Top 10 Best Beaches in the World
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Tiempo de lectura 15 min
Best Beaches in the World
The world is sprinkled with breathtaking beaches—from secluded coves in the South Pacific to legendary Mediterranean shores. Whether you’re after powdery white sand, crystal-clear lagoons, or awe-inspiring volcanic backdrops, our curated list of the top 10 best beaches in the world promises a dreamy escape for every kind of traveler.
Table of contents
Best Beaches in the World 1. Cala Goloritzé – Sardinia, Italy 2. Entalula Beach – El Nido, Philippines 3. Bang Bao Beach – Koh Kood, Thailand 4. Fteri Beach – Kefalonia, Greece 5. PK 9 Beach – Moorea, French Polynesia 6. Canto de la Playa – Saona Island, Dominican Republic 7. Anse Source d’Argent – La Digue, Seychelles 8. Nosy Iranja – Madagascar 9. Ofu Beach – American Samoa 10. Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos
1. Cala Goloritzé – Sardinia, Italy
Turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs on Sardinia’s wild coast
Cala Goloritzé is a secluded paradise tucked beneath towering cliffs along the eastern coast of Sardinia. Famous for its striking limestone spire and impossibly clear turquoise water, this UNESCO-protected cove is accessible only by boat or a scenic hike through the Supramonte mountains. The white pebbled beach is small, pristine, and blissfully free of development — just nature at its most dazzling. It’s a sanctuary for swimmers, snorkelers, and seekers of solitude who don’t mind earning their beach day with a bit of effort.
- 🌍 Location: Baunei, Sardinia, Italy (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Crystal-clear water, limestone cliffs, great for snorkeling, UNESCO site, hike-in or boat access
- 👎 Downsides: Difficult to access; no facilities; can get crowded in summer despite remoteness
A hike worth every step
The 90-minute downhill hike through rugged Mediterranean landscape is part of the experience. You’ll pass through fragrant wild herbs, goats clambering on rocks, and panoramic sea views. The reward at the end is absolute serenity — just bring water, proper shoes, and be ready for the uphill return.
A snorkeler’s dream
Beneath the surface, Cala Goloritzé reveals just as much beauty. The underwater world here teems with colorful fish and rock formations. With no motorized boats allowed near the shore, the water stays peaceful and perfect for snorkeling and floating in silence.
Sunlight, solitude, and stone
This beach is all about simplicity — no bars, no loungers, just sun-warmed stones and sea. Pack snacks and spend the day soaking in the natural splendor. Don’t forget to look up: the massive pinnacle known as Aguglia towers over the beach and is a popular spot for climbers.
2. Entalula Beach – El Nido, Philippines
Hidden limestone paradise in the Bacuit Archipelago
Entalula Beach is a breathtaking private island beach nestled in the Bacuit Bay off the coast of El Nido, Palawan. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush greenery, this narrow stretch of powder-white sand and turquoise water is postcard perfection. With few visitors and no commercial development, Entalula is a place for peaceful picnics, snorkeling in coral gardens, or simply soaking up the beauty from beneath a swaying palm tree. Most travelers arrive as part of a boat tour, but private visits can be arranged for a more exclusive experience.
- 🌍 Location: Bacuit Archipelago, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Private-island feel, stunning cliffs, white sand, coral reefs, peaceful vibe
- 👎 Downsides: Only accessible by boat; no shade or facilities; can be restricted access depending on ownership
Perfect for romantic escapes
Entalula’s charm lies in its intimacy. It’s a popular stop for honeymooners and couples seeking a private beach moment without the noise of crowds. It’s quiet, tranquil, and framed by tropical beauty that feels untouched by time. Don’t forget a camera—the light here is golden.
Snorkel straight from the shore
Bring a mask and snorkel: Entalula’s surrounding reef is home to colorful corals, sea stars, and schools of fish. The water is typically calm and warm, making it ideal for beginners and casual snorkelers. Just be careful where you step—preserving the coral is essential.
A taste of island serenity
With no bars, vendors, or Wi-Fi, this is a place for total disconnection. Bring a picnic, a book, and your favorite beach playlist. Time seems to pause here, letting you drift into total relaxation surrounded by the sounds of nature and gentle waves.
