Long stretches of pristine golden sand, sparkling azure water, and cocktails within reach — we know what makes a good beach. Whether you’re looking for the perfect beach to lay out and bask in the sun for a week straight, or you want the option to enjoy water activities too, we’ve found 10 beautiful beach destinations perfect for your next relaxing beach vacation. From the sun-soaked sand of Greece’s Elafonisi Island and Navagio Beach to lively beaches lined with restaurants and bars in Mauritius and the Cayman Islands, there’s a beach in this list that is sure to have you reaching for your bathing suit and passport.
1. Elafonisi Island, Greece
Highlights:
This coastal island off of Crete has stunning pink sand and crystal clear waters.
The best time to go:
The beginning or end of summer is best for fine weather that isn’t uncomfortably hot.
Located just off the western coast of Crete is the breathtaking Elafonisi Island. Home to some of the most majestic beaches in the world, it has stunning pink sand and crystal-clear waters. Easily reached on a day trip from Crete, Elafonisi Island is the perfect destination for beach lovers. Beat the crowds by heading to the island at the beginning or end of the summer.
2. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
Highlights:
Coral sands for sunbathing, inviting water for swimming, and lively restaurants and bars to enjoy.
The best time to go:
The Cayman Islands are warm year-round, but March and April are the best months to visit. There is a risk of hurricanes from June to the end of November.
Measuring only 5.5 miles, what Seven Mile Beach lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. Its clear waters and coral sands attract visitors from around the world. Enjoy lively bars and restaurants that line the beach as you soak in the Caribbean sun. Seven Mile Beach has something for everyone, whether you’re sipping coconut water straight from the source or getting to know the local marine life on a snorkeling trip.
3. Harbor Island, Bahamas
Highlights:
Away from the crowds, this is the perfect spot for couples and families looking for calm beaches to enjoy the island beach atmosphere.
The best time to go:
The dry season is from November to late May, perfect for uninterrupted beach days.
Located off the northeast coast of Eleuthera Island, Harbor Island is a quiet refuge away from the busy Bahamian beaches. Popular among couples and families who enjoy relaxing beaches away from the masses, Harbor Island is home to peaceful beaches and a seemingly endless supply of sun loungers. And with no shortage of beachside bites, you’re sure to find something delicious to eat while you relax on the beach.
4. Matira Beach, Bora Bora
Highlights:
Idyllic white sand, shallow emerald waters, and a barrier reef to explore.
The best time to go:
Year-round good weather makes it a popular destination anytime, but you can avoid the bigger crowds by visiting between November and April.
Matira Beach is the only public-access beach in Bora Bora. This stunning mile-long beach features long stretches of white sand and a shallow emerald lagoon. Relax in the sun, and during low tide, swim out to the barrier reef, a popular spot to snorkel with sharks and stingrays. For drinks and dining, you won’t have to walk far. Enjoy sunset views from one of the casual cafes scattered along the beach.
5. Reduit Beach, St. Lucia
Highlights:
Perfect for the active traveler or those looking to unwind. Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and nearby nature trails.
The best time to go:
Relax on the beach, visit a spa, or charter a boat. The best time to visit is during January and February.
Reduit Beach is located just south of Pigeon Island National Park along Rodney Bay. For the active traveler, this beach is perfect. Go snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, or join a Segway nature trail experience. For vacationers with a slower speed in mind, there are numerous ways to relax and luxuriate. Unwind on the beach, visit a spa, and charter a boat from the nearby marina if you want to live the high life.
6. El Nido, Philippines
Highlights:
Under the radar, there are numerous peaceful beaches with white sand, limestone formations, and sparkling blue water.
The best time to go:
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from January to April.
El Nido is the perfect place to spend a day in the sun, home to around 50 white sand beaches. You’re guaranteed dramatic limestone formations, stunning white sand, and intensely blue water no matter which beach you visit. And don’t even get us started with the sunsets. If you are looking for a secluded spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beach, it won’t be challenging as the area is relatively under the radar.
7. Navagio Beach, Zakinthos, Greece
Highlights:
This remote beach is perfect for an adventurous traveler.
The best time to go:
It’s most popular during the summer, so the most relaxing times to visit this secluded beach are from March to May and September to early November when there are fewer visitors.
Navagio Beach, often called Shipwreck Beach or Smuggler’s Cove, is located on the coast of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands of Greece. This remote destination is perfect for an adventurous traveler as it’s notoriously tricky to reach. Unless you’re a ship’s captain, you’ll need to hop on a boat to get to the beach. Take the experience up a notch via a day trip and see Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves at Xingia Beach.
8. Hyams Beach, Australia
Highlights:
On the shore of Jervis Bay and home to the whitest sand in the world. Relax on the beach, explore the coast, and enjoy whale watching in the bay.
The best time to go:
A great place to visit year-round, but for general outdoor activities best to visit from December to March.
Hyams Beach has the whitest sand in the world. Don’t take our word for it — the Guinness Book of World Records says so. However, this is just one reason to visit Hyams Beach. Located on the southern shores of Jervis Bay, a popular whale-watching spot, you can explore the area and enjoy a tour from Sydney that takes you to all the beaches along this coastal strip, including Hyams Beach.
9. Île aux Cerfs, Mauritius
Highlights:
This privately owned island might be the perfect paradise beach vacation — cruise to the island to enjoy the sun, snorkeling, and delicious food.
The best time to go:
With a hot, humid, and wet winter season, the best time to visit is between May and November.
Mauritius is notorious for luxurious beach holidays. It’s a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, top-notch hotels, and lodges. Île aux Cerfs is a privately owned island near the east coast of Mauritius. Most travelers make their visit a day trip, soaking up the sun, snorkeling, and enjoying lunch at one of the beach restaurants. You can get to the island by motorboat, or maybe you want to splurge on a private catamaran charter.
10. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda
Highlights:
Pink sands, jagged rock formations, and inviting turquoise waters. A popular spot with secluded areas a short walk down the beach. Perfect spot for a fun beach day with chairs, bars, and a natural shallow pool.
The best time to go:
June or between August and November are perfect times to plan a trip to Bermuda.
Horseshoe Bay is Bermuda’s most famous beach. Known for its pink sands, turquoise water, and jagged rock formations, this is a popular beach, particularly when cruise ships are in town. Just walk a little further east along the coast for a calmer beach spot. Horseshoe Bay has everything needed for a fun beach day, chairs, bars, and restrooms. For families, there’s Horseshoe Bay Cove, a natural shallow pool perfect for splashing around in.
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