.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Asia
As you plan a beach vacation remember that Asia has some of the best beach resorts in the world.
Cambodia
Saracen Bay is located on Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia and is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is actually situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and to get there, you have to take a ferry from Sihanoukville, one of Cambodia’s major cities.
34. Saracen Bay Beach
Saracen Bay Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and the most visited. However, the island is still considered slightly ‘off the beaten path, as many tourists don’t visit during their time in Cambodia.
Saracen Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with beautiful blue water that is dotted with small boutique hotels and hostels, as well as bars and restaurants. The island is quiet, and everything runs slowly. It’s one of those places where you can just laze around, enjoying your surroundings.
Things to Do on Saracen Bay
There’s plenty to enjoy on Saracen Bay, simply relax and enjoy the water before laying in the sun, or you can opt to go snorkeling, kayaking, or stand up paddle-boarding. There’s also endless spots to sit and enjoy a drink or meal with incredibly peaceful views, making It the perfect beach destination.
Contributed By: Emmaadventures.com
Malaysia
35. Langkawi
Langkawi is a small Malaysian island often overshadowed by her neighbor named Phuket from Thailand. A duty-free island, Langkawi is ideal for shopping, relaxing, and indulging in a few wildlife adventures in the ancient rain forest or dense mangroves!
Langkawi archipelago has more than 90 islands and is listed in the UNESCO heritage list however only two of the islands are inhabitable humans.
Pantai Cenang
We spent 3 days in Langkawi during our week-long escape to Malaysia. We explored all the beaches however it was Pantai Cenang in particular that blew our mind! Firstly, Pantai Cenang has some of the most beautiful sunsets in Asia! Add to that the beach is always bustling with vibrant energies of the locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Pantai Cenang
Islanders play football during sundown and they are happy to include you in the team. From the crack of dawn to the last light of the sun, parasailing takes place here. Jet Ski and banana boats are some of the other attractions. If you are keen, you can also go paddleboarding!
If you have only one night in Langkawi, I would recommend spending the day at the sky bridge and come down to Pantai Cenang during sundown. It is worth it. The road adjacent to Pantai Cenang is teeming with beautiful night markets and stalls serving delicious local food, beer, etc.
Contributed By: Orangewayfarer.com
36. Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park
One of the relatively unexplored gems of Malaysia is the state of Sabah located on the northern part of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu is the lovely capital of Sabah, and just a boat ride away amid the South China sea stands an exotic group of islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches. These islands collectively form the Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park.
Manukan Island
The second-largest island here is the Manukan Island. The beautiful island is embellished with a gorgeous beach with spotless white sands caressed gently by the aquamarine waters of the sea. A long wooden jetty leads from the embarking point to the island, and visitors fall in love with the place at first sight.
Things to Do in Manukan
The crystal clear waters make the beach an excellent place for snorkeling. One can see colorful schools of fishes gliding just below the surface of the water. The beauty of the place hypnotizes one to either jump into the inviting waters and swim with the fishes or just sink into the white sands and lose oneself in the beauty of the moment.
The best part of the Manukan beach is that it is relatively secluded and one can always find a stretch of beach to oneself.
Contributed By: Imvoyager.com
Philippines
37. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is located on the island of El Nido in The Philippines, and it’s actually been voted as the most beautiful beach in Asia, so you already know it’s going to be amazing!
Thankfully it lives up to that reputation. This stunning beach stretches for 4 km and is lined with beautiful palm trees and soft golden sand. Since the beach is so large, it’s easy to get a spot all to yourself, you simply just keep walking until you’re alone.
Things to Do at Nacpan Beach
The water is also wonderful to swim in, a perfect temperature and it’s super clear. You could easily spend all day here! Nacpan Beach has lots of great restaurants, and bars that you can chill at, or if you seek some thrills, you can go parasailing with “Mad Monkey Hostel”.
You can even go beach glamping too which presents an awesome opportunity for stargazing. But, one of the most awesome things about Nacpan beach is the sunsets.
This beach is one of the best sunset spots in all of El Nido, and it’s such a memorable moment.
Contributed By: Dreambigtravelfarblog.com
India
Goa
India is truly a land of diverse landscapes from deserts to mountainous regions and even pristine beaches. One such must-visit tropical getaway in this geographically diverse country is Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India.
38. Palolem Beach
Goa is home to countless stunning beaches but this particular one in the South of Goa called Palolem beach deserves to be on the World’s best beaches list. A crescent-shaped shore bordered by the blues of the Arabian sea on one side and swaying palm trees over colorful beach accommodations on the other, with shacks serving flavorful food bursting with Indian spices, fresh seafood, and even scrumptious vegan options.
Things to Do at Palolem Beach
This beach is also a nature lover’s haven, with secret coves just a boat ride away and resident dolphins playing around in the sea a little further away from the shore into the deep blues. The beach gets lit up &; shimmers with bioluminescent plankton at night and turns into a beautiful sea garden in the early mornings, as the receding water leaves behind shells and other sea treasures.
This was just a glimpse of why Palolem needs to be on the list of the world’s best beaches. Check out all the fun things to do in Palolem beach that contribute to making this place heaven on earth and one for your bucket list of world-class beaches.
Contributed By: Trot. world
Thailand
39. Koh Phangan
Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Thailand. You can find the beach on the island of Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon parties, but lovely otherwise.
It’s not easy to get to the beach from the developed West of the island – there are basically only two options – either to take a boat from the village of Chaloklum or to hike.
I can highly recommend hiking! Both Bottle Beach trails are amazing and take you through the jungle. A coastal path is slightly longer, offers stunning views, but you won’t be spared from hearing the boats speed by. A jungle path, on the other hand, is shorter and a lot calmer.
Bottle Beach
Bottle beach is secluded but not deserted. There are 4 small resorts occupying the long beach and each has a restaurant too. The amenities are sufficient and fortunately don’t crowd the beach.
The beach is located in a beautiful bay but the waves can still get pretty big on days with strong wind.
If you’re tired from hiking, you can easily take a boat back to civilization – a 15-minute boat ride gets you back to the fishing village of Chaloklum.
Contributed By: Travelgeekery.com
40. Koh Samet (Island Near Bangkok)
Getting to Koh Samet
Things to Do on Koh Samet
The Koh Samet island is quite big and has several picture-perfect white-sand beaches; therefore, to be able to visit all those shores, make sure to rent a bike for a day or two. Otherwise, there are green pickup truck taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
South Korea
41. Hamdeok
Plan Your Trip
Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island is one of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in the world.
Located just off the island of Flores, in Indonesia, Pink Beach is part of the infamous Komodo National Park.
43. Pink Beach
It’s one of only seven pink beaches on the planet and it gets its color from a microscopic organism called Foraminifera. These tiny creatures have been around for millions of years and they produce a red pigment on the coral reefs that give off a pink hue when mixed with the soft, white sand.
The shallow waters and well-protected corals mean visitors have perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. There are thousands of fish here as well as soft and hard coral.
Komodo Island
Komodo Island may have a beautiful, and rare beach, but it’s also home of the Komodo dragon! Most of these legendary beasts prefer to stay in the forest where their prey live so there’s no need to panic.
Although sightings of dragons on Pink Beach are rare, if you see one of these huge lizards walking along the coast then it’s best to stay clear of their deadly serrated teeth and venom!
Contributed By: AlifeofY.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Africa
Africa has miles and miles of coast. It is a great place to plan a beach vacation.
South Africa
Driving the 300km of glorious coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route is on many traveler’s wish lists and if you’ve ever seen a picture, it’s not hard to see why.
44. Brenton Beach
Things to Do and See on Brenton Beach
Egypt
45. Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt
Dahab is a small beach town located on the Red Sea coast in the South Sinai governorate in Egypt. It is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt among backpackers, nature lovers, divers, and hippies.
Dahab’s golden sand beaches, turquoise clear water, and reddish mountains made it on the top of National Geographic’s best beaches in the Middle East list in 2019.
Diving in Dahab’s
Dahab’s fame came from its unspeakable beauty of its coral reef and marine life. It has some of the best diving spots in Egypt and the whole world. This made Dahab the diver’s paradise. Also, Dahab is one of the cheapest diving destinations in the world.
In the past decade, Dahab has gained a lot of fame as a hippie destination. It has transformed from a small Bedouin village where fishing is the main activity to a famous tourist destination. And even after this transformation, Dahab preserved a lot of the Bedouin’s simple and peaceful lifestyle.
Things to Do in Dahab
Dahab is not only a place to lay your back and relax, it offers a variety of activities. While the most famous activities are diving and snorkeling, there are also centers that offer paddle boarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. And because this beach town is surrounded by desert, mountains, and canyons, hiking is also a very enjoyable activity in Dahab.
Contributed By: Thewandererpharaoph.com
Plan a Beach Vacation!
I hope as you plan a beach vacation you can use this resource to decide what “the best beach in the world” is right for you.
There are so many amazing beaches that really are incredible! If you know of an amazing beach that is not on this list comment below and let us know!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Plan a Beach Vacation in Central America
Central America and the Caribbean are what dreams are made of. There is a reason so many cruise ships port in these amazing locations. Snorkeling in the Caribbean is one of the best things to do in this area.
Nicaragua
10. Playa Maderas
Considered one of the top beaches in Nicaragua, Playa Maderas is a must-visit, especially for surfers. Located 20 minutes outside of San Juan del Sur, the beach is located along a bumpy dirt road so isn’t as mainstream as other beaches in Nicaragua.
Playa Maderas is an all-year-round surfing destination, and is perfect for newbies and advanced surfers, making it a great place to watch the pros in awe.
Things to Do in Playa Maderas
If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, spend the day hiking along the beach to the shark fin-shaped rock formations in the distance or join a sunset catamaran trip to get a closer look from the water. Another option is to join a horseback riding tour across several beaches in the area. It costs only $22.50 for 1.5 hours.
The beach has two restaurants and a few surf schools including DreamSeaSurf who managed to get me surfing in just one lesson! The best way to reach Playa Maderas is by catching the daily beach shuttle from Casa Oro in San Juan del Sur.
This beach-inspired me to write beach quotes that will brighten your day!
Contributed By: Thewanderlustwithin.com
Dominican Republic
11. Bavaro Beach
Situated on the Coconut Coast along the eastern shores of the Dominican Republic, Bavaro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Punta Cana. It features a 10-kilometer long stretch of sparkling white sand and calm turquoise blue waters lined by groves of coconut palms.
Even though its wealth of natural attractions makes it one of the most popular beaches in the Caribbean, its beauty hasn’t been spoiled. Bavaro Beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, a certification recognizing the achievement of specific criteria such as water quality, safety, garbage disposal, environmental sustainability and management, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
There’s a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts, hotels, and vacation condos to choose from.
