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Most beautiful beaches and coastal escapes

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Cancún
Sun, sea and ancient wonders
7.8
A narrow barrier island shaped like the number seven separates Cancun's Hotel Zone beaches from a calm inland lagoon. The Caribbean side has fine white sand made largely from ground coral and limestone. Constant sea breeze keeps the sand cool underfoot. Just offshore, a sunken sculpture museum called MUSA gives snorkellers something new to explore.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Snorkel with vibrant marine life at Underwater Museum
  • 🏺 Explore ancient Mayan ruins at El Rey archaeological site
  • 🏖️ Relax on the powdery sands of Playa Delfines
Boracay
Powdery white sands and turquoise waters
7.8
A thin strip of White Beach faces west across the Sulu Sea. It stretches four kilometres, giving Boracay some of the region's most reliable sunsets. The island is barely a kilometre wide at points, so the beach dominates daily life. Powder fine sand, made largely of crushed coral, stays cool underfoot in the afternoon heat.
Highlights:
  • 🛥️ Explore the caves of Crystal Cove Island by boat
  • ⛵ Watch breathtaking sunsets from a paraw sailboat
  • 🏖️ Relax on the famous White Beach’s powdery sand
Ko Phi Phi
Tropical Paradise Awaits You
7.7
Maya Bay sits inside a sheer limestone cove made famous by the film The Beach. Its sand is soft and pale, framed by cliffs on three sides. Snorkellers can spot reef sharks and colourful fish just off the shore. The bay reopened to visitors after a long coral recovery closure.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Swim and snorkel around Bamboo and Mosquito Islands
  • 🚤 Take a boat tour to Maya Bay and Pi Leh Lagoon
  • 🌄 Hike to the stunning Phi Phi Viewpoint for panoramic views
Mauritius
Tropical Bliss in the Indian Ocean
8.6
Le Morne Brabant rises sharply above a lagoon on the island's southwest tip. Its steep basalt cliffs once sheltered runaway slaves during the 1800s. Kitesurfers now use the steady trade winds off the point year round. The mountain and its beach together form a UNESCO listed site.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel among coral reefs in Blue Bay Marine Park
  • 🥾 Hike to the summit of Le Morne Brabant
  • 🏝️ Relax on the turquoise shores of Trou-aux-Biches Beach
St. Martin
Dual-Nation Beaches, Cuisine and Culture
7.8
Maho Beach sits directly beneath the flight path into Princess Juliana Airport. Landing jets pass just meters above sunbathers stretched out on the sand. Visitors can feel the strong engine wind as planes descend towards the runway. A nearby beach bar tracks daily flight schedules on a chalkboard.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Orient Bay Beach
  • 🥾 Hike to the highest point at Pic Paradis
  • ✈️ Watch planes land at the famous Maho Beach
Grand Cayman
Crystal waters, stingrays and sunsets
8.8
A stop at Stingray City puts visitors waist deep in the North Sound. There they wade among wild southern stingrays gathered at a sandbar offshore. Grand Cayman pairs that experience with Seven Mile Beach on the opposite coast. The island offers both a wildlife encounter and a classic stretch of white sand.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Eden Rock Reef
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Seven Mile Beach
  • 🐋 Swim with stingrays at the famous Stingray City sandbar
Phuket
Beaches, Culture and Nightlife
8.1
Patong Beach runs along the island's busiest stretch of coast in western Phuket. Jet skis and parasails fill the water while vendors line the sand through the dry season. Visitors can swim by day and walk the nearby nightlife strip after dark. Quieter bays like Kata sit just a short drive south.
Highlights:
  • 🏘️ Explore colorful streets of Phuket Old Town
  • 🗿 Climb to the serene Big Buddha viewpoint
  • 🏖️ Relax on Patong Beach and enjoy vibrant nightlife
Barbados
Tropical paradise with year-round sunshine
8.1
Fishermen still bring their catch straight to Oistins on Friday nights. A beachfront fish fry there has become one of the island's longest running traditions. Bottom Bay, framed by coconut palms and a low cliff, stays quieter than the west coast resorts. Flying fish, the island's signature dish, often headline the evening menu.
Highlights:
  • 🥃 Tour the historic Mount Gay Rum Distillery
  • 🐢 Snorkel with sea turtles in Carlisle Bay’s clear waters
  • 🏖️ Relax on the powdery white sands of Crane Beach
Palawan
Paradise of Lagoons and Limestone Cliffs
8.2
El Nido's Bacuit Archipelago is made up of limestone cliffs rising from turquoise water. Hidden lagoons sit tucked behind narrow cracks in the rock walls. Visitors can kayak into these lagoons or snorkel around the scattered islands. Boat tours typically hop between four or five lagoons in a day.
Highlights:
  • 🏝️ Go island hopping around the turquoise waters of Coron Bay
  • 🛶 Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • ⛵ Sail through the limestone cliffs and lagoons of El Nido
Byron Bay
Bohemian Beaches and Laid-Back Vibes
8.3
Byron Bay trades high rise resorts for a laid back surf town feel. Its lighthouse marks the continent's easternmost point. Whales pass close to shore during their winter migration. The main beach breaks gently enough for beginner surfers. Heavier swells further along the coastline suit more experienced riders.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Kayak with dolphins in the clear coastal waters
  • 🏄‍♀️ Surf the waves at Main Beach or Wategos Beach
  • 🌅 Watch sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia's easternmost point
Ibiza
Mediterranean Energy, Timeless Charm
8.2
Ibiza's beaches split into two moods. Loud beach clubs and sunset bars cluster around Cala Comte on one side. Quieter coves reachable only by boat or dirt track sit on the other. Despite the island's global club scene, protected Posidonia seagrass meadows offshore keep the surrounding water unusually clear.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Visit Dalt Vila, Ibiza's UNESCO-listed Old Town
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine beaches of Cala Comte and Cala Bassa
  • 🎉 Explore the legendary nightlife at Ibiza's famous clubs
Bora Bora
Turquoise Lagoons, Overwater Dreams
8.4
Mount Otemanu's jagged green peak reflects across a lagoon so pale blue it looks lit from below. Overwater bungalows were first built here in 1967, letting guests step straight from bed into the water. Reef sharks and stingrays glide close to shore. The barrier reef keeps the lagoon calm enough to wade through most days.
Highlights:
  • 🚤 Take a private boat tour around Mount Otemanu
  • 🏝️ Stay overnight in a classic overwater bungalow
  • 🐠 Snorkel crystal-clear lagoon with rays and tropical fish
Aruba
White Sands and Sunny Vibes
8.3
Steady trade winds bend the divi divi trees sideways along Eagle Beach. Their permanent lean has become the island's postcard image. The white sand stays cool underfoot even at midday. Water here holds a pale turquoise colour rarely broken by waves. Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, keeping conditions calm most of the year.