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3. Bang Bao Beach – Koh Kood, Thailand
Quiet sands and palm-fringed calm on a sleepy Thai island
Bang Bao Beach on Koh Kood is the kind of hidden gem that feels like your own private slice of paradise. Located on Thailand’s fourth-largest island, this beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and a line of gently swaying palm trees. Far from the party scenes of nearby islands, Bang Bao invites long swims, slow walks, and lazy days in a hammock. A few boutique resorts and beachfront bungalows dot the shore, adding to the rustic charm without disrupting the peace.
- 🌍 Location: Koh Kood, Trat Province, Thailand (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Peaceful atmosphere, soft sand, great swimming, palm-lined shoreline
- 👎 Downsides: Limited nightlife; some areas may have sandflies—bring repellent
Ideal for a slow, unplugged retreat
Bang Bao is a favorite for travelers looking to disconnect. Internet access is spotty, and that’s part of the charm. Most people spend their days reading in the shade, enjoying Thai food at family-run beach cafes, and watching the sun melt into the horizon with a cold coconut in hand.
Morning swims and beachfront yoga
The calm, shallow waters of Bang Bao are perfect for morning dips and gentle swims. Some resorts even offer sunrise yoga sessions right on the beach. It’s the kind of place that naturally slows your pace—and that’s exactly the point.
Stay in barefoot luxury
Unlike Thailand’s more commercial beaches, Bang Bao offers a touch of elegance in a low-key way. Stay in a wooden bungalow just steps from the sea, or book a beachfront villa with an open-air shower and hammock. It’s not about flash—it’s about atmosphere, and this beach has it in spades.
4. Fteri Beach – Kefalonia, Greece
Crystal waters and dramatic cliffs on Greece’s hidden Ionian gem
Fteri Beach is a remote, jaw-droppingly beautiful spot on the northwestern coast of Kefalonia. Surrounded by high white limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat or a steep hiking trail, it rewards the determined with electric-blue water, bright white pebbles, and total serenity. It’s not just scenic—it’s surreal. There are no beach bars, no umbrellas, no crowds. Just you, the sea, and silence (except for the occasional goat call echoing from the cliffs).
- 🌍 Location: Kefalonia, Ionian Islands, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Ultra-clear water, secluded setting, stunning cliff scenery
- 👎 Downsides: Requires a hike or boat ride; no amenities—bring everything with you
Swim in blue that doesn’t seem real
Fteri’s color palette feels like it was painted by the gods—icy blue meets deep turquoise with a pure white shoreline. The water is refreshingly cool and incredibly clean, making it perfect for snorkeling, floating, or just letting the waves gently rock you in the quiet.
Boat access adds to the magic
Most visitors arrive by small rental boat from Zola or nearby beaches, making the approach to Fteri part of the experience. As you round the cliffs and see the glowing blue cove come into view, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a secret. It’s a dream escape for couples, photographers, or anyone craving a bit of Greek island isolation.
Pack a picnic and stay a while
There’s no food or drink available, and very little shade, so come prepared. A wide hat, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and a towel are all you need. Once you arrive, time slows down. You’ll want to stay until the sun starts to dip and the cliffs glow gold in the late afternoon light.
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5. PK 9 Beach – Moorea, French Polynesia
Untouched South Pacific sands on a tranquil island paradise
PK 9 Beach on the island of Moorea is a postcard-perfect stretch of white sand tucked away from the busier resorts. Located near the 9-kilometer marker on the island’s main road (hence the name), this hidden gem offers peaceful, shallow turquoise water ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. With dramatic mountain views in the background and palm trees swaying overhead, it’s the kind of place where time seems to stand still.
- 🌍 Location: Moorea, French Polynesia (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Shallow calm waters, mountain views, quiet and uncrowded, perfect for paddleboarding
- 👎 Downsides: Very limited parking; no facilities or rentals on site
Where locals go to unwind
PK 9 is a favorite among Moorea’s locals for its quiet vibe and soft, shady spots. It’s not widely known to tourists, so you’ll likely share it with families and fishermen instead of sunbathers with selfie sticks. It’s especially peaceful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden.
Perfect for floating and snorkeling
The calm lagoon is teeming with marine life, so bring your snorkel gear. It’s also shallow for quite a distance out, making it perfect for floating lazily or letting kids play safely in the water. The coral heads offshore attract colorful fish, and the clarity of the water is outstanding.
