9 best beaches in the world
Soft sand, crystal clear water and breathtaking scenery.
Picture yourself walking barefoot along the shoreline, feeling the warm sun on your skin and the gentle breeze in your hair. The sound of waves crashing against the shore soothes your soul as you take in the panoramic views of turquoise waters stretching out to the horizon. Sounds relaxing already?
The ultimate beach getaway is where the sand is soft, the water is crystal-clear, and the scenery is breathtaking. But how many beaches in the world can achieve that? Often, these wonderful beaches are less accessible, retaining their charms the way nature has bestowed upon them.
If you’re embarking on an adventure to discover the world’s most mesmerising beaches, where every grain of sand tells a story, and every wave beckons you to unwind and embrace the beauty of nature's masterpiece, check out some of the best beaches in the world below.
1. Seagrass Bay, Laucala Island, Fiji
Enveloped by lush tropical rainforest and reachable solely through guided walking excursions or horseback safaris, the exclusive island retreat of Laucala exudes incomparable beauty. It is home to some of Fiji's most elusive avian species, abundant marine creatures, and captivating shorelines. Among its serene and picturesque beaches, Seagrass Bay stands out as the most tranquil.
2. Honopu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
Honopu Beach is a secluded gem along the rugged Na Pali Coast of Kauai, Hawaii. The cinematic allure of the cayenne-coloured cliffs and pristine sands served as iconic backdrops for films like Raiders of the Lost Ark and King Kong. Accessible only by sea, this pristine stretch of golden sand offers a remote and untouched paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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3. Ora Beach, Seram Island, Indonesia
Nestled along the northern coast of Seram Island, Ora Beach is often referred to as Indonesia's Little Maldives, celebrated for its pristine waters and powdery white sands. Positioned amidst multiple tectonic plates, the island's landscape offers a dramatic range of scenery, from lush tropical rainforests teeming with birds to imposing mountain ranges reminiscent of mythical creatures.
4. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, Australia
The crystal-clear waters of Turquoise Bay are just a stone's throw away from the untouched Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage site renowned for hosting the largest gathering of whale sharks worldwide. Located a 64-kilometre drive from Exmouth along Australia's Western coast, this beach boasts dazzling white sands and exceptional snorkelling opportunities. Descend beneath the surface to discover a vibrant world of rainbow-coloured corals, serene turtles, and an impressive array of fish species.
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5. Jibei Island Beach, Penghu, Taiwan
Located in Penghu County, amidst the secluded western islands of Taiwan, Jibei remains largely untouched and beyond the reach of typical urban travellers. Accessing this destination entails a boat journey from the North Sea Visitor Centre to the island's main area, where numerous water sports, sun umbrellas, and wooden cabins offer overnight accommodations. However, it is the secluded and often deserted sandspit, a mere 15-minute stroll away, that truly captivates. Devoid of human interference, you will encounter only the gentle lull of the ocean and a mile-long expanse of pristine, untouched sand.
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6. Pink Sand Beach, Barbuda
This picturesque and often empty beach in Barbuda gets its name from its blush-coloured sand, created by tiny coral particles mixed with white sand. As the sand is a work of nature, don’t expect the beach to always have the same pink hue. Barbuda, the sister island of Antigua, is notably less populated than many other Caribbean destinations, granting visitors the possibility of having this expansive eight-mile stretch of sand all to themselves. While there are no dedicated public amenities, several beachside cafes dot the coastline, offering refreshing cocktails for a cool respite.
7. Anse Source d'Argent, Seychelles
Arguably one of the most visually stunning destinations globally, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is adorned with pristine white sands and scattered with imposing granite boulders. While not entirely secluded, arriving early in the morning allows you to experience it before the arrival of day-trippers from Mahé and Praslin. For a more secluded experience, venture southward through the shallow waters beyond the initial cluster of boulders, where the bay opens up, offering additional breathing space and your own pocket of paradise.
8. Hidden Beach, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
While it may not be as concealed as it once was, this beach remains a highlight among the world’s finest. Palawan abounds with impeccably beautiful locations, yet Hidden Beach, nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs and boasting remarkably bone-white sand, stands out as an idyllic spot for immersing oneself in the turquoise waters.
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9. Praia do Sancho, Brazil
Fernando de Noronha, the remote archipelago of volcanic islands off the coast of Brazil, is home to some of the country's most stunning beaches, including Praia do Sancho. However, accessing Praia do Sancho is no easy feat. After approximately an hour-long flight from mainland Brazil, you must navigate a series of challenges including hiking, manoeuvring through narrow rock tunnels, and descending steep ladder steps to reach the palm-fringed golden sands. Entrance to the area requires payment of an environmental tax, as it is situated within a National Park. Despite the effort, the deserted shoreline, sightings of giant iguanas, and fish-filled shallows make the journey worthwhile.
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