Highlights:
  • ⛰️ Climb the volcanic Hooiberg Hill for panoramic island views
  • 🐢 Snorkel among sea turtles at Boca Catalina Bay
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Eagle Beach
Antigua
365 beaches and turquoise waters
7.8
While many Caribbean islands claim a handful of standout beaches, Antigua counts 365. That works out to one for every day of the year. Dickenson Bay draws crowds with watersports and lively beach bars. Half Moon Bay, on the wilder east coast, stays far quieter. Coral reefs keep the water calm enough for swimming.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Hike to Shirley Heights for sunset and steel drum music
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Dickenson Bay Beach
  • ⚓ Explore historic Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO site
La Digue
Secluded island with dream beaches
8.3
Anse Source d'Argent is framed by giant pink granite boulders shaped over centuries. The shallow, calm water sits behind a natural reef barrier. Visitors can wade between the boulders or snorkel just past the reef. Bicycles are the main way to reach the beach across the island.
Highlights:
  • 🥾 Hike to the scenic Nid d’Aigle viewpoint
  • 🏖️ Relax and snorkel at the famous Anse Source d’Argent
  • 🚲 Cycle around La Digue’s serene island roads
Mahé
Tropical Paradise with a Wild Side
8.6
Beau Vallon Beach stretches along Mahe's northwest coast beneath the Seychelles' forested hills. Its calm, sheltered water rarely sees strong currents or big waves. Swimmers and paddleboarders can stay close to shore for most of the year. A lively night market sets up along the sand each Wednesday evening.
Highlights:
  • 🏞️ Hike to the summit of Morne Seychellois for panoramic views
  • 🤿 Snorkel in Sainte Anne Marine National Park’s coral reefs
  • 🏖️ Relax on the powdery white sands of Beau Vallon Beach
Maldives
Coral atolls, lagoons and overwater villas
9.2
Many resorts here sit on private coral islands ringed by shallow house reefs. The water stays warm and clear across nearly every atoll. Snorkellers can step off overwater bungalows straight into reef fish and small sharks. Some lagoons glow blue at night from bioluminescent plankton.
Highlights:
  • 🌌 Watch a glowing beach at night on Vaadhoo Island
  • 🦈 Snorkel with reef sharks and manta rays at Hanifaru Bay
  • 🏝️ Stay in an overwater villa surrounded by turquoise lagoon
Whitsunday Islands
Paradise within Great Barrier Reef
9.0
Whitehaven Beach is made of silica sand so pure it barely holds heat underfoot. Its swirling shallows blend white sand and blue water at Hill Inlet. Visitors can view the pattern from a lookout point above the beach. Boat tours often anchor offshore for the day.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel vibrant coral reefs at Hardy and Bait Reefs
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Whitehaven Beach
  • ⛵ Sail the turquoise waters between the beautiful islands
Esperance
Australia's Whitest Beaches and Turquoise Waters
8.6
Esperance sits on Australia's remote southern coast, where the Southern Ocean meets some of the whitest sand in the country. At Lucky Bay, inside Cape Le Grand National Park, kangaroos often nap on the sand near swimmers. Turquoise water this far south stays cold. The scenery still draws visitors regardless of the temperature.
Highlights:
  • 🥾 Explore Cape Le Grand National Park’s rugged trails and beaches
  • ⛰️ Hike to Frenchman Peak for panoramic coastal views
  • 🏖️ Visit the stunning pink sands and turquoise waters of Lucky Bay
Fernando de Noronha
World's Best Beaches and Dolphins
8.5
Brazil caps the number of daily visitors to this volcanic archipelago and charges an environmental fee. The policy keeps Baia do Sancho, ranked repeatedly among the world's best beaches, free of crowds. Spinner dolphins gather each morning in the bay named for them. They are visible from the cliffs above without needing a boat.
Highlights:
  • 🛥️ Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and sea turtles
  • ⛰️ Hike to the Morro Dois Irmãos viewpoint for stunning vistas
  • 🤿 Snorkel vibrant reefs at Baía do Sancho, world’s top beach
Havelock Island
Tropical Paradise with Underwater Wonders
7.9
Visit Radhanagar Beach in late afternoon, after the day trip crowds thin out. Sunset then lights up the water in gold. Time magazine named it Asia's best beach in 2004. The title draws visitors to its two kilometre stretch of white sand, backed by dense forest on the Andaman Sea.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Kayak through mangroves for peaceful nature views
  • 🤿 Snorkel and dive among vibrant coral reefs
  • 🏖️ Relax and swim at the famous Radhanagar Beach
Kefalonia
Wild Beauty of the Ionian Sea
8.6
Myrtos Beach curves beneath towering limestone cliffs on the island's northwest coast. Its pebbles are bright white, giving the water an almost turquoise glow. Visitors can hike down a steep switchback road for sweeping views before reaching the shore. The beach featured in the film Captain Corelli's Mandolin.
Highlights:
  • 🍷 Taste local Robola wine at a mountain winery
  • 🛶 Sail to Melissani Cave and see the blue-lit lake
  • 🏖️ Swim in the turquoise waters of Myrtos Beach
Lakshadweep
Pristine coral paradise off India
8.3
Agatti Island's lagoon shifts through shades of turquoise depending on the tide and light. Its coral reef sits close enough to shore for easy access on foot. Snorkellers can drift over the reef without needing a boat or guide. Special permits are required for outside visitors to reach these islands.
Highlights:
  • 🛥️ Enjoy a lagoon cruise through the Lakshadweep atolls
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Agatti Beach
  • 🤿 Dive into the coral reefs around Kadmat Island
Providenciales
Turquoise Waters Meet White-Sand Beaches
8.5
Grace Bay stretches for about 19 kilometres along the island's north shore. Its fine white sand stays soft even at the water's edge. Visitors can snorkel the offshore reef or simply wade into the shallow, calm water. Resorts here have repeatedly topped travel award rankings for the beach.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Snorkel vibrant coral reefs at Bight Reef
  • 🌊 Explore the stunning turquoise waters of Chalk Sound National Park
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Grace Bay Beach
Algarve
Golden cliffs and azure waters
8.5
Golden limestone cliffs glow orange at sunset along the Algarve coast, dropping into clear green water below. Hidden coves like Praia da Marinha appear only after a short hike or boat ride. Sea caves such as Benagil were carved slowly by the Atlantic. Inside, sunlight filters through a natural skylight in the rock.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Visit Lagos Old Town and its historic fortifications
  • 🌊 Relax on Praia da Marinha, one of Europe’s best beaches
  • ⛱️ Explore the stunning sea caves and cliffs of Benagil
Baja California Sur
Desert meets ocean adventure land
8.2
This peninsula splits the Pacific Ocean from the Sea of Cortez. Jacques Cousteau once called these waters the aquarium of the world. Balandra Beach near La Paz has calm, shallow turquoise water and a mushroom shaped rock. Whale sharks and sea lions gather offshore for much of the year.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine beaches of Playa Balandra
  • 🐋 Watch grey whales breach near the lagoons of Magdalena Bay
  • 🦈 Swim alongside whale sharks in the Bay of La Paz
Dalmatia
Adriatic Coastline of Ancient Wonders
8.6
Zlatni Rat's white pebble tongue juts out from the island of Brač. Its tip shifts shape slightly with the current and wind each season. Pine forest lines the beach, offering shade rare on this rocky coastline. Clear Adriatic water drops off quickly from shore. That makes the beach as popular with windsurfers as with sunbathers.
