With around 372,000 miles of coastline in the world, creating a list of the best beaches is no small task. There are beautiful beaches scattered across the globe in a number of countries.
All with varying features that make them so unique. Some have pink sand beaches, while others have beautiful turquoise water. Many of the destinations we have found provide the best beach vacations available.
But what would people consider the most beautiful beach in the world? For some, it’s uniqueness, like that offered by the white sands of Australian beaches. Others prefer a remote location with clear ocean water.
Or perhaps it’s a pink sand beach like those in the Bahamas or the beautiful sea of the Philippines. Whatever the preferences, our list of the most beautiful beaches in the world has something for everyone.
Our top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world
- Pink Sand Beach, Bahamas
- Negombo Beach, Sri Lanka
- Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi
- Golden Horn Beach, Brac, Croatia
- Whitehaven Beach, Australia
- Boracay White Beach, Philippines
- Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda
- Blue Lagoon, Turkey
- Piha Beach, New Zealand
- Tulum Beach, Mexico
Discover the world’s most beautiful beaches
Pink Sand Beach, Bahamas
Located on Harbour Island, Pink Sand Beach regularly ranks among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Spanning across three miles of stunning shoreline, the turquoise water and secluded nature of the beach makes it a fan favourite. The pink sand beach gets its brilliant colour from small coral insects that give it a beautiful pink hue.
At nearly 100 feet wide in some places, the Pink Sand Beach and its abundance of space make it one of the best beach vacation spots in the world.
READ MORE: Best places in the world to swim with dolphins
Negombo Beach, Sri Lanka
The stunning sunset view from the shores of Negombo Beach earned it the reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The long sandy stretch provides space to admire the scenic view and turquoise water while avoiding the hustle and bustle. Food enthusiasts can find tasty local treats up and down the shoreline.
Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi
Sheltered by cliffs on three sides, Maya Bay has several beautiful beaches, many of which only make an appearance at low tide. Maya Bay is situated off the southern coast of Thailand and has become home for some of the best beach vacations in Asia.
The bay’s tropical beaches shot to fame after The Beach was filmed there in the late 90s. Its silky sandy and clear ocean water have made it a top tourist destination.
READ MORE: Best tropical destinations for your next holiday
Golden Horn Beach, Brac, Croatia
Often referred to as The Zlatni Rat, this beautiful beach is situated close to the harbour town of Bol on Brac Island.
With probably the most crystal clear water in the world, you can admire the colourful fish swimming closeby. The pebble beach is perfect for those looking for one of the top beach vacation spots without the hassle of sandy shoes!
Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Among the stunning surrounds of the Whitsunday Islands is Whitehaven Beach. Only accessible by boat or helicopter, it is one of the best beaches for anyone looking to experience the serine remoteness and beautiful water Australia has to offer.
Make sure to plan your trip as there are no local amenities near the beach.
READ MORE: Top 10 most beautiful travel destinations in the world
Boracay White Beach, Philippines
Thanks to the clear and calm ocean water, Boracay White Beach has become renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
It has become a prime spot for those seeking beach activities as well as a bustling nightlife. The three-mile-long beach has enough space to give you your slice of paradise.
READ MORE: Most amazing overwater bungalows in the world
Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda
The awe-inspiring Horseshoe Bay Beach is one of the most photographed pink sand beaches in the world. Tourists flock to the beautiful beach, which is surrounded by limestone cliffs.
The array of water sports and numerous annual festivals have made it one of the most sought after beach destinations in the world.
Blue Lagoon, Turkey
For those seeking adventure, Blue Lagoon is one of the best beaches in the world. Famous for outstanding cave diving and a plethora of marine life, it has some of the clearest water in the world.
The beautiful beaches are split by a vast green peninsula and surrounded by turquoise water. On top of that, the area is a marine sanctuary, so there is no danger of concrete jungles ruining the view.
READ MORE: What should you bring to the beach?
Piha Beach, New Zealand
Unlike the pink sand beaches on our list, Piha Beach is unique. Due to its rich iron content, the sand is black. The beautiful beach is situated about 25 miles away from New Zealand’s biggest city.
Piha beach is one of the best beach destinations in New Zealand if you are looking to surf. While it doesn’t boast clear ocean water, it is a unique spot and well worth a visit.
Tulum Beach, Mexico
Tulum Beach offers an alternative getaway if you are seeking a thrill on your next beach holiday. Mayan ruins overlook the beautiful beach which boasts some of the clearest water in the world.
Tulum’s rich history makes it one of the best beach vacation spots in the world. You get a mix of adventure and history, all situated alongside gorgeous tropical beaches.
Take your pick of the most beautiful beaches in the world
Choosing your next vacation spot isn’t easy. Are you looking to photograph a pink sand beach? Or do you want to soak in the sun at one of the most beautiful beaches in the world? Regardless of your preference, you are spoilt for choice with stunning beaches around the globe.
