Whether they’re blessed with blindingly bright white sands or located in the most idyllic setting imaginable; the world is truly home to a staggering array of beautiful beaches, each more breathtaking than the last. While some of them are to be found at the heart of world-famous cities, others are nestled away on tropical islands or tucked away deep inside national parks.
Whether they are backed by impressive rock formations, rugged cliffs, or gently swaying palm trees, these beautiful beaches really need to be seen to be believed.
27. Entalula Beach, Palawan, the Philippines
Hidden away in El Nido’s Bacuit Archipelago, Entalula Beach just snagged the title of Asia’s best beach and came in second globally on the 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. The sand here? Unreal—soft and white, almost like walking on sifted sugar. Turquoise water laps at the shore while limestone cliffs tower overhead, making it feel like you’re in a secret world.
It’s quiet, too. You won’t find crowds jostling for space. The place still feels untouched, perfect for anyone who wants to unplug for a while. Getting here means joining an island-hopping tour from El Nido. But honestly, the boat ride just adds to the adventure—you’ll cruise past some of the prettiest water you’ve ever seen to reach this hidden spot.
26. Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii
Over on Oahu’s windward side, Lanikai Beach sits in the Kailua area. It landed at #14 in the world for 2024, and it’s easy to see why. The sand feels like talcum powder underfoot, and the water’s so clear you can see your toes even when you’re waist deep.
Look out across the water and you’ll spot the Mokulua Islands—locals call them “The Mokes”—just sitting out there, making the view even better. Swimming’s a breeze here. The waves stay mellow, so you can just float and chill. No need to worry about being knocked over by surf.
Lanikai’s tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, about 17 miles from the Waikiki crowds. It’s peaceful, and honestly, it feels like another world. People from all over, plus plenty of locals, come here. The laid-back vibe beats the buzzier beaches on the island any day.
25. Myrtos Beach, Greece
Myrtos Beach sits on Kefalonia Island, up in the northwest. You’ll spot this crescent-shaped stretch at the base of steep limestone cliffs. Instead of sand, white pebbles cover the shore. They crunch under your feet and make the colors of the water pop even more.
The sea here shifts from bright blue to turquoise—almost electric, honestly. It’s the kind of place that makes you reach for your camera every two minutes. Travel mags keep ranking Myrtos among the world’s top 30 beaches. It’s even been voted Greece’s best beach a dozen times.
Climb up the cliffs for a bird’s-eye view and you’ll get jaw-dropping photos. No filter needed.
Hollywood even shot scenes from Captain Corelli’s Mandolin here, which only made it more famous. The area’s still wild and clean—no big hotels or resorts messing up the view. It’s just you, the water, and the cliffs.
24. Luskentyre Beach, Scotland
On the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, Luskentyre Beach stretches out along the west coast with miles of white sand. The water almost tricks you—so turquoise, you’d swear it’s the tropics. Behind you, mountains rise up, adding a bit of drama to the scenery.
This spot keeps showing up on lists of the world’s best beaches. Some folks even compare it to the Caribbean, which sounds wild until you see it for yourself. Taransay island sits just offshore, and the Outer Hebrides are way out there, northwest of Scotland’s mainland—so crowds are rare.
Luskentyre’s all about peace and wild beauty. The sand feels soft, and the whole place changes as the light shifts through the day. If you’re lucky, you might have the whole beach to yourself. Not bad for one of Scotland’s most photographed places.
23. Baía do Sancho, Brazil
Baía do Sancho sits on Fernando de Noronha island, about 220 miles off Brazil’s northeast coast, in Pernambuco state. This beach has taken the “world’s best beach” crown six times in nine years. Both travelers and experts can’t stop voting for it on TripAdvisor and elsewhere.
The crescent-shaped beach runs almost 300 meters. White sand merges with insanely clear water that fades from pale green to deep blue. Steep green cliffs wrap around the whole beach, making it feel protected and adding to the wow factor.
Snorkeling’s a must—the visibility is unreal, and you’ll see all kinds of marine life darting around. It’s a trek to get here, but that’s part of the charm. The effort keeps the crowds down and lets you soak in the wild beauty.