Highlights:
  • 🚤 Island-hop to hidden gems like Koločep and Lopud
  • 🏰 Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trogir’s Old Town
  • 🌅 Walk along the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik for panoramic views
Anguilla
Pristine beaches and turquoise waters
7.8
Every March, reggae musician Bankie Banx turns his driftwood beach bar on Rendezvous Bay into the site of Moonsplash. He started the festival in 1991. Big names like Jimmy Buffett have played there since. The rest of the year, the same white sand crescent stays quiet. Low rise hotels keep crowds away from the shoreline.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel with colorful reef fish at Little Bay
  • ⛵ Sail around the island’s turquoise waters on a catamaran
  • 🏖️ Relax on the powdery white sands of Shoal Bay
Antigua and Barbuda
Tropical paradise with pristine beaches
7.6
Barbuda, the quieter half of this twin island nation, has a seventeen mile beach. Crushed coral and shell fragments tint the sand pink. Fewer than two thousand people live on the island, so the shore often stretches empty in both directions. Antigua, its sister island, adds hundreds more coves within a short ferry ride.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Explore historic Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour
  • 🤿 Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs at Cades Reef
  • 🌸 Relax on the famous pink sands of Barbuda Beach
British Virgin Islands
Pristine sailing paradise with beaches
8.2
Sail here between December and April, the dry season for the BVI's daily island hopping by boat. Steady trade winds make the crossings easy most days. The Baths on Virgin Gorda hide small pools between giant granite boulders. Flat, coral bound Anegada has some of the quietest beaches in the entire chain.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel over coral gardens in the crystal waters of Norman Island
  • 🏞️ Swim through the massive granite boulders at The Baths
  • ⛵ Sail between Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada islands
Cayman Islands
Tropical paradise with crystal waters
8.8
Locals and visitors gather at Seven Mile Beach for sunset, a nightly ritual on the island's signature stretch of sand. Caribbean Travel and Life magazine named it the Caribbean's best beach in 2015. The beach is public property along its full length. Anyone can walk it, regardless of which resort they are staying at.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Seven Mile Beach
  • 🤿 Dive among coral reefs and shipwrecks in Grand Cayman
  • 🐠 Swim with stingrays at the famous Stingray City sandbar
Turks and Caicos Islands
Sun-drenched beaches with crystal waters
8.3
The islands sit along the world's third largest barrier reef system. Its coral wall drops steeply into deep water just offshore in several spots. Divers can explore vertical walls covered in sponges and soft coral formations. Chalk Sound nearby glows an almost unnatural shade of bright turquoise.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the powdery sands of Long Bay Beach
  • ⛵ Sail through turquoise waters around Providenciales
  • 🤿 Dive the world-famous coral walls at Grace Bay
Los Angeles
The city of stars, beaches and dreams
8.8
Venice Beach is known for its boardwalk lined with street performers and vendors. The original canals nearby were built in the early 1900s to mimic Venice, Italy. Visitors can watch skaters at the beachside skate park or rent bikes along the path. Muscle Beach, the outdoor gym, sits just steps from the sand.
Highlights:
  • 🎡 Spend a sunny afternoon at Santa Monica Pier and beach
  • 🥾 Hike to the Hollywood Sign for sweeping city views
  • 🎬 Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and find your favorite stars
Rio de Janeiro
The heartbeat of Brazil's coast
8.1
Copacabana Beach curves for about four kilometres along Rio de Janeiro's southern coast. Its black and white wave pattern pavement was designed back in the 1970s. Visitors can play beach volleyball or sip fresh coconut water from small kiosks. Sugarloaf Mountain rises in clear view just across the bay.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the iconic sands of Copacabana Beach
  • ✝️ Stand before Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain
  • 🚠 Take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views
San Diego
California's perfect weather playground
7.5
La Jolla Cove is a small, cliff-lined inlet along San Diego's coast. Sea lions and seals regularly haul out on the rocks nearby. Visitors can snorkel in the protected cove or watch wildlife from the cliffside path. Kayak tours often paddle past sea caves just around the point.
Highlights:
  • 🦭 Relax at La Jolla Cove and watch sea lions bask
  • 🚢 Visit the historic USS Midway Museum on Navy Pier
  • 🦓 Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park
Crete
A Journey Through History and Nature
8.1
Elafonisi's pink tinted sand comes from crushed shells of a tiny marine organism called foraminifera. Bermuda's beaches share the same source of colour. A shallow lagoon separates the mainland from a small island where the pink shows most clearly. Balos, a lagoon on Crete's northwest tip, adds turquoise water framed by dry, rocky hills.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pink sands of Elafonissi Beach
  • 🥾 Hike the dramatic Samaria Gorge for stunning views
  • 🏛️ Visit the ancient Palace of Knossos near Heraklion
Hawaii
Tropical Vibes and Volcanic Wonders
8.8
Green sand at Papakolea Beach on the Big Island comes from olivine crystals eroded out of a nearby volcanic cone. It is one of only a few beaches like it on Earth. Elsewhere, Punaluu's black sand beach draws visitors hoping to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles. Sightings there are common most mornings.
Highlights:
  • 🥾 Hike the Na Pali Coast trail on Kauai
  • 🐠 Snorkel among colorful coral reefs in Hanauma Bay
  • 🌋 Watch sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā Volcano
Kauai
Lush Landscapes and Secluded Beaches
8.9
The Na Pali Coast's green cliffs rise straight up from the Pacific. No road reaches this side of Kauai, so visitors arrive by boat, kayak or a demanding trail. Hanalei Bay is easier to reach and curves beneath mountains wrapped in cloud. Its water stays warm and calm enough to swim most of the year.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Snorkel at Poipu Beach with vibrant marine life
  • 🚤 Take a boat tour along the Na Pali Coast
  • 🌄 Hike the breathtaking trails of Waimea Canyon
Mykonos
Whitewashed beauty and wild nights
8.0
Paradise Beach on the island's south coast is known for its lively beach clubs. Loud music and sunbeds line the sand through the high season. Visitors can dance through the afternoon or swim in the calm bay between sets. A short walk leads to the quieter Super Paradise Beach nearby.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Watch the sunset from the iconic Mykonos windmills
  • 🏖️ Relax on the golden sands of Psarou Beach
  • 🏘️ Wander through the whitewashed alleys of Mykonos Town
Tulum
Ruins, reefs and boho beaches
6.8
Ancient Mayan ruins sit perched on a cliff directly above Tulum's beach. The clifftop temple once served as a lookout point for arriving trade ships. Visitors can swim in the turquoise water just below the ancient ruins. Nearby freshwater cenotes offer another kind of swimming a short drive inland.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Tulum Beach
  • 💧 Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Gran Cenote
  • 🏛️ Explore ancient Mayan ruins perched overlooking Caribbean Sea
Zakynthos
Turquoise Waters and Hidden Caves
7.9
Navagio Beach is reachable only by boat, tucked inside a narrow limestone cove. A rusted shipwreck has sat beached on its sand since the 1980s. Visitors can view the cove from a cliffside platform high above. Boat tours circle close to the wreck for a nearer look.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the serene sands of Porto Limnionas
  • 🌊 Explore the stunning Blue Caves by boat
  • 🚤 Visit the famous Shipwreck Beach and turquoise waters
Maui
Island of Sun, Surf and Serenity
8.8
Waianapanapa State Park holds a black sand beach formed from cooled lava rock. Its cliffs drop straight into churning Pacific surf close by. Visitors can explore sea caves and a natural blowhole along the rugged shoreline. The park sits along the winding, cliffside Road to Hana route.
