Discover the top 10 beaches in the world
From wide, open shoreline and rainforest-backed beaches to secluded cove beaches and tropical island coasts, the world’s top beaches are diverse and offer something for each traveller. What puts them at the top of the list, however, is the incredible scenery, clean waters, soft sand, opportunities for water sports, and variety of beachfront amenities. Whether you want to hit the waves, have fun with the kids, or relax on the sand in front of turquoise waters, take a look at the top 10 beaches in the world to see where you’ll go for your next seaside escape.
Maldives for romance and adventure
Filled with charming overwater bungalows, crystal-clear, azure waters, and picture-perfect white-sand beaches, the Maldives is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world. Comprising about 1,200 islands, the Maldives offers numerous beaches to enjoy, along with palm trees, water sports, beachfront dining, and nightlife. Some of the best destinations in the Maldives include Maafushi and Addu City, but if you want to snorkel or dive, Dhangethi has an abundance of whale sharks to share the waters.
Fiji for honeymoons and watersports
Well known for its tropical, postcard-worthy scenery, Fiji is a collection of 333 islands with luxurious beach resorts, clear waters, and pristine white sand. If you want to experience paradise, this is the place to be. For relaxing and taking in the sun, your best options include Port Denarau and the Mamanuca Islands, and if you want water adventures and snorkelling excursions, you can explore the coral reefs that are home to vibrant sea life at the beaches of Taveuni.
Maui for family fun
The Hawaiian Islands have no shortage of gorgeous beaches, along with exciting cultural experiences, delicious dining, and superb nightlife, but Maui is a cut above the rest. The island has picturesque, uncrowded, diverse beaches, so you can enjoy time by the water with the kids, ocean adventures, or adult-friendly beaches for a romantic trip. For families, Wailea Beach has numerous resorts and calm waters for little ones to swim. The North Shore is the best beach for thrill-seekers looking for surfing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. For something off the beaten path, explore the black-sand beaches of Waianapanapa State Park.
Bahamas for island paradise
The Bahamas has over 700 islands with seemingly endless coastline to choose from, making it a paradise for a beach trip. You’ll find luxury resorts all over the islands that boast their own private slice of beaches. The beaches are incredibly varied as well, with everything from pink to gold to white sand, and additional features like underwater caves and shipwrecks to dive. One of the most popular beaches is Exumas, the beach that attracts the famous wild pigs that swim in the water.
Bora Bora for couple’s retreats
Part of French Polynesia, Bora Bora is a small island that’s mostly beaches and lush jungles with luxury resorts and overwater bungalows. Despite its size, Bora Bora has a wide range of beaches, from Mount Otemanu with its calm waters and dramatic views to Matira Beach and its soft sand and abundant sunshine. If you want adventure, Bora Bora offers plenty of water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, diving, and shark feeding.
Amalfi Coast for scenic beaches
Known for its unique architecture perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the water, the Amalfi Coast is a one-of-a-kind beach destination. While the beaches are narrow and require a hike down the cliffs, the beauty is unrivalled. Some of the best beaches include Marina Grande Beach, which is a favourite of celebrities, and Atrani Beach with its quiet atmosphere. While you’re there, you can take boat cruises to see the coastline or enjoy thrilling water sports.
Tahiti for luxurious trips
Combining the best of a tropical beach and French culture, Tahiti boasts a collection of 118 islands that you can choose from. Each island offers luxurious resorts, pristine shoreline, and tropical jungles. You can also choose between lively party beaches in Tahiti Nui or a low-key atmosphere in the more scenic Tahiti Iti. If you want to surf, the best place for surf breaks in Tahiti is Papenoo Beach.
Bali for resort experiences
Bali is Indonesia’s top beach travel destination. The magnificent beaches offer pearlescent sands, transparent, turquoise waters, and spectacular sunsets. As a resort destination, Bali has incredible luxury beachfront resorts with private beach access, so you don’t need to worry about tourist crowds. Resorts also include convenient amenities, such as onsite dining, childcare, pools, and activities. If you prefer something more laid back, you can stay at Sanur Beach.
Whitsunday Islands for snorkeling and diving
Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the Whitsunday Islands are a collection of 74 islands near the Great Barrier Reef. The Whitsundays’ shoreline is rimmed with white-sand beaches bathed in sunshine, perfect for a relaxing beach vacation. If you like snorkelling and diving, travelling to the Whitsundays gives you a chance to experience the spectacular reef and its native sea life on an excursion. You could see the reef without leaving the boat with a glass-bottomed boat tour or submarine tour. In addition to the beaches, you can find plenty to do in the Whitsundays, such as hiking in the rainforest or exploring the quaint fishing villages.
Crete for culture by the sea
Crete is one of the Greek islands and boasts incredible pink sands and clear, azure waters. Elafonissi Beach is a favourite beach area and one of the most beautiful on the island, but you’ll also enjoy the atmosphere and palm-lined backdrop of Vai Beach or Achlia Beach. There’s no shortage of stunning beaches to choose from, all with their own distinctive personalities. Away from the water, Crete offers sightseeing opportunities with legendary archaeological ruin sites to explore, such as Heraklion.