What makes a beach great? Is it the clear blue water or the white sand? Or maybe it’s the perfect combination of both? Whatever it is, these beaches are indeed among the best places to visit around the globe. There are hundreds of beautiful beaches across the world, each offering its own unique experience. Some offer crystal clear waters, while others are surrounded by lush greenery. Others boast amazing sunsets, while others are home to incredible wildlife. Whether you want to relax at a secluded spot, enjoy some surfing, or simply take a dip in the ocean, there’s no shortage of options. Check out our top picks of the all-time best sand beaches in the world.
Nungwi Beach, Tanzania
Nungwi Beach is in Zanzibar, Tanzania. It is famous for its beautiful white sand, crystal clear waters, and dramatic sunsets. With hype comes commerce; the beach has a heavy concentration of hotels, restaurants, bars, resort shops, and tour operators.
The serene white sands of Nungwi Beach emanate a strange, otherworldly glow, and the crystal clear waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Also, accessible swimming water, craggy rock formations, and lovely sunsets dipping beneath the dhow-doted sea make this destination unique.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach in Florida is also among the all-time best sand beaches in the world. In addition to being known for its pristine beaches, Clearwater Beach is home to many attractions, such as the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where visitors can see marine life up close.
Visitors can even swim with the animals like sea turtles, stingrays, and penguins. There's also Pier 60, where you can catch a glimpse of the local wildlife while enjoying live music and seafood.
If you want to escape the crowds, try heading further north to Dunedin, Florida, where you'll find the Gulf Coast Town Center Mall. Here, shoppers can browse stores selling everything from groceries to clothing and electronics.
Source d’Argent, Seychelles
Seychelles' most famous beach is located on the island of Mahe. The beach is relatively small but unique because it sits right next to a national park called Mahé National Park. So, visitors can access nature trails, hiking paths, and stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Many activities are also available here, including kayaking, diving, fishing, and more. If you're looking for an adventure, head over to the nearby island of Praslin, which offers tons of fun things to do.
Shoal Bay, Antigua
Shoal Bay in Antigua is a 2-mile sand beach that can be counted among the best sand beaches in the world. It has blinding white sand accompanied by turquoise waters. Also, visitors can go parasailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
The beach is also home to several resorts, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. You can stay at any number of hotels, from luxury resorts to budget accommodations.
Turquoise Bay, Australia
Turquoise Bay is another popular beach with turquoise water and white and soft sand. This beach is located along the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland, Australia. Visitors can go diving, snorkeling, and swimming.
There are plenty of dive sites near Turquoise Bay, so if you're interested in exploring the reef, check them out.
Matira Beach, South Africa
What's this list of the best sand beaches in the world without Matira Beach? Located in South Africa, Matira Beach is a long stretch of golden sand that stretches for miles.
It's not just the beach that makes Matira special, though. The area around the beach is filled with natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and rivers.
You can visit Matira Beach via public transport or car. However, there are no roads leading directly to the beach. Instead, you have to take a bus ride first.
Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Located in Australia, Whitehaven Beach is a beautiful sandy beach with clear blue waters. It's considered one of the best beaches in the country.
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
In fact, Whitehaven Beach is so popular that it gets crowded during peak hours. To avoid crowds, come early or late in the evening.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The heavenly look of the Bora Bora in French Polynesia makes it one of the world's most beautiful beaches. With the color of peppermint, sugar sand, palms, and various other salient features, it is considered a popular luxury resort destination.
Visitors can enjoy surfing, sailing, and many other water sports. There are also lots of restaurants and bars to choose from.
If you want to experience paradise, then make sure to book your vacation to Bora Bora soon.
Papagayo Beach, Costa Rica
This beach in Costa Rica has earned its spot as one of the best sand beaches. Papagayo Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and tropical vegetation.
This beach is also home to some of the best surf spots in Central America. So if you like surfing, then you should consider visiting Papagayo Beach.
If you want a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then this is the perfect beach for you.
Coco Beach, Mexico
One of the best things about Coco Beach is that it's right on the Pacific Ocean. So, you get to see the sunrise over the ocean every morning.
Another thing that makes this stunning beach unique is that it's home to many turtles. Turtles lay their eggs here, which makes the beach an important nesting site for sea turtles.
So, if you love nature, then be sure to visit Coco Beach when you travel to Mexico.
Manta Ray Beach, Ecuador
Ecuador is home to Manta Ray Beach, one of the best public beaches for manta rays. These majestic creatures can often bask in the sun at the shoreline. However, they don't stay too close to the shore because they need open water to breathe correctly.
Although the beach isn't huge, it does offer plenty of space for swimming and snorkeling. You can even go diving at the nearby coral reefs. If you're looking for a secluded beach where you can spend quality time with family and friends, then Manta Ray Beach is a perfect choice.
Arcachon Bay, France
Arcachon Bay is among the best places to visit in Europe and among the best sand beaches in the world. It is famous for its oysters and mussels and miles of beaches. Also, it's home to many types of fish, such as tuna, mackerel, and sardines.
There are several different activities to do while you're in Arcachon Bay. For example, you can go fishing, scuba dive, sailboat ride, and much more. If you want an unforgettable trip, then make sure to visit Arcachon Bay.
Keem Bay, Ireland
Keem Bay in Ireland is among the most picturesque beaches in the world, surrounded by cliffs on Ireland's largest island, Achill Island. The white sands and calm waters offer a world-class look to this beach.