Highlights:
  • 🐢 Snorkel with turtles at Molokini Crater reef
  • 🚗 Drive the scenic and winding Road to Hana
  • 🌄 Watch sunrise atop Haleakalā volcano summit
Mallorca
Mediterranean Magic: Beaches & Mountains
8.7
Es Trenc stretches along the island's south coast with fine, powdery white sand. Its shallow turquoise water is often compared to the Caribbean. Visitors can walk long stretches of shoreline without crossing a road or building. Wild dunes and pine trees back the beach instead of hotels or bars.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Platja de Muro beach
  • 🕳️ Explore the stunning caves of Cuevas del Drach
  • ⛪ Visit the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria de Palma
Krabi
Paradise of Cliffs and Crystal Waters
7.4
Railay Beach is reachable only by longtail boat, cut off by cliffs on all sides. Its limestone karsts rise straight out of the sand and sea. Climbers can scale the rock faces while others relax on the beach below. Kayakers often paddle to nearby lagoons hidden inside the cliffs.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Watch the sunset at Railay Beach West
  • ⛩️ Climb the 1,237 steps to Tiger Cave Temple
  • 🚤 Take a longtail boat to the Phi Phi Islands
Sardinia
Turquoise seas and ancient secrets
8.5
La Pelosa Beach sits at the island's northern tip, facing a small stone tower. Its shallow, pale turquoise water stays calm even close to shore. Visitors can wade out for long stretches before the seabed drops off. Access is limited in summer to protect the fragile dune system.
Highlights:
  • ⛵ Sail around the crystal-clear waters of Maddalena Archipelago
  • 🏛️ Explore ancient Nuraghe Su Nuraxi archaeological site
  • 🏖️ Relax on the stunning white sands of La Pelosa Beach
Gold Coast
Sun, Surf and Adventure
8.6
Lifeguards patrol Surfers Paradise and the surrounding beaches under a strict flag system. Locals take the rules seriously, a habit born from the coast's powerful rip currents. High rise towers line the shore behind more than fifty kilometres of sand. That gives the Gold Coast a skyline more often linked to cities than beach towns.
Highlights:
  • 🌇 Climb the Q1 SkyPoint for sweeping coastal views
  • 🎢 Ride thrilling roller coasters at Warner Bros. Movie World
  • 🏄‍♂️ Surf the legendary waves at Surfers Paradise Beach
Miami Beach
The ultimate blend of sun, sand and Art Deco charm
8.8
Ocean Drive runs alongside the sand through Miami Beach's Art Deco Historic District. Pastel coloured hotels from the 1930s line the street facing the shore. Visitors can sunbathe by day and walk the strip's cafes by night. Lifeguard towers here are painted in playful, individual designs.
Highlights:
  • 🛍️ Stroll Lincoln Road for shopping and dining delights
  • 🏖️ Relax on sunny sands of famous South Beach
  • 🏛️ Walk the iconic Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District
Cabo San Lucas
Arches, Beaches, Nightlife and Adventure
7.6
El Arco, a natural rock arch, marks the spot where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez. It stands at Land's End, carved by wind and waves. Boats ferry visitors past sea lion colonies to Lover's Beach, a small cove reachable only by water. Sportfishing boats leave daily from the marina in search of marlin.
Highlights:
  • 🏜️ Experience thrilling ATV tours through desert landscapes
  • 🏖️ Relax on vibrant Medano Beach and swim safely
  • ⛵ Explore the iconic El Arco rock formation by boat
Florida
Sunshine State, Endless Adventure
8.6
Siesta Key's sand is made almost entirely of quartz crystal rather than crushed shell. That keeps it white and cool underfoot at midday. Florida's coastline changes character by region. Barrier islands line the Gulf side, while the Keys further south sit closer to living reef. Warm, shallow water makes swimming possible most of the year.
Highlights:
  • 🐊 Spot alligators on an airboat tour in the Everglades
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Miami Beach
  • 🎠 Experience the magic of Walt Disney World in Orlando
Langkawi Island
Tropical Beaches, Rainforests and Sunsets
7.9
Pantai Cenang is Langkawi's busiest beach, lined with bars, shops and resorts. Calm, shallow water here stays swimmable through most tide cycles. Visitors can watch sea eagles circle overhead near the shoreline each afternoon. A cable car nearby climbs to views over the surrounding islands.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Take a mangrove boat tour through Kilim Geoforest Park
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Pantai Cenang Beach
  • 🌉 Ride the Langkawi SkyCab and cross the curved Sky Bridge
Zanzibar
Turquoise Waters and Spice Perfume
7.4
Nungwi sits on Zanzibar's northern tip, largely spared from the island's strong tides. Its beach stays swimmable through most of the day unlike the east coast. Visitors can watch traditional dhow builders working near the shore. Sunset boat trips often depart directly from the beach.
Highlights:
  • 🐒 Visit Jozani Forest to see rare red colobus monkeys
  • 🤿 Snorkel in the clear waters of Mnemba Atoll and spot vibrant marine life
  • 🏰 Explore Stone Town's narrow streets and historic sites
Jamaica
Vibrant culture meets pristine beaches
7.4
Seven Mile Beach in Negril runs along Jamaica's western coast, ending at cliffs where visitors jump into the sea. Reggae music drifts from beach bars set back from the sand. Coral reefs just offshore keep snorkelling conditions calm. Facing west, the beach has a reputation for particularly vivid sunsets.
Highlights:
  • 🎶 Visit Bob Marley’s home and museum in Kingston
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Seven Mile Beach in Negril
  • 💦 Climb up the cascading waters of Dunn’s River Falls
Lefkada
Ionian Gem with Pristine Beaches
8.2
Porto Katsiki Beach sits below a dramatic white cliff on the island's west coast. A long stairway carved into the rock leads down to the sand. Swimmers can float in bright blue water framed by the cliff walls. The beach is one of the most visited spots on Lefkada's coast.
