Dreaming of the perfect beach vacation? Discover the ultimate beach bucket list with these stunning coastal destinations worldwide from hidden gems to the best tropical oasis.
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One of the best feelings is relaxing on sandy soft beaches with the sound of crashing waves and the sun hitting your skin. This beach bucket list is filled with secluded island escapes, beautiful vibrant beach towns, water adventures, coastal villas, and so much more.
This beach bucket list will take you to some must-visit beaches, dream beach destinations, some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, famous beaches to visit, one-of-a-kind stunning coastal destinations, the best beaches for snorkeling, hidden gem beaches, and more.
From Caribbean paradises to exotic beach destinations in Europe, Asia, and more, this guide has it all. Including destinations like The Maldives, Bora Bora in French Polynesia, The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Maui in Hawaii, Bondi Beach in Australia, and many more.
This post is all about the ultimate beach bucket list.
Ultimate Beach Bucket List
Best Best Overall Beaches For Your Bucket List
Maldives – Ultimate Luxury Beach Escape
The Maldives are famous for luxury and relaxation. Also famous for its overwater bungalow villas that are surrounded by crystal-clear waters and amazing marine life. The Maldives is a luscious tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean and consists of 1000 little islands that are the perfect spot for relaxation and adventure.
Head to the most famous dive site Banana Reef to see some of the best coral formations, diverse marine life, and clear views of the ocean. Go to Sun Island to relax on the most beautiful beach in the area. Another very cool and unique island is Vaadhoo Island which is famous for its “Sea of Stars” phenomenon. This is where the beach glows with bioluminescent plankton and is a magical nighttime experience.
The Maldives are also popular for snorkeling and diving. You can see the coral reefs, many exotic fish, manta rays, and even whale sharks. Such a cool unique experience. You could also do a sunset dolphin cruise where you see the dolphins having fun in the open sea with a beautiful sunset background. Also, enjoy world-class cuisine and visit some famous beachfront bars with live music and fun cocktails.
For more on luxury coastal havens check out the blog post “THE ULTIMATE WEEKEND BREAKS LUXURY COASTAL HAVENS“.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia – Crystal Clear Blue Water
Escape to the ultimate beach bucket list paradise known as Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is known as one of the most famous islands in the world because of its spectacular crystal-clear waters, clean beaches, lush tropical landscape, and luxurious bungalows that lay over the water. There are many high-end accommodations to stay at in Bora Bora and they all offer divine world-class luxury and make for a memorable vacation.
Some activities you can do are snorkeling and diving. This is one of the best places to enjoy the vibrant marine life where you can see the coral reefs and the unique colorful fish. There are also private lagoon tours you can take where you can swim with the rays, and sharks, and visit the hidden coves and private beaches. It is truly an amazing experience. Another cool experience would be to do a sunset cruise in Bora Bora with a luxury yacht or a catamaran.
Whitehaven Beach, Australia – Whitest Sand In The World
Whitehaven Beach in Australia is famous for its breathtaking pure white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. This beach is also ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is an absolute must for any beach bucket list. There are many things to do at Whitehaven Beach including swimming in the crystal clear warm water. Snorkeling and enjoying the marine life from the coral reefs to the beautiful tropical fish. You could also take a scenic flight that gives you mesmerizing aerial views of Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inet Swirl. An absolute dream beach to visit.
Seychelles – Unique Remote Island Paradise
The Seychelles are an archipelago of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean. There are many luxurious resorts in the Seychelles where you can enjoy beautiful natural beaches, lush tropical landscapes, crystal-clear blue waters, unique marine life, and so much more. Seychelles is one of the best places to enjoy true relaxation, spend your time on the beach enjoying the serene beauty, sunbathing, swimming in the clear waters, and enjoying the spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
You could also do some diving excursions where you can snorkel or dive and see the beautiful coral reefs, vibrant colorful fish, turtles, and so much more marine life. This is a breathtaking experience you have to try. Seychelles has many little islands that you can also visit, each has its own charm and beautiful beaches.
Maui, Hawaii – The Ultimate Beach Lover’s Dream
Maui, Hawaii is a tropical paradise located on the Pacific Ocean and is part of the USA. This is also one of the top beach bucket list destinations. Maui is famous for its beautiful beaches, amazing lush landscapes, and unique culture. There are many diverse landscapes here, lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and stunning beaches.