22. Playa del Amor, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
At the very tip of Baja California, Playa del Amor sits where the Pacific and Sea of Cortez collide. The beach hides between granite cliffs that first formed 30 million years ago. Golden sand meets turquoise water that’s perfect for a swim.
You can only get here by water taxi or glass-bottom boat from Cabo San Lucas marina. The ride takes you right by the famous stone arch. Rock formations frame the sand, and you can walk through a gap to nearby Divorce Beach if you’re curious.
Even though it’s one of Cabo’s top attractions, it still feels private. The scenery’s dramatic, and the water’s so clear you’ll want to snap a million photos. Just a heads up—bring your own water and snacks since there aren’t any shops or stands right on the beach.
21. Wharton Bay, Australia
Western Australia’s Cape Le Grand National Park hides one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Wharton Beach runs for 4.5 kilometers along Duke of Orleans Bay, about 50 kilometers east of Esperance. This lesser-known gem just landed 21st on the 2025 World’s Best Beaches list. The sand’s white and powdery, and the water’s so clear it almost glows.
Wharton stays quieter than nearby Lucky Bay. No big crowds—just space to breathe and relax. Surfers love the waves, and if luck’s on your side, you might spot dolphins playing in the bay.
The drive out here is half the fun. You’ll wind along one of Australia’s prettiest coastal roads to reach it.
20. Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Bavaro Beach is one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful stretches. The sand feels soft and cool, and the turquoise water just keeps going. UNESCO even recognized it as a World Heritage site. The water’s clear, the sand’s pristine—what more could you want?
Adventure lovers can try snorkeling, diving, parasailing, or just paddle around in a kayak or catamaran. Bavaro’s part of Punta Cana’s 40-mile coastline. It’s well-kept and clean, so you can walk for ages if you want.
The beach gets plenty of visitors, but it’s long enough that you’ll always find your own patch of sand. All-inclusive resorts line the coast, but the beach itself is free for everyone. Here, you’re right where the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean meet. Kinda cool, right?
19. Praia da Rodas, Galicia, Spain
Set on the Cíes Islands off Spain’s northwest coast, Praia da Rodas was once called the best beach in the world by The Guardian. This crescent of sand runs about 700 meters. Walking here feels amazing—soft white sand underfoot, with the sea stretching out in front.
The water’s a clear, striking blue—honestly, you could mistake it for the Caribbean. Behind the beach, there’s a lagoon that only makes it prettier. You’ll need to catch a ferry from Vigo to reach it. The Cíes Islands belong to a national park now, so everything stays protected and wild.
The beach links two islands together. The calm water’s perfect for a swim or just floating around. Since it’s in a national park, there’s a cap on daily visitors. If you’re hoping to go during peak season, definitely book ahead.
18. Ofu Beach, American Samoa
Ofu Beach sits on a remote Pacific island in American Samoa, far from any tourist rush.
The beach stretches for two miles along Ofu Island’s southern shore. White sand meets turquoise water so clear it almost doesn’t look real. Sometimes, you’ll have the whole place to yourself.
It’s part of the National Park of American Samoa. Palm trees line the edge, and coral reefs just offshore make for epic snorkeling. Getting here isn’t easy—you have to fly into Ofu Island’s tiny airport. But hey, that’s part of the adventure.
The snorkeling’s world-class, and the rainforests and wildlife around the beach make it even more special.
17. Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Indonesia
This wild beach sits on Nusa Penida, a small island just off Bali. The cliffs here form a T-Rex shape that’s instantly recognizable. Kelingking means “pinky finger” in Indonesian, which makes sense when you see the way the cliff juts out.
Turquoise water smashes against white sand below the cliffs. The whole place is ridiculously photogenic—no wonder it’s all over Instagram. You can hop a boat from Bali to Nusa Penida. The trip’s quick and just adds to the sense of adventure.
This beach blew up on social media—over 500,000 Instagram tags and counting. People just can’t get enough of the view. Kelingking Beach has made TripAdvisor’s top 10 beaches list. If you ask me, it totally deserves the hype.
16. Cabo San Juan, Tayrona, Colombia
You’ll stumble onto one of Colombia’s wildest, most beautiful beaches at Cabo San Juan in Tayrona National Park. It’s the kind of place where thick, tangled jungle just crashes into the bright Caribbean Sea.
