15 Hidden Gems: Exploring the Most Unbelievable Beach Destinations in the World
Unbelievable beach destinations provide a beach experience like no other. When we think of beaches, we usually picture golden sands, gentle waves, and bright sunshine. However, there’s an entire world of extraordinary beaches waiting to be explored. For instance, some shores glow in the dark, while others feature penguins casually strolling along the sand. These unique spots completely redefine the traditional idea of a beach getaway. So, if you’re ready to discover something truly extraordinary, here are 15 of the most unbelievable beach destinations in the world.
1. Diamond Beach, Iceland
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking on a black sand beach covered in glittering ice, then Diamond Beach in Iceland is the place for you. This stunning beach is located on the southeastern coast, near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s famous for its black volcanic sand, which is beautifully dotted with large chunks of ice that wash ashore from the nearby glacier. The icebergs sparkle in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking contrast between the white-blue ice and the dark sand.
Why Visit? This beach’s dramatic and unique beauty, where ice meets black sand, makes it a photographer’s paradise.
2. Papakolea Beach, Hawaii
Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach, is located on Hawaii’s Big Island. It is one of only four green sand beaches in the entire world. The beach’s striking olive-green color comes from a mineral called olivine, which is found in the volcanic rocks of the area. Reaching this remote location requires a 2.5-mile hike. However, the stunning views and vibrant green sand make the journey worth every step.
Why Visit? The rare green sand makes this beach a true hidden gem. Combined with the beauty of the rugged Hawaiian coastline, it’s a destination worth visiting.
3. Shell Beach, Australia
In Shark Bay, Western Australia, you’ll find Shell Beach, made entirely of billions of tiny white shells. These shells have built up over thousands of years due to the salty waters. They stretch as far as the eye can see. Walking on the beach is a unique experience as the shells crunch beneath your feet.
Why Visit? The unique shell-covered shore and crystal-clear waters create a one-of-a-kind beach experience you won’t forget.
4. Red Sand Beach, Greece
Situated on the island of Santorini, Greece, Red Sand Beach (Kokkini Beach) offers a truly dramatic and colorful landscape. The beach’s vibrant red sand is the result of volcanic activity and iron-rich minerals, which contrast beautifully with the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The steep red cliffs that surround the beach add to the striking visual effect.
Why Visit? The deep red sand and surrounding volcanic cliffs make this beach a must-visit for any traveler to Santorini.
5. Pfeiffer Beach, California
Tucked away in Big Sur, California, Pfeiffer Beach is known for its purple sands and the iconic Keyhole Rock—a natural arch formation in the ocean. The purple hue in the sand comes from manganese-rich rocks in the surrounding cliffs. As a result, the colorful sands and dramatic rock formations create an ethereal scene, especially at sunset.
Why Visit? The unique purple sand and the magical sunsets through Keyhole Rock make Pfeiffer Beach a hidden gem worth discovering.
6. Navagio Beach, Greece
Also known as Shipwreck Beach, Navagio Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in the world, located on Zakynthos Island in Greece. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and only accessible by boat, this beach is home to the famous shipwreck of the MV Panagiotis, which ran aground in 1980. The stunning contrast of the bright turquoise water, white sand, and rusty shipwreck is unforgettable.
Why Visit? The sense of adventure, combined with the picturesque scenery and the shipwreck, makes Navagio Beach a must-see.
7. Pink Beach, Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island in Indonesia is one of the few pink sand beaches in the world. The pink hue comes from tiny red coral fragments that mix with the white sand, creating a soft pink color that contrasts with the surrounding clear waters. This beach is part of Komodo National Park, which is famous for its Komodo dragons and excellent diving opportunities.
Why Visit? The rare pink sand, combined with the vibrant coral reefs, makes this a stunning beach for both relaxation and underwater exploration. Furthermore, its unique beauty offers a perfect escape for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
8. Playa del Amor, Mexico
Also known as The Hidden Beach, Playa del Amor on the Marieta Islands near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a secluded beach tucked away inside a crater. To reach it, you’ll need to swim or kayak through a tunnel, which adds an adventurous thrill for those seeking excitement.
Why Visit? The secluded location, combined with the natural beauty of the hidden cove, makes this beach a true gem.
Why Visit? The secluded location, combined with the natural beauty of the hidden cove, makes this beach a true gem.
9. Anse Lazio Beach, Seychelles
On the island of Praslin in Seychelles, Anse Lazio Beach is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Surrounded by granite boulders and framed by lush tropical vegetation, this beach boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the stunning scenery.
Why Visit? The postcard-perfect combination of white sand, turquoise waters, and granite rocks makes this beach unforgettable.
10. Hyams Beach, Australia
With the whitest sand in the world, according to Guinness World Records, Hyams Beach in New South Wales, Australia, is a slice of paradise. The ultra-fine, soft white sand and clear blue waters make this beach a top destination for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Why Visit? The pure white sand, along with the stunning coastal scenery, truly makes Hyams Beach a must-see for any beach lover. Moreover, its beauty creates an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
11. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue Island in Seychelles is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With soft pink sand and massive granite boulders, it looks like a tropical dream. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for wading and snorkeling, while the lush surroundings invite exploration.
Why Visit? The combination of soft pink sand and giant boulders makes this beach a photographer’s paradise.
12. Hot Water Beach, New Zealand
For a unique beach experience, head to Hot Water Beach on New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula. Here, you can dig your own hot tub in the sand, thanks to underground geothermal springs that filter up through the beach at low tide. Relax in your natural hot pool while, at the same time, enjoying the breathtaking view of the ocean.
Why Visit? The ability to create your own personal hot spring on the beach makes this one of the most unique beach experiences in the world.
13. Praia do Sancho, Brazil
Located on the island of Fernando de Noronha in Brazil, Praia do Sancho has been named one of the best beaches in the world multiple times. This remote beach is surrounded by cliffs covered in lush green vegetation, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming with vibrant marine life.
Why Visit? The secluded location, combined with its untouched natural beauty, makes Praia do Sancho a tropical paradise.
14. Radhanagar Beach, India
On Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Radhanagar Beach is known for its soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters. Surrounded by dense tropical forests, this beach offers a serene and idyllic setting for visitors looking to relax or enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Why Visit? The tranquility and natural beauty of Radhanagar Beach make it one of Asia’s most stunning beach destinations.
15. Jervis Bay, Australia
Jervis Bay in New South Wales, Australia, is famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the surrounding national parks offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Why Visit? The dazzling white sand, paired with calm, inviting waters, makes Jervis Bay a top destination for beachgoers.
Wrapping It Up: Discover the Most Unbelievable Beach Destinations
From black sand shores to hidden beaches tucked away in caves, these 15 unbelievable beach destinations truly showcase the incredible variety and beauty our planet has to offer. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, an adventurous beach trek, or a one-of-a-kind experience, these hidden gems are sure to leave you in awe. Also, each destination offers a unique adventure that caters to every type of traveler.
Ready to pack your bags? The world’s most unbelievable beach destinations are waiting for you to explore!
FAQs About Unbelievable Beach Destinations
1. Which beach has the whitest sand?
Hyams Beach in Australia holds the Guinness World Record for the whitest sand in the world.
2. Where is the hidden beach in Mexico?
Playa del Amor, also known as Hidden Beach, is located on the Marieta Islands, near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
3. What causes the pink sand at Pink Beach in Indonesia?
The pink sand is the result of tiny red coral fragments mixing with the white sand, creating a soft pink hue.