Maui has the famous Hana Road and Haleakala National Park which is full of beaches and nature. Maui has whale-watching excursions during the season where you can get up close to the whales in their natural environment.
Beach Bucket List: Hidden Gem Beaches You Need To Visit
El Nido, Philippines – Secret Lagoons and Limestone Cliffs
An amazing hidden gem beach is El Nido in Palawan, Philippines. This tropical paradise has beautiful limestone cliffs, stunning turquoise lagoons, and beautiful sandy beaches. This area is also known as a world-class snorkeling and diving spot. El Nido is the perfect beach with untouched natural beauty. The best beaches and lagoons to visit in El Nido are Nacapan Beach with the most limestone cliffs. Seven Commandos Beach is best for swimming and relaxing on the sandy beach. Shimizu Island is great for snorkeling as it has vibrant coral reefs all over. The Big Lagoon and the Small Lagoon have clear emerald water and are great for kayaking.
Other fun things to do around El Nido include island hopping tours that take you to secret private beaches, small hidden beaches, and pristine islands. Snorkeling or scuba diving is popular here as there are many sea titles, vibrant corals, and colorful tropical fish all around. And hiking Taraw Cliff for the best views of El Nido.
Navagio Beach, Greece – The Most Iconic Shipwreck Beach Bucket List Destination
Navagio Beach is also known as Shipwreck Beach. This is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. It is located on the beautiful island of Zakynthos in Greece. This beach has amazing turquoise blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and the famous shipwreck of the MV Panagiotis which lies right on the white sand beach off the shore. There are many things to do at Navagio Beach including taking a boat tour, which is the only way to actually get to the beach. You could swim in the clear waters and get amazing photos. You could also explore the blue caves and do some snorkeling. There is also the Clifftop Lookout which offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Greece.
Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas – Beautiful Blush Pink Colored Sand
Another stunning unique hidden gem beach destination is Pink Sands Beach. Located on the Harbor Island in the Bahamas this beach is famous for its blush pink colored sand with crystal clear turquoise waters. The pink sand comes from small coral fragments and tiny shell particles. Pink Sands Beach is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches in the world and you can relax on the shoreline and sunbathe in the soft waves. A popular activity here on Pink Sands Beach is horseback riding along the shore, this is truly a unique and unforgettable experience. The harbor is also beautiful and is filled with light-colored buildings along the charming streets.
Anse Cocos Beach, Seychelles – Undiscovered Beach Bucket List Gem
Located on La Digue Island in Seychelles, Anse Cocos Beach is a secluded oasis that has powdery soft sand, stunning blue waters, and picturesque granite boulders. Anse Cocos Beach is not yet discovered by most tourists which is what makes it a spectacular hidden gem that is perfect for nature lovers. The beach is secluded and is a great place for the ultimate relaxation. There are many natural rock pools that are perfect for a quick dip in shallow water. There are lots of snorkeling spots with beautiful marine life all around. Also, enjoy a scenic hike from Grand Anse that goes through tropical forests.
Best Beaches For Adventure Seekers
Tulum, Mexico – Unique Ancient Ruins And Beautiful Caribbean Waters
A beautiful adventure beach for your beach bucket list is Tulum on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Tulum has beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise Caribbean waters, ancient Mayan Ruins, and more. Some of the best beaches in Tulum include Playa Paraiso, Las Palmas Beach, Akumal Beach, and the Secret Beach known as Sian K’an Biosphere which is inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the best adventurous things to do in Tulum Mexico are exploring the Tulum Ruins, these ruins are a Mayan archaeological site with stunning views of the Caribbean waters. Swim in a Cenote which are underground pools that have clear water and offer a unique swimming experience. Snorkel and scuba diving where you can see the second-largest reef system in the world, and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Enjoy a boat tour in Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. And lastly, visit Tulum’s world-class beach clubs for the ultimate party experience.
Bondi Beach, Australia – A Surfer’s Paradise
Just 15 minutes from Sydney Australia you will find Bondi Beach. Bondi Beach is known all over the world for its incredible surfing environment beautiful sand, and fun coastal culture. Bondi Beach is great for everyone since it has so much to do like surfing, swimming, or walking along the beach. The most popular thing to do here is swim at Bondi Icebergs Pool, one of the most Instagrammable ocean pools in the world which also has the best views. Surf at one of the best surf spots for both pros and beginners. Walk along the beautiful Bondi to Coogee Coastal Trail that takes you along rock pools, beautiful beaches, and stunning cliffs. Sunbathe take in the beautiful scenery and relax on Australia’s golden sand.
