The Absolute Best Secret Beaches On Earth

The Absolute Best Secret Beaches on Earth

When you think of your ultimate beach paradise what comes to mind? Maybe it's the warm white sand beneath your feet, the sound of ocean waves crashing around you or the opportunity to participate in watersports. Whatever it may be, it most likely doesn't include noisy people and crowds of tourists. A relaxing day at the beach should be serene, peaceful and soothing. You should be able to leave your stresses behind, simply lay out and soak up the sun, and enjoy complete solitude on a beautiful beach.

Crane Beach, Barbados

Crane Beach was originally a harbor, and there was a crane at the top of the cliff that was used for loading and unloading ships, hence the name. The towering cliffs on each end, and the coral reef in the ocean, make for spectacular views. The warm and lively waves make Crane Beach one of the best spots for boogie boarding.

Shoal Bay, Anguilla

This is Anguilla's most famous hidden beach and has ranked at the top of most beautiful coasts in the world thanks to its pinkish white sand and intense turquoise water. The beach is just two miles long with plenty of bars, restaurants and hotels in the vicinity. Visitors love to sit and relax, and more active people prefer it for snorkeling, kayaking, diving, and open-water swimming.

Rocktail Bay, South Africa

Rocktail Bay is only accessible by plane. Travelers can enjoy the beautiful coral landscapes and some of the most incredible diving in the world. Tip: Stay in a secluded wooden treehouse for the ultimate privacy and extraordinary views.

Salema, Portugal

This very small town, home to a half-mile long isolated beach with crystal clear water and golden sand, will meet all of your expectations. It meets high standards for water quality, safety and environmental education. Visitors enjoy fishing, windsurfing, and swimming.

See: 12 Reasons Why Portugal Should be Your Next Adventure Destination

Shelter Cove, California

Shelter Cove is one of the most spectacular black sand beaches in the world. It is a secluded beach featuring approximately 3.5 miles of black sand and offshore reefs that is only accessible by boat or plane. It is also comprised of a small fishing community designed for a peaceful getaway.

See: The Best Beaches in California

Koh Lanta, Thailand

This off the beaten path destination is a luxurious getaway. Capture views of mile long beaches, tour beautiful lakes, take advantage of their incredible dive spots and climb the famous Volcano Atitlan.

Monkey Beach, Tioman Island, Malaysia

Monkey Beach is not accessible by road. You can take a boat from the National Park at Teluk or walk along the coastline of the park. Although it is a secluded beach, be prepared for the monkeys! Buy a coconut, go for a swim or catch stunning views from the lighthouse.

Pangalo Island, Philippines

You have to fly for about an hour from Manila to Bohol Island, and then take a half an hour ride that will take you along a century-old road to get to the out-of-the-way Central Visayas island. The most famous beach on the secluded isle is Alona Beach, but it doesn't get really get crowded – it's more than half a mile long.

Polihale Beach, Kauai

When most people think about Kauai's beaches they think of Po'ipu Beach or Hanalei Bay. Polihale Beach is a secret gem; it is a long stretch of beach that sits on the edge of the Mana Plains. People visit for its incredible sand dunes, gorgeous ocean, and breathtaking views.

See: The  Most Spectacular Beaches in Hawaii

Tulum Beach, Tulum, Mexico

Tulum Beach, which still remains a secret to some people, sits in the shadow of the famous Tulum Mayan ruins. Its gorgeous palm trees, pristine white sand and clear turquoise water creates the paradise beach vacation that everyone dreams of. While you're in Tulum take a wildlife tour at the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and go diving in an underground cavern – El Gran Cenote.

Navio Beach, Puerto Rico

Getting to Navio Beach will be rough; your car may encounter some potholes and trees but the result is absolutely worth it. You will arrive at one of the most stunning secluded beaches in the world. Enjoy the fine sand, crystal waters and large waves.

Smuggler’s Cove, Greece

Smuggler's Cove, also known as Navagio Beach, is located on the Greek Islands and is only accessible by boat. Try taking a boat cruise or a speedboat to Smuggler's Cove. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, the limestone cliffs, the crystal blue water and white sand. Tip: Try BASE jumping for fun!

Cayos Cochinos, Honduras

Located on the northern shores of Honduras, Cayos Cochinos is one of the most secluded beaches in the world. There are no roads, only few resorts such as the Turtle Bay Eco Resort. Go diving, snorkeling, and kayaking without the enormous amount of tourists.

Playa Carrillo, Costa Rica

Located south of Playa Samara is Playa Carrillo, a small, beautiful and less crowded beach. Here visitors enjoy indulging in much needed rest and relaxation. The light sand is warm, the palm trees are breathtaking, and the calm waves make for great swimming.

Sand Beach, Bar Harbor, Maine

This beautiful little beach, nestled between rocky shores and mountains, is located in Acadia National Park. The beach is "comprised of unique sand of shell fragments that were created by thousands of years of pounding surf," barharbormagic.com says. Sand Beach is a popular spot in the summer despite chilly water temperatures. One of the best ways to see the coastline is from the water. Consider kayaking Acadia for the most stunning views.