With all due respect to mountain lovers, there’s simply nothing on earth like a beautiful beach. Whether your preferred coastal style is rustic and remote or well-equipped and lively, our curated list offers a peek into some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. On any of them, you’ll find some of the world’s softest sand, clearest waters, and dramatic views that feel downright cinematic.
Adventure Tip: Before you take a dip in the ocean, check the local water conditions to avoid any potential dangers like rough waves, rip currents, or incoming storms.
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Beaches in the U.S.
1. Hanalei Bay, Hawaii
Long before Hollywood put it on the tourist map (first with “South Pacific” in 1958, then with “The Descendants” in 2011), Kauai’s Hanalei Bay attracted locals for its near-mystical beauty. Its beaches—Wai’oli, Hanalei Pavilion, and Black Pot—are framed by jade-colored mountains rising more than 4,000 feet high. The area is especially popular with surfers in the winter when the waves pick up size and speed.
2. Grayton Beach, Florida
There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Florida, which boasts more than 800 miles of sandy stretches along its Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Since Florida’s beaches can get pretty busy, we recommend venturing off the beaten path to Grayton Beach in South Walton, located on the panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City. At nearly 2,000 acres, this state park offers fine white sand and a unique lake within the sand dunes that’s perfect for kayakers. Plus, the adjacent town scores extra points for its quirky personality.
3. Cannon Beach, Oregon
The waters of the Pacific Northwest may be too cold for swimming most days, but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful. About a 90-minute drive from Portland, Oregon, you’ll find undeniable beauty on Cannon Beach. While the town here is charming, it’s the towering 235-foot-high Haystack Rock and its surrounding needle-shaped rocks that give this beach its famous skyline. One of the most photographed places in Oregon, it can get crowded, but there’s a long stretch of scenery to enjoy while you’re there. After you visit Cannon Beach, set up a picnic nearby at Hug Point or Ecola State Park.
Beaches in South America
4. Copacabana, Brazil
Perhaps the most famous beach in the world, Copacabana has just about everything going for it: roughly 2.5 miles of glorious golden sand, a party vibe, and a dazzling skyline of jagged mountains and art deco and modernist architecture. Even the beach boulevard, a Portuguese-inspired black-and-white mosaic design by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, is a visual knockout.
The beach acts as Rio de Janeiro’s social hub (especially on weekends), with locals sunbathing, strolling the promenade, and playing volleyball, and vendors selling everything from popsicles and shrimp skewers to caipirinhas and ice-cold beer. Copa’s glory days may be behind it—nearby Leblon and Ipanema are now considered the chicer “it spots”—but the vintage appeal is still part of its overall charm.
5. Baia do Sancho, Brazil
Located on an island about 220 miles off the coast of Brazil, Baia do Sancho is regularly deemed the world’s best beach. Its UNESCO designation and several government protections help to keep it and the entire Fernando de Noronha archipelago pristine. Access to Baia do Sancho is only by boat or a series of slightly unnerving stone steps and steel ladders built into the cliffs. Those who go are rewarded with a sheltered beach featuring smooth, soft sand and abundant sea life—fish, dolphins, sharks, and rays can all be seen swimming in its turquoise bay.
Beaches in the Caribbean
6. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
World-renowned Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman has it all: sand as soft as talcum powder; turquoise water as calm as a lake; and a fun mix of water sports, beach bars, and luxury resorts. The beauty of this miles-long beach (albeit not quite seven miles—it’s closer to five and a half) is that everyone’s happy. Travelers looking for a social atmosphere and high-octane fun can find it in a snap, while those just wanting to relax under an umbrella with a good book have no shortage of quiet hideouts on the sand.
“Seven Mile Beach on the western side of Grand Cayman island looks like those computer screensavers you see of an idyllic beach. I walked a part of it while attending the Cayman Cookout at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, which sits along this iconic beach,” said Susmita Baral, a Travel + Leisure digital editor, of her recent trip. ”It felt like I had some kind of filter over my eyes—the sand was pristine, the water was a stunning shade of turquoise, and the sunsets were magical.”
7. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos
In Turks and Caicos, Grace Bay Beach is consistently rated as one of the world’s best, and it’s no wonder why, with its sublime combination of white sand and a warm azure sea. Topping it off is Princess Alexandra Marine Park just offshore, where snorkelers can visit an underwater world populated by majestic rays, green and hawksbill turtles, and dazzling fish of all sizes and colors. And while this may be one of the most popular beaches in the world, there’s plenty of room for everyone—between Grace Bay and its neighboring Leeward and Bight beaches, visitors have seven continuous miles of beach to spread out on.
