Best Beaches in the World: A Journey to 33 Most Stunning Shores

Best Beaches in the World is a journey of exploration of the world’s most beautiful coastal gems. Based on detailed research and personal exploration, this guide reveals beaches known for their white sands, crystalline waters and unique vibes. From the peaceful, historic shores of Europe to the lively, culture-rich beaches of South America, each destination has been carefully chosen to offer a unique experience. Imagine yourself relaxing on these beautiful beaches, each one of them offers an unforgettable experience for beach lovers in quest of their own paradise. As we delve deeper into the details, we’ll uncover hidden gems and popular spots alike, and offer a glimpse into details that make each beach special.

1. Railay Beach, Thailand

Accessible by boat , Railay is a climbing paradise with its majestic cliffs of limestone and white sandy shores. This beach offers a blend of adventure and serenity, surrounded by rich vegetation and crystal-clear waters.

Activties: 

• Cave exploration by kayak: Discover hidden sea caves along the coastline as you navigate the crystal clear waters.
• Guided Jungle Treks: Discover the area’s rich flora and fauna on an adventurous trek through lush jungles.
• Dine under the stars: With the starry sky and the sound of the waves as your backdrop, enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach.

2. Havelock Island, India 

Havelock Island, India: Known for its vibrant coral reefs, this peaceful retreat is perfect for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Havelock Island offers a calm escape surrounded by the pure beauty of nature.

Activities: 

• Bird Watching and Nature Walks: Take guided nature walks to explore the island’s exotic birdlife and lush greenery.
• Night Kayaking: Experience the magic of the glowing waters at night as you kayak through the bioluminescent water tides.
• Village Cultural Tours: Visit local villages for a glimpse into the rich culture and way of life of the island’s inhabitants.

3. Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is famous for its mix of soft white sand and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy activities ranging from kite surfing to snorkeling along its beautiful beaches.

Activities: 

• Kite Surfing: Suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, ride the wind and surf Boracay’s clear waters.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the coral reefs surrounding the island and discover the vibrant marine life.
• Sunset Sailing: Watch the stunning sunset over the horizon while enjoying a peaceful sailing experience.

4. Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia 

Nusa Dua, known for its luxury resorts, offers golden beaches and calm blue waters. This family-friendly destination is ideal for water sports and relaxation.

Activities: 

• Parasail and jet ski: Get your adrenaline pumping with water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing. Enjoy the blue waters of the ocean.
• Beach Yoga Sessions: Join yoga classes on the beach in a serene environment for relaxation and regeneration.
• Cultural dances: Explore Bali’s rich cultural heritage with traditional dance performances on the beach.

5. Whitehaven Beach, Australia 

With its 7 kilometers of pure white sand and turquoise waters, Whitehaven Beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling in a natural environment.

Activities: 

• Scenic flights: Take a helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach.
• Hill Inlet Walks: Walk to Hill Inlet and enjoy panoramic views of the swirling sand and turquoise water.
• Picnics on the beach: Enjoy a quiet picnic on the pure white sand, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia 

Known for its romantic on-water bungalows and breathtaking blue lagoons, Bora Bora is a paradise for lovers. Its beautiful beaches offer an unbeatable tropical escape.

Activities: 

• Overwater Bungalow Stays: Experience luxury as you stay in iconic overwater bungalows with direct access to the lagoon.
• Lagoon Boat Tours: Explore the beauty of the lagoon on guided boat tours, including stops to swim and snorkel.
• Spa Services: Treat yourself to relaxing spa therapies that incorporate traditional Polynesian healing techniques.

7. Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

A surfer’s paradise, this wide, golden-sand beach is also a popular spot for sandboarding and fishing, offering a diverse selection of coastal activities.

Activities: 

• Surfing and Sandboarding: For an adventurous experience, surf the waves or sandboard down the dunes.
• 4WD Beach Tours: Take an exciting four-wheel drive tour to explore the length and beauty of the beach.
• Horseback Rides: Ride along the beach and enjoy the beautiful coastal landscape.

8. Champagne Beach, Vanuatu 

Renowned for its sparkling waters, Champagne Beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a quiet and beautiful swimming experience.

Activities: 

• Swim in Natural Fizz: Swim in the unique sparkling waters that give the beach its name.
• Nature hikes and picnics: Explore the surrounding greenery on a nature walk, followed by a relaxing picnic on the beach.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the vibrant underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving excursions.

9. Navagio Beach, Greece 

Reachable exclusively by boat, this isolated bay is famous for its stunning cliffs and azure waters, as well as for the iconic shipwreck that decorates its sands.

Activities: 

• Shipwreck Cruises: Take a boat trip to get up close and personal with the famous shipwreck and enjoy the breathtaking blue waters.
• Base Jumping: Experience base jumping from the surrounding high cliffs for the adrenaline junkies.
• Photo Shoot Sessions: Shoot the breathtaking landscape that makes this a photographer’s paradise.

 10. Durdle Door, England 

With its stunning natural limestone arch, this beach on the Jurassic coast offers fine stony sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for nature lovers.

