White sands, azure waters and shimmering sunsets… there are few scenes in the world that are more beautiful than a quintessential beach scene.
Luckily for you, our Travel Specialists have done the work to seek out some of the most breathtaking shores out there.
From the Caribbean, to the golden sands of Europe and unspoilt tropical islands, take a look at some of our expert’s picks and advice for some luxury beach holiday inspiration.
Where in the world has the best beaches?
Narrowing the world’s beaches down to the most beautiful is no easy task! There are so many incredible spots to discover, so this list is by no means definitive. For more inspiration, take a look at the Maldives, which is renowned for having gorgeous sands and azure waters. Or, explore Thailand, Mexico, Costa Rica and the Pacific Islands to discover your own beachfront bliss.
The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
1. Maundays Bay, Anguilla
Anguilla is home to a number of the best beaches in the Caribbean, though perhaps none quite as beautiful as Maundays Bay. Sometimes overshadowed by one of Anguilla’s most popular beaches, Shoal Bay, Maundays is simply idyllic. Located on the southern coast of Anguilla, this secluded white sand beach is the perfect setting for relaxing.
Where to stay?
Set in the heart of Maundays Bay is the luxurious Cap Juluca, A Belmond Resort. Staying here, you’ll be just steps away from the most picturesque curve of sand, where you can soak in the stunning sea views from a choice of fabulous restaurants. To see more of this beautiful beach, you can snorkel the crystalline waters, go kayaking along the coast, head out for a catch of the day with the resident fisherman or take a Hobie cat ride out to the equally charming Prickly Pear Cays.
“Anguilla has a host of beautiful beaches, though my favourite of all of them has to be Maundays Bay. It boasts a long, gentle curve of the purest white, soft sands – I’d even say it’s one of the best in the whole Caribbean!” – Helen , Product Manager
2. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
When it comes to marine masterpieces, there are few places more magnificent than Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Here, among the Whitsunday Islands, you’ll also find one of the world’s most spectacular beaches, Whitehaven Beach. The pristine, pure white sands are part of a protected National Park and can only be accessed by boat, seaplane or helicopter, which will also give you an unrivalled bird’s eye view of Heart Reef. Of course, snorkelling and diving here is outstanding, too.
Where to stay
To be just a 30-minute catamaran journey from the soft sand of Whitehaven Beach, stay at the luxurious Hamilton Island. One of the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays, this private resort offers helicopter and seaplane flights over the reef, along with sailing yachts and semi-submersibles to allow you to see this stunning beach from all angles.
3. Nihiwatu Beach, Sumba Island, Bali
Bali is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. For one of the most luxurious, we reccommend Nihiwatu Beach on Sumba Island. Set 400km south-east off the main coast of Bali, this is surely one of Indonesia’s finest gems. Here, you’ll find a truly unspoiled swathe of white sand and turquoise waters, with a rolling background of rainforest, waterfalls and the Wanokaka River.
Where to stay?
Nihi Sumba Island is home to just one private luxury resort. One of it’s most unique features is its exceptional equestrian centres, where the horses join you in paradise. While here, you can take an unforgettable sunset horseback ride along the beach, or when the tide is low, even go swimming with them. As one of the world’s prime surfing destinations, there’s also an array of watersports to enjoy from the shores of the sandy beach.
“I’ll never forget my trip to the truly stunning Nihi Sumba Island. The white sands, deep blue sea and lush green backdrop… what made it particularly memorable though, was horse riding along the beach at sunset. Just stunning.” – Erica, Product Manager
4. North Island, Seychelles
The Seychelles is no stranger to beautiful beaches. Pristine white sands and crystalline waters come as standard here, framed by the archipelago’s characteristic granite boulders. Of course, nothing beats savouring paradise for yourself, which is why North Island is one of our favourite places for beaches. With barely touched sand and a lush rainforest backdrop, there are few beaches better for enjoying a sunset in total seclusion.
Where to stay
There’s just one private luxury resort on North Island. With only 11 villas available, all just steps from the sand, you can explore the island’s three beaches entirely on your own terms. The West Beach is where you can enjoy sundowners as the sun sets, while Honeymoon Beach is a gorgeous spot for a picnic.
5. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Perhaps one of the most popular beaches in the Greek islands, there’s no denying the beauty of Navagio. Also known as the ‘Shipwreck Beach’, it’s famed for it’s washed up, hundred-year-old vessel that now sits along the sands. Set on the north coast of Zakynthos, and sheltered by dramatic white cliffs that contrast magnificently with the surrounding blue waters, it certainly stikes a stunning picture.
Where to stay?
To visit one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, you’ll need an equally beautiful hotel. For a romantic break, the adult-only Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort is perfect, with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. If you want to explore with your whole family, we recommend Porto Zante, where you can also enjoy the golden sands of the resort’s private beach. Each offer private excursions to Navagio Beach.