The area offers visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, golfing, and fishing. In addition, there are several pubs and restaurants near Keem Bay.
You'll find yourself having a great time during your vacation in Ireland. Make sure to check out Keem Bay when you travel to Ireland.
Bali Hai Beach, Hawaii
Bali Hai Beach in Hawaii is one of the best sand beaches in the world. This beautiful stretch of coastline is located in Waikiki.
It is home to many hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants. There are also many attractions around Bali Hai Beach, including the Honolulu Zoo, Diamond Head Park, and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
You can enjoy various activities, such as shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Plus, you can relax on the beach or walk along the coast.
When you travel to Hawaii, make sure to stop by Bali Hai Beach.
Amanohashidate, Japan
Amanohashide is a popular tourist destination in Japan. Located in Nagano Prefecture, it has been named one of the best sand beaches in the world.
This white sand beach is famous for its crystal clear waters, soft white sands, and lush greenery. It is also home to many marine animals, like dolphins, whales, and seals.
In addition, Amano Hashidate is home to the Amanohashidate Shrine, which dates back to the Edo period.
Make sure to visit this beautiful beach when you travel to Japan.
Railay Beach
Railay beach is one of the best beaches in Thailand and is located in Phuket Province. The area is famous for its stunning views of limestone karsts, turquoise blue sea, and white sandy beaches.
There are many things to see and do in Railay. For example, you could hike through the jungle, take a boat tour, or go parasailing. Plus, you can shop at local markets and eat delicious Thai food.
When you travel abroad, include Railay beach in your list of destinations.
Koekohe Beach, New Zealand
Located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, Koekohe Beach is renowned as one of the world's most beautiful sand beaches. But it's not just the soft white sand and crystal-clear water that draws visitors to this stunning location. The beach is also home to an extraordinary natural wonder known as the Moeraki Boulders.
The Moeraki Boulders are a collection of large, spherical stones that are scattered across the beach, each measuring up to two meters in diameter. These stones are formed from sedimentary rock, and their perfectly round shape is the result of millions of years of erosion and weathering.
Legend has it that the Moeraki Boulders were the remains of gourds and baskets that washed ashore after the legendary canoe of Arai-te-uru was wrecked on the Otago coast. In Maori tradition, the boulders are known as “teka-ti-waewae,” which means “the footprints of the gods.”
Despite their mysterious origins, the Moeraki Boulders are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Koekohe Beach. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the beach, admiring the boulders and the breathtaking coastal scenery. The beach is also popular with surfers and swimmers, and there are plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun on the soft sand.
Belle Mare, Mauritius
If you're in search of a true paradise among the world's best sand beaches, look no further than Belle Mare of Mauritius. With its powder-white sand and stunning coral reefs, this breathtaking beach is sure to take your breath away. Not only is Belle Mare's natural beauty unparalleled, but it also offers visitors an unspoiled, pristine atmosphere that's simply unbeatable.
Located in the southeast of Mauritius, Belle Mare has been ranked among the world's top beaches, thanks to its unspoiled natural appeal and stunning vistas. The crystal-clear waters and long stretches of white sand make for the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a dip in the ocean. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a picnic on the beach, or explore the area's rich marine life, Belle Mare has something to offer for everyone.
One of the unique features of Belle Mare is its stunning coral reefs, which offer a window into the beauty and diversity of the marine life in the area. The reefs are teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and other sea creatures, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Praia Do Sancho, Brazil
Located on the Fernando de Noronha archipelago in Brazil, Praia Do Sancho is a hidden gem that is considered one of the world's best sand beaches. With its crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and rugged cliffs, this secluded beach is a paradise for nature lovers, swimmers, and snorkelers.
The beach is accessible via a steep staircase, which adds to the sense of adventure and exclusivity. Once you reach the bottom of the stairs, you'll be greeted by a stunning vista of turquoise waters, surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky outcrops.
Praia Do Sancho is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, as the water is calm and clear, with an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The beach is also a popular spot for diving, as it offers a range of underwater caves, grottos, and crevices to explore.
Despite its remote location, Praia Do Sancho has all the amenities you need for a comfortable day at the beach. There are several beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal, as well as changing rooms and showers.
Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and picturesque sand beaches in the world. Located on the western shore of Grand Cayman, Seven Mile Beach is a breathtaking stretch of coral sand that extends for miles along the coastline.
What makes Seven Mile Beach so special is its stunning crystal-clear water that sparkles under the bright Caribbean sun. The water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with an abundance of tropical fish, vibrant coral, and other marine life waiting to be discovered.
But it's not just the water that makes Seven Mile Beach so appealing. The beach is also lined with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it an ideal spot for beachgoers who want to relax and unwind in between swimming and snorkeling sessions.
Whether you're a beach lover or just looking for a relaxing vacation spot, Seven Mile Beach is sure to impress. With its coral sands, sparkling water, and snorkeling opportunities, it's easy to see why Seven Mile Beach is often ranked as one of the best sand beaches in the world.
Conclusion
If you're looking for the ultimate relaxation experience, these best sand beaches in the World are definitely worth considering. From the stunning crystal-clear waters of Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands to the white sands of Anse Source d'Argent in Seychelles, these beaches have everything you need for a wonderful vacation.
Not only are they beautiful and pristine, but they are also safe for visitors. With the abundance of activities and amenities available, you can spend your days sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sand.
So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the world's most beautiful beaches. A relaxing getaway awaits you!
