Some people choose to vacation on the best beaches in the world for their idyllic sand and clear waters, while others like to enjoy a party scene or photogenic scene. The list below highlights some of the best beaches in the world, according to the popularity and recognition that each one has received. You can also see which beaches have received prestigious awards and recognition from travel websites and publications. We hope that this list will help you decide where to spend your next vacation!
San Fruttuoso
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in San Fruttuoso. This small town is home to several beaches, and its cliffs are lined with quaint buildings. The beach here is very picturesque and features a statue of the late Italian underwater swimmer Dario Gonzatti. Guido Marcante, who is also the father of Italian underwater swimming, had it placed there as a memorial for the late swimmer. The statue was created using propellers from American submarines and medals from the aforementioned underwater swimming champion. The statue has since been replaced and is currently on display in the church of San Fruttuoso.
The picturesque San Fruttuoso bay is located 35 kilometers east of Genoa. It’s accessible by boat or a challenging two-hour hike from the nearby Portofino. The bay is framed by the Romanesque abbey, which contains the ruins of a saint who was martyred in the year AD259. The pristine water is surrounded by lush vegetation, and visitors enjoy the lack of crowds.
El Nido
When you come to El Nido, you will want to take advantage of the various island hopping tours that you can avail of. Although there are different packages, they all follow the same schedule. Tour A departs at 9 am and heads to the Big Lagoon and the Small Lagoon. You can expect 20 people on board each boat as you travel through the lagoons. There are also different activities that you can partake in while on your tour.
There are several ways to experience El Nido’s pristine beachfronts. The town itself has its own tourist infrastructure and is surrounded by tiny islands. The Bacuit Archipelago consists of a group of islands that are spread around the bay of the same name. The area is full of surprises for visitors, including hidden lagoons and palm-fringed islands.
Cannon Beach
This nine-mile-long beach is popular for its wildlife and birds. During low tide, you can even walk to the base of the sea stack. Visitors to Cannon Beach can enjoy hiking or camping, a kite-flying competition, or just relaxing on the beach. The clear sky and unpolluted winds make photography very enjoyable here. Whether you want to watch some wildlife or take some stunning photos of the landscape, Cannon Beach is the perfect spot for you.
Cannon Beach is home to several art festivals every year. The Earth and Ocean Festival celebrates works that showcase the natural beauty of the Oregon coast. The Stormy Weather Arts Festival offers gallery walks and live music. You can also catch a play in Cannon Beach’s own playhouse. The Coaster Theatre Playhouse puts on Shakespeare adaptations in a nearby park in the summer, and in the holiday season, it presents the classic “A Christmas Carol.”
Praia Banana
If you’re looking for a tropical island getaway, you’ve probably heard about Praia Banana on the island of Principe. This small, uncrowded beach is located just 150 miles west of mainland Africa, and the crystalline waters and white sand are perfect for a warm bath. Praia Banana is so secluded, it was featured in a world-famous Bacardi ad in the 1990s. The small, but perfect bay is always uncrowded, and the water is always warm and crystal clear.
The beach is also perfect for snorkelers and kayakers. It’s lined with swaying coconut trees and is 3 km long. Those who don’t know how to surf are welcome to take a lesson at the long-running surf school Captain Dave’s. While you’re there, make sure to leave your worries behind. You’ll be glad you did.
Anse Source d’Argent
If you’re looking for a truly pristine beach, look no further than Anse Source d’Argent. The white sand of this beach is protected by a coral reef, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the views and activities at this plantation. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll have plenty of options for activities such as kayaking or snorkeling. You’ll also find that the island is popular for family vacations.
The Seychelles are an archipelago of 115 islands, about 1500 KMs off the east coast of Africa. The islands have world-class beaches, spectacular coral reefs, and pristine nature reserves. La Digue is the fourth largest and third most populated island, located fifty kilometers north of the main island Mahe. French colonists first settled La Digue in 1789, and today, the island boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. One of those beaches is Anse Source d’Argent, where you can swim in the turquoise water and watch the rays swoop in.