When people picture the perfect beach, it’s often an image so stunning that it seems too good to exist outside of postcards or screensavers. Yet some of these places are real, accessible, and even bookable for your next trip. From pink sands to crystal-clear lagoons, here’s a list of beaches that travelers rave about—and practical details to help you plan.

Grace Bay, Turks And Caicos

Why it’s famous: Powdery white sand and calm turquoise water.

Best time to visit: December to April for ideal weather.

Getting there: Fly into Providenciales International Airport (PLS).

Where to stay: The Palms Turks and Caicos (luxury), Villa del Mar (mid-range).

Grace Bay consistently ranks among the world’s top beaches. It’s part of a protected national park, meaning no high-rise buildings block the view. Families love the calm water, while snorkelers enjoy the coral reefs just offshore.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Why it’s famous: 4 miles of bright white silica sand.

Best time to visit: May to September, with cooler, dry weather.

Getting there: Day trips run from Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, or even via seaplane.

Tours: Sailing tours with Cruise Whitsundays or helicopter rides for aerial views.

The sand here doesn’t get hot underfoot and is almost 98% pure silica, making it one of the most photographed beaches on Earth.

Navagio Beach, Greece

Why it’s famous: Shipwreck resting on brilliant white sand, surrounded by cliffs.

Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.

Getting there: Accessible only by boat from Zakynthos.

Tours: Boat trips from Porto Vromi or Zakynthos Town.

This “Shipwreck Beach” is only reachable by sea, giving it an adventurous edge. Go early in the morning before crowds arrive.

Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

Why it’s famous: Granite boulders and shallow, clear lagoons.

Best time to visit: April, May, October, and November.

Getting there: Fly into Mahé, transfer to La Digue by ferry.

Where to stay: Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie or charming guesthouses nearby.

This beach is often featured in travel ads thanks to its dramatic backdrop. It’s perfect for casual swimming and photography.

Playa Paraiso, Mexico

Why it’s famous: Wide sandy stretch near the Tulum ruins.

Best time to visit: November to April for the dry season.

Getting there: 2-hour drive from Cancún International Airport.

Where to stay: Ahau Tulum or eco-chic cabanas.

It’s easy to combine history and relaxation here, with Mayan ruins only minutes away from your beach towel.

Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

Why it’s famous: Soft sand with a pink tint.

Best time to visit: December to April.

Getting there: Fly to Eleuthera and take a ferry to Harbour Island.

Where to stay: Pink Sands Resort or Coral Sands Hotel.

The pink hue comes from crushed coral mixed into the sand. Couples love this destination for romantic getaways.

Matira Beach, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Why it’s famous: Calm lagoon waters and incredible sunsets.

Best time to visit: May to October (dry season).

Getting there: Flights to Bora Bora via Tahiti.

Where to stay: Overwater bungalows at InterContinental Bora Bora or Sofitel Bora Bora.

Matira is one of the few public beaches in Bora Bora, making it a favorite for travelers who want postcard views without private resort fees.

Maya Bay, Thailand

Why it’s famous: Featured in The Beach movie.

Best time to visit: November to April.

Getting there: Boat tours from Phuket or Krabi.

Tours: Early-morning speedboat tours with operators like Phi Phi Islands Tours.

After being closed for rehabilitation, Maya Bay reopened with controlled access. Expect breathtaking cliffs surrounding bright turquoise waters.

Tulum Beach, Mexico

Why it’s famous: Bohemian vibe with chic eco-resorts.

Best time to visit: Winter and early spring.

Getting there: About 2 hours from Cancún.

Where to stay: Be Tulum, Nomade Tulum, or boutique beachfront hotels.

Perfect for travelers who want both natural beauty and modern comfort.

Lanikai Beach, Hawaii

Why it’s famous: Calm water and views of the Mokulua Islands.

Best time to visit: Year-round, but early morning is best for parking.

Getting there: About 30 minutes from Honolulu.

Where to stay: Vacation rentals nearby, or resorts in Kailua.

Popular with kayakers and paddleboarders, this beach offers a more relaxed feel compared to Waikiki.

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Why it’s famous: Limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches.

Best time to visit: November to May (dry season).

Getting there: Flights to Puerto Princesa, then 4–6 hours by van or bus.

Tours: Island-hopping packages labeled Tour A, B, C, or D.

El Nido isn’t just one beach—it’s a collection of incredible coves and lagoons. Travelers often book island-hopping tours for the full experience.

Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

Why it’s famous: Long stretch of clean sand with luxury resorts.

Best time to visit: December to April.

Getting there: Fly into Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM).

Where to stay: Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, Kimpton Seafire Resort.

Perfect for both families and couples, with water sports, snorkeling, and dining all along the beach.

Quick Tips For Planning Your Beach Escape

Book early during peak seasons, especially at destinations like Bora Bora or Seychelles.

Check local restrictions—some beaches, like Maya Bay, have daily visitor caps.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.

Consider package deals from major travel brands, such as Expedia, Booking.com, or TripAdvisor, for bundled flights and hotels.

Travel insurance is worth it for remote locations like the Maldives or Seychelles.

Pack lightweight clothing and a wide-brim hat for sun protection and comfort in tropical climates.

Use waterproof phone cases to capture beach photos and avoid damage from sand or splashes.

Choosing The Right Beach For You

If you’re after luxury and privacy, Bora Bora or the Seychelles may be your best bet. For history plus relaxation, head to Tulum or Navagio Beach. Families often favor Grace Bay or Seven Mile Beach, while couples lean toward Pink Sands or Whitehaven.

Whatever your preference, these beaches are more than just photographs—they’re real, and waiting for you. Compare flights, check resort options, and start planning your trip today.