Top 4 Beaches You Have To Visit Before You Die
A lot of people dream of having that beach vacation to escape the troubles of everyday living, even if only for a while. The soft ocean breeze in your face and the sand at your feet melts all your worries away. With the world mostly covered in water, you are sure to find a beach you can kick your shoes off and just laze around.
However, finding the perfect beach getaway depends on your personal preferences. Whether you like a secluded beach where you can go in your birthday suit or a people-filled beach where you can meet new friends, there is definitely a beach that is right for you.
If you’re still unsure which beach you should hit next, here are some of the top beaches around the world you should visit at least once in your lifetime.
1. Go Au Naturel in Negril, Jamaica
This beach city on the western side of Jamaica always lands among the best places to go to. It is best known for its long, sandy beaches hugging shallow, clear, and turquoise waters. It is the home of the Seven Mile Beach, a soothing walk where you can gaze into the nearby Long Bay. Go for a stroll with the wind and the sand accompanying you in every step. You can also take a short break and refresh at any of the restaurants nearby. Long Bay also encircles a lagoon with a lot of coral reefs popular for snorkeling and scuba-diving.
Also, though topless sunbathing is generally acceptable in most parts of Jamaica, dedicated nude beaches are quite few and far in between. However, there are still a good number of beach resorts for tourists looking for that full tan without leaving any lines. Couples Negril is one such resort, with a separate enclosed area they refer to as au naturel. They also have their own hot tub which offers privacy from onlookers. Other resorts in Negril, such as Spa Negril and the Breezes Grand Resort, are restricted to adults only.
If you’re looking for other activities to enjoy, while remaining close to Negril’s calm and clear waters, take a dive in the secluded Blue Hole Mineral Spring from the cave’s hole at the top. Also, for a bit of history and architecture, the Negril Lighthouse is a cool place to visit with its still-running lantern and gallery both seated at the top of the concrete tower.
2. Watch the waves from the Sunset Beach in Oahu, Hawaii
Hawaii has been synonymous with paradise, and with good reason. The Pacific archipelago is filled with natural wonders, from lush mountains to towering volcanoes, all gently sloping towards the ocean. Of course, its beaches are among the finest in the world and are always included in lifestyle magazines.
Among Hawaii’s best beach locations reside in its third-largest island. Aside from Kane’ohe Bay and Papailoa Beach, one of the most visited beaches in the great island of Oahu is the Sunset Beach. Located on the northern shores of the island, it is a world-class destination for big wave surfing events during winter. Its two-mile-long beach is filled with beige sands, and a lot of tourists during surfing seasons. However, while surfers from around the world flock to Sunset Beach, its waters are not to be underestimated. Extensive coral formations along its waters are considered risky for amateur surfers. Even the winds might prove inhospitable for inexperienced surfers trying to paddle their way to or from the shore.
However, both for professional competitors or tourists looking forward to watching a big event, The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, which is a part of the Surfing World Cup, is held at Sunset Beach. During winter, which is its peak season for this sport, ocean swells grow up to heights of more than 30 feet. On the other hand, the beach is surprisingly calm and steady during the summer.
3. Caress fine white sand at El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
More than the towering waves of Siargao and the white sands, the Philippines is rapidly growing as a tourist destination in Southeast Asia largely due to the beauty of its beaches. However, among the underrated jewels located in the Pearl of the Orient is El Nido, in Palawan.
Soaring limestone cliffs guard over the ocean from above and frame the fine white sands below, the beaches of El Nido has something to offer for both hydrophiles and landlubbers. If you prefer to have fun on dry land, you can book guided tours to scale these large limestone formations and enjoy the view of the quaint town as well as the neighboring islands. But consider yourself warned, these are jagged stone formations and will require some level of experience. A safer and easier land activity is trekking around neighboring Cadlao Island, a two to three-hour walk through dense jungles with a covered inland lagoon waiting at the end.
For water-based fun and activities, stroll through its white sand beaches before setting off into the clear blue waters. The cool and clear ocean is perfect for snorkeling and diving. For adrenaline junkies, designated limestone columns are available bases for cliff jumping. You can also go kayaking from its bays and follow rivers inland, some even connect to hidden lagoons and underground lakes!
4. Relax at Belmond Cap Juluca, Maundays Bay, Anguilla
Anguilla is the gem of the Caribbean, being both simple and exquisitely magnificent. Its beaches are filled with fine white sands that slowly tilts into its crystal blue waters. What makes it even more beautiful is that the bay is a natural half-moon curve cornering Anguilla’s southwestern edges.
For people looking for a Caribbean slice of paradise secluded from a lot of people, Maundays Bay lets you leave all your worries behind as you basically get the entire beach to yourself. Its beaches only have a few people most of the time. Usually, aside from the extremely friendly locals, the other people you might find are guests from the nearby Belmond Cap Juluca.
This architectural and cultural mix between Greek and Caribbean is surely among the best places to stay in for your Anguilla getaway. The beach resort has amenities for every tourist, from couples looking for a private vacation to entire families needing a place everyone can enjoy. Belmond Cap Juluca faces the ocean where the waters are calm and the lifeguards are always nearby. Even their rooms and suites provide the feel of actually staying in the Caribbean.
5. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
Waikiki Beach, nestled on the picturesque island of Oahu in Hawaii, is a world-renowned haven for sun-seekers and surf enthusiasts. This iconic beach embodies the true spirit of the Aloha State, making it an essential stop in your Ultimate Hawaii Travel Guides.
With its soft, golden sands stretching along the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, Waikiki is a postcard-perfect paradise. Surfers from across the globe flock here to ride the gentle waves, while beachgoers bask in the warm Hawaiian sun. The beach’s backdrop is framed by the majestic Diamond Head volcanic crater, adding a touch of dramatic beauty to the scenery.
Aside from the sun and surf, Waikiki offers a vibrant nightlife, world-class dining, and excellent shopping. The bustling Kalakaua Avenue, lined with luxury boutiques and lively entertainment, adds an urban flair to this tropical oasis.
Waikiki Beach is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the quintessential Hawaiian experience.
Going to a beach vacation allows one to return to their daily life with a renewed sense of satisfaction and refreshment. Although planning one can be both difficult and overwhelming, with the near-limitless number of options available, you can always start with ones that are affordable or accessible.
If you are looking to include beaches in your bucket list, you can start by listing any of these four destinations and find the seaside destination that’s perfect for you.