Beaches in Europe
8. Elafonissi Beach, Greece
Elafonissi Beach’s immense popularity comes from its pretty pinkish sand, warm lagoon-like waters, and very wild feel. It’s actually an island, separated from the rest of Crete by shallow water and sandbars that disappear under about three feet of water at high tide. Facilities are limited to palapa-covered sun loungers and a handful of tavernas for fresh seafood. If Elafonissi is too packed, try Balos Lagoon, about a two-hour drive away along the northern coast.
9. Sotavento Beach, Spain
While Fuerteventura is wildly overdeveloped in parts, Sotavento is the antidote to the Canary Islands’ brassy, built-up beach resorts. Its nine-mile span contains little but golden dunes, an immense sandy beach, and rolling teal waves. Reliable trade winds dimple the desert-meets-ocean landscape with vast tidepools and low-tide lagoons. The windy conditions and year-round warm water make Sotavento heaven for swimming, surfing, kiteboarding, and catamaran sailing.
10. Platja de Ses Illetes, Spain
Set on a narrow wisp of land in northern Formentera, Platja de Ses Illetes’s gleaming gold shore is surrounded by turquoise shallows on both sides. Nature-preserve status keeps crowds in check, and visitors can walk along the headland for even more secluded beaches. A half-hour stroll north takes you to the tip of the island, with views of S’Espalmador across the channel.
11. La Pelosa Beach, Italy
On the island of Sardinia, there’s a beach that’s beautiful and knows it. Between June and September, prospective beachgoers must pre-book and pay an entry fee online. There are also several rules to be aware of once you get there—you must use beach mats under your towels, not smoke, and wear your wristband at all times, among others. These regulations help to prevent overcrowding so everyone can enjoy La Pelosa’s bone-white sands and shimmering clear shallows. An Aragonese stone watchtower on neighboring Asinara island completes the scene. Additional must-see Sardinian beaches include Porto Giunco, Spiaggia La Cinta, Cala Mariolu, and Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio.
12. Scala dei Turchi, Italy
Scala dei Turchi (Stair of the Turks) is a breathtaking confluence of water and time. Located on the west coast of Sicily, a blindingly white marlstone cliff marches toward the sea like a staircase, leading to an isolated beach below. The contrast of the snow-white stone cascading down to the blue-green Mediterranean is a photographer’s dream. Unfortunately, an influx of tourists damaged the sensitive site, leading to more erosion—it was seized by Italian authorities in 2020 and visitors are now prohibited from climbing the steps. At least you can still appreciate them from afar via a public viewpoint.
13. Praia de Marinha, Portugal
Golden sand and striking limestone cliffs are calling cards for beaches in Portugal’s Algarve region. Picking the most beautiful is like splitting hairs, but special honors go to Praia de Marinha for its rustic, end-of-the-world appeal and lack of commercial build-up. Other quintessential Algarve must-visit beaches include Praia dos Três Irmãos, Praia de Benagil, Praia da Falésia, and the super-sheltered Carvalho Beach.
Beaches in Asia
14. Saud Beach, Philippines
If you’re searching for Southeast Asian beach bliss, super-mellow Saud Beach on the island of Luzon is a sure thing. Its white sand pitches gradually into the clear-as-glass water like a real-world example of a zero-entry swimming pool. Swim in the peaceful waves, lunch under a thatch-roof cabana under the palms, or hire an outrigger for excursions on the water.
15. Radhanagar Beach, India
Of the roughly 500 islands floating in India’s Bay of Bengal, Swaraj Dweep’s spectacular beaches and diving make it far and away the most sought-after. Despite the island’s well-deserved popularity, R
adhanagar Beach is refreshingly pristine and under-the-radar. It’s a little more than seven miles from the jetty on the island’s eastern shore, and its white-sand crescent is backed by lush forest and a palm-fringed coast. From Port Blair, it’s a two- to three-hour ferry ride to Swaraj Dweep. Additional gorgeous Andaman and Nicobar Islands beaches include Corbyn’s Cove, Elephant, Kalapathar, Ramnagar, and Wandoor.