Highlights:
  • 🏄‍♀️ Kite surf at Agios Ioannis beach under the strong summer winds
  • 🌉 Drive across the floating bridge connecting Lefkada to mainland Greece
  • 🏖️ Swim at Porto Katsiki Beach with its dazzling turquoise waters
Armação dos Búzios
Brazil’s Chic Peninsula Playground
7.5
French actress Brigitte Bardot vacationed in this fishing village in 1964. The publicity that followed turned Búzios into one of Brazil's most fashionable coastal escapes almost overnight. A bronze statue of her now sits on the boardwalk. More than twenty beaches ring the peninsula, from calm family coves to surf breaks facing the open Atlantic.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Swim and snorkel at the picturesque João Fernandes Beach
  • 🏄‍♂️ Relax at Geribá Beach, popular for surfing and sunbathing
  • 🌆 Explore the vibrant Rua das Pedras with shops and dining
Saint Lucia
Tropical paradise with volcanic mountains
7.5
Anse Chastanet Beach sits beneath the twin volcanic peaks known as the Pitons. Its dark volcanic sand contrasts sharply with the surrounding green hillsides. Snorkellers can reach a coral reef just a short swim from shore. The Pitons themselves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel the colorful reefs of Anse Chastanet
  • 🫧 Soak in the volcanic Sulphur Springs mud baths
  • ⛰️ Climb the majestic Pitons for breathtaking island views
Milos
Volcanic Beauty with Hidden Coves
8.0
Sarakiniko Beach is carved from bright white volcanic rock shaped like a lunar landscape. Its smooth surfaces were sculpted by wind and sea over centuries. Visitors can jump from low rock ledges into deep, clear water. There is no sand here, only pale stone stretching to the sea.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Climb to Plaka's Venetian Castle for breathtaking sunsets
  • ⚰️ Visit the ancient Catacombs of Milos near Tripiti
  • 🏖️ Explore the stunning white rock formations at Sarakiniko Beach
French Riviera
Glamorous Mediterranean Getaway
8.8
Smooth pebbles rather than sand line much of the Riviera coast. Nice's Promenade des Anglais and the smaller coves near Saint Tropez share this trait. Cliffs and pine covered hills back the shoreline for long stretches between towns. The Mediterranean stays calm most of the year. Water deepens quickly just past the pebble line.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the sandy beaches of Saint-Tropez
  • 🏰 Explore the medieval streets of Eze village
  • 🚶‍♂️ Walk the iconic Promenade des Anglais in Nice
Formentera
Turquoise Waters and Bohemian Calm
7.4
Posidonia seagrass, a plant unique to the Mediterranean, has grown off Formentera for thousands of years. Its underwater meadows are largely responsible for the exceptional clarity of the water. UNESCO recognised the meadows as a World Heritage site in 1999. Ses Illetes beach splits into two sandbars framing a shallow lagoon.
Highlights:
  • 🍤 Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside chiringuito
  • 🌅 Take a sunset walk along Playa de Migjorn
  • 🏖️ Swim in the turquoise waters of Ses Illetes Beach
Broome
Pearl Coast Sunsets and Red Earth
6.8
Camel trains walk the length of Cable Beach at sunset. Tourists and locals turn out to watch most evenings. The beach stretches twenty two kilometres along the Indian Ocean. It is wide enough for four wheel drives at low tide. Some nights, moonlight on the exposed mudflats creates a Staircase to the Moon.
Highlights:
  • ⚓ Learn pearling history at the Pearl Luggers Museum
  • 🌕 Watch the Staircase to the Moon phenomenon
  • 🐪 Ride a camel along Cable Beach at sunset
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Crystal waters and pristine wilderness
8.1
Visit between November and April, when calm seas and clear skies make the outer islands easy to reach by ferry. The territory holds more than five hundred islands. Most stay uninhabited and undeveloped. Coral reefs ring many shores. Mangrove channels wind past tribal reserves that stay closed to outside visitors year round.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Snorkel at Elephant Beach’s vibrant coral reefs
  • 🏰 Explore Cellular Jail, a historic colonial prison
  • 🏖️ Relax on Radhanagar Beach, Asia's best beach
Great Exuma Island
Crystal clear waters and tranquility
7.9
A colony of swimming pigs took up residence on Big Major Cay sometime in the 1990s. Word of their beach antics turned the uninhabited island into one of the Exumas' most visited stops. Elsewhere, the sand at Tropic of Cancer Beach sits almost exactly on its namesake line.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Snorkel at Thunderball Grotto from the James Bond film
  • ⛵ Sail through the crystal-clear waters of the Exuma Cays
  • 🐷 Swim with the famous Exuma pigs at Pig Beach
Ningaloo Coast
Australia's Accessible Underwater Wonderland
9.1
Whale sharks gather along the Ningaloo Coast reef each year between March and July. The reef sits close enough to shore to reach by a short swim. Visitors can snorkel alongside the whale sharks on guided tours. The reef stretches for roughly 260 kilometres along the coastline.
Highlights:
  • 🏞️ Explore Cape Range National Park’s rugged gorges
  • 🤿 Snorkel vibrant coral reefs from sandy beaches
  • 🦈 Swim with gentle whale sharks off the coast
Bermuda
Pink sands and turquoise waters
8.4
Horseshoe Bay's sand carries a real pink tint. Crushed red coral and the shells of tiny organisms called foraminifera give it that colour. The beach curves between coral outcrops that break the surf into calmer pools near shore. The coastline sits farther north than most tropical beach destinations, with cliffs and caves nearby.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Snorkel around vibrant coral reefs in Tobacco Bay
  • 🕳️ Explore the Crystal Caves and marvel at limestone formations
  • 🌸 Relax on the stunning pink sands of Horseshoe Bay Beach
Cook Islands
Tropical paradise with year-round warmth
8.1
The Cook Islands keep building heights capped and resorts small, unlike the more developed islands of French Polynesia nearby. Lagoons like Muri and Aitutaki's stay largely untouched. Aitutaki's lagoon is ringed by a string of tiny motu islets. Its water is so shallow and clear that people compare it to a swimming pool.
Highlights:
  • 🛵 Explore Rarotonga’s lush jungle trails by scooter
  • 🐠 Snorkel over coral gardens filled with tropical fish
  • 🌊 Swim in the turquoise lagoon of Aitutaki
Federated States of Micronesia
Scattered paradise with tropical diversity
7.5
Time a Pohnpei trip around low tide, when sandbars appear leading towards Ant Atoll. This uninhabited ring of islets has the postcard beaches the main island mostly lacks. Chuuk's lagoon holds dozens of sunken World War II ships nearby. Divers explore the wrecks in waters calm enough for snorkelling above them too.
