Discover the World's Best Beaches: From Iconic Shores to Hidden Gems

28 August 2024

There's something magical about discovering a beautiful beach—whether it's a famous shore you've always dreamed of visiting or a hidden gem that takes you by surprise. Each beach has its own unique vibe, and the world is full of stunning spots where you can soak up the sun, dive into crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind. Here are some of the best beaches around the world that our Travel Counsellors have found to be truly special.

Discover the World's Best Beaches: From Iconic Shores to Hidden Gems

1. Thompson's Bay Beach, Ballito, South Africa

If you’re looking for a beach that feels like your own private paradise, Thompson's Bay Beach in Ballito, South Africa, is a must-visit. This hidden gem, recommended by our Travel Counsellor, Charmaine Higgins, is tucked away along the Dolphin Coast, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The weather here is warm and inviting all year round—making it the perfect destination no matter when you visit. The “Hole in the Wall” rock formation adds a touch of adventure to your day, and the tidal pool carved into the rocks is perfect for a refreshing swim. Whether you’re spending time with family or just need a peaceful spot to relax, Thompson's Bay Beach is a slice of heaven.

2. Anse Source d'Argent, Seychelles

If there’s a beach that looks like it’s straight out of a dream, it’s Anse Source d'Argent in the Seychelles. This beach is famous for its pink-hued sands, clear shallow waters, and dramatic granite boulders. Located on the small island of La Digue, it’s a place where time seems to slow down. The water is perfect for snorkelling, and the surrounding coconut palms offer the perfect spot to relax. Anse Source d'Argent is one of those beaches that captures the essence of paradise.

3. Trou aux Biches, Mauritius

Mauritius is a dream destination for beach lovers, and Trou aux Biches is one of the island’s standout spots. This beach was recommended by our Travel Counsellor, Karin Livingstone, for its 'powder-soft white sand, clear and calm waters lined with palm trees and incredible sunset views" making it an ideal place to relax and recharge. What you'll love about Trou aux Biches is how it feels like a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. You can spend your days snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply lounging under a palm tree as you watch the world go by.

4. El Nido, Philippines

El Nido in Palawan, Philippines, is one of those rare places that still feels like a well-kept secret. This archipelago of 45 islands offers some of the most stunning beaches, hidden lagoons, and towering limestone cliffs you’ll ever see. The water is crystal clear, perfect for diving and snorkeling, and the marine life is incredibly vibrant. Whether you’re exploring hidden coves by kayak, lounging on a deserted beach, or just taking in the breathtaking views, El Nido is a place that captures the heart of every traveller.

5. Wilderness Beachfront, South Africa

Wilderness Beachfront, located along South Africa’s Garden Route, is where you go when you want to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. This expansive location was recommended by Karin Livingstone for its kilometres of untouched and unspoiled beach, perfect for long walks and dolphin spotting. The surrounding Wilderness National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or someone who just wants to find a quiet corner of the world, Wilderness Beachfront offers a bit of both, from long white sandy shores to wild waves.

6. Matira Beach, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Matira Beach in Bora Bora is the kind of place that defines the word “paradise.” As one of the few public beaches on the island, it offers a welcoming slice of tropical bliss without the exclusivity of private resorts. The sand is powdery white, the water is a dazzling shade of blue, and the surrounding greenery is lush and vibrant. Whether you’re swimming in the warm lagoon, watching the sunset, or simply lying in the sun, Matira Beach delivers a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

7. Navagio Beach, Greece

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of those places that seems almost too beautiful to be real. Recommended by Adele Engelbrecht, this secluded cove in Zakynthos, Greece, is accessible only by boat as it is surrounded by towering cliffs and it features an iconic shipwreck on its sands. The water is an otherworldly shade of turquoise, and swimming here feels like stepping into a postcard. Despite its popularity, Navagio Beach has a wild, untouched quality that makes it a truly unforgettable destination.

8. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, Australia

Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays is a beach lover’s dream come true. The sand here is so white and fine that it almost feels like powdered sugar beneath your feet. The beach stretches for seven kilometres along the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, and its remote location means it’s never overcrowded. Whether you arrive by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, the sight of the swirling sand and turquoise waters is something you’ll never forget. Whitehaven Beach is the perfect place to swim, snorkel, or just take in the natural beauty of Australia’s coastline.

9. Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal

Praia da Marinha, or Marinha Beach, in Algarve, Portugal, is a world-renowned beach renowned for its stunning rock formations and clear turquoise waters. This beach offers a picturesque setting with its golden cliffs, tranquil coves, and natural arches, making it a favourite for photographers and beach enthusiasts alike. The clean, calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, while the surrounding limestone cliffs provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Praia da Marinha is a must-visit for anyone seeking natural beauty, tranquillity, and an unforgettable beach experience.

10. Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island in the Bahamas is as beautiful as it sounds. The sand has a unique pink hue, created by tiny red-shelled organisms mixing with the white sand. This three-mile stretch of beach offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a refreshing swim, or simply lying back and enjoying the view. The soft pink sand and the gentle waves make Pink Sands Beach one of the most memorable and picturesque beaches in the world.

Each of these beaches, from the hidden beauty of Thompson's Bay Beach to the tropical paradise of Trou aux Biches, offers something unique and special. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these beaches provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. Contact your Travel Counsellor, pack your bags and go discover some of the best beaches the world has to offer!

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

27 October 2025

If you’re dreaming of a journey that blends adventure, nature, and authenticity, Costa Rica deserves a spot at the top of your list. With its rainforests, striking volcanoes, and pristine coastline, this Central American gem perfectly captures the relaxed pura vida way of life. What truly sets it apart, though, is the extraordinary range of wildlife that calls it home. From sleepy sloths to migrating whales, Costa Rica offers some of the most remarkable animal encounters on Earth. Here are five you won’t want to miss…

Five dream destinations you should be booking now

Five dream destinations you should be booking now

27 October 2025

Some experiences are too good to leave to chance. The sort of trips where the timing has to be right, the seasons align, and the best places fill up long before most people even think about packing a bag. Planning early isn’t just about being organised, it’s about giving your Travel Counsellor the time to secure the view, the table, the cabin, or the front-row seat that turns a holiday into a story you’ll replay for years. Here are five destinations that almost insist on being booked over a year in advance to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Why a Tented Camp Should Be Your Next Safari Adventure

Why a Tented Camp Should Be Your Next Safari Adventure

22 October 2025

There’s a certain kind of magic that only a tented safari camp can offer. It’s that beautiful in-between where luxury meets wilderness, and your morning soundtrack is a lilting dawn chorus rather than an alarm clock. If you’ve ever dreamed of falling asleep to the distant whoop of a hyena or sipping your coffee as the first light spills across the savannah, a tented camp might just be your perfect kind of paradise. Whether you’re craving authentic bush immersion or romantic seclusion, Claire Stier breaks down why this safari style deserves a place on your travel bucket list.

Show more

Find your personal Travel Counsellor

We have more than 2000 independent Travel Counsellors worldwide, each with the expertise and passion to create your perfect trip and take care of every detail, every step of your journey.

Find your personal Travel Counsellor