A good beach is something that can stimulate the senses. Its calming murmur, the gentle breeze, and the scent of salt in the air create a feeling of adventure and relaxation. A beach is also like a favorite poem.
Instead of the usual beach locations full of tourists and sun umbrellas, we’ve found some of the most beautiful and often crowd-free areas in the world. These are the best beaches to visit, from Europe’s most exquisite beaches to Africa’s most remote stretches.
Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Benguerra Island is a haven for sandbar glitter and graceful leggy flamingoes in the Bazaruto Archipelago. This area, a short dhow ride east of the town of Vilanculos, is also home to a two-mile coral reef. A reef home borders the magnificent sand to migrating humpback whales and massive whale sharks.
The waters of Benguerra Island are known to have the largest dugong population in Mozambique’s western Indian Ocean. Also, due to its marine-reserve status, only a handful of lodges can be found on the island. Once the day-trippers leave, the beach will be all yours.
British Virgin Islands
Laurance Rockefeller, a conservationist, helped put the British Virgin Islands on the map in 1964 when he opened Little Dix Bay, a resort on Virgin Gorda’s tranquil crescent of sand. Soon, it became a well-known destination for sunseekers like Queen Elizabeth II. The property, now known as the Rosewood, has been ranked among the top resorts in the world several times.
White Bay Beach can be found off Jost Van Dyke. You can also explore Sandy Spit, uninhabited and remote, or The Baths National Park, which features pools with calming natural features. There, massive boulders, some of which are as big as 40 feet, set the boundaries.
Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
One of the most popular beaches in the world is Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach. This area is known for its unique blend of people-watching. During this time, locals can be seen socializing in the sand, drinking coconut water, and playing volleyball.
The iconic hotel, set along Atlantica Avenue, has been visited by some of the world’s most prominent celebrities, such as Madonna and Fred Astaire. During New Year’s Eve, the hotel is the place to be for the festivities. Over two million people are expected to attend the event.
Navagio Beach, Island of Zakynthos, Greece
The magnificent Navagio Beach is located on the island of Zakynthos, and it features crystal-clear waters and white limestone cliffs. It’s also regularly featured in travel publications.
Due to the shipwreck’s rusted remains, Navagio Beach has been referred to as the “Shipwreck Beach.” Although it’s only accessible by boat, this area offers an enjoyable experience by skimming across the sparkling waters.