Beaches in Oceania
16. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
By some estimates, Whitehaven Beach on Queensland’s Whitsunday Island is the most photographed beach in Australia. At just over four miles, the beach’s white silica sand is almost pure, while its dunes and swirls make a stunning backdrop to a selfie. There are multiple ways to experience this spot. Whitehaven Beach is on an island accessible only by boat, helicopter, or seaplane, and many day-trippers come via ferry from Airlie Beach on the mainland. Its famous Hill Inlet is best appreciated by boat from Tongue Point.
17. Matira Beach, French Polynesia
One of Bora Bora’s few public-access beaches, Matira Beach offers the same kaleidoscope of blues as the most famous beach resorts on this island in French Polynesia. Once your toes hit the warm, powdery sand and you see the sun melt over Matira Point in the evening, you’ll understand why this South Pacific gem is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Additional must-visit beaches in Bora Bora include Playa Punta Arena and Tikehau.
18. Lalomanu Beach, Samoa
When it comes to beaches in the South Pacific, it’s a challenge to choose a favorite. On Samoa’s Upolu island, about an hour’s drive from Apia, Lalomanu Beach is in a remote pocket of island paradise. Its sand is a mix of white and honey-colored grains, while the water is calm, blue, and clear. You can snorkel right off the beach and spot some of the region’s beautiful reef fish.
Beaches in Africa
19. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar
Made up of two islands connected by a brilliant white sandbar, Nosy Iranja is located off the northwestern coast of Madagascar. The sandbar emerges at low tide and becomes a pedestrian pathway. Getting to Nosy Iranja can be challenging, requiring a two-hour boat ride from Nosy Be, but the trip is worth it. The islands offer a lush escape with green hills, coconut palms, and traditional Malagasy fishing boats. The beach here is so stunning that you might even see sea turtles nesting in the sand.
20. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
Some of the world’s most photographable beaches are in the Seychelles, a sprawling collection of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. On La Digue island, the silky-smooth sand of Anse Source d’Argent is topped by massive granite boulders that provide plenty of shade and dramatic photo ops. The translucent water and gentle waves make for excellent swimming, snorkeling, and wading. Take note, the beach requires an entry fee, but you won’t want to miss it.
21. Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar
There’s no place quite like Zanzibar, and the archipelago’s white-sand beaches are nothing short of spectacular. On the main island, Unguja, Nungwi Beach is a postcard-perfect stretch of soft sand and clear, warm water that make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing under the palm trees. The beach is lively with bustling markets and local music, adding to its allure. The island’s other beautiful beaches include Kendwa, Paje, and Jambiani.
Beaches in the Middle East
22. Jumeirah Beach, United Arab Emirates
Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach is synonymous with luxury. The shoreline stretches for miles, and its clean, soft sands are perfect for sunbathing. Visitors can take a stroll along the scenic Jumeirah Beach Walk, indulge in the many dining and shopping options, or even stay at the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel, which towers over the beach and adds to the dramatic cityscape.
23. Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates
On the east coast of the United Arab Emirates, Khor Fakkan Beach is a crescent-shaped paradise with golden sands and azure waters. It’s a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. The nearby mountains and lush greenery create a picturesque backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the beach’s vibrant blue waters.
Beaches in Central America
24. Tulum Beach, Mexico
The beaches of Tulum offer a striking mix of natural beauty and ancient history. Set against the backdrop of well-preserved Mayan ruins, Tulum Beach features powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Visitors can explore the ruins, swim in the cenotes, or relax at one of the many beachside hotels and restaurants that line the shore. Tulum’s beach is also known for its vibrant nightlife, eco-chic atmosphere, and stunning sunsets.
25. Playa Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Playa Manuel Antonio is located within Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful beaches. This crescent-shaped beach is bordered by lush rainforest, where visitors might spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. The warm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sand, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
26. Playa Paraiso, Mexico
Playa Paraiso, meaning “Paradise Beach,” lives up to its name with its stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water. Located in Tulum, this beach is quieter and more laid-back compared to its famous neighbor, offering a serene escape for those looking to unwind. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
Conclusion
There you have it, the 26 most beautiful beaches in the world. Each of these beaches offers its own unique charm, whether it’s the vibrant culture of Copacabana, the pristine waters of Grace Bay, or the secluded beauty of Nosy Iranja. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your sunglasses, and set out on an adventure to explore these stunning coastal paradises. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a water sports enthusiast, or someone who simply loves to relax by the sea, there’s a perfect beach waiting for you somewhere in the world.