Two gorgeous bays curve together here, wrapped in white sand and that unreal turquoise water. Palm trees lean over the shore, so you can usually find a patch of shade. Honestly, the famous hut perched on rocks between the bays is probably what you’ve seen all over Instagram. It’s as cool in person as it looks in photos.
Unlike some other Tayrona beaches, you can swim here without worrying about dangerous currents. The water stays pretty gentle, which is a relief. Getting to Cabo San Juan is an adventure—expect about 2.5 hours hiking through jungle trails from the main park entrance. If you want to skip the trek, hop on a boat from Taganga and you’ll be there in an hour or so.
This beach gets busy. If you want some peace, show up early before the crowds roll in.
15. Siesta Beach, Florida, USA
Siesta Beach sits on Siesta Key in Sarasota County. Somehow, it landed at number 42 on the World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2025, which seems about right if you’ve ever seen it in person. Here’s the cool part: the sand is 99% pure white quartz. It feels almost unreal—soft and cool underfoot, even when the sun’s blazing.
The Gulf of Mexico here glows this crazy shade of turquoise, and the sunsets? They just take over the whole sky every evening. TripAdvisor called Siesta Beach the number one beach in America and fourth best worldwide, with nearly 8,600 people giving it a 4.7-star rating. Not bad, right?
Tampa Bay is about an hour and a half away, so it’s easy to reach. The water stays calm for swimming, and there’s always plenty of soft sand to claim for yourself.
14. Praia da Marinha, Portugal
This gem sits on Portugal’s southern coast in the Algarve region. Golden sand stretches below tall limestone cliffs, all twisted and carved by wind and rain over who-knows-how-long. The water sparkles clear and blue. Rocky arches and hidden caves make this spot a little bit magical.
Travel experts put Praia da Marinha at number 25 on the world’s best beaches list for 2024. The Michelin Guide even called it one of Europe’s top ten. Wander around and you’ll find secret photo spots tucked into the cliffs. That M-shaped rock formation? It’s a must-see and draws travelers from all over.
This place mixes calm water with wild, rugged scenery. Even though it’s famous, it somehow feels untouched.
13. Ipanema Beach, Rio, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro’s got some legendary beaches, and Ipanema Beach might just be the most iconic. It runs for about 2.5 kilometers along the city’s coast. The golden sand sits right between the Two Brothers mountains, which makes for a killer backdrop. You’ll remember those views, trust me.
Lonely Planet called Ipanema the second most beautiful beach on earth. Sunsets here are so good, people actually clap when the sun goes down.
“Girl from Ipanema” made this place famous, but the real magic is soaking up Rio’s energy while you hang out on the sand. Different stretches attract different crowds. Post-9 is where you’ll spot the fashion-forward and artsy types just soaking up the vibe.
The water’s clean, the sand’s soft, and you can swim or just lounge. There’s something for everyone, honestly. Behind the beach, chic shops and restaurants line the street. If you want a taste of Rio’s glitzy side, this is it.
12. Railay Beach, Thailand
Railay Beach hides on a tiny peninsula in southern Thailand, wedged between Krabi Town and Ao Nang. You have to catch a boat to get here—those massive limestone cliffs block any roads from the mainland. The water shines turquoise and the sand is pure white. Jungle-covered cliffs tower all around, making you feel tiny in the best way.
There’s a handful of beaches here, including the famous Phra Nang Beach. Rock climbers from everywhere come to scale these cliffs. Since you can only reach Railay by boat, it feels way more secluded than other Thai beaches. No crowds, just peace.
The dramatic rocks, emerald water, and quiet vibe make this one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches—no question.
11. Matira Beach, Bora Bora
Matira Beach sits at the southern tip of Bora Bora’s mainland. It’s the only real public beach on the island, stretching for about a mile. The water here stays calm and shallow, so you can swim or snorkel without worry. That soft white sand feels great underfoot, and the turquoise lagoon is just begging for a dip.
This beach doesn’t cost a dime to visit. It runs from the old Hotel Bora Bora out to Matira point, and you’ll see both locals and travelers hanging out. Travel pros ranked Matira Beach 37th best in the world for 2023. Sunsets are unreal, and palm trees dot the shore for that classic island vibe.
