100 Best Beaches on Earth 2023

Beaches are among the most popular tourist sites worldwide. There are numerous lovely beaches to select from, whether you’re seeking a remote hideaway, a place to surf or swim, or simply a place to soak up the sun. The world is home to some incredibly magnificent beaches, which are from the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean to the rough coastlines of Australia.

What makes a great beach? A common perception is of the blue ocean lapping against white sand with a healthy border of palm trees, but we explored it a little deeper.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the top beaches in the world, highlighting what makes each one special and why they should be on your bucket list. So take a seat, relax, and prepare to be transported to some of the most beautiful spots on the planet.

The following are the top 10 best beaches around the world:

1. Koh Kradan Beach, Thailand

Koh Kradan is located in Trang Province, off the west coast of Thailand.

Some Features:

• In the “Top 100 Best Beaches On Earth 2023” list published by the World Beach Guide. It is ranked as the best beach in the world.
• The beach boasts crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, in particular the 2-kilometre-long Ao Kradan Beach, which is considered among the best beaches in Thailand.
• The island is shaped like a horseshoe and is covered by blue waters and coral reefs.
• For those who are coming to relax and soak up the sun and calm, the beach is best. 
• Many hammocks are suspended between the palm trees that fringe the beach. 
• For those feeling particularly enthusiastic, a famous kayak route around the island can be accomplished within 3 hours, even at a leisurely pace.
• If you wish to stay on the island, there are a number of small resorts ranging from the upmarket but basic “flash-packer” style accommodation to luxury beach bungalows.

Activities:

• Sunbathing
• Swimming 
• Beach Volleyball
• Snorkelling
• Kayaking/Paddleboarding

Nearby Places:

• Ao Pai Beach
• Hat Chao Mai National Park
• Ao-Niang Beach

What is the best time to visit Koh Kradan?

The suitable time to visit Koh Kradan is from November to the end of April during the dry season. During this period, you can expect beautiful weather and hardly any rain. However, if you want to visit the island in the rainy season, you should expect limited ferry connections and closed hotels and restaurants.

2. Matira Beach, French Polynesia

 Matira Beach is located in Bora-Bora, French Polynesia. It is a safe sandy beach that is around 2.29 km in length.

Some Features:

• Matira Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bora-Bora.
• It is known for its white sand, turquoise water and spectacular sunsets. It is also among the few public beaches on the island.
• The beach is also peppered with resorts, shops and eateries, so it’s a convenient place to spend most of the day.
• Some of the tourist services available include several boutique shops, the popular Ben’s Place snack bar and restaurants.

Activities: 

• Diving and Shark feeding
• Surfing
• Swimming
• Sightseeing boat tours
• Helicopter rides 
• Catamaran trips and hiking adventures

Nearby Hotels:

• Villa Yrondi
• Village Temanuata
• Hotel Matira

What is the best time to visit Matira Beach?

Matira Beach is best visited during the dry season, which lasts from May to October. However, January, February, March and April are also good months to visit Matira Beach and other beaches in Bora-Bora.

3. Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Location: Whitehaven Beach is located on Whitsunday Island in Queensland, Australia. The island may be reached by boat, seaplane & helicopter from both Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island. 

Some Features:

• Whitehaven Beach is known for its crystal-white silica sands and turquoise-coloured waters.
• The sand contains 98% silica, meaning it is extremely fine and soft, with some comparing the consistency to that of baby powder.
• Because of the silica, the sand doesn’t retain heat, making it a fantastic place to walk barefoot, even on a hot day.

Activities:

• Swim in the crystal-clear water. 
• Sink your feet in the snow-white silica sands.
• Relax and soak up its unmatched beauty.
• BBQ Lunch
• Stay by booking the National Parks camp facilities. 

Nearby Hotels:

• Beach Club Hamilton Island
• Qualia Resort
• Coral Sea Marina Resort 
• Mantra Club Croc 

What is the perfect time to visit Whitehaven Beach?

