Beaches are the Valium of the travel world. They soothe, they relax, they make you realize that “real life” occasionally needs escaping. There are very few people immune to the magical lure of the beach. Whether you’re keen on sunbathing, sports, or exploring the underwater world or simply contemplating the infinite possibilities of the horizon. There’s no doubt the beach is the perfect destination for fun and relaxation. Most of all, these slivers of sand against the ocean are a reminder that the world can be quite beautiful. But, what are most beautiful beaches in the world?
Pulau Perhentian Kecil – Malaysia
If you’re a beach bum you’ve probably already heard of, or visited, or fallen in love with, Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands. The Perhentian Islands lie approximately 10 nautical miles off the northeastern coast of West Malaysia in the state of Terengganu, approximately 40 miles south of the Thai border. The two main islands are the backpacker-happy Pulau Perhentian Kecil, and Pulau Perhentian Besar, which has slightly more expensive accommodation.
Sun Island – Maldives
Recognized as the world’s best and one of the most beautiful beaches, located in a beach-lover’s paradise, Maldives. This diamond in the middle of the Indian Ocean has become a favorite with celebs and rich honeymooners drawn by the thought of sleeping over the water, literally. If you want to be as near as possible to the water, you can do no better.
Especially at Sun Island Beach, where many resorts offer luxury bungalows on stilts in the water. Where you can be sent to sleep with the sound of real water lapping at your doorstep. Nearby coral reefs attract thousands of tropical fish, snorkelers and divers.
Nungwi – Zanzibar – Tanzania
On the north-west coast of the island, Nungwi is considered to be the most beautiful beach of Zanzibar, where the absence of strong tides guarantees the pleasures of swimming and snorkelling in the crystal, jade sea. The island has long been loved by intrepid travelers for its enigmatic old Stone Town and 30 or so pristine beaches.
Tourists tend to gravitate towards Nungwi, a settlement located along the coast of north Zanzibar. In Nungwi’s extremely shallow shores, travelers can quite literally walk on water, with baby formula sand between their toes. The azure waters and coral around Nungwi are home to scores of marine creatures.
Maya Bay – Ko Phi Phi – Thailand
Maya Bay is a white sand beach hugged by steep limestone cliffs. Coral reefs make it an excellent spot for snorkeling. This strikingly beautiful beach has seen its popularity skyrocket after featuring in the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach, but it’s still worth visiting for the dramatic setting and marvelous snorkeling opportunities. Thousands of people visit the bay every day. So, if you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or after 5 p.m.
Matira – Bora Bora – Tahiti
Bora Bora is one of the magical islands that make up French Polynesia in the South Pacific. This Island is like the Gwyneth Paltrow of beaches — a little too perfect to be believable. But the spell that this small island is a major international tourist destination, famous for its aqua-centric luxury resorts. But its best spot, Matira Beach, reminds you why places like this become popular in the first place.
Playa Paraiso – Cayo Largo
One of the gorgeous beaches in the world is Playa Paraiso in Cuba’s finest beach island Cayo Largo. This beach well deserves its name of “Paradise Beach” is not quite as exposed to the elements as some of the other beaches on the island. The weather is usually calm and the sea here remains shallow most of the year. As the beach of hotels is very changing, most people go to Playa Paraiso to enjoy calm water to awim or simply relax on the beach.
Whitehaven – Queensland – Australia
It’s difficult to pick a favourite in a country known for its beautiful beaches, but if you’re looking for unspoilt, flawless natural beauty, the fine sands of Whitehaven in Australia’s Whitsunday Islands are a strong contender. With more than four kilometers of sand that is 98 percent pure silica, so clean it squeaks. Whitehaven Beach is part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park.