Sometimes local vendors show up selling fresh coconut water, which is honestly perfect after a swim. The green hills behind the lagoon make the whole scene even prettier.
10. Navagio Beach, Greece
Backed by dazzling white limestone cliffs that loom over its sandy shores, Navagio Beach, and the sparkling turquoise waters that border it certainly paint a pretty picture. Located on the Ionian Island of Zakynthos, the gorgeous beach regularly features in travel magazines and is one of the most beautiful natural settings in the whole of Greece.
Despite being nicknamed ‘Shipwreck Beach,’ due to the rusty remains of a shipwreck that lies upon its sands, Navagio Beach is ironically only accessible by boat. Skimming across the sparkling waters towards the secluded cove is an unforgettable experience; the scenery gets better and better as you approach.
9. The Baths, British Virgin Islands
The Baths sits on Virgin Gorda and stands out as one of the Caribbean’s strangest, coolest beaches. Giant granite boulders scatter across the sand, like some giant dropped them here on purpose. These rocks form caves and secret pools you can explore. Some are huge—up to 40 feet long.
Soft sand and crystal-clear turquoise water wrap around the boulders. Tide pools hide between the rocks, and the whole place feels like a natural playground. his spot became a National Park to keep it safe. The boulders tell the story of the island’s volcanic history, and you can swim in the calm, protected waters.
The Baths gives you more than just a beach day—you get adventure, too. It’s a must if you’re in the British Virgin Islands.
8. Tapuaetai, Cook Islands
Tapuaetai is basically a living postcard in the Cook Islands. You’ll find this tiny island tucked inside Aitutaki’s famous lagoon. Most folks call it One Foot Island, a name rooted in local Maori stories.
White sand covers the whole island, and palm trees sway overhead. The water’s a ridiculous shade of turquoise—so clear you can see right to the bottom. You can only get here by boat or, if you’re brave, by swimming. Tour groups often stop for lunch or a lazy afternoon on the sand.
The island’s tiny—you can walk around it in just a few minutes. There’s always a quiet spot to stretch out. Travel experts put this beach at number five worldwide, with over 750 professionals weighing in.
Snorkeling’s a must. Fish and other sea life swim right up close in the shallow water.
7. Zlatni Rat, Croatia
Nicknamed the ‘Golden Horn,’ Zlatni Rat juts into the Adriatic and changes shape and length depending on the current, tide, and wind. Located on the south coast of the Island of Brac, the white pebble beach can be found just a short distance away from the peaceful harbor town of Bol.
Regularly featured on the front of travel magazines around the globe, Zlatni Rat is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations due to its magnificent scenery and sparkling turquoise waters. In 2009, it was named as one of the top ten best beaches in the world by Lonely Planet.
6. Oludeniz, Turkey
Tucked away on the delightfully named Turquoise Coast of southwestern Turkey, Oludeniz is an increasingly popular beach to visit as word spreads about its considerable charms. Meaning ‘dead sea,’ Oludeniz boasts some fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving due to its calm crystal clear waters and amazing marine life.
While its long sandy beach is perfect for relaxing on, the gorgeous scenery all around it certainly warrants exploring. Ringed by beautiful mountains, the dazzling ‘Blue Lagoon’ for which Oludeniz is famed is a must-visit, while many people go paragliding to enjoy the view of the beach from above.
5. Trunk Bay, US Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay snagged the title of world’s best beach in 2024. You’ll find this gem on St. John island in the US Virgin Islands. The beach runs about a quarter mile, with soft white sand and water so clear it almost doesn’t look real. Honestly, it feels like you’re swimming in a giant, natural pool.
One thing that sets Trunk Bay apart? Its underwater snorkel trail. Swim along and you’ll spot underwater signs pointing out coral and sea life—kind of like a museum, but you get to float through it.
Virgin Islands National Park keeps the area protected, so you won’t run into big hotels or noisy crowds. Just nature, pretty much everywhere you look.
There’s a $5 per person fee for the day, which isn’t too bad considering what you get. You’ll find snack bars, restrooms, showers, and you can rent snorkel gear right on the beach. Trunk Bay really nails that laid-back Caribbean vibe. Most days, the water’s calm and clear—perfect for swimming or snorkeling, if you ask me.