The best time to visit Whitehaven Beach is during September and October when the temperatures are warm, and there are probably fewer people.

4. El Nido, Philippines

Location: El Nido is a municipality in the province of Palawan, Philippines. It is located in Bacuit Bay and has a total land area of 465.1 square kilometres (179.6 sq mi). It is located in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan and is bounded by the Linapacan Strait in the north, the South China Sea in the west, and the Sulu Sea in the east.

Some Features:

• El Nido has many gorgeous beaches with silky white sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
• El Nido is the largest marine sanctuary in the Philippines, with turtles, sea cows and whale sharks all native.
• It comprises around 50 beaches set among a series of small islands, towering marble cliffs, lush tropical vegetation, ancient caves and enchanting lagoons.
• Some of the popular beaches in El Nido are Nacpan Beach, Hidden Beach, Secret Lagoon Beach, Seven Commando Beach, Marimegmeg Beach, Las Cabanas Beach, Duli Beach and many more.
• If you plan to stay a little longer, there are no bathrooms available on the beach, nor is there anywhere to find food or drink.

Activities:

• Boat tours
• Scuba diving
• Snorkelling
• Nature & wildlife tours
• Cliff climbing, kayaking and trekking to waterfalls

Nearby Hotels:

• Cuna Hotel
• S Resort El Nido
• Rosanna’s Pension
• Sea Cocoon Hotel 
• South Anchorage Inn

What is the perfect time to visit El Nido Beach?

The perfect time to explore El Nido is throughout the dry season, which lasts from November to May. During this time, cool northeast winds complement the sunny skies, allowing you to visit the islands in comfort.

5. The Baths Beach, British Virgin Islands

The Baths beach is located on the island of Virgin Gorda among the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. It is an area of unique geologic formations and one of the BVI’s major tourist destinations.

Some Features:

• The Baths is a unique national park on the island’s southwest coast. 
• It has white sandy beaches framed by massive granite boulders, some of which are 40 feet in diameter. Natural tidal pools, tunnels, arches, and scenic grottoes are formed by the boulders, which are open to the sea. 
• Since 1990, the region has been a BVI National Park and is a popular tourist destination.
• With a tropical environment, there is little to divide the seasons; thus, visiting Virgin Gorda and The Baths is possible at any time.
• The Baths is a popular snorkelling and swimming spot. Bathrooms and lockers are available, which contribute to a safe and comfortable experience in this natural setting. 
• When you are ready to visit this safe beach, entry fees are $3 for adults and $2 for children (16 and under).
• Access to the beach is also easy from the sea by dinghy, with specific mooring buoys available for securing boats offshore while the occupants enjoy various water-related pursuits.
• You can reward yourself by relaxing on Devil’s Bay’s lovely beach or swimming and snorkelling. The top of the Baths restaurant also offers a breathtaking view.

Activities:

• Hiking
• Swimming
• Snorkelling
• Enjoying panoramic views
• Exploring the boulders and caverns

Nearby Hotels:

• Mango Bay Resort
• Rosewood Little Dix Bay

What is the perfect time to visit The Baths Beach?

The best time to visit The Baths on Virgin Gorda is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. Avoiding the hurricane season, which lasts from June to November, is also a good idea. To avoid crowds, you should go early in the morning or late in the day.

6. Anakena, Chile

Anakena is a white coral sand beach situated in Rapa Nui National Park on Rapa Nui (Easter Island).

Some Features:

• Anakena Beach is considered the main and most beautiful beach on Easter Island.
• It has white and fine coral sand, a crystalline turquoise sea, calm waves and coconut palms (brought from Tahiti several decades ago) that make it a perfect place for rest and leisure.
• The water temperature is maintained at an average of a pleasant 20ºC, with small variations in summer and winter. 
• Anakena is still a pretty unspoiled beach, with few swimmers, especially during the morning (organized tours usually arrive in the afternoon) or in the low season.
• There are plenty of facilities at Anakena. These include a car park, changing rooms, toilets, and a picnic area amongst the palm trees – just remember to keep an ear open for the sound of falling coconuts!
• Anakena has further historical significance in that it is believed to have been where Hotu Matua, the first settler of the islands, disembarked. It is said that one of the many caves along the beach was this king’s home.