Things to Do at Bavaro Beach
Activities at Bavaro Beach include parasailing, beach volleyball, catamaran excursions to pristine Saona Island, scuba and snorkeling tours, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
Suitable for family vacations, romantic getaways, outdoor adventures, and groups, Bavaro Beach is deservedly a top beach destination for travelers of all ages.
Contributed By: Atastefortravel.ca
Cuba
One of the most popular resort regions in the Americas, the beaches in Varadero consistently draw the crowds who are looking for a week with crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.
12. Varadero Beach
Varadero is located just off mainland Cuba on a long 21km peninsula. The resorts may line this stunning beach but there is no entry fee to visit the beach, and you can also stay in apartments or AirBNBs in town and the truth is some of the Varadero restaurants serve much better food than the resorts.
It is a great beach for families as the water is clear, calm, and very shallow. Although the sun can be scorching there are plenty of palapas dotting the coastline providing some shade.
For those looking for an active vacation, there are beautiful coral reefs not far from the main stretch of the beach along with opportunities to visit nearby caves.
Contributed By: Baconismagic.ca
Belize
The Caribbean bounty beaches of Belize are famous and Hopkins might just have the most beautiful one of all. This palm tree paradise used to be a small fishing village but is now a travelers’ favorite.
13. Hopkins Beach
The Hopkins is the perfect combination of bounty beach and tropical jungle. One of the best things to do in Hopkins is a day trip to the nearby jungle for some spectacular hikes. We’d recommend you to head to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. It has hikes for each fitness level, including some to incredible waterfalls for refreshing dives. You might not spot one of the jaguars in the park, but you’ll for sure see exotic birds and other animals in this wildlife park.
The jungle nearby might be great, but you’ll come to Hopkins for its beautiful beach. Spend at least a full day relaxing in the sun, but book a half-day or full-day snorkeling or diving tour as well. Right in front of Hopkins is the second largest reef in the world – the Great Belizean Reef.
Some other recommendations are Driftwood for the best – but pricey – pizzas and live music, Thongs for breakfast, and Nicecream for some ice cream.
Contributed By: Theorangebackpack.nl
St. Kitts Island in the Caribbean
14. South Friars Beach
South Friars Beach is one of the best beaches on St Kitts because there is a little something for everyone. At one end of the beach, you can find the high-end Carambola Beach Club with its white sand beach and luxury sun loungers and umbrellas. Here you can sip on fancy cocktails or enjoy an a-la-carte sushi lunch.
In contrast, at the other end of South Friars is the Shipwreck Beach Bar a lively family-friendly bar that has a rustic ‘shipwrecked’ feel with wooden tables, fishing nets, a viewing deck, and a ship’s wheel. You will also find black sand, cheap drinks, an extensive family-friendly menu, and plenty of sun loungers.
Things to Do at South Friars Beach
In between the two, there is Discovery Beach Bar with hammocks hanging from palm trees and sun loungers to chill on, teamed with the best rum punch on St Kitts and daily reggae music it has that classic Caribbean vibe.
South friars beach is not just for relaxing and sipping rum punch though, it also has some great activities. With a reef running the full length of the beach is very shallow, clear waters it is a great spot for beginners snorkeling, and snorkeling equipment can be rented from shipwreck for a small fee.
If you want more adventurous snorkeling, you can swim around the rocks at Carambola where you are likely to see the resident turtles and spotted eagle rays. You can also hire kayaks and paddleboards along the beach and take yourself around this beautiful calm part of the Caribbean Sea.
If that is not enough to convince you that South Friars is one of the best beaches in the world, then pop along in the evening and watch the spectacular sunset over the Caribbean Sea, you will change your mind.
Contributed By: Bookitletsgo.com
Aruba
If we’re talking about best beaches in the world, Aruba must be included on that list! Aruba is such a tiny island that most of their beaches are pretty epic, but if you go to just one, check out Baby beach.
15. Baby Beach
Located on the south end of Aruba near San Nicolas, Baby Beach is a beach lover’s dream. Soft white sand, crystal clear blue water, and calm waves make this the perfect family-friendly beach.
Public restrooms, food and drink, and beach huts are all available for your convenience.
Things to Do in Aruba
There are so many fun things to do in Aruba beyond the beach! Consider four-wheeling through Arikok National Park, visit the iconic California lighthouse, or take a ride on the Atlantis submarine.
If you’re traveling with kids, consider spending a day at the all-inclusive De Palm Island fun park.
16. Flamingo Beach
Don’t forget to check Flamingo Beach off your bucket list. Made famous all over Instagram, the best way to see the flamingos is to stay at the Renaissance Hotel.
Finally take time to try out some of the world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. Doesn’t matter if you’re advanced or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.
When you’re thinking of that classic Caribbean beach paradise, Aruba is the answer!
Contributed By: Morethanmainstreet.com
St. Johns
The beaches along the north shore of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands are those picture-perfect Caribbean white-sand beaches with calm clear blue water.
From the world-famous Trunk Bay to the lesser-known snorkeling hotspot, Waterlemon Cay, you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose.
17. Virgin Islands National Park
The best beaches are located within the Virgin Islands National Park beginning just outside of Cruz Bay, the main port on the island, and dot along the shore for several miles.
Each is unique in its own way, with some offering more amenities such as Cinnamon Bay and Honeymoon Beach with restrooms, kayak and water sport rentals, beach bars, and lounge chairs.
Others such as Francis Bay and Leinster Bay provide a bit more seclusion, but also limited amenities.
Transportation
None of the beaches have hotels or resorts, so you will need to find transportation to and from the beaches either by taxi, shuttle, or car. Be aware that there is limited parking at nearly all of the beaches, and it fills up by mid-morning.
If you like calm natural beaches with great snorkeling, it’s hard to beat the north shore beaches on St. John.
Contributed By: Snorkelandhike.com
Mexico
If you want a tropical getaway that doesn’t sacrifice convenience, Playa Escondida is highly recommended. Also called hidden beach or love beach, Playa Escondida is a popular destination located in Sayulita, Mexico.
18. Playa Escondida
Despite being loved by tourists, it has remained to be a secret gem that doesn’t get too crowded. You might find yourself splurging during your stay and booking a hotel directly there but it’s totally worth it.
You get to be close to nature since your hotel is located on a jungle hillside and you’ll have that breathtaking view of the ocean.
If you love food, Playa Escondida can offer you the gastronomic experience you will never forget. It can be considered a paradise for foodies, in fact, with all the traditional Mexican food and international cuisine on the menu.
Relax
Wifi may be limited in the area, which is not that bad for those who want to disconnect and just focus on the present moment. If you’re planning for an ultimate digital detox to refresh your mind or some quiet time to meditate, Playa Escondida should top your list of go-to places.
Contributed By: Lucilehr.com
19. Cancun
Cancun is one of the topmost visited cities in Mexico. Cancun is the perfect beach vacation with its breathtaking blue water and perfect sand, it is a perfect location to relax and have a great time.
Hotel Zone
The resorts all along the hotel zone are extremely nice and have direct access to the beach and ocean. You can walk out of your hotel room and enjoy the resort pool followed by a dip in the ocean.
Things to Do in Cancun
There are so many things to do in Cancun. Most resorts will have access to great tours such as parasailing, jet-skiing, swimming with turtles, and snorkeling. There are also day trips to see ancient ruins.
Plan according and make sure to get some extra travel tips for Cancun so you make your beach vacation perfect.
Plan a Beach Vacation in South America
As you plan a beach vacation consider South America as it is known to have some of the best beaches in the world.
20. Brazil
Pipa is a small holiday town on the North-East coast of Brazil. Surrounding the town are several expansive beaches, some of which can only be accessed by walking around the cliffs when the tide is out.
The sand is clean and the water is a vibrant blue. What makes Pipa special though is not the beaches themselves, but the fact that it’s so common for wild dolphins to swim near the shore, completely unafraid of swimmers, kayakers, or surfers.
Things to Do at Praia do Madeiro
One of the best of Pipa’s beaches to spot them from is Praia do Madeiro. Renting a kayak on this beach to take further out to sea gives you a better chance of having a dolphin pop up close to you!
If you go snorkeling, you might even catch sight of a turtle, too. When it comes to getting back onto the beach, there are plenty of coconut sellers and cocktail makers ready to provide a refreshing drink while you dry off. Paradise!
Contributed By: Cuppatocopatravels.com
21. Pernambuco State
“When people think of Brazil, the first thing they imagine is Copacabana or Ipanema beaches in Rio de Janeiro.
But what many tourists don’t know is that Carneiros Beach in Pernambuco State is by far one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil – far more impressive than those spots in Rio.
22. Carneiros Beach
Surrounded by swaying palm trees and turquoise water teeming with wildlife, Carneiros is without exaggeration an illustrative definition of paradise.
The calm sea, together with the awe-inspiring landscape, invites many tourists to this spot in the State of Pernambuco, only 90 km from Recipe Airport.
Beyond that, Carneiros is home to São Benedito Chapel, a little church from the 18th-century. So right there on the sand stretch, you can spot a lovely chapel among the palm trees. Isn’t that a perfect wedding spot?!
To get to this beach, you can take a boat or walk about 7 km along the sea from Tamandaré Beach.
As for the best time to visit this spot, the period between September and February is the sunniest and driest.
Contributed By: Iheartbrazil.com
Colombia
It’s all about the community in Rincon del Mar, a sleepy fishing village located three hours (plus a slightly hairy 30-minute moto ride) south of Cartagena, Colombia. And while this corner of the sea has long been special to the local residents, it’s recently come into the spotlight of backpackers seeking an alternative to the touristy beaches in the north.
Travelers visiting Rincon del Mar aren’t lured by dreams of white sand beaches and lounging under towering palm trees with an umbrella in their drink. The beaches are spacious and uncrowded.
And while perhaps you can request a dainty garnish in your local rum concoction, that’s not what makes Rincon del Mar one of the best beaches in the world.
What makes it special is watching a couple flirt in the surf while a group of kids play a rousing game of soccer on the beach. It’s the young boy with his father leading their donkey loaded with a hand of freshly harvested bananas through the unpaved streets. And in the evenings, it’s the older men playing dominos outside their home as the pool hall fills with a younger crowd.
23. Rincon Del Mar
Rincon del Mar is the type of place you don’t want to be discovered, but know it’s inevitable. Fortunately, as its popularity grows, there are stewards of the community who are forging development in a sustainable way so that it will continue to be a special corner of the sea for generations to come.
