Beautiful Beaches To Visit: A Curated List

by Ashas Bukhari

Beautiful Beaches To Visit: A Curated List

5 Jun 2024

No disrespect to the mountain folks, but there are few sights, if any, that rival the beauty of serene beaches. Be it a rustic coast, a lonely island far away from the bustling city life, or a luxurious beach-front property with all the comforts of home, there is something about the geography of where the land meets the sea that is undeniably captivating. Join The Sandy Times as we put together an unashamedly biassed and entirely subjective list to offer you a peek into some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. On any one of these beaches, you will find the planet’s silkiest sands, crystal clear waters and a view to make the heart flutter.

Praia da Falésia

What do you get when you cross the Grand Canyon with a beach? Praia da Falésia.

The exceptional beach is characterised by its stunning red cliffs, hence its name "Beach of Cliffs." Praia da Falésia is regarded as one of the top beaches in the Algarve region and is a must-visit location even for those who are not fond of beaches.

Stretching over six kilometres, this beach spans from Vilamoura on the East all the way to Olhos de Água on the West near Albufeira. The sand here is delightfully soft and the water is crystal clear and clean, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. In fact, Tripadvisor has named Praia da Falésia as one of the best beaches in the world. The beach has free parking, coffee shops, and is great for sports and wellness activities.

Photo: Ethan Bucher

Hanalei Bay, Hawaii

Before Hollywood brought it to the big screen in movies like "South Pacific" (1958) and "The Descendants" (2011), Kauai's Hanalei Bay has always been a cherished destination for locals who are drawn to its ethereal beauty. The bay boasts three dazzling beaches — Wai'oli, Hanalei Pavilion, and Black Pot — all surrounded by lush emerald mountains that soar over 4,000 feet high. This area is particularly popular among surfers during the winter season when the waves become larger and more intense.

The crescent-shaped coastline stretches for two miles and is aptly named "lei making," as it sits on the North Shore where the Hanalei River meets the Pacific Ocean. It is bordered by the magnificent Nāmolokama mountain, towering at an impressive height of 4,400 feet. With such a picturesque backdrop, it is no wonder that Hanalei Beach has been featured in hit Hollywood films like "The Descendants."

Photo: Macauly Addesso

La Concha Beach

San Sebastian’s most popular postcard image, La Concha beach is undoubtedly one of that city’s major icons. Facing Santa Clara Island, La Concha beach graces the pages of magazines and newspapers, earning titles such as "Best Beach in Europe" and "Best Beach in Spain." Even today, crowds gather along the scenic promenade, gazing at the picturesque scene or heading down for a leisurely walk or refreshing swim in its enchanting waters.

La Concha is more than just a picturesque beach; it is steeped in history and anecdotes. In 1845, Queen Isabel II made the beach fashionable when she visited it upon her doctors' recommendation that bathing in the sea would help with her skin problems. (Now, if only this author could get a doctor’s note making ocean dipping mandatory, but I digress!)

This royal visit sparked a trend among the elite and high-society aristocrats, who transformed San Sebastian into an elegant and distinguished destination. The nickname "Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea" followed, as well as an influx of tourists seeking out one of the world's most beautiful city beaches.

Photo: Joan

Copacabana, Brazil

Copacabana beach is hands down one of the most iconic beaches on the planet. And it is no wonder why: with over two miles of soft, sandy goodness, a never-ending party atmosphere, and a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and stunning architecture, what is not to love? You will find locals soaking up the sun, strolling along the mosaic-lined promenade designed by Roberto Burle Marx, and enjoying some friendly competition in a game of beach volleyball.

And do not forget about the mouthwatering treats being sold by vendors, from cold drinks to tasty shrimp skewers. While it may have lost its title as Rio de Janeiro's top hotspot, Copacabana still radiates its vintage charm that will make you fall head over heels for this Brazilian beauty

Photo: Azzedine Rouichi

Praia de Marinha, Portugal

In the southerly Algarve region of Portugal, golden shores, and striking cliffs beckon to travellers. Choosing the most breathtaking beach is a near-impossible task, but special recognition must be given to Praia de Marinha for its untamed, rugged charm and lack of commercialization. Other quintessential Algarve beaches not to miss include Praia dos Três Irmãos, Praia de Benagil, Praia da Falésia, and the tranquil Carvalho Beach nestled within rocky alcoves.

A journey to Portugal's Algarve during shoulder season is guaranteed to leave you awe-struck by the jagged cliffs and unique rock formations that adorn the sandy coastline. Visiting in March would allow for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds and the luxury of having private beaches all to yourself, but that proverbial ship has sailed this year. And while you may have missed the prime time for avoiding tourists, what are a few more people in paradise? This beautiful beach is still worth braving even in the summer season.

Photo: Polina Kuzovkova

Kite Beach, Dubai

Kite Beach is one of Dubai's top beaches, at least Tripadvisor thinks so, and this author agrees! It offers something for everyone — whether you want to soak up the sun, indulge in some delicious food, or engage in a variety of water and land sports. Located near the Jumeirah neighbourhood, this free beach boasts high-quality rental equipment for activities such as kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding.

And if you prefer to stay on solid ground, there are always friendly games of beach volleyball waiting for you. With its mix of adrenaline and relaxation, Kite Beach is the perfect spot to make new friends and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

Photo: Vicky Yu

Bai Dam Trau, Vietnam

This was a tough one to choose, but only because Vietnam has so many beautiful beaches to choose from. Nevertheless, Bai Dam Trau in the Con Dao islands takes the cake as our top contender. The island is adorned with stunning gold sand, gentle waves, and tranquil pockets of bamboo and evergreen trees. It is the perfect spot to spend a lazy day swaying in a hammock with a book or strolling along the shoreline with a freshly cracked coconut in hand.

The nearby airport allows for the occasional thrill of seeing commercial jets fly overhead, adding a touch of excitement (or disturbance, depending on one's perspective) to this otherwise serene paradise.

Photo: David Meenagh

Manly Beach, Australia

Winner of Tripadvisor’s 2018 Traveller’s Choice awards, Manly Beach is another stunning vista that does not disappoint.

The beach stretches for two kilometres from South Steyne to North Steyne and Queenscliff, flanked by beautiful Norfolk pines. At the northern end of the beach, there is a submerged reef known as a bombora that produces waves perfect for top surfers. For a scenic walk, follow the foreshore path starting at the south end of the beach until you reach Shelly Beach.

The beach was named by one Capt. Arthur Phillip, who, impressed by the indigenous people living there, wrote, "Their confidence and manly behaviour made me give the name of Manly Cove to this place."

Manly was one of the first seaside resorts to embrace daytime swimming and surfing in 1903, offering the unique experience of expansive ocean beaches on one side and tranquil sandy coves and inlets on the other. For those seeking an active water sports adventure, try out the surfing spots and coves on the ocean side of Manly. Options include surfing, windsurfing, parasailing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. And if you just want to cool off, take a dip in one of the saltwater swimming pools. Join both tourists and locals alike on the long beachfront promenade and cycling paths for a scenic stroll, jog, rollerblade session, or bike ride.

Photo: Nigel Howe

Camps Bay Beach, South Africa

What is it with beautiful beaches and remote islands? The two almost always seem to go together. Fortunately, the same is not true for Camps Bay Beach in the vibrant city of Cape Town. With the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, this beach boasts a vast expanse of soft golden sand and crystal blue water. Swimmers should take caution as the current can be strong at times or stick to the safety of the tidal pool.

But there is more to do in Cape Town than just soaking up the sun and surf. Take a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and colourful houses of Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, hike or ride the aerial cableway to the top of Table Mountain or brave the thrilling ocean drive along Chapman's Peak with its rocky cliffs plunging into the South Atlantic. There are also opportunities for safaris, visiting famous vineyards, whale-watching, and even shark-diving, all within easy day trips from the city.

Photo: JB Dodane

Sanoa Beach, Dominican Republic

(Yes, the one from the Bounty commercial)

The Caribbean has an undeniable appeal, and its beaches are definitely one of its top draws. We all have the same picturesque image in our minds: the sun setting over the pristine white sand, palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze, and waves gently lapping against the shore. And this idyllic setting can be found on Saona Island in the Dominican Republic — a true paradise in the heart of the Caribbean.

Situated just south of Punta Cana, about 1.5 miles from the Cotubanamá National Park, previously known as Parque Nacional del Este, lies Saona Island. Despite its small population, it remains one of the top destinations for tourists visiting the Dominican Republic. The island's pristine nature and the inviting atmosphere make it a must-see location for those vacationing in this part of the Caribbean Sea, with countless excursion groups arriving daily to enjoy its beauty.

Photo: Asad Photo Maldives

Once called Adamanay by the native Tainos, Saona Island was first discovered by Christopher Columbus during his second voyage in late 1494. It is one of three islands located in the southeast region of the Dominican Republic, with the others being Catalina Island and Catalinita. Saona Island boasts a rich abundance of nature, including beautiful coral formations in its waters and it serves as the most significant nesting site for turtles in the country.

Most people visit Saona through one-day trips. In the morning, boats filled with tourists arrive at the island, giving visitors the chance to partake in a variety of activities on land and in the surrounding waters. As the day comes to an end, everyone boards their boats and heads back to their starting points. A day spent on Saona Island is a unique experience that combines the stunning natural beauty of the island with the lively and vibrant atmosphere that is typical of the Dominican Republic — complete with music, dancing, laughter, and an open bar almost always available.

Also, this is where Bounty shot their splendid commercial, though be wary of Hollywood magic if you try to recreate the shots!

by Ashas Bukhari