16 Underrated Beaches You Should Visit for Your Next Vacation
Looking for a beach getaway that offers more than just the usual tourist spots? There are plenty of beautiful, lesser-known beaches that will give you the ultimate escape. These spots are perfect for those who want to enjoy breathtaking views without the crowds. From tranquil shores to pristine waters, there is no shortage of hidden beach treasures. It is time to discover new and exciting destinations for your next beach vacation.
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Vieques, Puerto Rico
Vieques is a beautiful island located off the east coast of Puerto Rico, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. It requires a short flight or a ferry ride from the main island of Puerto Rico, taking around an hour of travel. The beaches here are perfect for relaxation, offering calm waters ideal for swimming and kayaking. There is also the famous Mosquito Bay, where you can experience bioluminescence at night, a unique natural phenomenon.
The island offers a peaceful and remote atmosphere, far from the crowded tourist spots. It is home to stunning beaches like Playa Caracas and Playa La Chiva, which are perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling. Many visitors rent a jeep to explore the island, as there are many hidden beaches and trails. The warm waters and clear skies make it a perfect destination for water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Dona Ana Beach – Lagos, Portugal
Dona Ana Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Lagos, Portugal, known for its dramatic cliffs and golden sands. It is a 40-minute drive from the city of Lagos, offering a tranquil escape. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs create a beautiful backdrop for a day at the beach. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities here, allowing you to explore the secluded coves along the coastline.
The beach is easily accessible from Lagos, and visitors can enjoy the views of rock formations that have been carved over centuries. It is a great place to relax and unwind, with plenty of space to spread out. The calm waters are ideal for families, and there are small caves and grottoes that can be explored by boat. For those looking for a bit of adventure, there are also boat tours available to explore the nearby coastline.
Cala Comte Beach – Ibiza, Spain
Cala Comte Beach in Ibiza, Spain, offers one of the best views of turquoise waters and spectacular sunsets. It is a 30-minute drive from Ibiza Town, making it an easily accessible destination for visitors. The water is calm, perfect for swimming, and the beach offers areas to rent kayaks and paddleboards. The beach also has some great spots for snorkeling, where you can see plenty of marine life close to the shore.
This beach is also famous for its vibrant sunset views, with many visitors staying until the evening to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Cala Comte is well known for its clear waters, making it a favorite for water sports and family outings. Visitors can enjoy beach bars that serve refreshing drinks, adding to the relaxing atmosphere. It is ideal for a laid-back day by the sea, offering beautiful scenery and peaceful vibes.
Zipolite Beach, Mexico
Zipolite Beach is located on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning sunsets. It takes about 7-8 hours to drive from Oaxaca City, but the trip is worth it for the tranquil beach experience. The beach is popular with surfers due to its strong waves, but there are also calm areas perfect for swimming. It is an excellent place for beach yoga and meditation, attracting those looking for relaxation.
Zipolite is one of the few clothing-optional beaches in Mexico, offering a unique and open atmosphere. In addition to surfing and swimming, visitors can take part in guided tours to nearby caves or go for boat rides. There are also many delicious seafood restaurants along the shore to try local cuisine. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach or explore the area, Zipolite has something for everyone.
Sunrise Beach – Koh Lipe, Thailand
Sunrise Beach on Koh Lipe in Thailand is a peaceful and beautiful spot known for its serene waters and sandy shores. It is located a short boat ride away from the main pier on the island and offers stunning views of the sunrise each morning. The beach is perfect for snorkeling, with clear waters full of colorful marine life. Kayaking is also a popular activity here, giving you the chance to explore nearby islands and beaches.
This beach is less crowded than other parts of the island, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Sunrise Beach offers a calm environment for swimming and sunbathing, and the nearby coral reefs are perfect for exploring on foot. Many visitors enjoy the peaceful walks along the beach in the early morning. It is a great place to unwind and take in the natural beauty of Koh Lipe.
Gili Air – Gili Islands, Lombok
Gili Air, part of the Gili Islands off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. The island is accessible by boat from Lombok, with a 30-minute journey from the mainland. Gili Air offers fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs just off the shore. You can also rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the entire island, which has a laid-back vibe.
The island is free of motor vehicles, making it an ideal place for peaceful exploration and relaxation. The beach is perfect for swimming, and the shallow waters allow for easy access to marine life. If you are looking for a mix of adventure and tranquility, Gili Air has it all, with options for diving, boat tours, and even yoga retreats. With stunning beaches and easy access to other nearby Gili islands, it is a great getaway for water lovers.
Trunk Bay, US Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay, located on St. John in the US Virgin Islands, is renowned for its pristine beauty and clear, turquoise waters. It is accessible by a short drive from Cruz Bay, taking only about 15 minutes to get there. The beach features an underwater snorkeling trail, where visitors can enjoy close-up views of coral reefs and tropical fish. The water is calm and shallow, making it perfect for swimming and relaxing.
This beach is often considered one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is well-maintained, with facilities such as restrooms and food stands nearby. Trunk Bay is a great spot for both relaxation and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails with scenic views of the coastline, perfect for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of the island.
Cala Mariolu, Sardinia, Italy
Cala Mariolu, located in the Gulf of Orosei in Sardinia, Italy, is a stunning beach known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. It is accessible by boat or a challenging hike, making it a more secluded and tranquil destination. The beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with rich marine life and clear waters that invite exploration. Visitors can also enjoy the smooth, white pebbles that cover the shore, adding to its unique charm.