Contributed By: Culturestraveled.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Europe
Europe is a great place to plan a beach vacation. The Mediterranean Sea is so beautiful.
Croatia
Punta Rata Beach, also known as Dugi Rat Beach, is a real beach highlight and well known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.
International travel magazines e.g. Forbes Magazine and various travel blogs have already voted this place to be one of the best beaches in the world! And truly, this bright pebble beach with the turquoise blue sea colors is simply breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Croatia!
24. Dream Beach
This dream beach is located on the picturesque Makarska Riviera, in the popular holiday resort of Brela.
At the western end of the beach is the spectacular Brela Rock, a huge stone in the sea covered with green pine trees. Surrounded by the crystal clear turquoise blue sea, this rock formation is an eye-catcher.
Things to do at Dream Beach in Croatia
And around this rock, you will find plenty of fantastic spots for snorkeling!
Just behind the beach is a beautiful waterfront promenade, which leads past many beautiful other bays and towards the lovely Brela town.
This path is ideal for long walks, for jogging, but also for cycling. There are also many small beach bars along the promenade, which provide cool drinks and small snacks.
Contributed By: Placesofjuma.com
Greece
Ios is a Cycladic Island in the Aegean Sea. Whilst many know it best for its nightlife scene, it is also home to stunning 1km long Mylopotas Beach. The large length of this beach means that no matter how busy it is always possible to find a quiet stretch along its golden sands.
25. Hora
The end of the beach closest to Ios’ main town of Hora tends to be the busiest area with lots of sun loungers and umbrellas as well as water sports companies. The promenade along Mylopotas beach is filled with Greek tavernas and several beach clubs including the very photogenic FarOut beach club.
Restaurants and Beach Clubs
Most of the beach clubs and restaurants have their own sun loungers on Mylopotas beach. This means it is possible to recline in comfort and order food and drinks as you wish in between swims.
At the far end of Mylopotas Beach is my favorite restaurant in Ios Drakos. Enjoy amazing Greek cuisine with the freshest fish you can imagine whilst sitting on the actual harbor – just stretch a little and your toes will touch the sand while you eat!
Contributed By: Theboutiqueadventurer.com
Crete
The beautiful Balos Beach, located in the northwest of Crete is one of the best beaches not only in Chania but in the world. Created as a double cove between Cape Gramvousa and Cape Tigani, Balos Beach is a photographic tourist hotspot that is well worth a visit.
The beach boasts pristine white sand, clear turquoise sea, and shallow, family-friendly waters. In certain lights, the sand also takes on a light pinkish hue due to the crushed shells that have washed up on shore over the past few millennia!
26. Balos Lagoon
The Balos Lagoon connects the island of Crete to the tiny islet of Tigani that visitors can walk to at low tide. This gives you the chance to explore the islet, walking up to the viewpoint, and seeing the small Greek Orthodox church that is perched on the hillside. The area is also known for its birdlife, so don’t forget to keep your eye out for Eleonora falcons, cormorants, and black shags too!
Of course, as Balos Beach is such a gem it is most definitely on the tourist trail, so you should aim to arrive as early as possible to avoid large crowds that arrive by boat around mid-morning. In order to get there early, you may want to consider staying nearby in the town of Kissamos.
Contributed By: Travelpassionate.com
Italy
27. Sardina – Punta Molentis
Beaches
Private Paid Beaches
Spain
28. Tarifa
29. Bolonia Beach
Duna De Bolonia
Things to Do
Cadiz
Los Caños de Meca Beach in the Cadiz province in southern Spain is an astounding beach created by sand dunes from all the wind the Atlantic coastline receives. On a day with no wind, however, Los Caños de Meca is the perfect paradise for anyone looking for a less touristy, natural place where there is still a lot of local tourism in the summer months.
30. Los Caños de Meca
Los Caños de Meca Beach doesn’t have sunbeds or parasols set up, so you´ll have to bring your own parasol if you want shade. There are a few bars on the road leading down to the beach where you can have lunch or a cold drink.
The beach leads up to Trafalgar Lighthouse which is the symbol of the famous Battle of Trafalgar that found a place in the waters outside the Trafalgar Cape in 1805. If you get tired of sunbathing and swimming, head up to the lighthouse or check out Faro de Trafalgar Beach on the other side of the little cape. That is also an astounding beach, but the underwater swells make it dangerous to swim there.
Contributed By: Brainybackpackers.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Australia and New Zealand
Australia is an extraordinary place to plan a beach vacation. Known for some of the best surfing waves in the world.
South Australia
South Australia’s capital Adelaide has over 20 beaches along its metropolitan coastline. While each has its own personality, Port Noarlunga stands out as one of the best beaches in Adelaide.
What makes a fantastic beach will be different for everyone. But if you like a beach with a great vibe and lots to do you can’t beat Port Noarlunga.
31. Port Noarlunga
The main feature of the beach is the long reef that runs parallel to shore and can be accessed from a jetty. The reef attracts all sorts of marine life and makes the area a great spot for snorkelers and divers. The jetty is also a popular fishing spot.
The sand and water are beautiful. Protected by the reef, the water is a safe place to swim and on a hot summer day turns as blue as the water around a south pacific island. The sand is fine and white – perfect for relaxing in the sun or playing with the kids.
Sunsets
As is the case with all Adelaide beaches, Port Noarlunga faces west so it’s a great place to watch the sun go down at the end of a long summer’s day. Red cliffs at the one end of the beach light up as the sun dips below the horizon.
Things to do at Port Noarlunga
Port Noarlunga attracts a diverse crowd of beachgoers. The steady parade of people with diving gear, fishing rods, kayaks, towels, and sun hats creates a wonderful atmosphere.
There’s a great café on the beachfront so between swims you can get a cool drink, a coffee or the best fish and chips in town!
Contributed By: Curiouscampers.com.au
Port Fairy Australia
Lots of people who travel to Australia prioritize seeing the 12 Apostles and The Great Ocean Road, but sadly they don’t all continue beyond the Port Campbell star and reach the charming seaside town of Port Fairy.
Port Fairy boasts a history as well as a great coastal-country feel. Port Fairy beaches offer great views, long walks, peace, and tranquility, as well as great waves to surf, paddle, swim, or body surf.
East Beach is a popular destination for Summer holidaymakers to spend days sprawled on the sand with a remarkable outlook. During the Summer months, the beach is patrolled on weekends and daily during the peak Summer period.
South Beach
South Beach, or “Pea Soup” as it is known to locals offers a protected beach and is popular for families. The water temperature is slightly warmer than the main beach and you will often see people snorkeling among the rocks.
Taking a walk around Griffiths Island you will find some lovely little pockets of protected beach to enjoy, explore and marvel in.
On a beautiful Victorian day, Port Fairy beaches will never disappoint.
Contributed By: Australian Mountains To Sea
32. Esperance Australia
This is a huge beach and although it can get a little bit busy during the summer you simply have to walk 5 minutes along the sand to find your own quiet slice of paradise. Although it is rare there are even waves here sometimes which means you can surf.
Kangaroos
Lucky Bay is famous for having Kangaroo’s that spend their days hopping along the beach and lounging around on the white sand. They are so used to humans being around that they aren’t really too bothered by people and you can snap the perfect photo of them on the beach.
There is a campsite right by the beach and it’s definitely worth staying for a couple of nights here to enjoy this magnificent beach.”
Contributed By: thecoastalcampain.com
New Zealand
Described as one of the best beaches in New Zealand, Mount Maunganui’s main beach has long been a local and tourist favorite.
33. Mount Maunganui
It makes up a small part (700m) of the coastline that stretches around 25 km long. Our family has holidayed and lived here for the past 80 years.
Things to Do
The main beach is set on one side of a peninsula with the picturesque Pilot Bay on the other. With its white sand beach, it’s the perfect spot to sunbathe and swim.
There are volleyball nets too for those looking to be active. You could also grab a surfboard or take a surf lesson from one of the surf schools dotted along the coast. There are plenty of cafes too that serve a range of food options as well as everyone’s favorite coffee.
Mauao
At the top end of the main beach stands Mauao, (meaning caught by the dawn in Te Reo) a 253m mountain. It’s a popular favorite by walkers and runners alike.
There is a gentle walking track around the base or if you fancy a hike take the track to the top. When you reach the summit you will be rewarded with some specular views of the coastline, surrounding islands as well as the port and city of Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Nestled under Mauao is the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, its the perfect place to stay with facilities and amenities to meet everyone’s budget.
Most camp spots offer unbeatable views of the either beach or the bay. Set in the middle of the Holiday Park is a real treasure, the Mount Hot pools, it’s the best spot to relax and soak at the end of your day.
Contributed By: 4degreesofdestination.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Asia
As you plan a beach vacation remember that Asia has some of the best beach resorts in the world.
Cambodia
Saracen Bay is located on Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia and is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is actually situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and to get there, you have to take a ferry from Sihanoukville, one of Cambodia’s major cities.
34. Saracen Bay Beach
Saracen Bay Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and the most visited. However, the island is still considered slightly ‘off the beaten path, as many tourists don’t visit during their time in Cambodia.
Saracen Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with beautiful blue water that is dotted with small boutique hotels and hostels, as well as bars and restaurants. The island is quiet, and everything runs slowly. It’s one of those places where you can just laze around, enjoying your surroundings.
Things to Do on Saracen Bay
There’s plenty to enjoy on Saracen Bay, simply relax and enjoy the water before laying in the sun, or you can opt to go snorkeling, kayaking, or stand up paddle-boarding. There’s also endless spots to sit and enjoy a drink or meal with incredibly peaceful views, making It the perfect beach destination.
Contributed By: Emmaadventures.com
Malaysia
35. Langkawi
Langkawi is a small Malaysian island often overshadowed by her neighbor named Phuket from Thailand. A duty-free island, Langkawi is ideal for shopping, relaxing, and indulging in a few wildlife adventures in the ancient rain forest or dense mangroves!
Langkawi archipelago has more than 90 islands and is listed in the UNESCO heritage list however only two of the islands are inhabitable humans.
Pantai Cenang
We spent 3 days in Langkawi during our week-long escape to Malaysia. We explored all the beaches however it was Pantai Cenang in particular that blew our mind! Firstly, Pantai Cenang has some of the most beautiful sunsets in Asia! Add to that the beach is always bustling with vibrant energies of the locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Pantai Cenang
Islanders play football during sundown and they are happy to include you in the team. From the crack of dawn to the last light of the sun, parasailing takes place here. Jet Ski and banana boats are some of the other attractions. If you are keen, you can also go paddleboarding!
