Whether you want to soak up some rays on a gorgeous beach, or have the opportunity to capture that ultimate Instagram snap, our collection of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches for your bucket list is sure to tick all your boxes.
Read on to discover some of the most incredible waterside destinations to help you plan your next beach holiday or must-stop location on your next adventure.
Railay Beach, Thailand
Inaccessible by road, stunning Railay Beach in Thailand can only be accessed by the water - just hop aboard a 10 minute longtail boat from nearby Ao Nang.
Soft sand and crystal clear warm waters await, a great spot for snorkelling, or hire a kayak to explore the towering limestone cliffs.
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
An incredible spot for spectacular sunsets, Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands is a great safe beach for visitors, including those with young children.
Easy to access, this huge expanse of coral sand means that there’s plenty of space for everyone, with snorkelling with the local stingrays being a particular highlight.
As the day ends, there’s plenty of restaurants and beach bars to keep everyone entertained by the water’s edge.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Big Island, Hawaii
One of the few places in the world where you can experience black sand between your toes! The jet-black shore of Punalu’u, which was formed from the lava from nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, is striking and memorable.
It is a rocky beach, so not one that’s recommended for swimming, however the unique sight of coconut palms contrasted against black sand, plus the napping Hawaiian green sea turtles, certainly makes up for it.
Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia
Whitehaven Beach is the most photographed beach in Australia, and it’s easy to see why thanks to the aquamarine water and brilliant white sand.
A repeat winner of clean beach awards, Whitehaven Beach is on the largest of the 74 Whitsunday Islands dotted along the Great Barrier Reef. The beach is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and as the sand is almost pure silica, it doesn’t retain heat from the sun so it’s always cool underfoot.
Mogren Beach, Croatia
Mogren Beach in Croatia is actually split into two parts, with the second small beach reached via a small cave tunnel, or an easy swim round. The beach is accessible by car or a short walk from the Old Town.
Surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush green foliage, visitors can choose to relax on the sun loungers or get adventurous with cliff jumping, hiking or rock climbing.
Cala Saladeta, Ibiza
Head to the west coast of Ibiza to find this gorgeous little cove. You’ll need to take the footpath from nearby Cala Salada beach to find the jade waters and soft sands of Cala Saladeta.
Be sure to pack a picnic, and perhaps an umbrella as a sun shade, as there are no amenities here. Instead you’ll find peaceful snorkelling in this sheltered bay, plus the chance to enjoy a stunning sunset.
Durdle Door Beach, England
Many people will be familiar with this popular beach on the south coast of the UK, thanks to the striking Durdle Door rock formation that extends out into the sea.
It’s a 20 minute steep walk plus over 100 steps to access the beach, but once there you’ll be greeted by a pebble and shingle beach surrounded by towering cliffs and clear waters, and of course, this famous view.
Has our best beaches bucket list inspired your next adventure? Why not explore the properties and retreats currently available and start ticking off these incredible destinations.