Bring your own picnic and hammock
There are no restaurants or beach bars nearby, so come prepared. Pack a picnic, a book, and if you have one—a travel hammock to string between the trees. This beach is all about disconnecting. Just watch the lagoon, listen to the breeze, and let the rest of the world fade away.
6. Canto de la Playa – Saona Island, Dominican Republic
Remote Caribbean bliss with pure white sands and clear water
Canto de la Playa is the most pristine beach on Saona Island, located off the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. Far from the usual tourist routes, this untouched paradise boasts dazzling white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush coconut palms swaying in the breeze. It’s often reached by boat, adding to the sense of seclusion and exclusivity. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape, this beach feels like stepping into a dream.
- 🌍 Location: Saona Island, Dominican Republic (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Remote and uncrowded, ultra-clear waters, stunning natural surroundings, ideal for relaxing and swimming
- 👎 Downsides: Requires a boat to access; no amenities—bring everything you need
Perfect for digital detox and beach meditation
No Wi-Fi. No beach clubs. Just the sound of waves, coconut trees rustling, and the occasional pelican dive. Canto de la Playa is pure, raw Caribbean nature—a place to unplug and truly slow down. It's a great spot for beach yoga, mindful swimming, or simply lying in the sand with your eyes closed.
Snorkeling and untouched marine life
The shallow, transparent waters are ideal for snorkeling. You’ll often see starfish, rays, and schools of tropical fish near the coral outcrops. The lack of crowds means marine life thrives here, offering one of the most peaceful and authentic snorkeling experiences in the Dominican Republic.
Pack like a castaway—but stylish
Since there are no services, come prepared: water, snacks, sunscreen, and shade. A wide-brimmed hat and breezy outfit will serve you well. Bring a sarong or towel to lay on, and if you’re staying late, catch the sunset over the sea—it’s truly unforgettable.
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7. Anse Source d’Argent – La Digue, Seychelles
Iconic granite boulders and dreamlike lagoon on La Digue
Perhaps the most photographed beach in the world, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue Island in Seychelles is instantly recognizable by its dramatic granite boulders, powdery white sand, and shallow turquoise waters. Tucked inside the L’Union Estate, this beach is protected by a coral reef, creating a calm lagoon perfect for floating, wading, and simply soaking in paradise. It's a place where time slows down and nature’s beauty speaks louder than words.
- 🌍 Location: La Digue, Seychelles (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unique granite rock formations, calm lagoon waters, ideal for photos and peaceful swims
- 👎 Downsides: Entry fee via L’Union Estate; can get busy during midday hours
Stunning scenery for a mindful moment
This is not just a beach—it’s a sanctuary. The warm, shallow waters invite you to relax, while the giant granite boulders create cozy nooks that feel like natural sculptures. Perfect for yoga at sunrise or a quiet stretch in the sand, Anse Source d’Argent is made for mindful mornings in the tropics.
One-of-a-kind photo ops
The beach’s surreal beauty draws photographers and travelers from across the globe. Early morning or late afternoon are best for capturing the soft light on the granite curves, often reflected perfectly in the glassy water. Bring your camera, but don't forget to simply be present too—this beach is even better in person than in pictures.
Cycle in, chill out
One of the joys of La Digue is that most visitors get around by bicycle. Rent a bike in town and take a slow ride through palm-fringed paths to the estate. After your visit to Anse Source d’Argent, grab a fresh coconut juice from a local stand or picnic in the shade. It’s the island at its most idyllic.
8. Nosy Iranja – Madagascar
Twin tropical islands connected by a shimmering sandbar
Nosy Iranja, located off Madagascar’s northwest coast, is a pair of lush islands joined by a stunning 1.2 km white sandbar that appears and disappears with the tides. This surreal setting, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, offers one of the most breathtaking beach experiences on the planet. Whether you're lounging under swaying palms or wading across the sandbar at low tide, Nosy Iranja delivers pure tropical magic far from the crowds.
- 🌍 Location: Nosy Iranja, Madagascar (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unique sandbar connection, marine life, pristine waters, authentic island atmosphere
- 👎 Downsides: Remote location requires boat trip; limited facilities on the island
Wade across a natural wonder
At low tide, the sandbar emerges like a dream, inviting you to walk barefoot between the islands while surrounded by the Indian Ocean. It’s peaceful, meditative, and unforgettable. On either side, you’ll find warm, clear water perfect for swimming or simply floating while soaking in the views.