If you have only one night in Langkawi, I would recommend spending the day at the sky bridge and come down to Pantai Cenang during sundown. It is worth it. The road adjacent to Pantai Cenang is teeming with beautiful night markets and stalls serving delicious local food, beer, etc.
Contributed By: Orangewayfarer.com
36. Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park
One of the relatively unexplored gems of Malaysia is the state of Sabah located on the northern part of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu is the lovely capital of Sabah, and just a boat ride away amid the South China sea stands an exotic group of islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches. These islands collectively form the Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park.
Manukan Island
The second-largest island here is the Manukan Island. The beautiful island is embellished with a gorgeous beach with spotless white sands caressed gently by the aquamarine waters of the sea. A long wooden jetty leads from the embarking point to the island, and visitors fall in love with the place at first sight.
Things to Do in Manukan
The crystal clear waters make the beach an excellent place for snorkeling. One can see colorful schools of fishes gliding just below the surface of the water. The beauty of the place hypnotizes one to either jump into the inviting waters and swim with the fishes or just sink into the white sands and lose oneself in the beauty of the moment.
The best part of the Manukan beach is that it is relatively secluded and one can always find a stretch of beach to oneself.
Contributed By: Imvoyager.com
Philippines
37. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is located on the island of El Nido in The Philippines, and it’s actually been voted as the most beautiful beach in Asia, so you already know it’s going to be amazing!
Thankfully it lives up to that reputation. This stunning beach stretches for 4 km and is lined with beautiful palm trees and soft golden sand. Since the beach is so large, it’s easy to get a spot all to yourself, you simply just keep walking until you’re alone.
Things to Do at Nacpan Beach
The water is also wonderful to swim in, a perfect temperature and it’s super clear. You could easily spend all day here! Nacpan Beach has lots of great restaurants, and bars that you can chill at, or if you seek some thrills, you can go parasailing with “Mad Monkey Hostel”.
You can even go beach glamping too which presents an awesome opportunity for stargazing. But, one of the most awesome things about Nacpan beach is the sunsets.
This beach is one of the best sunset spots in all of El Nido, and it’s such a memorable moment.
Contributed By: Dreambigtravelfarblog.com
India
Goa
India is truly a land of diverse landscapes from deserts to mountainous regions and even pristine beaches. One such must-visit tropical getaway in this geographically diverse country is Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India.
38. Palolem Beach
Goa is home to countless stunning beaches but this particular one in the South of Goa called Palolem beach deserves to be on the World’s best beaches list. A crescent-shaped shore bordered by the blues of the Arabian sea on one side and swaying palm trees over colorful beach accommodations on the other, with shacks serving flavorful food bursting with Indian spices, fresh seafood, and even scrumptious vegan options.
Things to Do at Palolem Beach
This beach is also a nature lover’s haven, with secret coves just a boat ride away and resident dolphins playing around in the sea a little further away from the shore into the deep blues. The beach gets lit up &; shimmers with bioluminescent plankton at night and turns into a beautiful sea garden in the early mornings, as the receding water leaves behind shells and other sea treasures.
This was just a glimpse of why Palolem needs to be on the list of the world’s best beaches. Check out all the fun things to do in Palolem beach that contribute to making this place heaven on earth and one for your bucket list of world-class beaches.
Contributed By: Trot. world
Thailand
39. Koh Phangan
Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Thailand. You can find the beach on the island of Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon parties, but lovely otherwise.
It’s not easy to get to the beach from the developed West of the island – there are basically only two options – either to take a boat from the village of Chaloklum or to hike.
I can highly recommend hiking! Both Bottle Beach trails are amazing and take you through the jungle. A coastal path is slightly longer, offers stunning views, but you won’t be spared from hearing the boats speed by. A jungle path, on the other hand, is shorter and a lot calmer.
Bottle Beach
Bottle beach is secluded but not deserted. There are 4 small resorts occupying the long beach and each has a restaurant too. The amenities are sufficient and fortunately don’t crowd the beach.
The beach is located in a beautiful bay but the waves can still get pretty big on days with strong wind.
If you’re tired from hiking, you can easily take a boat back to civilization – a 15-minute boat ride gets you back to the fishing village of Chaloklum.
Contributed By: Travelgeekery.com
40. Koh Samet (Island Near Bangkok)
Getting to Koh Samet
Things to Do on Koh Samet
The Koh Samet island is quite big and has several picture-perfect white-sand beaches; therefore, to be able to visit all those shores, make sure to rent a bike for a day or two. Otherwise, there are green pickup truck taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
South Korea
41. Hamdeok
Plan Your Trip
Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island is one of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in the world.
Located just off the island of Flores, in Indonesia, Pink Beach is part of the infamous Komodo National Park.
43. Pink Beach
It’s one of only seven pink beaches on the planet and it gets its color from a microscopic organism called Foraminifera. These tiny creatures have been around for millions of years and they produce a red pigment on the coral reefs that give off a pink hue when mixed with the soft, white sand.
The shallow waters and well-protected corals mean visitors have perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. There are thousands of fish here as well as soft and hard coral.
Komodo Island
Komodo Island may have a beautiful, and rare beach, but it’s also home of the Komodo dragon! Most of these legendary beasts prefer to stay in the forest where their prey live so there’s no need to panic.
Although sightings of dragons on Pink Beach are rare, if you see one of these huge lizards walking along the coast then it’s best to stay clear of their deadly serrated teeth and venom!
Contributed By: AlifeofY.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Africa
Africa has miles and miles of coast. It is a great place to plan a beach vacation.
South Africa
Driving the 300km of glorious coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route is on many traveler’s wish lists and if you’ve ever seen a picture, it’s not hard to see why.
44. Brenton Beach
Things to Do and See on Brenton Beach
Egypt
45. Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt
Dahab is a small beach town located on the Red Sea coast in the South Sinai governorate in Egypt. It is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt among backpackers, nature lovers, divers, and hippies.
Dahab’s golden sand beaches, turquoise clear water, and reddish mountains made it on the top of National Geographic’s best beaches in the Middle East list in 2019.
Diving in Dahab’s
Dahab’s fame came from its unspeakable beauty of its coral reef and marine life. It has some of the best diving spots in Egypt and the whole world. This made Dahab the diver’s paradise. Also, Dahab is one of the cheapest diving destinations in the world.
In the past decade, Dahab has gained a lot of fame as a hippie destination. It has transformed from a small Bedouin village where fishing is the main activity to a famous tourist destination. And even after this transformation, Dahab preserved a lot of the Bedouin’s simple and peaceful lifestyle.
Things to Do in Dahab
Dahab is not only a place to lay your back and relax, it offers a variety of activities. While the most famous activities are diving and snorkeling, there are also centers that offer paddle boarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. And because this beach town is surrounded by desert, mountains, and canyons, hiking is also a very enjoyable activity in Dahab.
Contributed By: Thewandererpharaoph.com
Plan a Beach Vacation!
I hope as you plan a beach vacation you can use this resource to decide what “the best beach in the world” is right for you.
There are so many amazing beaches that really are incredible! If you know of an amazing beach that is not on this list comment below and let us know!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Are you ready to plan a beach vacation at the best beaches in the world? Our planet is so amazing with beautiful beaches on every continent. (expect Antarctica unless you like the frozen type)
This post will hopefully inspire you to plan a beach vacation of what dreams are made of.
Let’s explore all the amazing places that should be on your ultimate beach vacation list.
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Plan a Beach Vacation in North America
North America has some pretty amazing beaches! If you want to plan a beach vacation, we narrowed down some of the best spots!
Florida
Florida is one of the best places in the United States to find a great beach! Being that Florida is a peninsula there are so many amazing options.
1. Stuart Florida
I have been a Florida resident for 40 years and Stuart, Florida offers some of the most unique and diverse beaches in the state of Florida. Martin County has more than 22 miles of beaches, where you can enjoy everything from surfing and fishing to historic diving sites. There is an abundance of wildlife at Plantation Beach Club and privacy that you cannot achieve at other spots.
Here are just a few of my favorite things about Plantation Beach Club by Hilton Grand Vacations:
- Sunrises and sunsets! Every angle and every view from your condominium is amazing!
- The friendly long-term staff that knows everything about the Martin County area and what there is to offer.
- Just minutes from the Beach Club you will find the historic House of Refuge with Anastasia Limestone lining the shore.
- Well-appointed accommodations and all the details are handled for you. Just bring your suit and toothbrush!
- No crowds here! The private beach, property amenities, beautiful landscape, and wildlife will keep you coming back to Plantation Beach Club!
Contributed By: Borntobeboomers.com
2. New Smyrna
If you are looking for a romantic getaway along the shoreline, New Smyrna Beach is the perfect destination! New Smyrna Beach is located just south of popular Daytona Beach along Florida’s Atlantic coast.
It is a small beach town so you won’t find hordes of tourists, traffic, and cheap souvenir stores. What you will find are unique restaurants, cozy accommodations, quaint shops, and plenty of nightlife.
Shoreline
But the true highlight is New Smyrna Beach’s beautiful shoreline. With plenty of soft sand and rolling waves, your biggest worry will indeed be when is the tide gonna reach your chair!
Tailgate
One unique feature of New Smyrna Beach is that cars can drive on the beach. So grab your sweetie and pack up your vehicle with all your beach gear and tailgate supplies and head to New Smyrna Beach, Florida!
Contributed By: Travelingtanya.com
3. Sanibel
On the shimmering Gulf coast of Florida, only minutes from Ft. Myers, lies a jewel of the Sunshine State, the island of Sanibel.
Decades ago the barrier island was cut in two by a hurricane that separated it from Captiva Island leaving a narrow inlet that flows to and from the Gulf of Mexico.
Sanibel Island
For those seeking a laid-back sandy tropical vacation, Sanibel Island will fill the bill. The gorgeous white sand beaches and warm water invite kids and adults alike to play in the surf and sun. You’ll find some of the best beaches for shelling on Sanibel — many of them still gems undiscovered by tourists — where thousands of colorful seashells wash onto its shores each day.
Many are broken, chipped, or weathered, but there’s always the promise of finding a beautiful intact shell. Because of the abundance and variety of seashells, Sanibel holds the distinction of being the Shelling Capital of the US.
Lighthouse Beach
Check out Lighthouse Beach where you’ll find many beautiful shells and have the added bonus of watching a fiery sunset over the Gulf at the end of the day.
Along with beautiful beaches, you’ll find rich tropical scenery, nature trails, and waterways, perfect for paddling. The beaches of Sanibel Island are just what you need for a perfect Florida vacation.