Highlights:
  • 💰 Explore the ancient stone money on Yap Island
  • 🪼 Swim among giant jellyfish in Palau’s Lake
  • 🏛️ Visit the UNESCO-listed Nan Madol ruins, the "Venice of the Pacific"
Fiji
Tropical paradise with diverse landscapes
8.2
The tiny Mamanuca group sits close enough to Fiji's main island for easy day trips. It still keeps a castaway feel. Monuriki, one of its islets, doubled as the deserted island in the 2000 film Cast Away. Coral reefs ring most of the group, keeping snorkelling easy for visitors of any skill level.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Explore the underwater coral gardens at Rainbow Reef
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Natadola Beach
  • 🌊 Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Mamanuca Islands
Palau
Pristine paradise with underwater wonders
8.3
Jellyfish Lake holds millions of golden jellyfish that have lost their ability to sting. The lake formed when rising seas trapped marine life inland thousands of years ago. Snorkellers can swim among the drifting jellyfish without any real risk. The surrounding Rock Islands rise from the lagoon like green mushrooms.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Paddle a kayak through Palau’s turquoise Rock Islands
  • 🤿 Dive into the stunning Blue Corner reef
  • 🌊 Swim among harmless jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake
Saint Barthélemy
Luxury Island with Caribbean Charm
8.6
Shell Beach sits just steps from Gustavia's busy harbour, covered in fine crushed shells. Its calm, shallow water makes it easy for casual swimmers of any age. Visitors can walk over from town without needing a car or taxi. A small snack shack serves lunch right on the sand.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Discover marine life in the Nature Reserve marine zone
  • ⛰️ Hike to the summit of Morne du Vitet
  • 🏖️ Relax on the idyllic Colombier Beach
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
One destination, 32 islands, countless possibilities
7.6
Tobago Cays is a small cluster of uninhabited islets protected as a marine park. Its shallow reefs sit close enough to explore without a boat. Visitors can snorkel alongside green sea turtles that graze the seagrass beds. Yachts often anchor here for a night under open sky.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Explore Fort Charlotte with panoramic Kingstown views
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine beaches of Tobago Cays
  • 🌋 Hike to the crater of La Soufrière volcano
U.S. Virgin Islands
Caribbean Paradise with U.S. Convenience
8.3
Trunk Bay on St John holds an underwater snorkelling trail marked with submerged signs. The trail guides swimmers past coral formations and reef fish close to shore. Visitors can follow the marked path without needing a guide or boat. Most of the surrounding land belongs to the Virgin Islands National Park.
Highlights:
  • 🥾 Hike the scenic Reef Bay Trail and visit ruins
  • 🤿 Snorkel the vibrant coral reefs at Trunk Bay
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Magens Bay Beach
Cape Town
Mountains, Beaches and a Vibrant Culture
7.6
Visit Boulders Beach in the early morning to see African penguins on the rocks. Crowds arrive later in the day. Camps Bay and Clifton sit beneath the Twelve Apostles mountain range and fill up by midafternoon. The Atlantic side runs colder than the warmer False Bay waters nearby.
Highlights:
  • 🍽️ Explore the V&A Waterfront and dine by the sea
  • 🚡 Ride the cable car for breathtaking city views
  • 🥾 Hike to the top of Table Mountain
Bali
Tropical beaches, vibrant culture and adventure
8.2
Visit the Bukit Peninsula at sunset, when the cliffside Uluwatu temple silhouettes against the sky. Bali's beaches change character by coast. Black volcanic sand covers much of the north. Pale sand surrounds Nusa Dua in the south. Rice terraces climb the hills just inland from the shore.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Visit Uluwatu Temple perched high on a seaside cliff
  • 💦 Swim beneath the cascading Tegenungan Waterfall
  • 🌋 Watch the sunrise over Mount Batur volcano
Amalfi Coast
Italy's Coastal Gem
8.1
Steep limestone cliffs rise straight from the Tyrrhenian Sea along southern Italy's Amalfi Coast. Towns like Positano stack pastel houses one above another on the slopes. Small pebble beaches wedge between rock and water below. Lemon groves cover the terraces overhead. A narrow coastal road links each fishing village by hairpin turn.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Visit Amalfi Cathedral's stunning medieval architecture
  • 🏖️ Relax on Positano’s colorful cliffside beaches
  • 🥾 Hike the breathtaking Path of the Gods trail
California
Golden State of Endless Experiences
8.7
Surfing arrived in California in the early 1900s, brought by Hawaiian waterman George Freeth. The sport helped shape the beach culture that still defines much of the state's coast. Big Sur's cliffs drop straight into the Pacific along Highway 1. Malibu and Santa Monica keep the surfboard and boardwalk scene going further south.
Highlights:
  • 🚗 Drive the stunning Pacific Coast Highway from LA to Big Sur
  • 🏞️ Explore Yosemite National Park’s waterfalls and granite cliffs
  • 🌉 Stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
Sri Lanka
Ancient cities, tea hills and surf beaches
7.3
Mirissa's curved bay on the south coast doubles as a launch point for whale watching. Blue whales pass close to shore during the winter migration season. Visitors can swim at the beach by day and head out on boats at dawn. A rocky outcrop called Coconut Tree Hill overlooks the bay.
Highlights:
  • 🚂 Take a scenic train ride through the tea plantations to Ella
  • 🐘 Spot elephants on safari in Minneriya National Park
  • 🪨 Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress and admire its ancient frescoes
Corsica
Island of Beauty and Contrast
8.1
Palombaggia Beach pairs pink granite rocks with a backdrop of umbrella pines. The combination has made it one of the most photographed spots on Corsica's coast. Just offshore, the Scandola Nature Reserve protects volcanic cliffs and clear water reachable mainly by boat. The Bonifacio cliffs at the island's southern tip drop straight into the sea.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Explore the medieval streets of Bonifacio
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Palombaggia Beach
  • 🥾 Hike the scenic trails of Bavella Needles
Bohol
Beaches, Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers
7.4
Alona Beach on Bohol's Panglao Island grew from a quiet fishing shore into a dive hub. Divers first discovered the reefs just offshore in the 1980s. White sand and calm water still draw snorkellers today. Forest patches a short drive inland shelter tarsiers, among the world's smallest primates.
Highlights:
  • 🌿 Cruise the scenic Loboc River with floating restaurants
  • 🐒 Spot tiny Philippine tarsiers in the conservation sanctuary
  • ⛰️ Marvel at the unique Chocolate Hills geological formations
Sicily
Sun, Sea and Ancient Secrets
8.4
Scala dei Turchi is a staircase-like cliff of pale white limestone marl. Its smooth, sculpted steps drop straight towards the turquoise Mediterranean below. Visitors can climb partway up the rock or sunbathe on the beach at its base. The cliff's name recalls Turkish pirate raids from centuries ago.
Highlights:
  • 🏘️ Wander the charming streets of Taormina’s old town
  • 🏛️ Explore ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
  • 🌋 Climb active Mount Etna volcano for breathtaking views
Máncora
Sun‑kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife
7.4
Mancora sits on Peru's northern coast, where the Pacific water runs unusually warm for the region. Its long sandy beach draws surfers chasing steady, mellow waves. Visitors can watch fishing boats return each morning near the old pier. Ceviche stalls line the beachfront through the evening hours.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Experience sunset cocktails at a beachside bar
  • 🍤 Savor fresh ceviche beside the Pacific shoreline
  • 🏄‍♂️ Ride waves on Playa Máncora's world‑class surf spots
Similan Islands
Thailand's underwater paradise
7.1
Sail Rock and Donald Duck Bay sit among giant granite boulders stacked along the shore. The islands are only open to visitors for part of the year. Divers can explore some of Thailand's clearest water and healthiest coral reefs here. Manta rays and whale sharks pass through the surrounding channels.
