We love them for their natural splendor, sun-soaked shores, and beautiful bodies of water, but what makes a beach the best in the world? We’ve mulled it over, and based on views, available activities, and the surrounding environment, we’ve come up with a premium list of some of the most astounding waterfronts on the planet.
Playa Norte Beach — Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Railay Beach — Krabi, Thailand
Though it’s hard to choose just one of the amazing beaches in Thailand as the best, Railay Beach is a standout. Located near Krabi, Railay Beach is especially popular with rock climbers and adventurers from all over the globe. Travelers who are up for a light hike experience optimal views from the elevated lookout point, which has a lovely lagoon close by.
Natadola Beach — Sanasana, Fiji
The unspoiled sands of Natadola Beach in Nadi, Fiji, are often unoccupied and peaceful. Squish the crystalized, white sediment between your toes without worrying about pollution or pebbles, though travelers may find displaced pieces of coral along the edges of the shoreline. Although swimming in the warm waters of the Pacific is alluring, vacationers may want to hop atop a horse and explore the coast with a four-legged local guide instead.
Elafonissi Beach — Crete, Greece
In Crete, Greece, Elafonissi Beach is a picturesque place for lovers to convene. Seaside boulders and strips of pink-tinted sand, colored by time-worn coral, are especially inviting to couples on a rendezvous, but families can find their place in the sands and gently rippling waters as well. Whether combing through sand in search of shells or letting the sunrays pour over you, beach enthusiasts will find multiple reasons to fall in love with this highly rated seashore.
Anse Source d’Argent — La Digue Island, Seychelles
Though there’s a small fee to enter Union Estate Park, a gorgeous garden and vanilla plantation that visitors stroll through in order to reach the sands of Anse Source d’Argent, it’s well worth the price. Perched on the southwestern shore of La Digue, an island in the African Seychelles, Anse Source d’Argent is a unique beach with clusters of smooth, gigantic boulders setting off a view of the Indian Ocean that’s beautiful enough to bring tears to the eye.
Anakena Beach — Valparaíso, Chile
On the otherwise rocky coastline of Easter Island, Anakena Beach stands out as a sandy sanctuary. Relax on this piece of paradise as a calming breeze rustles the swaying palm trees and families wade in the Pacific Ocean. Moai, the ancient statues left over by the Rapa Nui people, add a special element of history and culture to the seaside, creating a space that is as intriguing as it is peaceful.
Darkwood Beach — Antigua
Both tourists and locals appreciate the unbothered beauty of Darkwood Beach on the western coast of Antigua. Though this beach is known for its pristine appearance, complimentary Wi-Fi pushes it even further up the list of the world’s best beaches. Shallow snorkeling waters make this a perfect place for kids and adults to swim and explore. Don’t expect to find any big buildings or resorts on this shore — only a couple of quaint and convenient bars that cater to beachgoers during peak travel season.