Contributed By: Travlinmad.com
New York City
You don’t have to forego the beach on a New York City summer vacation. When you’ve had your fill and explored the major sites, look to escape the madness of the Big Apple by finding the best reprieve – within the city’s limits.
4. Rockaway Beach
New York City has a few different beaches, but the Far Rockaways’ Rockaway Beach is the best in the city. Even though Coney Island is its more famous neighbor, it draws many tourists to its shores each summer.
Instead, Rockaway Beach is frequented by locals and has a laid-back seashore vibe. Aside from laying out by the water, you’ll find local shops, great cafes, and ice cream parlors just a few blocks from the ocean.
The best part? To get there, all you need to do is navigate the New York City subway. To arrive at the Far Rockaway subway shuttle, take a Brooklyn-bound A train to the end of the line.
Contributed By: Thepurposelylost.com
California
5. Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz, CA area is full of unique beach towns. Each one has a unique personality and is each great to visit for their own reasons.
Aptos and Capitola
Aptos is a quiet, sleepy beach town. There are a few businesses, but the beachfront is mostly residential, making it a quiet place for a great getaway. Capitola is a small town with a lot of personality. Streets are filled with shops and restaurants. There is a lot to do without being overwhelming.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz itself is busy, with a variety of activities. The theme park at Santa Cruz Boardwalk makes for an action-packed afternoon while the nearby Santa Cruz wharf is quieter and the perfect spot for sea lion watching.
All of these unique towns make the Santa Cruz area a must-visit location for beach lovers.
Contributed By: alittlelifeofbeauty.com
San Diego
This wide beach claims a backdrop of the famed Hotel Del Coronado. Sit on the sand here or romp in the waves. And look up at the red-roofed hotel that’s hosted visiting dignitaries through the decades. U.S. presidents Taft, FDR, Ford, and Carter stayed here. Famous folk such as Charlie Chaplin and Charles Lindbergh are in the visitor’s list. Marilyn Monroe filmed “Some Like It Hot” here in 1958. Author L. Frank Baum lived at the hotel while he wrote some of the Wizard of Oz books.
6. Coronado Beach
An amazing feature of Coronado Beach is that it literally sparkles. The golden sand, with its mineral mica, shines magically in the sun. And a fun secret about the beach is that the dunes between the ocean and the street spell out “Coronado.” It’s hard to see when you are on the ground, but if you know to look for the letters, you’ll get it.
From the south end of the beach in front of the hotel, stroll north, and after about half an hour of a pleasant beach walk, you’ll arrive at dog beach. Smile at the pups dancing in the waves. And of course, if you are with your own dog, you will love this place. A fountain with a hose will help wash the sand off your pooch.
San Diego boasts many beaches, which means that Coronado Beach is one of many choices and never gets too crowded. Bring your beach towel and umbrella, and you’ll be all set to relax in this idyllic, scenic place.
Contributed By: Exploringrworld.com
Hawaii
Maui
7. Pa’iloa Beach
Nestled in a private cove, the vibrant black sand marks a sharp contrast to the glistening, turquoise waters below. Emerald green foliage backs the beach and tops the volcanic rock that lines the wild and remote coastline. A scene straight out of a postcard.
People are drawn to this beach for its mysterious caves, active blowholes, lava tubes, and jaw-dropping seascapes. The best time to visit is earlier in the morning as it gets very crowded by early afternoon from all the day-trippers driving to Hana.
Not your typical beach that you want to layout on though as the beach is actually less like “sand” and more like “small black pebbles”. There are trails that lead up and around the coastline offering aerial views of the beach below. A sight unlike anywhere else in the world.
Contributed By: Imjesstraveling.com
Oahu
Rather than just one fantastic beach, the resort area of Ko Olina (Oahu) has six separate beach areas within walking distance of each other.
All six are perfect for families, with light surf and plenty of gorgeous Hawaiian views. Four man-made lagoons sit between the open ocean and several major hotels, including Disney’s Aulani.
Food is readily available in this area, either from the hotels or Ko Olina’s shopping center. I’ve also never seen nicer beach bathrooms anywhere!
8. Lanikuhonua Lagoon
Lanikuhonua Lagoon is a little trickier to access, but that makes it a bit more private. It also has a large bank of lava rocks to explore that sits between the lagoon and the open ocean.
Connected to Lanikuhonua Lagoon is Paradise Cove. At Paradise Cove, you might just spot a sea turtle or even a sea lion!
With all these great options in Ko Olina, you might not miss the hustle and bustle of Waikiki at all!
Contributed By: Semibudgettravel.com
9.Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay in Hawaii in the United States of America is one of the best beaches in the world with its stunning and pristine turquoise water. It is fantastic for snorkeling off the beach due to the vast sea life that calls Hanauma Bay home.
Sealife
You may see green sea turtles, moray eels, surgeonfish, parrotfish, triggerfish, goatfish, tang, and coral. It is a protected bay created by two sunken volcanic craters. This makes Hanauma Bay a great beach for babies and toddlers, older kids, couples, and those traveling solo.
Information About Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a popular beach. If you decide to drive, ensure you get there early because the car park gets full fast. If you instead take the public bus or get dropped off, you should either get there early or plan to arrive mid-afternoon, when the early risers start to head off.
Hours
Hanauma Bay is open Monday to Sunday, except Tuesday, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. During the summer sessions, hours are 6 am to 7 pm. For the winter session, it closes at 6 pm.
Hanauma Bay is a beach you should add to the top of your bucket list.
Contributed By: Petitecapsule.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Central America
Central America and the Caribbean are what dreams are made of. There is a reason so many cruise ships port in these amazing locations. Snorkeling in the Caribbean is one of the best things to do in this area.
Nicaragua
10. Playa Maderas
Considered one of the top beaches in Nicaragua, Playa Maderas is a must-visit, especially for surfers. Located 20 minutes outside of San Juan del Sur, the beach is located along a bumpy dirt road so isn’t as mainstream as other beaches in Nicaragua.
Playa Maderas is an all-year-round surfing destination, and is perfect for newbies and advanced surfers, making it a great place to watch the pros in awe.
Things to Do in Playa Maderas
If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, spend the day hiking along the beach to the shark fin-shaped rock formations in the distance or join a sunset catamaran trip to get a closer look from the water. Another option is to join a horseback riding tour across several beaches in the area. It costs only $22.50 for 1.5 hours.
The beach has two restaurants and a few surf schools including DreamSeaSurf who managed to get me surfing in just one lesson! The best way to reach Playa Maderas is by catching the daily beach shuttle from Casa Oro in San Juan del Sur.
This beach-inspired me to write beach quotes that will brighten your day!
Contributed By: Thewanderlustwithin.com
Dominican Republic
11. Bavaro Beach
Situated on the Coconut Coast along the eastern shores of the Dominican Republic, Bavaro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Punta Cana. It features a 10-kilometer long stretch of sparkling white sand and calm turquoise blue waters lined by groves of coconut palms.
Even though its wealth of natural attractions makes it one of the most popular beaches in the Caribbean, its beauty hasn’t been spoiled. Bavaro Beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, a certification recognizing the achievement of specific criteria such as water quality, safety, garbage disposal, environmental sustainability and management, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
There’s a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts, hotels, and vacation condos to choose from.
Things to Do at Bavaro Beach
Activities at Bavaro Beach include parasailing, beach volleyball, catamaran excursions to pristine Saona Island, scuba and snorkeling tours, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
Suitable for family vacations, romantic getaways, outdoor adventures, and groups, Bavaro Beach is deservedly a top beach destination for travelers of all ages.
Contributed By: Atastefortravel.ca
Cuba
One of the most popular resort regions in the Americas, the beaches in Varadero consistently draw the crowds who are looking for a week with crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.
12. Varadero Beach
Varadero is located just off mainland Cuba on a long 21km peninsula. The resorts may line this stunning beach but there is no entry fee to visit the beach, and you can also stay in apartments or AirBNBs in town and the truth is some of the Varadero restaurants serve much better food than the resorts.
It is a great beach for families as the water is clear, calm, and very shallow. Although the sun can be scorching there are plenty of palapas dotting the coastline providing some shade.
For those looking for an active vacation, there are beautiful coral reefs not far from the main stretch of the beach along with opportunities to visit nearby caves.
Contributed By: Baconismagic.ca
Belize
The Caribbean bounty beaches of Belize are famous and Hopkins might just have the most beautiful one of all. This palm tree paradise used to be a small fishing village but is now a travelers’ favorite.
13. Hopkins Beach
The Hopkins is the perfect combination of bounty beach and tropical jungle. One of the best things to do in Hopkins is a day trip to the nearby jungle for some spectacular hikes. We’d recommend you to head to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. It has hikes for each fitness level, including some to incredible waterfalls for refreshing dives. You might not spot one of the jaguars in the park, but you’ll for sure see exotic birds and other animals in this wildlife park.
The jungle nearby might be great, but you’ll come to Hopkins for its beautiful beach. Spend at least a full day relaxing in the sun, but book a half-day or full-day snorkeling or diving tour as well. Right in front of Hopkins is the second largest reef in the world – the Great Belizean Reef.
Some other recommendations are Driftwood for the best – but pricey – pizzas and live music, Thongs for breakfast, and Nicecream for some ice cream.
Contributed By: Theorangebackpack.nl
St. Kitts Island in the Caribbean
14. South Friars Beach
South Friars Beach is one of the best beaches on St Kitts because there is a little something for everyone. At one end of the beach, you can find the high-end Carambola Beach Club with its white sand beach and luxury sun loungers and umbrellas. Here you can sip on fancy cocktails or enjoy an a-la-carte sushi lunch.
In contrast, at the other end of South Friars is the Shipwreck Beach Bar a lively family-friendly bar that has a rustic ‘shipwrecked’ feel with wooden tables, fishing nets, a viewing deck, and a ship’s wheel. You will also find black sand, cheap drinks, an extensive family-friendly menu, and plenty of sun loungers.
Things to Do at South Friars Beach
In between the two, there is Discovery Beach Bar with hammocks hanging from palm trees and sun loungers to chill on, teamed with the best rum punch on St Kitts and daily reggae music it has that classic Caribbean vibe.
South friars beach is not just for relaxing and sipping rum punch though, it also has some great activities. With a reef running the full length of the beach is very shallow, clear waters it is a great spot for beginners snorkeling, and snorkeling equipment can be rented from shipwreck for a small fee.
If you want more adventurous snorkeling, you can swim around the rocks at Carambola where you are likely to see the resident turtles and spotted eagle rays. You can also hire kayaks and paddleboards along the beach and take yourself around this beautiful calm part of the Caribbean Sea.