Activities:

• Sunbathing on the fine sand
• Taking a swim while watching the centuries-old stone giants
• Taking a refreshing dip in the ocean
• Reading a book underneath a coconut tree

Nearby Hotels:

• Explora Rapa Nui
• Hotel Hare Uta
• Taha Tai Hotel
• Hare Nua 
• Kona Koa Lodge

What is the best time to visit Anakena Beach?

Anakena Beach invites you to bathe at any time of the year, as the water temperature is maintained at an average of a pleasant 20ºC, with small variations in summer and winter. The beach is a lot more peaceful in the morning, where there may only be a few other people on the whole beach. Later in the afternoon, many tours have Anakena Beach as the last stop after a day of visiting all of the moai along the southern/eastern coast.

7. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

Anse Source d’Argent is a beautiful beach located on the small island of La Digue in Seychelles.

Some Features:

• Anse Source d’Argent is considered one of the most romantic beaches in the world due to its beautiful nature, enchanting palm trees, clean sandy shores, and stunning turquoise waters.
• The beach has been used for photoshoots, movies, and adverts.
• It has around 11 coves that offer privacy.
• Because of an offshore coral reef, the sea here stays consistently calm, making it excellent for swimming. This makes Anse Source d’Argent a great beach for kids who’ll love exploring the craggy boulders too.
• Towering granite boulders polished smooth by the passage of time contrast with powdery white sand. The ocean is clean and blue, and the palm trees move softly in the breeze.
• The beach is part of L’Union Estate, which charges a fee of 115 Rupees per person for access.

Activities:

• Scuba diving 
• Snorkelling
• Crystal Kayak Tours

What is the suitable time to visit Anse Source d’Argent?

The best months for good weather in Anse Source d’Argent are March, April, June, July, August, September, October and November. On average, it is hot all year round1. The rainiest months are January and December. The sea temperature is best for swimming all year round.

8. Camps Bay, South Africa

Camps Bay is a wealthy Cape Town neighbourhood in South Africa. It is located on the westernmost point of the Cape Peninsula and was called a small bay nearby.

Some Features:

• Camps Bay Beach has been a Blue Flag Beach since 2008 and is the largest white sand beach in Camps Bay.
• Camps Bay is a great family beach, too, and has been consistently awarded the coveted Blue Flag award over the years.
• This is the Atlantic coast, and the sea here is both beautiful and strong, glittering and blue and frequently crashing with tremendous waves. 
• There is a seasonal lifeguard station with toilets at the west end of the beach.
• The beach is opposite Camps Bay’s main tourist hub, featuring multiple hotels, restaurants, and shops.
• People visit Camps Bay as much for the chic beach life as the natural splendour. This is where celebrities come to hang out.
• If you would prefer to keep your clothes on, then there are plenty of trendy cafes and bars along Victoria Road. The best known of these is the Caprice Bar, ideal if you want to spot rock stars and supermodels.

Activities:

• Beach volleyball
• Enjoy outdoor activities
• Nature & parks, and museums
• Spas & wellness
• Fun & games, shopping, and food & drink
• Boat tours & water sports
• Nightlife and theatre & concerts

Nearby Hotels:

• POD Camps Bay
• The Bay Hotel
• South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel
• The Marly Boutique Hotel
• Primi Seacastle

What is the best time to visit Camps Bay?

The best time to visit Camps Bay depends on what you are looking for. Summer is a popular time to visit for its beaches and nightlife. Spring is also a great time to walk along the beach and enjoy the quieter roads. Winter can also be a lovely time of year to visit, with clear days in between rainy and overcast days.

