Finding the best beach will always depend on the individual, making a one-size-fits-all list for everyone basically impossible. Some travelers prefer finding a slice of hidden paradise in unoccupied beaches with still waters while others look for wide beaches with a lot of people and things to do.
From the tropical beaches of Hawaii to the isolated sands in the Caribbean, here are some of the best beaches in the world for almost every kind of adventurer.
1. Sunset Beach in Oahu, Hawaii
Hawaii has always been a top destination for people finding a relaxing afternoon in the sand and the sun, and Sunset Beach in Oahu ranks among the best of them. It is located only two miles past another popular seaside location, Ehukai Beach and its world-renowned Banzai Pipeline.
Whether you are a competing surfer or an interested onlooker, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is an event that will definitely get your heart racing, and Sunset Beach is one of the few select spots of this large event. Watch water rise as tall as buildings with sea swells go up to 30 feet high during the winter. On the other hand, Sunset Beach offers its calmer, more comforting side in the summer when the sun shines bright and the waters stay calm. Lastly, enjoy either the sunrise or sunset or both along this beige-colored Oahu shore.
2. Negril, Jamaica
For travelers looking for the place to get that perfect, even tan, or for those on the lookout for another view aside from the sand, sea, and sun, Negril is one of the must-see spots in the Caribbean. While topless sunbathing is quite popular here, this beach resort town on the western coast is home to some of the nude beaches in Jamaica. Check this blog to see the best nude beaches in Jamaica.
Another popular reason to visit Negril is the Seven Mile Beach, a lovely walk overlooking the Long Bay. Stroll on a seemingly endless stretch of fine sand with a cool breeze greeting you with every step. Also, this beach is accessible and offers a lot of activities at any of the hotels and accommodations along its length. Whether you need some serious pampering at a five-star luxury setup, or something simply romantic and rustic, Negril definitely has it all.
For a little side trip, you can even go snorkeling and diving at the waters of Long Bay. A historically significant and still working lighthouse is also available for a rustic vantage point overlooking the Caribbean.
3. Temae Plage Publique, Moorea, French Polynesia
This serene seaside town in northeastern Moorea boasts extremely clear waters you can actually see straight through the pristine coral reefs and the diverse ocean life living in it. Temae Plage is a public beach that is a good place for some peaceful stroll along the sand or simply lying down where the sea touches the sand. The place is rarely crowded with people. More often than not, you might find schools of fishes passing through or even a fever of stingrays seamlessly moving in the distance.
Aside from the crystal waters at your feet, gaze afar and find the equally beautiful Sea of the Moon and Tahiti. And if watching their outlines from a distance is not enough, you can actually take any of the guided tours on a sailboat around Tahiti and French Polynesia – crossing through the heart-shaped island of Moorea, passing through the narrow yet enchanting strait that is the Sea of the Moon, straight to Tahiti for some after sundown party.
4. El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
When the two words “Philippines” and “beaches” come in the same sentence, it usually refers to the fine white sands of Boracay Island or the challenging waves of Siargao Island. However, El Nido in Palawan is one of those tourist destinations that always pop up in the world’s best lists but yet remains under the radar.
Home to some fifty beaches scattered around the island, El Nido is also littered with towering limestone formations complementing the fine white sands only a few others can match. Also, take a small boat and feel like floating in the air as you watch more white sand and thriving coral reefs through its clear waters.
Aside from its beaches, enjoy the island further with mangrove plantations and mysterious underground lagoons. Voted as the 7th Wonder of Nature a few years back, the Underground River takes you from El Nido to neighboring islands of Sabang and Puerto Princesa, each with beautiful beaches of their own.
5. Similan Islands, Thailand
Similan Islands is a remarkable destination for adventure lovers in Thailand. Spanning over 140 square kilometers of the most pristine Andaman Sea, the archipelago consists of eleven picturesque islands. These include Koh Bangu, Koh Payu, Koh Miang, Koh Bon, Koh Ha, Koh Hin Pousar, Koh Huyong, Koh Miang, Koh Payan, Koh Payang, Koh Similan, and Koh Tachai. According to www.Islander.io, the best location on Similan Islands is by far the incredible Koh Miang.
Promising the most powder-soft and whites beach that you have ever seen, Koh Miang is also famed for its two bays – Honeymoon & Princess. Here, the King of Thailand’s daughter spent her honeymoon!
6. Maundays Bay, Anguilla
It is important to point this out as early as possible, Maundays Bay is a natural beauty. Visit and start doubting with its fine white sands that gently slopes into clear, blue waters. What’s more, the immaculate stretch in Anguilla’s southwestern tip resembles a near-perfect half-moon curve.
Getaway from all your troubles and feel nature take over you since, although it is a public beach, Maundays Bay rarely gets crowded and most of the people you will find are guests at the iconic Belmond Cap Juluca – which is definitely one of the best places to stay in during your stay in Anguilla. This Greek-Caribbean landmark resort is perfect for couples who want to spend some time alone, as well as families where everyone can enjoy.
The waters are relatively calm, lifeguards are always a few steps away, and the suites at the Cap Juluca spells home. No wonder a single visit at this reestablished resort definitely caps the natural must-see destination that is Maundays Bay.
A beach vacation is a tried and tested way to recover from the hassle of city living. With the sheer number of beaches all around the world, you are almost certain to find one that fits your desires. There is a seaside spot waiting for you – whether you are longing for the peace and silence only slightly broken by gentle sea breezes or raving for those evening bonfire parties where you can find that perfect stranger.
If you are still unsure of the destination for your next beach getaway, you might want to start off with these five beaches you definitely must visit at least once in your lifetime.