If that is not enough to convince you that South Friars is one of the best beaches in the world, then pop along in the evening and watch the spectacular sunset over the Caribbean Sea, you will change your mind.
Contributed By: Bookitletsgo.com
Aruba
If we’re talking about best beaches in the world, Aruba must be included on that list! Aruba is such a tiny island that most of their beaches are pretty epic, but if you go to just one, check out Baby beach.
15. Baby Beach
Located on the south end of Aruba near San Nicolas, Baby Beach is a beach lover’s dream. Soft white sand, crystal clear blue water, and calm waves make this the perfect family-friendly beach.
Public restrooms, food and drink, and beach huts are all available for your convenience.
Things to Do in Aruba
There are so many fun things to do in Aruba beyond the beach! Consider four-wheeling through Arikok National Park, visit the iconic California lighthouse, or take a ride on the Atlantis submarine.
If you’re traveling with kids, consider spending a day at the all-inclusive De Palm Island fun park.
16. Flamingo Beach
Don’t forget to check Flamingo Beach off your bucket list. Made famous all over Instagram, the best way to see the flamingos is to stay at the Renaissance Hotel.
Finally take time to try out some of the world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. Doesn’t matter if you’re advanced or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.
When you’re thinking of that classic Caribbean beach paradise, Aruba is the answer!
Contributed By: Morethanmainstreet.com
St. Johns
The beaches along the north shore of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands are those picture-perfect Caribbean white-sand beaches with calm clear blue water.
From the world-famous Trunk Bay to the lesser-known snorkeling hotspot, Waterlemon Cay, you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose.
17. Virgin Islands National Park
The best beaches are located within the Virgin Islands National Park beginning just outside of Cruz Bay, the main port on the island, and dot along the shore for several miles.
Each is unique in its own way, with some offering more amenities such as Cinnamon Bay and Honeymoon Beach with restrooms, kayak and water sport rentals, beach bars, and lounge chairs.
Others such as Francis Bay and Leinster Bay provide a bit more seclusion, but also limited amenities.
Transportation
None of the beaches have hotels or resorts, so you will need to find transportation to and from the beaches either by taxi, shuttle, or car. Be aware that there is limited parking at nearly all of the beaches, and it fills up by mid-morning.
If you like calm natural beaches with great snorkeling, it’s hard to beat the north shore beaches on St. John.
Contributed By: Snorkelandhike.com
Mexico
If you want a tropical getaway that doesn’t sacrifice convenience, Playa Escondida is highly recommended. Also called hidden beach or love beach, Playa Escondida is a popular destination located in Sayulita, Mexico.
18. Playa Escondida
Despite being loved by tourists, it has remained to be a secret gem that doesn’t get too crowded. You might find yourself splurging during your stay and booking a hotel directly there but it’s totally worth it.
You get to be close to nature since your hotel is located on a jungle hillside and you’ll have that breathtaking view of the ocean.
If you love food, Playa Escondida can offer you the gastronomic experience you will never forget. It can be considered a paradise for foodies, in fact, with all the traditional Mexican food and international cuisine on the menu.
Relax
Wifi may be limited in the area, which is not that bad for those who want to disconnect and just focus on the present moment. If you’re planning for an ultimate digital detox to refresh your mind or some quiet time to meditate, Playa Escondida should top your list of go-to places.
Contributed By: Lucilehr.com
19. Cancun
Cancun is one of the topmost visited cities in Mexico. Cancun is the perfect beach vacation with its breathtaking blue water and perfect sand, it is a perfect location to relax and have a great time.
Hotel Zone
The resorts all along the hotel zone are extremely nice and have direct access to the beach and ocean. You can walk out of your hotel room and enjoy the resort pool followed by a dip in the ocean.
Things to Do in Cancun
There are so many things to do in Cancun. Most resorts will have access to great tours such as parasailing, jet-skiing, swimming with turtles, and snorkeling. There are also day trips to see ancient ruins.
Plan according and make sure to get some extra travel tips for Cancun so you make your beach vacation perfect.
Plan a Beach Vacation in South America
As you plan a beach vacation consider South America as it is known to have some of the best beaches in the world.
20. Brazil
Pipa is a small holiday town on the North-East coast of Brazil. Surrounding the town are several expansive beaches, some of which can only be accessed by walking around the cliffs when the tide is out.
The sand is clean and the water is a vibrant blue. What makes Pipa special though is not the beaches themselves, but the fact that it’s so common for wild dolphins to swim near the shore, completely unafraid of swimmers, kayakers, or surfers.
Things to Do at Praia do Madeiro
One of the best of Pipa’s beaches to spot them from is Praia do Madeiro. Renting a kayak on this beach to take further out to sea gives you a better chance of having a dolphin pop up close to you!
If you go snorkeling, you might even catch sight of a turtle, too. When it comes to getting back onto the beach, there are plenty of coconut sellers and cocktail makers ready to provide a refreshing drink while you dry off. Paradise!
Contributed By: Cuppatocopatravels.com
21. Pernambuco State
“When people think of Brazil, the first thing they imagine is Copacabana or Ipanema beaches in Rio de Janeiro.
But what many tourists don’t know is that Carneiros Beach in Pernambuco State is by far one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil – far more impressive than those spots in Rio.
22. Carneiros Beach
Surrounded by swaying palm trees and turquoise water teeming with wildlife, Carneiros is without exaggeration an illustrative definition of paradise.
The calm sea, together with the awe-inspiring landscape, invites many tourists to this spot in the State of Pernambuco, only 90 km from Recipe Airport.
Beyond that, Carneiros is home to São Benedito Chapel, a little church from the 18th-century. So right there on the sand stretch, you can spot a lovely chapel among the palm trees. Isn’t that a perfect wedding spot?!
To get to this beach, you can take a boat or walk about 7 km along the sea from Tamandaré Beach.
As for the best time to visit this spot, the period between September and February is the sunniest and driest.
Contributed By: Iheartbrazil.com
Colombia
It’s all about the community in Rincon del Mar, a sleepy fishing village located three hours (plus a slightly hairy 30-minute moto ride) south of Cartagena, Colombia. And while this corner of the sea has long been special to the local residents, it’s recently come into the spotlight of backpackers seeking an alternative to the touristy beaches in the north.
Travelers visiting Rincon del Mar aren’t lured by dreams of white sand beaches and lounging under towering palm trees with an umbrella in their drink. The beaches are spacious and uncrowded.
And while perhaps you can request a dainty garnish in your local rum concoction, that’s not what makes Rincon del Mar one of the best beaches in the world.
What makes it special is watching a couple flirt in the surf while a group of kids play a rousing game of soccer on the beach. It’s the young boy with his father leading their donkey loaded with a hand of freshly harvested bananas through the unpaved streets. And in the evenings, it’s the older men playing dominos outside their home as the pool hall fills with a younger crowd.
23. Rincon Del Mar
Rincon del Mar is the type of place you don’t want to be discovered, but know it’s inevitable. Fortunately, as its popularity grows, there are stewards of the community who are forging development in a sustainable way so that it will continue to be a special corner of the sea for generations to come.
Contributed By: Culturestraveled.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Europe
Europe is a great place to plan a beach vacation. The Mediterranean Sea is so beautiful.
Croatia
Punta Rata Beach, also known as Dugi Rat Beach, is a real beach highlight and well known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.
International travel magazines e.g. Forbes Magazine and various travel blogs have already voted this place to be one of the best beaches in the world! And truly, this bright pebble beach with the turquoise blue sea colors is simply breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Croatia!
24. Dream Beach
This dream beach is located on the picturesque Makarska Riviera, in the popular holiday resort of Brela.
At the western end of the beach is the spectacular Brela Rock, a huge stone in the sea covered with green pine trees. Surrounded by the crystal clear turquoise blue sea, this rock formation is an eye-catcher.
Things to do at Dream Beach in Croatia
And around this rock, you will find plenty of fantastic spots for snorkeling!
Just behind the beach is a beautiful waterfront promenade, which leads past many beautiful other bays and towards the lovely Brela town.
This path is ideal for long walks, for jogging, but also for cycling. There are also many small beach bars along the promenade, which provide cool drinks and small snacks.
Contributed By: Placesofjuma.com
Greece
Ios is a Cycladic Island in the Aegean Sea. Whilst many know it best for its nightlife scene, it is also home to stunning 1km long Mylopotas Beach. The large length of this beach means that no matter how busy it is always possible to find a quiet stretch along its golden sands.
25. Hora
The end of the beach closest to Ios’ main town of Hora tends to be the busiest area with lots of sun loungers and umbrellas as well as water sports companies. The promenade along Mylopotas beach is filled with Greek tavernas and several beach clubs including the very photogenic FarOut beach club.
Restaurants and Beach Clubs
Most of the beach clubs and restaurants have their own sun loungers on Mylopotas beach. This means it is possible to recline in comfort and order food and drinks as you wish in between swims.
At the far end of Mylopotas Beach is my favorite restaurant in Ios Drakos. Enjoy amazing Greek cuisine with the freshest fish you can imagine whilst sitting on the actual harbor – just stretch a little and your toes will touch the sand while you eat!
Contributed By: Theboutiqueadventurer.com
Crete
The beautiful Balos Beach, located in the northwest of Crete is one of the best beaches not only in Chania but in the world. Created as a double cove between Cape Gramvousa and Cape Tigani, Balos Beach is a photographic tourist hotspot that is well worth a visit.
The beach boasts pristine white sand, clear turquoise sea, and shallow, family-friendly waters. In certain lights, the sand also takes on a light pinkish hue due to the crushed shells that have washed up on shore over the past few millennia!
26. Balos Lagoon
The Balos Lagoon connects the island of Crete to the tiny islet of Tigani that visitors can walk to at low tide. This gives you the chance to explore the islet, walking up to the viewpoint, and seeing the small Greek Orthodox church that is perched on the hillside. The area is also known for its birdlife, so don’t forget to keep your eye out for Eleonora falcons, cormorants, and black shags too!
Of course, as Balos Beach is such a gem it is most definitely on the tourist trail, so you should aim to arrive as early as possible to avoid large crowds that arrive by boat around mid-morning. In order to get there early, you may want to consider staying nearby in the town of Kissamos.
Contributed By: Travelpassionate.com
Italy
27. Sardina – Punta Molentis
Beaches
Private Paid Beaches
Spain
28. Tarifa
29. Bolonia Beach
Duna De Bolonia
Things to Do
Cadiz
Los Caños de Meca Beach in the Cadiz province in southern Spain is an astounding beach created by sand dunes from all the wind the Atlantic coastline receives. On a day with no wind, however, Los Caños de Meca is the perfect paradise for anyone looking for a less touristy, natural place where there is still a lot of local tourism in the summer months.
