Top 10 Best Beaches in the World
From palm-lined paradises to crystalline coves, these dreamy stretches of sand have one thing in common: they’re the perfect definition of paradise.
Brazil’s Baia do Sancho, located on Fernando de Noronha Island, topped the list. But there are plenty of other beautiful beaches to discover. Here are the top 10 best beaches in the world.
1. Elafonissi Beach
Elafonissi is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and deservedly so. It’s a unique natural phenomenon that features a pink sand beach and shallow turquoise lagoon on both sides of a narrow isthmus.
The sand here alternates between brilliant white and startling pink, a result of crushed seashells. The water is crystal clear, warm and inviting for swimmers of all ages.
If the main beach gets too busy, walk east toward Kedrodasos Beach to enjoy a quieter experience. Backed by a shaded cedar forest, this beach has soft sand and photogenic outcroppings.
Elafonissi is a must-see attraction in Crete’s southwestern corner. It’s around two hours’ drive from Chania by car. You’ll need to bring food and drinks to spend a day here. It’s also important to remember the old photographer’s adage: “Take only photos, leave only footprints”. Enjoy!
2. Matira Beach
If you're looking for a place to completely let go of all your stress and pretend you're the only one on the planet then Matira is where you want to be. This secluded beach is ideal for relaxing and lounging, especially when the tropical sun starts to set over the warm turquoise waters.
The pristine sand is kissed by waters in multiple shades of blue and while most beaches on the island are private to resort guests only this is the only public beach on the main island. It's a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, and it's also the best place to watch a sunset.
The highlight is the sunset ritual at Pu
3. Seven Mile Beach
Located on the western side of Grand Cayman Island, Seven Mile Beach is a world-renowned destination that encapsulates the best of Caribbean island living. The 5.5-mile stretch of white sand is surrounded by crystal clear water and offers an array of fun activities for all ages.
The pristine waters of Seven Mile Beach are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. There is also a coral reef nearby that is teeming with marine life.
Whether you’re staying in a hotel or renting a private condo, there is always plenty to do on this beautiful beach. You can relax on the sand, dine at one of the many restaurants or enjoy a romantic sunset cruise. There’s also a variety of water sports to choose from, including stand-up paddleboarding. It’s also illegal to hawk on Seven Mile Beach, so you can enjoy a peaceful time without being hassled by vendors.
4. Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach is a world-renowned beach that features several unique and beautiful attractions. One of its most iconic features is Hill Inlet, which showcases the incredible swirling patterns of white silica sand created by the changing tides. This phenomenon is said to have been inspired by the Ngaro Dreamtime story of how the Rainbow Serpent slithered across the sea bed leaving behind these breathtaking patterns.
The beach is also known for its pristine beauty and is frequently used as a backdrop for countless selfies and romantic couples snaps. Its incredibly fine silica sand is so soft that it even squeaks as you walk on it, something which many visitors seem to get a kick out of.
There are a number of ways to explore Whitehaven Beach, including by boat and plane. The beach is a popular destination for snorkelers and is located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
5. Nungwi Beach
Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi beach is a breathtaking destination for tourists. The beach is known for its stunning coastline, powdery white sand, and exotic flora and fauna.
Visitors can visit the Mnarani Natural Aquarium to learn about the marine life of the area. The aquarium also focuses on rescuing and conserving green and hawksbill turtles. The aquarium is open all year round.
The beach also has several hotels and restaurants. Tourists can try the local cuisine which is a fusion of African, Indian, and Arab influences. Zanzibari pizza is a popular street food that tourists should not miss out on.
As the beach is situated around the equator, the water is warm and perfect for swimming. It is also a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Travelers can also enjoy kite surfing on the beach.
6. Ipanema Beach
The famed Ipanema Beach is a favorite for both locals and visitors. Sandwiched between the Copacabana and Leblon beaches, this picturesque strip of sand is often referred to as “the most beautiful beach in the world.”
Its pristine waters, palm trees, and exotic shops are among its most notable features. Locals and tourists alike spend their days lapping up the sun and walking in the surf.
The area is also known for its restaurants, bars, and shops. It is also home to avant-garde galleries and movie theatres, booksellers, and musical and artistic local clubs. Every evening, the locals gather to watch the spectacular sunset. It is so impressive that people actually clap during the show! The sunset is especially breathtaking when it sinks between the two mountains called Dois Irmaos (Two Brothers). This is a must-see for all visitors.
7. Camps Bay
Camps Bay is an upscale beach resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. It is a popular destination for celebrities and film shoots. Expensive homes with glistening swimming pools are scattered throughout the neighborhood. The area’s sweeping views of Table Mountain, craggy crops of rocks that jut out into the sea, and a beautiful swath of white-sand beach make it one of Cape Town’s most desirable locations.
The beach’s fine sands and natural rock tidal pool are ideal for sunbathing and relaxing, while imposing boulders shield the water from heavy swells. On wind-free days, the beach is packed with people lounging on deck chairs and playing volleyball and frisbee. Swimmers should enter the water only in areas monitored by lifeguards, as the chilly Atlantic can be dangerous.
8. Malmok Beach
From powder soft sand to azure water, there’s something about the beach that gets travelers’ hearts pumping. Whether they want to soak up the sun, snorkel the reefs or just relax with an ice-cold beverage, there are plenty of dream beaches around the world to fulfill all their tropical fantasies.
This Aruba beach is known for its clear blue waters and marine life, making it a top snorkeling spot on the island. Its shallow, calm water also makes it a great spot for beginner snorkelers or those learning to surf.
Hawaii placed three beaches on the list this year, with Florida and California both getting two spots. The most popular beach in the United States is Hapuna Beach State Park on the island of Hawaii’s Kohala Coast, which is a great spot for whale watching and swimming and snorkeling, according to TripAdvisor.
9. Bavaro Beach
The largest beach in Punta Cana, Bavaro Beach (also known as the Coconut Coast) features postcard-worthy sand and turquoise water, as well as endless rows of palm trees. It’s no wonder it’s a popular choice for couples seeking romance and relaxation on their Caribbean getaway.
A wide variety of hotels line the beach, including adults-only resorts like the exquisitely beautiful Barcelo Bavaro Beach. This stylish hotel offers contemporary rooms, exceptional gastronomy, and marvellous facilities like the U Spa.
The calm waters of Bavaro Beach make it the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing. It’s also a great place to take a stroll or sip a tropical cocktail. Many resorts offer 4-hour trips to Buccaneer’s Reef, an incredible natural swimming pool created by the coral barrier.
10. Grace Bay Beach
The perfect combination of pristine white sand and calm blue waters, Grace Bay Beach is a must-see. Its awe-inspiring backdrop is what makes it stand out from other beaches, with Le Morne Public Beach dramatically backed by rocky mountains.
Besides its spectacular sand, the beach is known for its calm water and a large reef nearby that makes it a great spot for snorkeling. Nearby attractions include Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef, both of which are popular with Hawksbill and Eagle ray sightings.
The US was well represented on the list, with Ka’anapali Beach in Hawaii coming in at No. 11. Other beaches from the state of Florida and Jekyll Island, Georgia also cracked the top 25. The full list of best beaches can be found here. It is updated regularly with the latest ratings from TripAdvisor users.
