The Most Beautiful Beaches Around The Globe
Being from Texas I grew up going to Galveston Island. I thought it was the best beach ever. Don’t get me wrong, I still love Galveston. My favorites are East Beach, Mustang Island, walking along The Strand, and of course Pleasure Pier!
Now that I’m all grown up and have a few trips under my belt, there are some beaches I really like a little more. Here is a shortlist of my favorites so far…
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you. This site uses cookies. For more info please read our disclosure policy.
Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii
Lanikai is a family favorite. The name “Lanikai” translates to “heavenly sea,”. One visit and you will understand why it is often ranked among the best beaches in the world. Situated in the town of Kailua (stop here for shaved ice), on the eastern side of Oahu, Lanikai is about 30 minutes away from Honolulu. The beach is quintessential postcard perfect, with its fine powdery sand and calm, clear waters. The backdrop of the Mokulua Islands, also known as the Mokes, adds to the scenic beauty of the beach. You can rent kayaks and head out to the islands. I can say it is a lot harder getting back than it is going out.
The beach is particularly famous for its breathtaking sunrise views. Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the Mokulua Islands. Public access to Lanikai Beach is somewhat limited due to its residential location. There are no public parking lots, visitors have to park on nearby residential streets and access the beach through designated alleyways. Be respectful of homeowners.
Downside – Cold water
Save on your adventures! Do more with Go City!
Check out my Hawaii series on the blog. The Aloha State – Beautiful Oahu, Hawaii and Picturesque Maui, Hawaii – A Bucket List Destination Coming Soon…The Big Island and Kauai.
Cancun, Mexico
Probably one of my favorite places! Mexico is known for its stunning beaches and Mayan Ruins, which are the main attractions drawing visitors from around the world. Cancun is located on the northeastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, along the Caribbean Sea. The sand is soft. The water is warm. The most popular area is the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), a narrow strip of land with hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops. This area is where you’ll find many of Cancun’s famous beaches.
Playa Delfines is a popular in Cancun. It features a large “Cancun” sign, which has become an iconic spot for photos. You can do pretty much anything in Cancun, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing. There is so much to do. The hotels come alive at night as well. You can also head downtown and check out some clubs. There is plenty of shopping as well.
If Cancun seems too much and you want to be a little further out from all the excitement Excellence Riviera Cancun Luxury Resort – A Celiac’s Review is a great option. Just 15 minutes South of Cancun but a world away.
Isla Mujeres is a short boat ride away. Rent a golf cart and spend the day exploring the beautiful island and relaxing on the beautiful beach Playa Norte. Isla Mujeres, Mexico – The Perfect Day Trip From Cancun
Check out my Mexico series on the blog to learn about Puerto Morelos, the Mayan Ruins, and the best of Cancun excursions!
Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the world. It is located on the island of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. . The sand is truly baby powder soft. The softest sand I have ever walked on. As for the turquoise waters? You can see all the way to the bottom of the ocean it is so clear. Grace Bay is lined with upscale resorts, hotels, and condominiums. We stayed at the lovely Royal West Indies. Turks and Caicos, Paradise Found Grace Bay truly is post card perfection.
Seven Mile Beach, Negril, Jamaica
Negril, Jamaica. Beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and stunning sunsets. Seven Mile Beach is often considered one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Seven Mile is the main beach in Negril and is renowned for its long stretch of powdery soft, white sand that goes on for approximately seven miles. The waters are calm, making it perfect for swimming and other water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing, and boat tours.
Negril is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, and Seven Mile Beach is a prime location to watch the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea. Many beachfront bars and restaurants offer sunset views. Head over to Rick’s Cafe and catch the cliff diving before sunset. Jamaica has a vibrant reggae scene, enjoy some live music at a beachside bars.
For more information on Jamaica and where to stay check out my Jamaica – Beautiful Beaches and Friendly People travel blog.
Paradise Beach, Mykonos, Greece
Paradise Beach is situated on the southern coast of Mykonos, in the Aegean Sea. You might associate Paradise Beach with being a party beach and you would be right. There is music and dancing daily. It’s definitely a hot spot for nightlife and parties. There are beach clubs and bars along the shore. The clear, calm waters make it an excellent place for swimming. There are plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas so you can relax and soak up the sun. There are also beachfront restaurants and cafes.
The beach is easily accessible by car, scooter, or bus from downtown Mykonos. We actually walked from our hotel just 5 minutes away. There is a water taxi that picks up right on the beach and will take you around the cove to Elia Beach. We also loved this beach. Totally different vibe. Soft sand, plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent. They too had a restaurant and bar. The atmosphere here was much more calm.
Downside – Cold water and not the softest sand (in my opinion)
Planning a trip to Greece? I got you you covered! Exploring The Greek Islands…Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini
Siesta Key Beach, Florida
Siesta Key Beach is located on Siesta Key, a barrier island off the southwestern coast of Florida. Something that makes it unique is its quartz sand. The sand is unique in that it remains cool even on hot days. It is often referred to as “Crescent Beach” because of its curved shape along the Gulf of Mexico. The waters off Siesta Key have a beautiful blue-green hue. You can catch a beautiful sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. The beach offers everything you need, including lifeguards, picnic areas, restrooms, volleyball courts, and ample parking.