30. Los Caños de Meca
Los Caños de Meca Beach doesn’t have sunbeds or parasols set up, so you´ll have to bring your own parasol if you want shade. There are a few bars on the road leading down to the beach where you can have lunch or a cold drink.
The beach leads up to Trafalgar Lighthouse which is the symbol of the famous Battle of Trafalgar that found a place in the waters outside the Trafalgar Cape in 1805. If you get tired of sunbathing and swimming, head up to the lighthouse or check out Faro de Trafalgar Beach on the other side of the little cape. That is also an astounding beach, but the underwater swells make it dangerous to swim there.
Contributed By: Brainybackpackers.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Australia and New Zealand
Australia is an extraordinary place to plan a beach vacation. Known for some of the best surfing waves in the world.
South Australia
South Australia’s capital Adelaide has over 20 beaches along its metropolitan coastline. While each has its own personality, Port Noarlunga stands out as one of the best beaches in Adelaide.
What makes a fantastic beach will be different for everyone. But if you like a beach with a great vibe and lots to do you can’t beat Port Noarlunga.
31. Port Noarlunga
The main feature of the beach is the long reef that runs parallel to shore and can be accessed from a jetty. The reef attracts all sorts of marine life and makes the area a great spot for snorkelers and divers. The jetty is also a popular fishing spot.
The sand and water are beautiful. Protected by the reef, the water is a safe place to swim and on a hot summer day turns as blue as the water around a south pacific island. The sand is fine and white – perfect for relaxing in the sun or playing with the kids.
Sunsets
As is the case with all Adelaide beaches, Port Noarlunga faces west so it’s a great place to watch the sun go down at the end of a long summer’s day. Red cliffs at the one end of the beach light up as the sun dips below the horizon.
Things to do at Port Noarlunga
Port Noarlunga attracts a diverse crowd of beachgoers. The steady parade of people with diving gear, fishing rods, kayaks, towels, and sun hats creates a wonderful atmosphere.
There’s a great café on the beachfront so between swims you can get a cool drink, a coffee or the best fish and chips in town!
Contributed By: Curiouscampers.com.au
Port Fairy Australia
Lots of people who travel to Australia prioritize seeing the 12 Apostles and The Great Ocean Road, but sadly they don’t all continue beyond the Port Campbell star and reach the charming seaside town of Port Fairy.
Port Fairy boasts a history as well as a great coastal-country feel. Port Fairy beaches offer great views, long walks, peace, and tranquility, as well as great waves to surf, paddle, swim, or body surf.
East Beach is a popular destination for Summer holidaymakers to spend days sprawled on the sand with a remarkable outlook. During the Summer months, the beach is patrolled on weekends and daily during the peak Summer period.
South Beach
South Beach, or “Pea Soup” as it is known to locals offers a protected beach and is popular for families. The water temperature is slightly warmer than the main beach and you will often see people snorkeling among the rocks.
Taking a walk around Griffiths Island you will find some lovely little pockets of protected beach to enjoy, explore and marvel in.
On a beautiful Victorian day, Port Fairy beaches will never disappoint.
Contributed By: Australian Mountains To Sea
32. Esperance Australia
This is a huge beach and although it can get a little bit busy during the summer you simply have to walk 5 minutes along the sand to find your own quiet slice of paradise. Although it is rare there are even waves here sometimes which means you can surf.
Kangaroos
Lucky Bay is famous for having Kangaroo’s that spend their days hopping along the beach and lounging around on the white sand. They are so used to humans being around that they aren’t really too bothered by people and you can snap the perfect photo of them on the beach.
There is a campsite right by the beach and it’s definitely worth staying for a couple of nights here to enjoy this magnificent beach.”
Contributed By: thecoastalcampain.com
New Zealand
Described as one of the best beaches in New Zealand, Mount Maunganui’s main beach has long been a local and tourist favorite.
33. Mount Maunganui
It makes up a small part (700m) of the coastline that stretches around 25 km long. Our family has holidayed and lived here for the past 80 years.
Things to Do
The main beach is set on one side of a peninsula with the picturesque Pilot Bay on the other. With its white sand beach, it’s the perfect spot to sunbathe and swim.
There are volleyball nets too for those looking to be active. You could also grab a surfboard or take a surf lesson from one of the surf schools dotted along the coast. There are plenty of cafes too that serve a range of food options as well as everyone’s favorite coffee.
Mauao
At the top end of the main beach stands Mauao, (meaning caught by the dawn in Te Reo) a 253m mountain. It’s a popular favorite by walkers and runners alike.
There is a gentle walking track around the base or if you fancy a hike take the track to the top. When you reach the summit you will be rewarded with some specular views of the coastline, surrounding islands as well as the port and city of Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Nestled under Mauao is the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, its the perfect place to stay with facilities and amenities to meet everyone’s budget.
Most camp spots offer unbeatable views of the either beach or the bay. Set in the middle of the Holiday Park is a real treasure, the Mount Hot pools, it’s the best spot to relax and soak at the end of your day.
Contributed By: 4degreesofdestination.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Asia
As you plan a beach vacation remember that Asia has some of the best beach resorts in the world.
Cambodia
Saracen Bay is located on Koh Rong Samloem Island in Cambodia and is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is actually situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and to get there, you have to take a ferry from Sihanoukville, one of Cambodia’s major cities.
34. Saracen Bay Beach
Saracen Bay Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and the most visited. However, the island is still considered slightly ‘off the beaten path, as many tourists don’t visit during their time in Cambodia.
Saracen Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with beautiful blue water that is dotted with small boutique hotels and hostels, as well as bars and restaurants. The island is quiet, and everything runs slowly. It’s one of those places where you can just laze around, enjoying your surroundings.
Things to Do on Saracen Bay
There’s plenty to enjoy on Saracen Bay, simply relax and enjoy the water before laying in the sun, or you can opt to go snorkeling, kayaking, or stand up paddle-boarding. There’s also endless spots to sit and enjoy a drink or meal with incredibly peaceful views, making It the perfect beach destination.
Contributed By: Emmaadventures.com
Malaysia
35. Langkawi
Langkawi is a small Malaysian island often overshadowed by her neighbor named Phuket from Thailand. A duty-free island, Langkawi is ideal for shopping, relaxing, and indulging in a few wildlife adventures in the ancient rain forest or dense mangroves!
Langkawi archipelago has more than 90 islands and is listed in the UNESCO heritage list however only two of the islands are inhabitable humans.
Pantai Cenang
We spent 3 days in Langkawi during our week-long escape to Malaysia. We explored all the beaches however it was Pantai Cenang in particular that blew our mind! Firstly, Pantai Cenang has some of the most beautiful sunsets in Asia! Add to that the beach is always bustling with vibrant energies of the locals and tourists alike.
Things to Do in Pantai Cenang
Islanders play football during sundown and they are happy to include you in the team. From the crack of dawn to the last light of the sun, parasailing takes place here. Jet Ski and banana boats are some of the other attractions. If you are keen, you can also go paddleboarding!
If you have only one night in Langkawi, I would recommend spending the day at the sky bridge and come down to Pantai Cenang during sundown. It is worth it. The road adjacent to Pantai Cenang is teeming with beautiful night markets and stalls serving delicious local food, beer, etc.
Contributed By: Orangewayfarer.com
36. Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park
One of the relatively unexplored gems of Malaysia is the state of Sabah located on the northern part of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu is the lovely capital of Sabah, and just a boat ride away amid the South China sea stands an exotic group of islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches. These islands collectively form the Tunku Abdul Rehman National Park.
Manukan Island
The second-largest island here is the Manukan Island. The beautiful island is embellished with a gorgeous beach with spotless white sands caressed gently by the aquamarine waters of the sea. A long wooden jetty leads from the embarking point to the island, and visitors fall in love with the place at first sight.
Things to Do in Manukan
The crystal clear waters make the beach an excellent place for snorkeling. One can see colorful schools of fishes gliding just below the surface of the water. The beauty of the place hypnotizes one to either jump into the inviting waters and swim with the fishes or just sink into the white sands and lose oneself in the beauty of the moment.
The best part of the Manukan beach is that it is relatively secluded and one can always find a stretch of beach to oneself.
Contributed By: Imvoyager.com
Philippines
37. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is located on the island of El Nido in The Philippines, and it’s actually been voted as the most beautiful beach in Asia, so you already know it’s going to be amazing!
Thankfully it lives up to that reputation. This stunning beach stretches for 4 km and is lined with beautiful palm trees and soft golden sand. Since the beach is so large, it’s easy to get a spot all to yourself, you simply just keep walking until you’re alone.
Things to Do at Nacpan Beach
The water is also wonderful to swim in, a perfect temperature and it’s super clear. You could easily spend all day here! Nacpan Beach has lots of great restaurants, and bars that you can chill at, or if you seek some thrills, you can go parasailing with “Mad Monkey Hostel”.
You can even go beach glamping too which presents an awesome opportunity for stargazing. But, one of the most awesome things about Nacpan beach is the sunsets.
This beach is one of the best sunset spots in all of El Nido, and it’s such a memorable moment.
Contributed By: Dreambigtravelfarblog.com
India
Goa
India is truly a land of diverse landscapes from deserts to mountainous regions and even pristine beaches. One such must-visit tropical getaway in this geographically diverse country is Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India.
38. Palolem Beach
Goa is home to countless stunning beaches but this particular one in the South of Goa called Palolem beach deserves to be on the World’s best beaches list. A crescent-shaped shore bordered by the blues of the Arabian sea on one side and swaying palm trees over colorful beach accommodations on the other, with shacks serving flavorful food bursting with Indian spices, fresh seafood, and even scrumptious vegan options.
Things to Do at Palolem Beach
This beach is also a nature lover’s haven, with secret coves just a boat ride away and resident dolphins playing around in the sea a little further away from the shore into the deep blues. The beach gets lit up &; shimmers with bioluminescent plankton at night and turns into a beautiful sea garden in the early mornings, as the receding water leaves behind shells and other sea treasures.
This was just a glimpse of why Palolem needs to be on the list of the world’s best beaches. Check out all the fun things to do in Palolem beach that contribute to making this place heaven on earth and one for your bucket list of world-class beaches.
Contributed By: Trot. world
Thailand
39. Koh Phangan
Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Thailand. You can find the beach on the island of Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon parties, but lovely otherwise.
It’s not easy to get to the beach from the developed West of the island – there are basically only two options – either to take a boat from the village of Chaloklum or to hike.