9. Railay Beach, Thailand

Railay Beach is located on the Railay Peninsula in Krabi, southern Thailand. Due to towering limestone cliffs that cut off mainland access, it is only accessible by boat.

Some Features:

• Railay is a tiny peninsula separated from the rest of the island by towering limestone cliffs.
• The area is popular due to its beautiful beaches and quiet relaxing atmosphere. 
• The cliffs attract rock climbers from all over the world.
• There are also pursuits like cliff jumping and kayaking for the more adventurous.
• While these cliffs are popular among climbers, Railay is only reachable by a short boat ride from Ao Nang or Krabi. This could be viewed as a blessing because it has shielded the resort from the tourist rush in surrounding areas such as Ao Nang.
• The other benefit is there are no cars in Railay, making it supremely child friendly.
• The main beach is of fine white sand lapped by the gentle green waters of the Andaman Sea.

Activities:

• Rock climbing
• Kayaking
• Cliff jumping 
• Taking a sunset cruise

Nearby Hotels:

• Rayavadee
• Sand Sea Resort
• Railay Village Resort

What is the best time to visit Railay Beach?

The perfect time to visit Railay Beach is between November and March because the weather is favourable at that time. During other months, it can be either extremely hot or rainy.

10. Kelingking Beach, Indonesia

 Kelingking Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida Island in the village of Bunga Mekar. It’s one of the most famous tourist attractions on the island and is often featured in advertisements for Bali and Indonesia.

Some Features:

• Kelingking Beach is famous for its unique rock formations that resemble the backbone of a dinosaur and is even nicknamed T-Rex Bay on Google Maps. 
• The star attraction of Kelingking Beach is the breathtaking views atop the cliff. Visitors may even see Manta rays from the cliff’s edge. 
• Tourists flock to the Esplanade for breathtaking views and drone photography.
• There are steps, and there is a railing, but it is a fair climb and not for the faint of heart.
• It should be noted that swimming here can be dangerous. The waves and currents are often extremely powerful, and if you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t risk it on all but the calmest of days. 
• In terms of amenities, there is pretty much nothing on the beach. However, some local food sellers do make the trip down to the beach to sell snacks. 
• There are a lot of places to grab a bite at the top of the cliff and around the car park.

Activities:

• Taking a hike down the cliff to the beach
• Taking breathtaking photos from the viewpoint atop the cliff
• Enjoying the scenic beauty of the beach

Nearby Hotels:

• Kelingking Mesari Villa and Spa 
• Adiwana Warnakali Resort

What is the best time to visit Kelingking Beach?

The dry season, from April to October, is the best time to explore Kelingking Beach. If you want to hang out on the beach, head to around 3 p.m. to Kelingking Beach. If you merely want to appreciate the view from the top, 4 to 5 p.m. is a good time. While sunsets might be stunning, riding a scooter back in the dark may not be ideal, especially if you are not comfortable doing so.

Here is a list of the 100 best beaches on Earth according to the world beach guide:

In conclusion, it is hard to definitively determine the “best” beaches in the world as different people may have different preferences and priorities when it comes to their ideal beach experience. Factors that may influence your choice of the beach include the type of activities you enjoy, such as snorkelling, surfing, or simply sunbathing, as well as the quality of the sand, water, and overall scenery. Some may prioritize privacy and seclusion, while others may prefer a bustling beach with a lively atmosphere and plenty of amenities.

Aside from the beaches themselves, the surrounding area and culture can also play a significant role in your beach vacation experience. For example, you may be interested in exploring nearby attractions, trying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Overall, the “best” beach in the world is ultimately a matter of personal preference, and there are countless beautiful and unique beaches around the world that are worth exploring. Whether you prefer a quiet, secluded beach or a vibrant, bustling one, there is sure to be a beach out there that is perfect for you.

Read More: Longest Coastlines in the World (Top 160 Countries)