The Best Colored Sand Beaches In The World

The Best Colored Sand Beaches in the World

Most beaches need palm trees and décor to spice them up – luckily for you, the sand on these beaches alone, is enough to make for incredible scenery.

*Related: The Most Amazing Beaches in Europe

From Iceland to Hawaii, California and the Bahamas, these beaches are located all over the world. The pink, orange, purple, black and white sand beaches will leave you mesmerized.

Papakolea Beach, Hawaii

Also known as Green Sand Beach, the colored sand was "created by a common silicate deposit of Big Island lava called olivine, which stays deposited on this beach because it is heavier than the other, lighter components of the lava," according to bigislandhikes.com. Hike along the shore, go swimming, surfing and fishing at this unique beach.

Harbour Island, Bahamas

Harbour Island is known for its beautiful pink sand beaches. It consists of over 3 miles of beautiful pink sand and its clear waters provide for great snorkeling, diving, fishing and boating opportunities.

Black Bay, Grenada

Black Bay beach is a black sand beach that is accessible by hike from the Concord main road. It is positioned in a secluded area in the parish of St. John in Grenada. A review on Trip Advisor says: "The beach was absolutely amazing! It was really quiet and peaceful when we went, perfect for relaxation!"

Red Sand Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Also known as Kaihalulu Beach, this red sand beach offers some of the most incredible scenery. It's a hidden cove with a rugged coastline and red lava cliffs. You have to hike to get there, but once you do, visitors say it's totally worth it. *See: 10 Adventurous Things to do in Maui, Hawaii

 

Pfeiffer Beach, California

This beach is home to some of the most incredible colored sand in the world – purple sand. Visitors say that the best time to see the sand is after it rains. The purple sand comes from manganese garnet in the hills. It is eroded and washed down the creek to the beach, according to Discover Central California.

Lovina Beach, Bali

This is one of the most spectacular black sand beaches in the world. Its colored sand is created from the cooled lava of Mt. Agung. Visitors describe this beach as very relaxing. It's low-key with calm waves. It is one of the most magnificent places in Bali to watch the sunrise and sunset.

Hyam’s Beach, Australia

Located in New South Wales, Australia is this incredible white sand beach. The sand is known for being soft, fine and tremendously white. Also enjoy diving, snorkeling and swimming in the beaches crystal clear waters. A review on TripAdvisor said: "Great little beach with white sand and clear water. perfect for a swim."

Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

This may just be one of the most famous beaches in all of Bermuda. Wondering why? It contains gorgeous pink sand that forms a horseshoe on the beach. The water is clear blue and the limestone rocks offer incredible scenery. Rent a beach chair and relax, or go snorkeling and view colorful fish.

Shelter Cove, California

Shelter Cove is a very popular tourist destination; it's a gray sand beach with approximately 3.5 miles of sand and offshore reefs, located in California. It's also small fishing community and is only accessible by boat or plane. *See: The Best Beaches in California

Ramla Bay, Malta

This wide and sandy beach is located in Gozo, Malta. It is famous for its orange color, which is said to be caused by the high levels of iron in the sand. While you are there admiring the unique sand, also visit the ancient Roman ruins in the Calypso Cave.

Vik, Iceland

There are tons of reasons why you should visit Iceland this year, possibly one of the most unique reasons is to explore Vik Beach. It is known as one of the most beautiful non-tropical beaches on earth and it is the island's most famous beach. The black sand is believed to have been formed due to the ashes of Iceland's volcanoes. Also view their incredible lava formations, high cliffs and caves.

Porto Ferro, Italy

Porto Ferro beach is located in Italy. It is covered by orange sand, volcanic deposits and a mixture of shells. Visitors flock there because of its crystal clear waters and colored sand. Make sure you venture up to the top of the sand dunes for an incredible view. A review on TripAdvisor said: "Not crowded, nice waves, cozy bar. Perfect for people that want to get away from the beaten track. You don't have to be a surfer for enjoying this beach."

Cebu, Philippines

The Cebu Islands are known for their spectacular white sand beaches. Visit Bantayan Island, Camotes Island, Malapascua Island and Mactan Island for powder-like white sands and crystal clear water. Enjoy diving, swimming and snorkeling. Also, make sure you check out the islands exciting bars and delicious restaurants.

Rainbow Beach, Australia

Located in Queensland, Australia is this famous tourist destination. Rainbow Beach gets its name from its rainbow colored sand dunes that overlook a gorgeous white sand beach. While you are there make sure you visit Great Sandy National Park for some outdoor adventures.

Porto Covo, Portugal

From zip lining, to cycling, whitewater rafting and cliff diving, there are tons of reasons why you should make Portugal your next adventure destination. This orange sand beach is a must-see. It is located along the western Alentejo coast of Portugal and is a popular destinations for suffers and body-boarders.