The 10 Best Beaches to Visit in 2024
With beach season already in full swing, it's the perfect time to dream up new sandy adventures for the rest of the year—and beyond. From the crystalline waters of the Caribbean to the serene shores of the South Pacific, we’ve curated a list of the top beaches to put on your travel radar for 2024. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of natural beauty, pristine conditions, and that perfect escape every beachgoer craves. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for last-minute ideas for a sandy getaway, these spots are sure to inspire your next coastal trip.
What Makes a Beach “the Best”?
Each year, there’s no shortage of “best beach” lists to pin to your travel boards. From annual round-ups and hidden escapes, to our favorite beach hikes along the East coast and West coast alike, we like to celebrate the best beaches all year round. But what exactly sets these beaches apart from the rest?
It’s not just about soft sands and shimmering waters—though those are certainly good reasons to make the list. The best beaches offer a perfect combination of cleanliness, environmental integrity, water quality, and visual appeal. They provide opportunities for both sun and shade, along with stunning views, and a shared commitment to preserving their untouched allure. In short, these 10 beaches represent the finest natural escapes our planet has to offer.
This Year’s Best Beaches
Trunk Bay, St. John, USVI
Nestled in the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay is famed not only for its breathtaking underwater snorkeling trail but also for its exceptionally clear, turquoise waters that mirror the sky. The beach's soft, white sand offers a striking contrast to the lush green hills that surround it. Trunk Bay is a popular spot for both snorkelers and those looking to relax under the shade of sea grape trees, with amenities like snack bars and rental shops only enhancing its appeal for families and casual day-trippers alike.
Cala Mariolu, Italy
Hidden away on Sardinia’s rugged Gulf of Orosei, Cala Mariolu offers a spectacular blend of pebbly sands interspersed with soft patches perfect for sunbathing. The water here is a clear, radiant blue, inviting swimmers and snorkelers to explore its colorful marine life. Accessible only by boat, this secluded cove remains relatively unspoiled by crowds, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility away from the tourist trails.
Kapalua Bay Beach, Hawaii
Henderson Beach, Florida
Located in the heart of Destin, Henderson Beach State Park boasts over 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline. The sugar-white sands and emerald green waters are typical of Florida’s Emerald Coast, and the beach is backed by a system of towering dunes covered in native vegetation. It's a fantastic spot for families thanks to its picnic pavilions, playground, and nature trail, making it not just a beach, but a full day’s destination.
Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Whitehaven Beach is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, known for its 7 kilometers (around 4.3 miles) of pristine silica sand and swirling turquoise waters. The beach is part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park and is best viewed from the lookout at Tongue Point, where the shifting tides create a breathtaking mosaic of colors. This remote beach is accessible only by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, adding to its appeal as a genuinely unspoiled paradise.
Voidokilia Beach, Greece
This perfectly rounded beach in Messinia is famous not only for its shape but for its historical significance, believed to be the location of King Nestor’s cave in Homer’s Odyssey. The beach’s golden sand forms a natural semicircle around clear blue waters, providing shelter from the wind and making it an ideal spot for families. With no developments or facilities, it retains a wild charm that’s enhanced by the surrounding flora and fauna.
Coronado Beach, California
Coronado Beach in San Diego is celebrated for its expansive stretches of golden sands and gentle waves, backed by the iconic Hotel del Coronado. This family-friendly beach is perfect for building sandcastles, beachcombing, and evening gatherings around a roaring bonfire. Its urban proximity means a wealth of cafes, shops, and beach bars are just a short walk away, providing a lively beach culture that’s accessible yet surprisingly laid back.
Pink Beach, Indonesia
Pink Beach on Komodo Island stands out with its striking rose-tinted sands, a natural phenomenon caused by red coral fragments mixing with white sand. This remote paradise is part of the Komodo National Park, offering not just unique beach scenery but also exceptional snorkeling experiences. The surrounding coral reefs teem with a diverse array of marine life, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and underwater adventurers. Even better, the beach's secluded location ensures a tranquil visit, away from the typical tourist trappings.
Anse Georgette, Seychelles
Anse Georgette is a secluded gem tucked away on the island of Praslin, renowned for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Frequently listed among the world’s most beautiful beaches, it is accessible only by a hike through lush forest or by boat, adding to its exclusive and untouched appeal. This beach offers a serene escape with minimal crowds and a distinct lack of development, making it ideal for those seeking privacy and natural beauty.
Harris Beach, Oregon
Harris Beach State Park offers a breathtaking experience with rugged coastline views, rich marine tide pools, and expansive sandy areas perfect for a midday picnic. Located in Brookings, Oregon, this beach is known for its dramatic sea stacks and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering year-round bird watching and seasonal whale watching. With a campground nearby, visitors can stay overnight, allowing for extended exploration of Oregon’s stunning coastal scenery and its vibrant sunsets.
Packing for the Perfect Beach Day
Before you set off to explore some of the world's most stunning beaches in 2024, remember that packing the right items can make all the difference in maximizing your beach day enjoyment. A good beach day starts with thorough sun protection, and a Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen will ensure you're covered for those long, sun-soaked hours. Don’t forget to top off your outfit with a stylish sun hat and a pair of protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun’s powerful rays.
Beyond the basics, remember to pack a cooler with plenty of hydrating beverages and light snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day. Water is a must, but adding some electrolyte-rich drinks can help maintain your hydration levels, especially on very hot days. Toss in a favorite book and you’ll be ready to truly relax and unwind. With these essentials, you’re well-equipped to enjoy the sandy stretches from sunrise to sunset.