Highlights:
  • 🌄 Climb Sail Rock for panoramic island views
  • 🏖️ Relax on the white sand of Donald Duck Bay
  • 🤿 Dive among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish
Canary Islands
Spain's volcanic paradise year-round
9.0
Black volcanic sand covers many beaches on Tenerife and Lanzarote. Pale dunes at Maspalomas on Gran Canaria offer a striking contrast, shifting constantly with the wind. Warm Atlantic currents keep water mild year round, despite the islands sitting off West Africa. Volcanic peaks rise directly behind several of the calmest coves.
Highlights:
  • 🐬 Explore the marine life at Loro Parque, Tenerife
  • 🌋 Visit Timanfaya National Park’s volcanic landscape in Lanzarote
  • ⛰️ Hike to the summit of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak
Belize
Tropical paradise with diverse ecosystems
7.0
Belize's coast stays low key, unlike the crowded resort strips found elsewhere in the Caribbean. It is backed by the second longest barrier reef in the world, after Australia's. Ambergris Caye offers sandy streets instead of paved roads. The Great Blue Hole, a sinkhole visible from space, draws divers from the mainland's smaller cayes.
Highlights:
  • ⛵ Sail between tropical cayes across the Belize Barrier Reef
  • 🏛️ Explore ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich and Caracol
  • 🤿 Dive or snorkel the breathtaking Great Blue Hole
French Polynesia
Paradise of Crystal Clear Lagoons
8.9
Tahiti's Point Venus has black volcanic sand that heats quickly under the sun. Many of the territory's outer atolls instead have pale coral beaches. Captain Cook observed the transit of Venus from this exact point in 1769. A lighthouse now marks the spot, with Moorea's jagged peaks visible across the channel.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel the coral gardens of Moorea’s turquoise lagoon
  • 🤿 Dive with sharks and manta rays in Rangiroa
  • 🏝️ Stay in an overwater bungalow above the Bora Bora lagoon
Mozambique
Pristine beaches meet vibrant culture
5.7
The Bazaruto Archipelago sits off Mozambique's coast, ringed by dunes and clear shallows. Traditional wooden dhow boats still sail between its islands each day. Visitors can snorkel over coral gardens or spot dugongs grazing seagrass beds. Two Mile Reef nearby draws divers for its colourful marine life.
Highlights:
  • ⛵ Sail on a traditional dhow along Mozambique Island
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Tofo Beach
  • 🐠 Dive among vibrant coral reefs in the Bazaruto Archipelago
New Caledonia
Tropical Paradise with French Flair
8.0
The lagoon surrounding New Caledonia is one of the largest in the world. A UNESCO listing protects its coral reefs stretching over 1,500 kilometres. Visitors can sail out to the Amedee Lighthouse for panoramic reef views. Snorkellers often spot sea turtles resting in the shallow, warm water.
Highlights:
  • 🏝️ Swim in the turquoise waters of the Natural Pool at Île des Pins
  • 🏛️ Explore Kanak culture at Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre
  • 🌅 Climb to the top of Amédée Lighthouse for stunning views
Valencia
Sunlit Shores and Rich Culture
8.2
Malvarrosa Beach stretches along Valencia's Mediterranean shoreline near the old fishing quarter. Wooden beach bars called chiringuitos line the sand through the summer months. Visitors can order paella nearby, a dish said to have originated in this region. A palm-lined promenade runs the length of the beach.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Explore Valencia’s historic Old Town and Valencia Cathedral
  • 🏖️ Relax on the golden sands of Malvarrosa Beach
  • 🏙️ Admire futuristic architecture at the City of Arts and Sciences
Miami
Vibrant City of Sun and Fun
8.4
Key Biscayne's Crandon Park Beach faces the Atlantic just south of downtown Miami. Its shallow water and long sandbar make it popular with families. Visitors can rent kayaks or walk trails through the adjoining nature centre. Sea turtles nest along this stretch of shore each summer.
Highlights:
  • 🌴 Relax on sunny South Beach’s iconic shoreline
  • 🏰 Tour lavish Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
  • 🎨 Explore vibrant street art at Wynwood Walls
Santorini
Breathtaking Views and Blue Domes
8.8
Red Beach gets its colour from the volcanic cliffs rising just behind the shore. Dark red and black stone frames the small stretch of sand. Visitors can hike a short cliffside trail to reach the cove. The colour comes from the same eruption that shaped the island centuries ago.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the black sands of Perissa Beach
  • 🥾 Hike the scenic Fira to Oia caldera-edge trail
  • 🌅 Watch the sunset from the iconic village of Oia
Tasmania
Wilderness, Wildlife and Wild Coasts
8.7
Wineglass Bay curves in a near-perfect arc along Tasmania's east coast. Its pink granite peaks frame water that shifts between deep blue and turquoise. Visitors can hike up to a lookout point before descending to the sand. The bay sits inside Freycinet National Park, reached mainly on foot.
Highlights:
  • 🏛️ Tour the convict ruins at Port Arthur Historic Site
  • ⛰️ Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park trails
  • 🏖️ Hike to Wineglass Bay and marvel at its white sand
Kangaroo Island
Wildlife, Wonders and Rugged Coast
8.6
A survey of ten thousand Australian beaches by a Sydney University researcher once ranked Vivonne Bay the country's best. The title has stuck in local pride since. The beach is a six kilometre curve of white sand. Sea lions haul out nearby at Seal Bay, one of the few colonies open to viewing on foot.
Highlights:
  • 🦭 Swim with playful sea lions at Seal Bay
  • 🪨 Marvel at the Remarkable Rocks and their surreal formations
  • 🦘 See wild kangaroos and koalas roaming freely at Flinders Chase
Tayrona National Park
Where Jungle Meets Turquoise Caribbean
7.5
Cabo San Juan is a small headland beach backed by dense jungle and granite boulders. A wooden hut sits perched on the rocky point between two coves. Visitors can hike or ride horseback in through the surrounding rainforest. Hammocks inside the hut let travellers sleep steps from the surf.
Highlights:
  • 🦜 Spot howler monkeys and exotic birds along forest paths
  • 🌴 Swim in crystal-clear Caribbean waters surrounded by palm trees
  • 🏝️ Hike through jungle trails to the stunning Cabo San Juan beach
Guadeloupe
Caribbean Gem with French Flair
7.6
Guadeloupe is shaped like a butterfly when seen from above. It splits into two wings with different coloured sand. Black volcanic beaches sit near La Soufrière volcano on one wing. Pale coral sand covers Grande Anse on the other. Warm trade winds keep the humidity from feeling heavy. Coconut palms shade the northern coast.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax and swim on the pristine beaches of Sainte-Anne
  • 🤿 Snorkel or dive at the Réserve Cousteau marine park
  • 🏞️ Hike to the stunning waterfalls in Guadeloupe National Park
Kiribati
Remote Pacific paradise with atolls
6.1
Kiritimati Island is the largest coral atoll on Earth by land area. Its lagoon shelters calm shallow flats far from any crowds. Visitors can wade across pink sand shallows or fish for giant trevally near the reef. The remote atoll sits almost exactly on the international date line.