Cala Mariolu offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape crowds and enjoy nature. It is surrounded by high cliffs and caves, making it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation. The nearby caves and coves are great for kayaking, and the waters are perfect for discovering hidden gems of marine life. This beach is ideal for nature lovers, offering a sense of serenity and adventure at the same time.
Meads Bay, Anguilla
Meads Bay, located on the west coast of Anguilla, is one of the most serene beaches in the Caribbean. It is easily accessible by car and only a short drive from the island’s main town, The Valley. The beach features calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for swimming and wading. It is also great for paddleboarding, and there are several boat tours available for those wanting to explore nearby islands.
This beach is famous for its white sand and clear turquoise waters, perfect for those looking for a relaxing day in the sun. Meads Bay is also home to some of the most luxurious resorts and beach clubs, offering excellent dining options and services. Visitors can enjoy walking along the shore or simply relaxing under the sun. Whether you are looking to unwind or explore, Meads Bay offers the perfect Caribbean getaway.
Entalula Beach, Philippines
Entalula Beach is a hidden gem located in the El Nido area of Palawan, Philippines. It is accessible by a short boat ride from El Nido Town, taking approximately 20 minutes to reach. The beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, creating a stunning backdrop for its powdery white sand and clear blue waters. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming, while the vibrant coral reefs are great for snorkeling.
This beach is known for its pristine beauty and tranquility, offering a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots in the area. There are also various island-hopping tours available, allowing visitors to explore nearby lagoons and beaches. Entalula Beach offers a relaxing atmosphere, with opportunities for kayaking and picnicking on the beach. It is a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural wonders of Palawan.
Voutoumi Beach, Greece
Voutoumi Beach, located on the island of Antipaxos in Greece, is a beautiful beach with clear waters and stunning scenery. It is accessible by a short boat ride from the nearby island of Paxos, taking around 15 minutes. The beach is perfect for swimming, with calm, shallow waters and a relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can also rent kayaks to explore nearby caves or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore.
This beach is known for its vibrant blue waters and pebble-covered shores, making it a popular destination for those seeking peace and natural beauty. There are no major developments on the island, allowing visitors to enjoy the untouched beauty of the beach. Voutoumi Beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, and its proximity to the island’s other hidden beaches makes it perfect for exploration.
Turquoise Bay, Australia
Turquoise Bay, located in the Ningaloo Reef area of Western Australia, is famous for its vibrant blue waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It is accessible by a short drive from Exmouth, taking around 40 minutes. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and visitors can snorkel directly from the beach to explore the nearby coral reefs. The bay is also a great spot for kayaking, with opportunities to see a wide variety of marine life.
The beach is surrounded by white sand and crystal-clear waters, providing a peaceful and beautiful setting for a day of relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the calm and shallow waters, which are ideal for families and beginner snorkelers. Turquoise Bay is less crowded than some other famous beaches in Australia, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. It is also part of the Ningaloo Marine Park, providing access to some of the most amazing underwater ecosystems.
Pink Beach, Indonesia
Pink Beach, located on Komodo Island in Indonesia, is known for its unique pink-hued sand and clear turquoise waters. It is accessible by boat from Labuan Bajo, taking about 30 minutes to get there. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and diving, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life. The pink color of the sand is caused by red coral mixing with the white sand, creating a stunning and rare sight.
The beach is surrounded by hills and crystal-clear waters, making it a picturesque location for photography and relaxation. Pink Beach is part of the Komodo National Park, known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the shore or dive into the rich underwater world of Komodo Island. It is a great place to explore nature and experience a unique beach environment.
Anse Georgette, Seychelles
Anse Georgette, located on Praslin Island in the Seychelles, is known for its pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is accessible by a short boat ride or a walk from the nearby resorts, taking approximately 20 minutes. The beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. It is also a great place for sunbathing and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding nature.
This beach is surrounded by lush greenery and granite boulders, creating a unique and picturesque setting. Anse Georgette is less crowded than other beaches in the Seychelles, making it an ideal place for those seeking a quiet getaway. The clear waters and fine sand make it perfect for a day of relaxation. Whether you are swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the scenery, Anse Georgette offers a peaceful escape in paradise.
Horse Shoe Island, Myanmar
Horse Shoe Island, located in the Mergui Archipelago of Myanmar, is a secluded paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and untouched beauty. It is accessible by boat from Kawthoung, taking around 2-3 hours. The island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, with vibrant coral reefs just off the shore. The island’s calm waters make it ideal for families and those looking to relax in a peaceful setting.
This island offers a unique getaway, with pristine beaches and no major tourist developments. Horse Shoe Island is ideal for nature lovers, offering a chance to explore the untouched environment and wildlife. Visitors can also take boat tours to nearby islands or enjoy quiet picnics on the beach. The island is perfect for a peaceful retreat, away from the crowds.
Every beach on this list offers something special, from crystal-clear waters to quiet stretches of sand. These hidden gems provide the perfect setting to relax, recharge, and explore. Traveling off the beaten path can lead to some of the most memorable experiences. Embrace the journey and let the sea guide your next adventure.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.