Unique beaches around the world that are hard to believe exist on our plant. Whether it’s dramatic cliffs, unusually colored sand, hidden coves, or surreal landscapes, these one-of-a-kind beaches and a complete bucket list of ocean-loving travel. 

1. Papakōlea, The Green Sand Beach, Island of Hawaii

Papakōlea Beach on Hawaii’s Big Island is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The striking olive-colored sand comes from tiny particles of a semi-precious stone called olivine, which forms from volcanic eruptions. The beach sits inside a collapsed volcanic cinder cone, making the surrounding landscape feel as dramatic as the shoreline itself. To get there, prepare for a rugged 2.5-mile hike, some serious off-roading, or a bumpy ride with a local driver – but the surreal scenery makes it worth every step.

See my guide to Papakolea here.

2. Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

Boulders Beach near Cape Town is one of the few places in the world where you can swim alongside African penguins. The beach is part of a protected marine reserve, and the adorable penguins waddle freely along the soft white sands - they came right up to me while we were here! Wooden walkways allow visitors to observe the colony without disturbing them, but if you’re lucky, you might spot a penguin paddling through the shallows right next to you.

Read my Cape Town travel tips here.

3. Daymaniyat Islands, Off Muscat, Oman

Off the coast of Oman, the Daymaniyat Islands are a sanctuary of raw, untouched beauty. Known for their dazzling turquoise waters and thriving coral reefs, these islands are a diver’s paradise - would you believe this was a part of the same road trip that took us on miles of sand dunes and through 6th century cities?  Swim alongside sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish, or snorkel through the shallow reefs just steps from the shore. With pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear visibility, this protected marine reserve feels like a remote, secret oasis. 

Read my Daymaniyat Islands Travel Guide here. 

4. The Sand Bars of The Maldives

In the Maldives, shifting sand bars create temporary, ethereal beaches that seem to float in the middle of the ocean. Accessible only by boat, these ever-changing strips of pristine white sand are surrounded by impossibly clear, shallow waters. Spend the day walking across the isolated shoreline, snorkeling in the nearby reefs, or simply soaking in the feeling of having your own private island. It’s a beach experience unlike any other – fleeting, surreal, and utterly beautiful. One experience I haven't had yet is at Vaadhoo Beach in the Maldives, bioluminescence turns the waters illuminated with bright blue lights, creating a dreamlike illusion on shore.

See more from the Maldives Here

5. The  Cliffs of The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve’s coastline is a dramatic blend of golden beaches, hidden coves, and towering limestone cliffs. Praia da Marinha is one of its most iconic spots, with turquoise waters and sea-carved arches creating a jaw-dropping landscape. Nearby, you’ll find Benagil Cave – a sea cavern with a hole in the ceiling, allowing sunlight to pour in, illuminating the golden sands below. With its wild beauty and secluded beaches, the Algarve feels both romantic and adventurous.

See my guide to Portugal's Best Beaches here.

6. The Black Sand Beaches of The South Pacific (Hawai'i and Tahiti)

The volcanic origins of Hawaii and Tahiti have given rise to some of the world’s most striking black sand beaches. Punaluʻu Beach on Hawaii’s Big Island is famous for its jet-black sand, made from basalt lava fragments. In Tahiti, Plage de la Pointe Venus offers a striking contrast of dark sands against vibrant turquoise waters. These moody, dramatic coastlines provide an otherworldly beach experience unlike any typical tropical destination.

See my Hawaii guide here.

7. Maho Beach, Saint Martin

 Maho Beach offers a beach experience like no other – with airplanes flying just feet overhead. Located next to Princess Juliana International Airport, this Caribbean beach is famous for its hair-raising proximity to landing planes. This was the beach Brandon (who is a commercial pilot as a sidequest and generally obsessed with airplanes) wanted to see most anywhere in the world. Watch massive jets roar just above your head just before they land while you relax on the golden sand or swim in the clear blue waters. It’s a thrill-seeker’s beach paradise and a bucket list experience for aviation enthusiasts.

8. Sarakiniko, Milos, Greece

Sarakiniko Beach looks like it belongs on another planet. This surreal Greek beach is famous for its smooth, white volcanic rock formations, which create a lunar-like landscape. The contrast of the stark white rocks against the deep blue Aegean Sea is breathtaking. With natural swimming holes and hidden sea caves to explore, Sarakiniko offers a beach experience that feels both alien and magical.

See my guide to Milos's best beaches here.

9. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora’s beaches are the stuff of postcards – soft white sands, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear lagoons. The island has become so iconic for a reason, with some of the bluest water anywhere in the world. Bora Bora is a splurge worth it for anyone that loves a tropical paradise, where overwater bungalows offer direct access to the turquoise waters and you can snorkel with tropical fish or spot graceful stingrays gliding by. 

See more on Bora Bora here.

10. Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Before social media, Maya Bay was first made famous for its titular role in The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay is a bucket-list beach in Thailand. Set against towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, the beach is as breathtaking in real life as it is on screen. When I first came here in 2016, your boat could land on the beach and you were able to swim in the bay anytime you wanted, but wow Maya Bay is carefully protected, visitor numbers are limited to preserve its natural beauty. The soft white sand and dramatic backdrop make it one of the most visually stunning beaches in the world.

See more from Maya Bay and the Phi Phi Islands here.

11. Malamala Beach Club, Fiji

A beach club on a private topical island... say less. Malamala Beach Club in Fiji is one of the most unique beach clubs in the world, accessible only by boat. A private island beach club with white sand beaches, chlorine blue water, infinity pools, and cabanas overlooking the turquoise waters. Sip cocktails with your toes in the sand, paddleboard in the calm lagoon, or snorkel along the coral reefs. With its exclusivity and pristine beauty, it’s a beach experience made for indulgence.

See my Things To Do In Fiji Guide here.

12. Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Aitutaki is home to one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world - with the most vibrantly blue water I may have seen anywhere. The shallow, crystal-clear waters and powdery white sandbars create a mesmerizing patchwork of blue. Spend the day exploring the lagoon by kayak, snorkeling with tropical fish, or walking across sandbars that feel like you’re floating in the middle of the ocean. This remote island paradise offers some of the most idyllic beachscapes on earth.

See my Aitutaki Travel Guide Here.

13. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Giant’s Causeway offers a beach experience like no other – with 40,000 interlocking basalt columns creating a natural mosaic along the coastline. Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the geometric stone formations look almost man-made. While not a sunbathing beach, it’s a dramatic and visually stunning place to explore, with a glimpse into geological history.

14. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast’s beaches are as glamorous as they are scenic. With dramatic cliffs plunging into the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, the coastline is dotted with hidden coves and colorful villages. Marina Grande in Positano is one of the most famous spots, with its pebbled shore and postcard-perfect views of pastel-hued buildings. The beach clubs, sun-soaked terraces, and seaside restaurants make the Amalfi Coast a luxurious coastal escape.

See my Summer in Italy Guide Here

15. Morro Bay, Central Coast, California

Situated along the central coast of California, Morro Bay is known for its stunning views of the Morro Rock, a towering volcanic formation that rises 576 feet above the bay, and just next to the stunning Montaña de Oro State Park. The area is also famous for its wildlife – sea otters, harbor seals, and rare bird species can are often be spotted in the bay. For a beach trip with a twist, park your RV along the rugged coastline of Morro Bay, with front-row views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Morro Rock, these RV parks offer a unique blend of beach access and camping adventure. 

16. North Shore, Oahu

Famous for its legendary waves and golden beaches, the North Shore of Oahu offers more than just a pretty coastline – it’s an experience. From November to February, it transforms into a mecca for surfers, with some of the world's toughest waves rolling in at spots like Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay. In the summer, the calmer waters are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and turtle spotting. The laid-back surf town vibe, combined with sprawling sandy beaches, makes this stretch of Hawaii’s coast unforgettable.

17. Gjipe Beach, Albania

Tucked away between towering cliffs, between the Mediterranean beach towns Dhermi and Himare, Gjipe Beach is one of Albania’s best-kept secrets. Accessible only by a scenic hike, this remote beach offers clear waters, stunning cliffs, golden sands, and a rugged, unspoiled atmosphere. Of all the beaches in Albania - a country with amazing beaches - this one was by far the most unique and our favorite.

See my full Albania Road Trip Itinerary Here

18. Red Sand Beach, Maui

Kaihalulu Beach in Maui is a striking and rare sight – its crimson-colored sands come from the surrounding lava rock, creating a stunning contrast against the blue ocean. The secluded cove is protected by jagged black lava rocks, making the waters calm and perfect for swimming. With its dramatic colors and remote location, this beach feels like a hidden, otherworldly escape.

19. The Blue Lagoon, Malta

The Blue Lagoon in Malta is an almost unreal shade of electric blue, with crystal-clear waters that rival any tropical paradise. Located between the islands of Comino and Gozo, the lagoon’s shallow, calm waters make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating in the sun. Arrive early to beat the crowds and experience this breathtaking natural wonder at its most serene.

See my Malta Travel Guide and Itinerary here.