I can highly recommend hiking! Both Bottle Beach trails are amazing and take you through the jungle. A coastal path is slightly longer, offers stunning views, but you won’t be spared from hearing the boats speed by. A jungle path, on the other hand, is shorter and a lot calmer.
Bottle Beach
Bottle beach is secluded but not deserted. There are 4 small resorts occupying the long beach and each has a restaurant too. The amenities are sufficient and fortunately don’t crowd the beach.
The beach is located in a beautiful bay but the waves can still get pretty big on days with strong wind.
If you’re tired from hiking, you can easily take a boat back to civilization – a 15-minute boat ride gets you back to the fishing village of Chaloklum.
Contributed By: Travelgeekery.com
40. Koh Samet (Island Near Bangkok)
Getting to Koh Samet
Things to Do on Koh Samet
The Koh Samet island is quite big and has several picture-perfect white-sand beaches; therefore, to be able to visit all those shores, make sure to rent a bike for a day or two. Otherwise, there are green pickup truck taxis that can take you anywhere on the island.
South Korea
41. Hamdeok
Plan Your Trip
Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island is one of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in the world.
Located just off the island of Flores, in Indonesia, Pink Beach is part of the infamous Komodo National Park.
43. Pink Beach
It’s one of only seven pink beaches on the planet and it gets its color from a microscopic organism called Foraminifera. These tiny creatures have been around for millions of years and they produce a red pigment on the coral reefs that give off a pink hue when mixed with the soft, white sand.
The shallow waters and well-protected corals mean visitors have perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. There are thousands of fish here as well as soft and hard coral.
Komodo Island
Komodo Island may have a beautiful, and rare beach, but it’s also home of the Komodo dragon! Most of these legendary beasts prefer to stay in the forest where their prey live so there’s no need to panic.
Although sightings of dragons on Pink Beach are rare, if you see one of these huge lizards walking along the coast then it’s best to stay clear of their deadly serrated teeth and venom!
Contributed By: AlifeofY.com
Plan a Beach Vacation in Africa
Africa has miles and miles of coast. It is a great place to plan a beach vacation.
South Africa
Driving the 300km of glorious coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route is on many traveler’s wish lists and if you’ve ever seen a picture, it’s not hard to see why.
44. Brenton Beach
Things to Do and See on Brenton Beach
Egypt
45. Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt
Dahab is a small beach town located on the Red Sea coast in the South Sinai governorate in Egypt. It is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt among backpackers, nature lovers, divers, and hippies.
Dahab’s golden sand beaches, turquoise clear water, and reddish mountains made it on the top of National Geographic’s best beaches in the Middle East list in 2019.
Diving in Dahab’s
Dahab’s fame came from its unspeakable beauty of its coral reef and marine life. It has some of the best diving spots in Egypt and the whole world. This made Dahab the diver’s paradise. Also, Dahab is one of the cheapest diving destinations in the world.
In the past decade, Dahab has gained a lot of fame as a hippie destination. It has transformed from a small Bedouin village where fishing is the main activity to a famous tourist destination. And even after this transformation, Dahab preserved a lot of the Bedouin’s simple and peaceful lifestyle.
Things to Do in Dahab
Dahab is not only a place to lay your back and relax, it offers a variety of activities. While the most famous activities are diving and snorkeling, there are also centers that offer paddle boarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. And because this beach town is surrounded by desert, mountains, and canyons, hiking is also a very enjoyable activity in Dahab.
Contributed By: Thewandererpharaoph.com
Plan a Beach Vacation!
I hope as you plan a beach vacation you can use this resource to decide what “the best beach in the world” is right for you.
There are so many amazing beaches that really are incredible! If you know of an amazing beach that is not on this list comment below and let us know!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
Heading to the beach in one week! Yay! So this was great inspiration!
So awesome!Have fun!
Okay, so I’ve just added 5 more beaches on my ever-growing bucket list! Great roundup of beaches! Thanks so much for sharing.
Me too!
Gosh, I miss the beach! This is such a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to travel, well, anywhere! I’m definitely bookmarking this to refer to later. Thank you!!
For sure! I live too far from the beach but I do like to dream!
We love going on vacation to beach areas. Thank you for so many great ideas on where to go.
We love it too! I love the sound of the ocean!
What a comprehensive resource! I plan to hit some of the ones in the US later this summer. Thanks!
That is awesome!
Wow. So many beautiful beaches here!! My favorite that we’ve visited is Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, but I’d love to compare it to some you’ve listed here – especially those in Hawaii!
I love Hawaii! It is my favorite!
I love that you can have a completely different experience at each beach you visit. There are so many unique things about each one.
I know I love that kangaroo on the beach in Australia!
Okaaaaayyyy! This is my kind of post! Gorgeous inspiration! I’m ready to add some of these to my list 🙂
I know right! So many great options!
What a great list! I love going to the beach, but we didn’t get to go this year. Last summer, we got to go to California beaches for the first time. Great memories!
We got to go to California and Florida this year. Hopefully next year we will get to see more!
I am all about the beach and would love to spend some time at each and every one of these. What a fabulous travel guide to the best beaches in the world. Water is so good for the soul to rest, reflect and recharge. Thanks for pulling this comprehensive list together.
I agree! I love the recharge of being near the ocean!
We love beach vacations. My kids love the sand and chasing the waves when they hit the shore. We are hoping to visit the beaches in Hawaii soon.
Me too! I can’t wait to take my kids to Hawaii!
Wow! I didn’t know how bad I was missing beaches, and travel in general, until I started scrolling through your post! These are some amazing beaches! We have been to a few of them, but now I want to visit the rest so I can compare! 😉
This is the ultimate dream post!
I loved the beaches in Varadero. The sand and water were just so beautiful. But I have to say my favourite beach is in Molokai. Will definitely look up the beaches you mentioned in Spain as we are heading there next summer.
I would love to go to Spain! It is on my list. I almost bought tickets for September but glad I didn’t!
Great resource for beach vacations! Living right in the middle of the US I’ve always been land locked. It’s so fun to spend some time on the beach.
Yes, We are land locked too!
We have only visited a few of these but they all look amazing! Can’t wait to visit more!
I know my list just grew!
Wow this is a very thorough post with some really great info! Thank you. I will pin it for later use.
Oh good!
This was so fun to read! Thank you for including me 🙂
It is a fun read! It got me dreaming!
What a fantastic list and reference of some beautiful beaches around the world! Thank you pinned for later! Thank you
Awesome! I would love to visit all of these!
Great list of beaches. I’ve been to a few but many I still need to visit. Get bucket list additions.
I know so many choices!
I’ve been to two of these spots. Lots more to add to the list.
I know I haven’t been on many beach vacations.
All of these pictures are definitely making my mouth water! It’s not possible for us to travel much these days and enjoy these fabulous beaches, but I have been to a few of them in the past: Cadiz, Spain, and Hanauma Bay in Hawaii. I’ve practically never met a beach I didn’t love!
Those are amazing beaches you have been too!
I am definitely “dream”ing about some of these places! Thanks for sharing this perfect list!
I know it is a perfect dream post!
What a wonderful list of beaches! I’m actually not far from you in palm beach county! Pretty much all of Florida has beautiful beaches and the best part is not having to pay to get on the beach. I’m originally from NJ and you have to pay to get on the beach, it’s so great living where you can just walk on and stay as long as you please!
That is interesting, now that you mention paying for a beach I kind of remember that when we have traveled.
Oh, man…saving this one for future reference for sure! I’ve been longing to go to the beach for months!
It is a great post with lots of fun places!
Holy cow did this post give me beach fever
I know right! Time to go!
So many amazing beaches! I second Coronado, CA!
We loved it when we went!
As a So Cal resident, I love the beaches in Santa Barbara area, too. Malibu is nice as well, but usually more crowded. Santa Cruz is gorgeous. And I’ve been to the black sand beach in Hawaii and it’s so cool!
California is our go to vacation. It is within driving distance so that makes it the most appealing.
Thank so much for the wonderful pictures. I may not be able to visit these spots right now, but its nice to dream about a future trip.
I know, I think this is the dream post!
I love looking at all the choices. There are so many awesome beaches. I have always wanted to get to Aruba and I have always enjoyed visits to Del Coronado and having lunch on the back patio followed by a stroll on the beach. It is neat how they have the one hallway inside with pictures of all the dignitaries and celebrities that have visited or filmed there. If you remember a TV show named Simon and Simon, a lot of filming was done there too. I am ready for the beach now!
We went to Del Coronado last December and it is so beautiful!
I think the beach is calling! Beautiful pics! 1st beach my husband and I went to together was in Aruba on our honeymoon! So many more to visit. Great list!
That sounds like a wonderful honeymoon spot!
What an awesome list of locations! So many options and very expansive. Definitely need to add a few of these to the list! Thanks for sharing bud.
Yes, It is amazing! I can’t wait to travel abroad again!
Fantastic post. Take me to the beach in Greece. I can’t wait!
That is on my dream list for sure!
I’ve checked a few of these off my list, but Sanibel is still one of my favorite beaches in the world.
Your not the first person to say that. I think I might go next time I’m there.
We’ve been to Panama City Beach Fl, and a ton of beaches on Maui (honeymoon). My husband is half Filipino (his dad came to the US when he was 20) so it would be nice to visit the Philippines someday. Eventually I’d love to go to all of these beaches!
That is awesome! I would love to go there too!
I don’t think I’ve visited a beach that I truly did not love. You’ve shared some extraordinary ones for sure!
Yes, I love relaxing at the beach!
This is a great list. I’m lucky enough to have a Sanibel right around the corner so I get to experience its beauty on a regular basis. I’ll def need to add some more of these to the vacation list though.
So nice to live near the beach. I am landlocked so I have to dream!
I’ve never heard of some of these beachs! They look like amazing places to travel to, I love beaches!
I know, there are so many amazing places!
This is giving me major beach envy! I love all these beautiful photos and inspiration. Great round-up!
Thanks, I know I am ready to go!
We’re so lucky to live within 15 minutes of the beach. I sometimes forget that running to the beach for a couple of hours isn’t an option for most of America.
Beautiful beaches! Once again, you have had me add more destinations to my travel bucket list! Italy and Greece are still on the top!
You have some great beaches. You are blessed to have been able to travel the world and visit them!
This was a collaboration post! I wish I had been to all these beaches!
Love it! Looks like I must visit South America, love the look of those beaches. Never even heard of Pernambuco… the beach there looks wonderful. We have lots of lovely beaches in Europe in pretty much every country that isn’t landlocked – we are lucky
Yes, a beach vacation is always a great idea!