Activities: 

• Kayak and Paddleboard: For unique views of the arch, explore the coastline by kayak or paddleboard.
• Coastal hikes: Take a stroll along the Jurassic Coast and take in the spectacular sea and cliff views.
• Wildlife Watching: Ideal for nature lovers, you can spot a variety of marine life and birds.

11. Cala Goloritzé, Italy 

A UNESCO-protected jewel of Sardinia, known for its clear waters and picturesque walks. This beach is a haven of peace and natural beauty.

Activities:

• Scenic Hiking Trails: Reach the beach via a scenic trail with stunning coastline views.
• Snorkeling in crystal clear waters: Snorkel the clear, blue waters and discover the underwater beauty.
• Photographing Opportunities: Capture the scenic beach with its towering cliffs and unique rock formations.

12. Reynisfjara, Iceland 

A breathtaking black sand beach known for its high waves and impressive rock columns, offering a spectacular and unique landscape.

Activities:

• Sightseeing and photography: Explore the beach’s unique black sand and basalt columns. It’s a photographer’s paradise.
• Birdwatching: Spot various species, including puffins at certain times of year.
• Local Attractions: Visit nearby natural attractions, including the famous basalt cave.

13. Copacabana Beach, Brazil 

Rio de Janeiro’s iconic beach offers both golden sands and a vibrant atmosphere, reflecting the true essence of Brazilian beach culture.

Activities: 

• Beach volleyball and soccer: Take part in some of the busiest sporting activities on the iconic sandy beach.
• Sunset walks: Walk along the boardwalk and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and wonderful sunset view.
• Cultural Festivals: Experience the rich culture of Rio by joining local festivals and events.

14. Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos 

With its clear blue waters and soft white sands, Grace Bay is a diving paradise and the perfect tropical beach destination.

Activities:

• Catamaran Cruises: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the ocean while sailing on a catamaran.
• Horse Riding on the Beach: Ride along the unspoiled coastline and experience the unique pleasure of horseback riding.
• Big Game Fishing: Go on a fishing adventure in the rich waters of the Caribbean.

15. Tulum Beach, Mexico

A blend of historic Mayan ruins and breathtaking beaches, Tulum offers a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty in a calm, peaceful setting.

Activities:

• Cenote Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the nearby cenotes, which offer a unique underwater experience.
• Yoga Retreats: Surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility, join yoga sessions on the beach.
• Visits to archaeological sites: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins that are located just steps from the beach.

16. Lanikai Beach, Hawaii, USA

 Known for its soft sand and clear, clear azure waters, Lanikai is ideal for quiet beach days and spectacular sunrises.

Activities:

• Kayak island hopping: For a day of exploration and wildlife viewing, paddle to the nearby Mokulua Islands.
• Paddleboarding: Take advantage of the calm waters with a session of stand-up paddleboarding.
• Sunrise Photography: Capture the breathtaking sunrise, a perfect moment for photographers.

17. Varadero Beach, Cuba

Covering 20 kilometers, this beach is well known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for both relaxing and water sports.

Activities: 

• Meet the dolphins: Experience the thrill of swimming with dolphins at nearby dolphinariums.
• Cave Explorations: For a unique spelunking experience, explore the nearby Bellamar Caves.
• Beach Golf: Enjoy stunning ocean views and a round of golf at the nearby Varadero Golf Club.

18. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

 With its granite rocks and sparkling waters, this beach is a paradise for divers and photographers.

Activities: 

• Climbing and hiking: Explore the unique granite rock formations with guided rock climbing and hiking tours.
• Beach massages: Relax to the sound of the waves with a beachside massage.
• Sunset Photography: Create an unforgettable photographic experience by capturing the stunning sunset.

19. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

Unique for its pink-colored sand and its crystal-clear waters, this beach offers a special and unique memorable experience.

Activities: 

• Sunset Riding: Experience a horseback ride along the beach while enjoying a picturesque sunset.
• Reef snorkel and scuba diving: Explore the nearby coral reefs on a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.
• Picnics on the Beach: Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the unique pink sands of the beach.

20. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

 A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this island is renowned for its unspoilt beaches and rich marine life, ideal for ecotourists and divers.

Activities: 

• Ecological tours: Join Eco-Tours to explore the island’s unique biodiversity and learn about the efforts made to conserve the island.
• Windsurfing: Catch the waves at some of the best surf spots in Brazil, suitable for all levels of surfers.
• Dolphin watching: Take a boat trip to see dolphins in their natural home.

21. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

 Well-known for its long coral-sand beach, clean waters and vibrant underwater life, this beach is popular with snorkelers and water sports enthusiasts.

Activities: 

• Jet Ski: Experience the excitement of jet skiing along the shoreline of the beach.
• Beachfront horseback riding: Enjoy a peaceful horseback ride along the shoreline of the beach.
• Sunset Cruises: Take a sunset cruise for a breathtaking view and a relaxing evening on the beach.

22. Santa Monica Beach, USA 

This iconic beach is popular for its vibrant pier and lively atmosphere, offering a range of activities from beach sports to relaxing walks.