Highlights:
  • ⚓ Visit the WWII relics scattered across South Tarawa
  • 🐠 Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs in Tarawa Lagoon
  • 🌅 Watch the sunrise at the world’s earliest time zone
Marshall Islands
Remote atolls with pristine waters
7.5
Bikini Atoll's lagoon once served as a US nuclear testing site in the 1940s and 1950s. Sunken warships from those tests now rest on the seafloor below. Certified divers can explore the wrecks in remarkably clear water. The atoll is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine beaches of Majuro Atoll
  • 🤿 Dive at Bikini Atoll to explore historic WWII shipwrecks
São Tomé and Príncipe
Equatorial paradise with volcanic landscapes
7.5
Ilheu das Rolas sits right on the equator, split by a marker line onshore. Its dark volcanic sand beaches face calm Gulf of Guinea waters. Visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere at the equator marker. Small fishing boats still launch daily from the nearby shore.
Highlights:
  • 🌿 Explore diverse wildlife at Obo National Park
  • 🏖️ Relax on Praia Banana's pristine golden sands
  • 🌋 Hike to the peak of Pico Cao Grande volcano
Tonga
Tropical paradise with volcanic islands
7.8
Vava'u's waters are one of the few places where people can legally swim with humpback whales. Mothers and calves gather here each year between July and October. Visitors can join guided boat trips that slip quietly into the water nearby. The surrounding islands also shelter calm anchorages for sailors.
Highlights:
  • 🌊 Discover blowholes at Mapu'a 'a Vaea coast
  • 🗿 Explore the ancient Ha'amonga 'a Maui Trilithon
  • 🐋 Swim with humpback whales in Ha'apai waters
Venezuela
Land of diverse tropical landscapes
5.6
Los Roques is a coral archipelago of small islets surrounded by shallow lagoons. Its sandbars shift slightly year to year, reshaping the low-lying cays. Visitors can hop between islets by small boat to find near-empty beaches. Kitesurfers are drawn to the steady winds across the open lagoon.
Highlights:
  • 🏝️ Relax on the white sands of Los Roques archipelago
  • 🦜 Explore the wildlife and plains of Los Llanos
  • 🌊 Marvel at Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall
Madagascar
Unique biodiversity meets diverse landscapes
6.5
Nosy Be island sits off Madagascar's northwest coast, ringed by white sand beaches. Its warm waters stay calm for most of the year. Visitors can snorkel around nearby islets or watch humpback whales pass offshore. Ylang ylang trees grown here scent much of the world's perfume.
Highlights:
  • 🤿 Dive the coral reefs of Nosy Be Island
  • 🦎 Spot lemurs and chameleons in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
  • 🌳 Walk the Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset
Galapagos Islands
The Wildlife Paradise of Ecuador
8.5
Walk the sandy path to Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island in the early morning. Marine iguanas are still warming themselves on the rocks at that hour. The white sand beach is reachable only on foot. It backs onto mangroves where flamingos sometimes gather in a lagoon behind the dunes.
Highlights:
  • 🦩 Walk among blue-footed boobies on North Seymour Island
  • 🐢 Spot giant tortoises roaming freely in the highlands
  • 🐢 Snorkel with sea lions and turtles at Isla Lobos
Salalah
Verdant oasis amid Arabian desert splendor
8.7
Al Mughsail Beach sits beneath cliffs that turn green each year during the khareef monsoon season. Blowholes along the rocks spray seawater high into the air at high tide. Visitors can watch camels wander the sand near the water's edge. Frankincense trees grow wild in the hills just behind the coast.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Witness the sunset over pristine beaches at Mirbat Bay
  • 🛍️ Stroll through fragrant frankincense markets in Omani souks
  • 🏰 Explore ancient forts on the island of Salalah
Yucatán
Gateway to the Mayan world
8.5
Celestun's coastline shelters a lagoon where thousands of flamingos gather each year. Mangrove channels wind between the lagoon and the open Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can take small boat tours to watch the flamingos feed in shallow water. Nearby beaches stay largely undeveloped compared to the Riviera Maya.
Highlights:
  • 🏛️ Visit the ancient ruins at Uxmal Archaeological Zone
  • 💧 Swim in the beautiful, crystal-clear Cenote Ik Kil
  • 🏯 Explore the iconic El Castillo pyramid at Chichén Itzá
Ha Long Bay
Vietnam’s Otherworldly Seascape
Nearly two thousand limestone islands and islets rise from the emerald water of this bay in northern Vietnam. Most stay uninhabited, shaped by tens of millions of years of erosion. Overnight boats weave between the karst towers, stopping at hidden lagoons and caves along the way. Floating fishing villages still operate within the bay.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Kayak through quiet lagoons and hidden beaches
  • 🕳️ Explore spectacular caves like Sung Sot and Thien Cung
  • 🚤 Cruise among Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone karsts
Copacabana Beach
Lively iconic Rio shoreline
Sugarloaf Mountain anchors one end of this four kilometre beach in Rio de Janeiro. Locals play footvolley in the shallows. Joggers use the wave pattern pavement above the sand. Each New Year's Eve, close to two million people gather here in white clothing. Fireworks then burst over the bay.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Watch the vibrant sunset from the famous boardwalk
  • 🏐 Play beach volleyball with lively local enthusiasts
  • 🏖️ Relax on the iconic crescent-shaped sandy beach
Waikiki Beach
Iconic Surf and Sun Paradise
Modern surfing was reborn on this stretch of Oahu sand. Waterman Duke Kahanamoku learned to ride waves here before spreading the sport worldwide in the early 1900s. His bronze statue now stands near the shore. Diamond Head crater rises behind the beach. Outrigger canoes still launch daily from the same water.
Highlights:
  • 🐢 Swim and snorkel with sea turtles nearby
  • 🌅 Enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise along the coast
  • 🏄‍♂️ Take a surfing lesson on iconic Waikiki Beach
Great Barrier Reef
World's largest living coral wonder
Whitehaven Beach sits within the Whitsunday Islands, part of the Great Barrier Reef marine park. Its sand is silica so pure that it stays cool in full sun. At Hill Inlet, incoming tides swirl the sand and turquoise water into shifting patterns. A lookout above the beach's northern end gives a view of the swirl.
Highlights:
  • 🚁 Fly over the reef to spot the Heart Reef
  • 🤿 Take a scuba dive at the outer reef
  • 🐠 Snorkel among colorful coral gardens and tropical fish
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