4. Maya Bay, Thailand
Since having shot to fame in the 1999 film The Beach, Maya Bay in Thailand has been one of the most sought after beaches in the world. Such was its popularity, however, that Thai authorities had to shut the beach in 2018 and limit the number of visitors to 2,000 a day to help protect and preserve the environment.
Surrounded and sheltered by towering limestone cliffs, Maya Bay’s white sand beach and inviting waters make for one of the most stunning settings imaginable. Located on the island of Ko Phi Phi Le, which lies in the Andaman Sea, Maya Bay is a treat to visit. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving around the bay.
3. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Whitehaven Beach in Queensland, Australia, regularly features among the most attractive beaches in the world, and it is easy to see why. Boasting some of the purest sand on Earth, it stretches some seven kilometers, with brilliant turquoise waters lying alongside its secluded coves and lagoons.
Due to its remote location in the Whitsunday Islands, the beach sees relatively few visitors. You can lounge on the sand, go kayaking, or enjoy a barbecue with barely another soul in sight. Only accessible by boat, helicopter, or seaplane, Whitehaven Beach lies right at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
2. Tulum, Mexico
Lying on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, Tulum is not only home to one of the country’s best-preserved Mayan ruins, but one of its best beaches too. It once served as the major port of the Mayan city of Coba.
Tulum was built around 1200 AD when the Mayan civilization was already in decline and therefore lacks the elegance of some other famous sites. The tropical beach backdrop however makes this one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico that is a heaven for the photographer or artist.
1. Anse Source D’Argent, the Seychelles
While the Seychelles is famed for being an idyllic and luxurious beach destination, one name stands out from the crowd – Anse Source D’Argent. Located on La Digue island, it is one of the most photographed beaches in the world and featured in countless travel magazines.
One of the world’s top beaches, Anse Source D’Argent contains a winning combination of large granite boulders studding the coastline, coupled with pink sand beaches and coconut palms. With the warm waters of the Indian Ocean lapping at its shores, pristine and untouched nature all around you, and exotic birds flying overhead, it really does make for an island paradise like no other.
Awesome, just added them all to my bucket list, come on Lottery win ????
it would be great to see them all, and many more throughout the world.
yes no doubt a visit to Maya bay beach is a great experience. I really cant forget. Awesome!!!!!
This is a fantastic list! And the pictures are just gorgeous. It’s a bit of a bummer that none of the Philippine beaches were included though.
I was in Oludeniz and it’s very beautiful. But to be really appreciated, you better check it from the trekking route to Kayakoy!
Comment no 1 – sorry, but that is total bullcrap. I’ve been to Maya beach 3 times and I’m sorry, but the place has gone to hell since the tsunami.
Railey Beach of Thailand is also wonderful, do check this beach too 🙂
I’m a beach bum and would die to go to any of these beaches! I can’t wait to visit those beautiful beaches! The only place that’s feature there which I’ve visited is the Phi Phi Island so breathtaking can’t wait to see those other beaches!I’ve heard of Cook Island and might try it on my next adventure!
Love the pictures of the beaches. One day I pray to visit one.
Breathtaking scenery! Just looking at the pictures makes me wanna fly there this instant.Definitely will be to Tapuaetai next year for my summer vacation.
Really awesome beaches!
Browsing through your list, I couldn’t be familiar with any of them (perhaps they’re not that known or they’re so specifically-named (i.e , Navagio beach in one of the Greek Islands.)
These beaches look like paradise, although they’ve been touched by mankind. As you’ve said, they’re well-known tourist spots yet they still look unspoilt!
Would love to visit all of them.
The 10 beaches that you posted all looks wonderful. I would love to visit the Whitehaven Beach someday. It looks magnificent.
What we Filipinos are proud of are the beaches that we have in our country especially Boracay where lots of foreigners and stars visit during summer and other holidays. We have also the Paradise Island and Pearl Farm where you can experience great nature environment.
these beaches are awesome. it is like a paradise
Awesome to see these beaches. I wish that i can spent my whole life on “Navagio Beach” because it so beautiful just like some out the world. Thanks for the pictures too….