The best beaches in the world

The best beaches in the world

Everything that makes a beach great depends on the traveler. Some love wide, open stretches of sand with plenty to do and crowds of people to watch, while others prefer deserted shores with calm waters. Taking this into account, as well as factors such as unique nature, beach quality and overall accessibility, we present you with a ranking of the best beaches in the world.

Fiji

With its 333 islands, glittering resorts, crystal clear waters and endless stretches of pristine sand, Fiji is the perfect destination for beach paradise seekers. Travelers who want to snorkel while on vacation should turn their attention to Taveuni's diverse coral reefs. Meanwhile, those longing for the tropical beaches featured in the movie Cast Away can catch a ferry from Port Denarau and head directly to the 20 islands that make up the Mamanuca Islands. Popular options include Kalito Island and Vomo Island.

The Maldives

The Maldives is unlike any destination you would visit. This tropical paradise features 22 ring-shaped atolls made up of approximately 1,200 islands, each beach more beautiful than the last. You'll probably stick to the island your resort is on, but you can expect pearly sands, towering palm trees, stunningly blue waters and surreal sunsets on all Maldives beaches.

Bora Bora

This French Polynesian island is small but mighty. Just 6 miles long and less than 3 miles wide, every inch of Bora Bora is filled with stunning beaches, verdant jungles and luxury overwater bungalow resorts. Matira Beach is perfect for sunbathing and walking along sandy shores, while the beach at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is where to head for views of Mount Otemanu and calm waters. Snorkeling and shark feeding tours are also available if you enjoy adventurous activities.

Tahiti

Tahiti should be high on your travel list if you like gorgeous beaches paired with gourmet French cuisine. The 118 islands that make up Tahiti are known for green jungles, lavish resorts and sandy beaches. The smaller part of Tahiti (known as Tahiti Iti) is more secluded than the larger Tahiti Nui, but both are worth seeing. Tahiti Iti's famous La Plage de Maui is popular for a reason: sparkling sand and crystal clear water, but popularity comes with crowds. Check out Papenoo Beach on Tahiti Nui for great surf conditions and more tranquility.

Maui

If you want to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Hawaii without the crowds of Oahu, travel to Maui. The island boasts impressive beaches, both large and small, suitable for adults and families, as well as the black sand shores of Waianapanapa State Park. South Maui is especially popular with families, as it's home to Wailea Beach, which is known for its mostly calm water, lively resorts, and highly rated restaurants. Meanwhile, the North Shore attracts active travelers looking to take advantage of the superb windsurfing conditions at Hookipa Beach Park and Kanaha Beach Park.

Virgin Islands

A trip to the US Virgin Islands appeals to all types of tourists, as St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix cater to different categories of beachgoers. Beachgoers looking to escape the crowds should head straight to St. John, where the quieter sands of Honeymoon and Solomon Beaches appeal to couples seeking peace. Saint Thomas's magnetic Magens Bay is perfect for fantastic photos, and Saint Croix's Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for tourists who want to share the sand and surf with sea turtles.

The Bahamas

With countless beaches, from which you can With 700 islands to choose from, it's easy to find your perfect Bahamas location. From massive resorts like Atlantis and Paradise Island, to private islands, the variety of beaches here is huge. Harbor Island's Pink Sand Beach will enchant you with its pink hue, while The Exumas will delight you with its wild swimming fish. If you're looking for underwater caves, scuba diving tours and a stretch of sand featured in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, then head to Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island.

Kauai

Adventurous travelers flock here in droves for the many amazing excursions the island has to offer. However, Kauai's beaches should not be overlooked. Take a trip to Polihale State Park to reach secluded shorelines that overlook the island's plunging cliffs on the Napali coast. Or relax on an easily accessible stretch of sand like Poipu Beach Park. Just be aware that swimming here can be challenging because of the rough waters, so pay attention to the lifeguards and posted signs.

Bali

The beaches of Bali are the most magnificent attribute of this island in Indonesia. The crystal clear waters, white sands and legendary sunsets here are wonderful. What's more, direct beach access is common in the numerous five-star resorts located throughout the island. If your chosen property doesn't offer its own stretch of sand, head to Kuta Beach for surfing and partying, or Sanur Beach for a laid-back vibe and calm, kid-friendly waters.