Best Beaches in the World for Sunbathing, Surfing

There’s no denying that compiling a list of the world’s top beaches is no small feat. Fortunately, at Traveler, our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey—voted on by an impressive 757,109 participants—helps us highlight some of the globe’s most remarkable beaches.

From family-friendly stretches to secluded romantic hideaways, from the perpetually sunny Caribbean to Turkey’s Aegean coastline, this list is diverse and inviting. And while each destination is exceptional on its own, there’s no reason you can’t spend one day soaking up the sun at Meads Bay in Anguilla and the next at Shoal Bay. Embrace the “why not both?” mentality by swimming, surfing, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on these top beaches, as chosen by our readers. If you prefer to stay closer to home, check out our guide to the best beaches in the United States according to the RCAs.

15. Bondi Beach, Australia

Just seven kilometers from Sydney’s center, Bondi Beach is easy to reach: take a train to Bondi Junction and transfer to bus 333 or 380, or catch a direct bus. Bondi boasts a sweeping, golden crescent of sand between two headlands, constantly buffeted by surf. What sets this Eastern Beaches gem apart is its urban vibe—swimming and surfing meet bustling city energy. Locals love it, tourists flock here, and it’s a staple on Instagram. Even on busy summer weekends, you’ll find a spot on the shore or nearby lawns. Jog barefoot along the sand or explore the street-art-lined promenade. Stylish boutiques cluster on Gould Street, and the Aquabumps Gallery nearby showcases striking surf photography. Fitness enthusiasts, partygoers, and sunbathers all find their slice of paradise here, while the scenic six-kilometer Bondi-to-Coogee Coastal Walk offers stunning views.

14. Seven Mile Beach, Jamaica

Located in Negril, Seven Mile Beach is Jamaica’s longest stretch of sand. There’s always space to claim your spot, with free entry and vibrant beach bars and clubs to enjoy. The northern end is under a two-hour drive from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, while reaching the dramatic cliffs of the southern stretch adds another 45 minutes. Stop at Sun Beach for a classic “toes in the sand, drink in hand” photo opportunity.

13. Playa Palomino, Colombia

Where the river meets the Caribbean Sea, Playa Palomino offers a stunning combination of tropical coastline and lush riverfront. Located in northern Colombia’s La Guajira department, it’s perfect for adventure—float down the river, or for adrenaline seekers, climb and rappel down nearby cliffs and waterfalls. Vibrant and energetic, this beach is ideal for those craving an active getaway.

12. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

Famed for its soft white sand and turquoise waters, Seven Mile Beach is Grand Cayman’s crown jewel. The quieter northern end offers a peaceful escape from the bustling central area, making it perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and serenity.

11. Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

Harbour Island’s famous pink sands attract crowds for their unusual color, swimmable waters, colonial-style cottages, and nearby restaurants. It’s a favorite for Instagram-worthy vacations and tropical relaxation alike.

10. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

With 12 miles of sand, Grace Bay feels incredibly secluded. Low-rise buildings and the absence of traffic lights contribute to its laid-back vibe. Recently, it has become a Caribbean hotspot, accessible via a straightforward three-and-a-half-hour flight from New York.

9. Eagle Beach, Aruba

Visitors consistently rank Eagle Beach among the world’s best. Its powdery white sands stretch seemingly forever, lined with boutique hotels, resorts, cafés, and watersport rentals—perfect for a full day of sun and fun.

8. Shoal Bay, Anguilla

Shoal Bay East’s clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand make it a Caribbean gem. A nearby strip of bars and casual eateries, including Olas Tacos Bar & Grill and Madeariman, ensures visitors linger longer for the full island experience.

7. Meads Bay, Anguilla

Stretching between Malliouhana and the Four Seasons, Meads Bay is Anguilla’s main beach. Along the shore are smaller hotels, restaurants, and bars. Dining highlights include Jacala, offering table-side steak tartare and calamari risotto, Beach Shack’s casual chipotle-lime tacos and mahi-mahi bowls, and the sister restaurant Blanchards, perfect for a sunset dinner of grilled lobster and seafood salads.

6. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Once a quiet fishing village, Playa del Carmen has grown into one of the Riviera Maya’s most sought-after destinations. Unlike Cancún’s high-rise hotel strip or Tulum’s nightlife-heavy beaches, Playa retains a sense of balance and charm. Cerulean Caribbean waters lap powdery white sands, and the pedestrian-only Quinta Avenida offers restaurants with outdoor terraces and boutique shops for a relaxed coastal experience.

5. Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico

On the Puerto Rican island of Culebra, Flamenco Beach is the hotspot for visitors while one-third of the island serves as a wildlife refuge. Mainland Puerto Ricans camp, party, and dance along the long white stretch. Try a rum cocktail and join the couples dancing the bomba, and you’ll see why it’s considered the territory’s best-kept secret. Popular watering holes include Mamacita’s, with its ever-whirring blender, and the quirky Dinghy Dock.

4. Playa de Los Muertos, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This beach exemplifies Puerto Vallarta’s relaxed seaside charm. The Malecon boardwalk makes strolling easy, and a footbridge over the Cuale River provides panoramic rainforest and mountain views. End the day watching the sunset from the pier—a perfect Mexican Pacific experience.

3. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton Parish is iconic with its pink sands. Public and accessible by bus, it hosts Bermuda’s biggest beach party, Beach Fest, during the Cup Match cricket weekend.

2. Iztuzu Beach, Muğla, Turkey

Protected since 1988 to safeguard nesting loggerhead turtles, Iztuzu Beach restricts sunbathing in certain zones and bans parasols at night. Visitors stay mainly in nearby Dalyan, with the Crescent Hasirci Hotel just eight minutes away by car, offering charming bed-and-breakfast accommodations.

1. White Beach, Boracay, Philippines

Boracay’s White Beach stretches 2.5 miles of soft, white sand. Besides breathtaking scenery, it’s renowned for its social, dining, and nightlife scene. The beach is divided into stations: Station 3 for budget travelers, Station 1 for luxury, Station 2 with the most shops and restaurants, and the exclusive upscale Station 0 at the northern tip. Visitors dance to live music, sip cocktails, and enjoy a lively beachfront atmosphere. For more options in the Philippines, check out our guides to the best beaches in the country and Southeast Asia.