10 of the Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
There's something about beaches that enthralls young and old alike.
To find a perfect shady spot under a palm and gaze out at over a glass blue sea - it's the ideal way to unwind far from the drudgery of ordinary life.
But with so many beaches around the world, how to pick one?
While these kind of lists rarely please everyone, we've put together a top 10 of the world's most beautiful beaches, based on how attractive, secluded, and unique each example is.
10. Gola Island
This tiny island is found off the coast of Gweedore, County Donegal, Ireland.
Until 1996 Gola was uninhabited, which is surprising, since it has some charming beaches, typified by soft white sand and very few visitors.
You could easily have an entire beach to yourself here.
There are a number of holiday homes for those who wish to spend a few days relaxing on this quiet, rustic island.
9. Oludeniz, Turkey
Sure, Oludeniz is a bit of a tourist trap, but its beach is undeniably stunning - a quality the locals have been careful to maintain.
In the unlikely event that you get tired of sunning yourself on this idyll, you can always try hang gliding from the overlooking peak.
If not, simply marvel at the spiraling thrill seekers as they descend towards the soft, squeaky sand.
8. Hidden Paradise Beach Matinloc Island, El Nido Philippines
Paradise Beach is not as famous as the nearby Secret Lagoon, but it's similarly tranquil, with crystal clear waters and castor-sugar sand.
These beaches and lagoons are found on El Nido, a group of 45 islands that are fast becoming one of the Philippines' top attractions.
Experience them before they get too crowded!
7. Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, British West Indies
Seeking blazing white sand as far as the eye can see?
Want azure blue waters and even bluer skies that go just as far?
Then consider Grace Bay in the Turks and Caicos, among the finest beaches in all the West Indies.
6. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Australians have done a superb job at preserving their coastlines and aquatic life, and the Whitsunday Islands are a prime example of how tourism and exceptional beach caretaking can go hand-in-hand.
And if there's a squeakier beach in the world, we'd like to hear it!
5. Zlatni rat (Golden Horn Beach) – Brač, Croatia
The turquoise blue waters that edge this spectacular beach turn dark blue over a distance of just 20 metres, adding to the drama of this already-amazing beach.
Jutting out into the azure blue yonder, this pebble beach is surely one for your beach bucket list.
4. Source d'Argent – Seychelles
The other-worldly boulders on this beach have helped make it one of the most photographed coastlines in the world.
Access this spellbinding beach via the old L'Union Estate coconut plantation and immerse yourself in the warm embrace of the Indian Ocean.
In case this wasn't enough, you may even spot a turtle feeding in the distance.
Don't forget your snorkeling gear!
3. Canareef Resort, Herathera Island, Addu Atoll, Maldives
The Maldives has more than its fair share of stunning white beaches, but Herathera Island is regarded as one of the most perfect.
To enjoy Canareef Resort, you'll have to book into a luxury resort.
2. Pig Beach, Bahamas
If you haven't seen this beach you probably haven't got an Instagram account.
If you feel Pig Beach in the Bahamas has been rather over-done on Instagram, we can confirm it's still worth experiencing for its sheer bizarreness.
No one quite knows how these aquatic piggies got here…
1. Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa
Love penguins? If not, you will after a visit to Boulders Beach.
Located near one of Africa's most exciting and cosmopolitan cities, this beach offers dramatic boulders, clean white sand, and lots and lots of penguins...
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