Activities: 

• Pier amusement rides: Enjoy riding and playing at the Santa Monica Pier.
• Beach Path Biking: Rent a bike and take a ride on the scenic path along the beach.
• Outdoor fitness and yoga: Join in the fitness and yoga classes that are offered in the beach area.

23. Malibu, California, USA 

Combining luxury and relaxed vibes, Malibu is renowned for its celebrity residences and prime surfing spots.

Activities: 

• Surf lessons: Take a surf lesson at one of the many famous surf spots along the beach.
• Hike the Santa Monica hills: Discover the hiking paths in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains.

24. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Appreciated for its clear waters and exciting nightlife, Playa del Carmen offers a balanced mix of pure relaxation and entertainment.

Activities: 

• Dive in Cenotes: Explore the unique cenote caverns with a scuba diving excursion.
• Cultural Tours: Get to know the local culture by visiting the nearby Mayan Ruins and other cultural sites.
• Beach Clubs and Night Out: Enjoy the exciting nightlife and beach clubs all along the coast.

25. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, USA

This world-famous beach is ideal for surfing and swimming, surrounded by a thriving atmosphere of shopping and hotels.

Activities: 

• Experience a traditional Hawaiian Luau: Experience a traditional Hawaiian celebration with cultural performances.
• Surfing and paddle boarding: Take lessons or enjoy surfing and stand-up paddleboarding in the iconic waters.
• Visiting zoos and aquariums: For family-friendly activities, visit the nearby Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo.

26. Bondi Beach, Australia 

A symbol of Australian seaside culture, Bondi is popular for its golden sands, surf-friendly waves and local community events.

Activities: 

• Coastal walking: Enjoy the famous coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee with its breathtaking views.
• Community events on the beach: Take part in the many beach events and festivals that take place during the year.
• Skateboard in Bondi Skate Park: Try skateboarding at the beachfront skatepark.

27. Camps Bay, South Africa

Best known for its picturesque setting at the foot of the Twelve Apostles mountains. It offers breathtaking sunsets and vibrant beaches.

Activities:

• Paragliding: Experience a paragliding flight from the nearby cliffs for a breathtaking view.
• Sunset Cocktails: Enjoy a drink at one of the beachfront restaurants while watching the stunning sunset.
• Mountain Hikes: Climb nearby Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles to take in the panoramic views.

28. Byron Bay, Australia 

This beautiful beach is famous for its surf spots and alternative lifestyle. It offers beautiful sandy beaches and a chilled-out atmosphere.

Activities: 

• Whale watching tours: Join whale watching tours during migration season.
• Workshops on alternative lifestyles: Take part in local workshops on topics such as wellness and sustainable living.
• Live Music: Enjoy live music in different locations around the beachfront.

29. Maya Bay, Thailand 

Best known for its role in “The Beach”, this iconic spot offers breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. A picturesque beach not to be missed.

Activities: 

• Speedboat and longtail tours: Take a boat tour to explore the bay and surrounding islands.
• Snorkeling in the clear waters: See vibrant marine life while snorkeling in crystal clear waters.
• Camping on the Beach: Experience an overnight camping trip on the beach (where permitted).

30. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand 

Famous for its quiet beaches and lively nightlife. It offers a good balance of rest and fun in a stunning natural landscape.

Activities: 

• Island Hopping: Join organized island hopping tours to explore the surrounding islands.
• Fire Shows on the Beach: Watch the mesmerizing fire shows that are performed on the beach at night.
• Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world with a scuba diving trip around the islands.

31. Clifton Beaches, South Africa 

Made up of four bays reputed to have beautiful views and clear waters where Luxury meets natural beauty.

Activities: 

• Sunbathe and Relax: Clifton Beaches has four different coves where you can enjoy the sun and relax.
• Picnic and Barbecue: Picnic or barbecue on the beach, especially when the sun is setting.
• Volleyball: These wide sandy beaches are perfect for beach volleyball games.

32. Praia do Sancho, Brazil

Often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. It’s a breathtaking destination known for its clear waters and diverse marine life.

Activities: 

• Underwater Photography: Capture the vibrant life of the underwater world with photo sessions.
• Cliff Hiking: For breathtaking views of the coastline, hike along the cliffs surrounding the beach
• Sea Turtle Watching: Observe sea turtles in their natural habitat, especially during the nesting season.

33. La Dune Blanche, Dakhla, Morocco

A unique beach where the white sand of the dune meets the turquoise waters of the lagoon. With its peaceful landscape, it is ideal for kite surfing and relaxation.

Activities: 

• Kite Surfing: Experience the thrill of kite surfing in the steady winds of the lagoon.
• Desert Tours: Explore the desert landscapes of the surrounding area with guided tours.
• Birdwatching: Observe diverse bird species in this unique ecosystem.

Bottom Line

Now that you’ve discovered the world’s most amazing beaches and the exciting activities they offer, it’s time to make your dream beach trip happen. Pick your favorite spot from this list, pack your bags, and get ready for a beach adventure you will never forget!

Frequently Asked Questions