“You can’t access Navagio Beach by land, which makes it all the more magical. Enclosed by towering chalky cliffs, it can only be reached by boat. If you do climb to the view point nearby, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning bird’s eye view of the beach.” Alicia, Product Executive
6. Scala dei Turchi, Italy
The Italian island of Sicily is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, though perhaps few are quite as striking as Scala dei Turchi. Named after the surrounding white limestone cliffs’ resemblence to a staircase, this breathtaking natural phenomenon has been sculpted by the sea breeze over thousands of years. A popular beach for anyone visiting Sicily, it’s also just a short distance from the ancient Greek Valley of Temples.
Where to stay
To see the spectacular beach of Scala dei Turchi for yourself, stay at Verdura Resort to be just a 40-minute drive away. Perfectly located for enjoying the surrounding area, you can also enjoy three golf courses and 1.8km of private coastline, hire a bike to explore or relax in the expansive spa.
7. Dat Doc Beach, Con Son Island, Vietnam
The largest island in Vietnam‘s Con Dao archipelago, you’ll find some beautiful beaches on Con Son Island. Protected as a National and Marine Park, the beaches here still remain just as nature intended them. One of the best spots is Dat Doc Beach, which sits along the east side of the island. Along these pristine sands, endangered green sea turtles come to lay their eggs. If you visit at the right time, you might even see them hatch and venture out to sea.
Where to stay?
The beautiful Six Senses Con Dao was the first luxury resort to be built on the archipelago. Remaining true to the Six Senses brand commitment to protecting the natural enviroment, the entire hotel was built from the most natural and sustainable materials possible. Here, you can truly make the most of Dat Doc Beach’s peaceful sands, with picnics and sundowners on the beach and guided coastal treks.
“The sands of Dat Doc Beach seem to stretch out for miles. It really is completely unspoilt, with a beautiful backdrop of dramatic rolling mountains. The waters are so blue, and you can just see the archipelago’s other islands in the distance.” – Erica, Product Mananger
8. Na Pali Coast, Hawaii
Hawaii is home to countless beautiful beaches, with a bounty of golden sands across the state. But, the most striking stretch of coastline has to be the jurassic Na Pali Coast of Kauai. The rugged mountainous terrain and valleys show off nature at its most impressive, with the Manawaiopuna Falls, Hanapepe Valley and Waimea Canyon all putting on a dramatic show.
Where to stay
While the best way to see the Na Pali Coast is with a helicopter tour, there are still some more serene spots to relax when you’re not out exploring. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort is set along the wonderful Poipu Beach, where you can look out over the gently lapping waves from your room or sun lounger. Or, you could create a bespoke itinerary, like our Discover Hawaii’s Islands tour, which takes in a number of the best beaches and coastlines.
9. Boulders Beach, South Africa
There’s so much to love about South Africa. Along with safaris, world-class wines and vibrant cities, it’s also home to some beautiful beaches. Our favourite is Boulders Beach. Located around an hour’s drive outside Cape Town in False Bay, it’s renowned for the colony of African penguins who’ve made the soft sands their home. In fact, it’s the only place in the world you’ll be able to get so close to them.
Where to Stay
There’s no shortage of luxury hotels in Cape Town. But, if you want to keep your distance from the city and enjoy the spectacular beaches along the southern coast, stay at Steenberg Hotel. Nestled in the Cape’s oldest wine farm, you’ll be just a short drive from Boulder Beach. Continue on for another two hours to reach Hermanus, the Blue Flag Grotto Beach and Cape Nature Walker Bay.
“If you’re thinking of visiting South Africa, a trip to Boulders Beach is a must. Sheltered and serene, it’s one of the only places in the world where you can swim with African penguins” – Alice, Product Executive.
10. Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos
Perhaps one of the most famous beaches on this list, Grace Bay is simply stunning. Located in the Turks & Caicos archipelago, on the island of Providenciales, this acclaimed stretch of sand is often hailed as the most beautiful beach in the world. Calm azure waters, pristine sands and a coral reef just off shore all contribute to this picture of perfection.
Where to stay
To enjoy the shores of Grace Bay in pure luxury, we recommend staying at Grace Bay Club. Boasting an enviable waterfront location, this all-suite hotel puts you just steps away from strolling along the world-famous beach. You can also dine at the beachside restaurant, or sip a drink with panoramic ocean views at the Infiniti bar.
“For me, there’s nowhere in the Caribbean quite like Grace Bay. The white sands are so fine and powder-soft, while the atmosphere is totally calm and relaxed as you look out over the azure waters.” – Jackie, Travel Specialist
For more ideas for your next beach holiday, contact us to speak to our Travel Specialists. They’ve travelled far and wide to some of the most amazing beach destinations and will help you find your perfect spot.
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