The Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World According to AI

This article is published by AllBusiness.com, a partner of TIME.

There’s something magical about the sound of waves crashing against the shore, the feel of soft sand underfoot, and the endless horizon of blue skies meeting the ocean. Beaches have a way of calming the soul while simultaneously igniting a sense of adventure. If you are in search of serenity, vibrant marine life, or breathtaking sunsets (or all of these), some beaches stand out above the rest.

For many, a great beach is more than just a strip of sand. It’s a place where memories are made—from family vacations to romantic getaways or solo retreats. What sets the best beaches apart is their unique blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and the activities they offer. Some are perfect for snorkeling, while others provide the ultimate backdrop for sunbathing and stargazing.

Along with research assistance from ChatGPT we’ve scoured recommendations, travel guides, and personal experiences (though we need to do more of this) to bring you this list of the world’s top 10 most beautiful beaches. Each beach offers something unique, from crystal-clear waters to powdery pink sand. So grab your sunscreen and swimsuit and get ready to imagine your next tropical escape!

1. Whitehaven Beach (Australia)

Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach is a pristine stretch of white silica sand and crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, this beach is a protected gem within the Whitsunday Islands National Park. Its swirling patterns of white sand and turquoise water are a sight to behold, especially from the Hill Inlet viewpoint.

Location: Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia.
Accessibility: Best reached via boat tours or private charters.
Notable Feature: The sand is 98% pure silica, making it incredibly soft and cool underfoot.
Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided eco-tours.
Best Time to Visit: May to October for pleasant weather and calm waters.
Environmental Protection: Part of a national park, ensuring its preservation.

2. Anse Source d'Argent (Seychelles)

With its dramatic granite boulders, soft white sand, and clear shallow waters, Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. Nestled on La Digue Island, this beach offers a tranquil escape with its calm, warm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding palm trees add to its tropical charm.

Location: La Digue Island, Seychelles.
Accessibility: Accessible by ferry from nearby islands.
Notable Feature: Unique granite rock formations lining the shore.
Activities: Snorkeling, photography, and nature walks.
Best Time to Visit: April to May or October to November for optimal weather.
Wildlife: Home to exotic bird species and vibrant marine life.

3. Grace Bay Beach (Turks and Caicos)

Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Grace Bay Beach is known for its powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters. Located on the island of Providenciales, this beach is part of a protected marine park, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The coral reef just offshore is teeming with colorful fish.

Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.
Accessibility: Easily accessible from resorts and the local airport.
Notable Feature: Over 3 miles of uninterrupted, pristine shoreline.
Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sunset cruises.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for sunny skies and dry weather.
Safety: Calm waters and lifeguard presence make it family-friendly.

4. Navagio Beach (Greece)

Also known as Shipwreck Beach, Navagio Beach is famous for its dramatic setting—a secluded cove surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Accessible only by boat, this beach on Zakynthos Island features a rusted shipwreck that adds a touch of intrigue to its stunning turquoise waters and white pebbled shore.

Location: Zakynthos Island, Greece.
Accessibility: Boat tours depart from nearby ports.
Notable Feature: The shipwreck of MV Panagiotis.
Activities: Swimming, photography, and cliff-view hiking.
Best Time to Visit: Early summer for fewer crowds and warm weather.
Caution: Limited shade and access, so plan accordingly.

5. Trunk Bay (U.S. Virgin Islands)

Trunk Bay, located on the island of St. John, is a gem within the Virgin Islands National Park. Known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters, the beach also features an underwater snorkeling trail that highlights vibrant coral and marine life. Surrounded by lush green hills, Trunk Bay offers both natural beauty and a peaceful retreat.

Location: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands.
Accessibility: Accessible via ferry and a short drive.
Notable Feature: An underwater snorkeling trail with interpretive signs.
Activities: Snorkeling, sunbathing, and hiking nearby trails.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for ideal weather.
Conservation: Part of the Virgin Islands National Park.

6. Pink Sands Beach (Bahamas)

True to its name, Pink Sands Beach features soft, rose-tinted sand created by microscopic coral insects. This idyllic beach stretches for three miles on Harbour Island and is framed by calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. The pink hue of the sand is most vibrant during sunrise and sunset.

Location: Harbour Island, Bahamas.
Accessibility: Accessible via ferry from Eleuthera.
Notable Feature: The beach’s striking pink sand.
Activities: Horseback riding, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for pleasant weather.
Accommodations: Boutique hotels and luxury resorts nearby.

7. Matira Beach (French Polynesia)

Located on the island of Bora Bora, Matira Beach is often described as the most beautiful beach in the South Pacific. Its soft white sand slopes gently into clear, shallow waters, making it perfect for swimming and wading. Surrounded by lush greenery and luxury resorts, this beach is an excellent spot for a romantic getaway.

Location: Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
Accessibility: Easily accessible from local accommodations.
Notable Feature: Stunning sunsets over the lagoon.
Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and lagoon tours.
Best Time to Visit: May to October for dry and cool weather.
Atmosphere: Serene and intimate, perfect for couples.

8. Tulum Beach (Mexico)

With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, Tulum Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Located near the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, this beach provides stunning views and a laid-back vibe. Visitors can explore the ruins, relax under palm trees, or snorkel in nearby cenotes.

Location: Tulum, Mexico.
Accessibility: Short drive from Cancun International Airport.
Notable Feature: Proximity to Mayan archaeological sites.
Activities: Snorkeling, yoga classes, and eco-tours.
Best Time to Visit: November to April for dry weather.
Vibe: Bohemian and eco-friendly.

9. Baia do Sancho (Brazil)

Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Baia do Sancho is located on Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago known for its unspoiled nature. Surrounded by lush cliffs and accessible via a steep staircase or boat, this beach features crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving.

Location: Fernando de Noronha, Brazil.
Accessibility: Limited access, preserving its pristine condition.
Notable Feature: Vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Activities: Diving, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
Best Time to Visit: August to December for calm seas.
Environmental Conservation: Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. Lanikai Beach (Hawaii)

Lanikai Beach, meaning “Heavenly Ocean,” lives up to its name with its soft sand, clear waters, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. Located on Oahu’s windward coast, this small but picturesque beach is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sunrise photography.

Location: Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii, USA.
Accessibility: Short drive from Honolulu.
Notable Feature: Views of the twin Mokulua Islands.
Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for fewer crowds.
Community Feel: Popular among locals and visitors alike.

Conclusion on the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

The beaches on this list are more than just beautiful stretches of sand—they are destinations that evoke awe and wonder. Each offers a unique experience, from the pink sands of the Bahamas to the black volcanic shores of Iceland. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, these beaches provide something unforgettable.

No matter where you are in the world, a great beach can be the perfect escape. They remind us of the power and beauty of nature, offering a sense of peace and joy that’s hard to find elsewhere. So, grab your sunglasses and start planning your next beach getaway!

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About the Authors:

Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and AllBusiness.com. Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn.

Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at AllBusiness.com. She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies, Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.