Perfect for unplugged paradise seekers
There’s no Wi-Fi, no traffic, and barely a footprint in sight. Nosy Iranja is the kind of place where hammocks and starlight replace screens and schedules. Bring a book, a sarong, and maybe a camera—but don’t expect to share it in real time. This is an island escape in its purest form.
Wildlife, whales, and local charm
Between July and September, you might spot humpback whales on the way to the island. Sea turtles nest here, and local villagers welcome respectful visitors with fresh seafood and handmade crafts. It's a rare mix of biodiversity, cultural richness, and untouched beauty—an essential stop on any tropical beach bucket list.
9. Ofu Beach – American Samoa
Remote Pacific paradise with coral reefs and volcanic cliffs
Ofu Beach, located in the National Park of American Samoa, is one of the most pristine and isolated stretches of sand in the world. With powdery white sand, dazzlingly clear water, and a lush mountainous backdrop, this beach is a hidden gem for travelers seeking peace, nature, and untouched beauty. Protected by a coral reef just offshore, the waters are calm and full of marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling and floating without a care.
- 🌍 Location: Ofu Island, American Samoa (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Coral reef sanctuary, rare solitude, mountain views, snorkeling heaven
- 👎 Downsides: Difficult to reach; very limited accommodations or services
Snorkel a living aquarium
Ofu’s coral reef is one of the healthiest in the Pacific, sheltering hundreds of species of tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral formations. With shallow, warm waters and gentle currents, it’s like swimming through a postcard. Bring your own gear—you’ll want to spend hours here.
Blissfully disconnected
There’s no cell signal, no shops, and hardly any people. What you will find is complete stillness—except for the occasional bird call or wave against the reef. For those looking to fully disconnect and reconnect with nature, Ofu Beach is a life-changing experience.
Island time in its purest form
Days at Ofu move slowly. Watch the sunrise light up the cliffs, take a nap in the shade of a palm tree, and marvel at how far away the rest of the world feels. It’s not easy to get here, but once you arrive, you’ll understand why it’s on the list of the world’s best beaches.
10. Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos
Iconic Caribbean beach with powdery white sand and turquoise waters
Grace Bay, on Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is the epitome of tropical luxury. With impossibly soft white sand, calm crystal-clear water, and world-class resorts set just steps from the shoreline, it’s consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. Despite its fame, the beach remains uncrowded and peaceful thanks to its wide shoreline and pristine environment. Whether you're swimming, paddleboarding, or simply lounging, Grace Bay delivers a dreamy, sun-soaked escape.
- 🌍 Location: Providenciales, Turks & Caicos (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Ultra-clear water, luxury resorts, great for swimming, long stretches of powder-soft sand
- 👎 Downsides: Expensive accommodations; limited shade if you're not at a resort
Perfect conditions, year-round
The beach is protected by a barrier reef offshore, ensuring warm, calm waters ideal for families and casual swimmers. It also keeps the visibility high, making snorkeling close to shore surprisingly rewarding. The weather? Almost always sunny and breezy, with occasional passing showers that disappear quickly.
Walk, float, repeat
Grace Bay is long and walkable—great for morning strolls or sunset wanderings. The gentle slope of the shore means you can wade in for meters without hitting deep water. Bring a float, grab a drink from a beach bar, and drift through the turquoise bliss.
Where luxury meets nature
Though lined with upscale resorts, Grace Bay has retained its laid-back charm. You don’t have to be staying at a 5-star hotel to enjoy the beach—it’s public and welcoming to all. Come early for quiet, or stay for the famous pink-tinted sunsets that light up the sky over the water.
“To travel is to live.”
You chase the sun and live for perfect beach days!
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Table of contents
Best Beaches in the World 1. Cala Goloritzé – Sardinia, Italy 2. Entalula Beach – El Nido, Philippines 3. Bang Bao Beach – Koh Kood, Thailand 4. Fteri Beach – Kefalonia, Greece 5. PK 9 Beach – Moorea, French Polynesia 6. Canto de la Playa – Saona Island, Dominican Republic 7. Anse Source d’Argent – La Digue, Seychelles 8. Nosy Iranja – Madagascar 9. Ofu Beach – American Samoa 10. Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos
