There’s something extra satisfying about dipping your toes in the sand when it’s winter at home. You amp up the experience when the beach is that surreal white sand with water that you can see right through to the bottom. So, we have the beach–beaches, for that which is on the lifetime goals list.
The Beach: Whitehaven
The Location: Queensland, Australia
Overview
The impossibly white sand and half-moon shape of this Australian beach has earned it a spot on the list of the best beaches in the world. The sand has a silica content of 97% which makes it literally glisten in the sun and prevents heat retention, so your feet won’t burn. So, take a walk on the 4 miles worth of level, stunning sand. The turquoise water is equally pristine and makes for the perfect place to scuba dive or snorkel. The beach is one of the more remote beaches in the region. You can either venture on a 15-minute walk through the Australian bush or take a 40-minute boat ride from the nearest port. Getting there feels worth it.
The Beach: Anse Source d’Argent
The Location: La Digue, Seychelles
Overview
The best beaches in the world are not all created equal. Some beaches make for the perfect place to lounge, and some beaches are all about the views. Anse Source d’Argent is one of them. Pink sands surrounded by weathered, granite boulders create an intricate landscape filled with nooks, crannies, boulders, and palms. Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, it was the famous backdrop for the film Cast Away, and commercials such as those filmed for Bacardi in the 90s. The beach has a conveniently remoter location — convenient because otherwise, it might easily be overrun with crowds. The beach also charges for admission which, though isn’t ideal, also protects the beach from becoming impossibly populated.
The Beach: Macaroni Beach
The Location: Mustique, Petit St. Vincent + The Grenadines
Overview
We’re pretty sure that this is the only beach on the list where they clean the seaweed off at 7 am before anyone arrives so you’re in pure white sand. Mustique has some of the most pristine beaches, as well as private beaches, in the world. Just ask the Prince and Princess of Whales, who have been coming to the island for at least 15 years. The beauty of the Mustique beaches is that there is no DJ party or big scene, and there’s not even a real beach club. Instead, they create your own beach club here with loungers and towels on demand, pretty much anywhere you find your own slice of heaven. Your own beach picnic is, of course, included.
The Beach: Amanpulo Beach Club
The Location: Palawan, Philippines
Overview
Often, the best beaches in the world are in the most hidden places. Pamalican Island in the Philippines is a 1.55-mile, secluded paradise. With bright, white sand beaches, and surrounding coral reefs, the island offers the ideal beach vacation. The biggest draw, however, happens to reside as part of the Amanpulo resort, which takes up much of the island. The west-facing beachfront has an Aman club which makes lounging at the beach even better. You can have a mai thai or glass of wine in your hand moments after coming in from your snorkel, and the endless view of the Sulu Sea won’t get old.
The Beach: Malcolm’s Road Beach
The Location: Turks & Caicos
Overview
Aman clearly does their homework when it comes to their resorts, and the beach at Amanyara in Turks & Caicos is one of the best beaches in the world. Malcolm’s Road Beach has a reputation on the island for being nearly impossible to get to without a vehicle. With Amanyara now located nearby, more people get to enjoy this pristine beach. Although, while many come for the escapism that is just relaxing on the beach, other thrill seekers come for the dives. About 500-700 ft from shore there is “the wall”, which is an underwater plateau that drops from 50-7000 ft. As a result, larger sea life like sharks and rays make their most frequent appearances here. Less experienced or brave divers will also enjoy the coral reefs.
The Beach: Flamands Beach
The Location: St. Barths
Overview
Beaches in the Caribbean have a certain flavor. People crave those wide, white sand beaches with clear water. Cheval Blanc understood the assignment when they spotted Flamands Beach for their St. Barths resort. The beach beckons with perfect, soft sand and temperate water that you can’t help but dive right in. While some of the best beaches in the world have a remoteness that makes you feel deliciously lost, Flamands also has the allure of great restaurants and shopping nearby. It’s perfect for making a whole day out of it. And though it is one of the more popular beaches, the lush green surroundings and clear water seem to always be untouched by humans.
The Beach: Tetiaroa Atoll
The Location: Bora, Bora French Polynesia
Overview
If ever you’ve dreamt of having one of these beaches all to yourself, The Brando is calling you. The private island resort’s villas all have direct beach access and views. You can wake up, roll out of bed, and be on the beach. The island has two main beaches, Turtle Bay, and Mermaid Bay. Turtle Bay has marine life and reefs for snorkeling, while Mermaid Bay has a calmer vibe with perfect conditions for lounging or getting active and taking out a paddleboard or canoe. With only 35 villas spread across the whole island, you’ll also have welcome space from your neighbors.
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FAQs
Q: Where is the Whitsundays located?
A: The Whitsundays is located in Australia and is one of the best beaches in the world because it’s completely unspoiled. There are no hotels, restaurants, or developments on the beach. You can only reach the Whitsundays by boat or helicopter.
Q: Where is La Digue located?
A: La Digue is an island that is part of the Seychelles, and it has some of the best beaches in the world. The 18 beaches are completely unspoiled, and the Anse Source d’Argent is a deserted beach you hike to over rocks and other beaches. It’s an experience.
Q: Where is Amanpulo located?
A: Amanpulo is the Aman resort on the private island of Palawan in the Philippines.