Jokulsarlon Diamond Beach, Island – Where Ice Meets The Ocean And The Ocean Meets The Sand
Another great adventure beach is Jokulsarlon Diamond Beach in Iceland. The unique beach is a black sand beach that is covered with pieces of glacier icebergs all over the shore. The glacier pieces shine like diamonds against the volcanic sand, truly mesmerizing. Walk along the Ice diamonds and take in the stunning views of the beach. Great spot for some spectacular and unique photos. There is also amazing wildlife all over including seals and seabirds.
Lanikai Beach, Hawaii – Stunning Sunrise Views That Must Be On Your Beach Bucket List
A great beach bucket list destination is Lanikai Beach located on the island of Ohau in Hawaii. This has also been ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with its beautiful soft white sand, crystal clear waters, and amazing views of the Mokulua Islands. The best things to do at Lanikai Beach include swimming in the calm clear waters, kayaking to the Mokulua Islands, snorkeling with the fish, hiking the Lanikai Pillbox trail, and more.
Durdle Door, England – Natural Beauty Surrounded By Dramatic Cliffs
Durdle Door Beach in England is famous for its limestone arch that is surrounded by a pebble beach with beautiful blue waters. Great area for anyone who loves to walk along and explore beaches, anyone who loves nature, and anyone looking to take spectacular photos. Admire the famous limestone arch which is also the most photographed natural landmark in England. Swim in the clear waters, walk along the Jurassic Coast Path, explore Lulworth Cove, and have more amazing adventures.
The Most Romantic Beach Bucket List Destinations
Santorini, Greece – Stunning Volcanic Beaches With Beautiful Sunset Views
Another popular beach bucket list destination is Santorini, Greece. Santorini is known for its one-of-a-kind white-washed buildings with blue domes. This stunning place is also a favorite destination for couples and people on their honeymoon or anyone looking for a relaxing vacation. Santorini is a beautiful picturesque little city with stunning views of the Aegean Sea and also has some of the most amazing sunsets.
For more dream travel destinations check out the blog post “10 OF THE BEST DREAM TRAVEL DESTINATIONS YOU MUST VISIT“.
Amalfi Coast, Italy – Dramatic Village Cliffs And Mediterranean Charm
A beautiful and popular romantic beach destination is the Amalfi Coast in Italy. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful and picturesque luxurious coastal destinations in the world. It has beautiful dramatic cliffs filled with colorful buildings, amazing crystal-clear waters, and unique little villages. The Amalfi Coast is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its history, stunning natural beauty, and elegance. A popular thing to do on the Amalfi Coast is enjoy a private boat tour that takes you to hidden coves where you can enjoy some swimming in the clear waters. Also seeing the Amalfi Coast from a boat is probably one of the most spectacular views you will ever see.
You could enjoy the beautiful charming villages and towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. These are all beautiful picturesque towns where you can enjoy some of the best food and boutique shopping. Also if you like adventure then you have to do a scenic hike known as the Path of the Gods. Here you will see beautiful panoramic views of the whole coast.
St. Barts – Celebrity Hideaway With Pristine Beaches And Crystal Clear Waters
St. Barts is a French Caribbean Island that is a famous getaway for many celebrities because of its pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, tropical charm, world-class dining, and a high-end experience for relaxation, adventure, and ultimate privacy. The best beaches in St. Barts are Gouverneur Beach which is a secluded beach paradise for the ultimate relaxation, Saline Beach which is ideal for sunbathing and calm waters for swimming, and Flamands Beach which has white sand beaches and clear water that is perfect for swimming. There are also many private luxury yacht tours to enjoy, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, world-class dining, amazing nightlife, and more to enjoy.
Best Beaches For Wildlife And Snorkeling
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – Stunning Beaches And Unique Wildlife
The Galapagos Islands are one of the most unique and biodiverse destinations in the world. They are located off the coast of Ecuador and are known for having amazing wildlife, beautiful beaches, and volcanic landscapes. Some of the most famous beaches in the Galapagos Islands are Gardner Bay known for its white sand beaches and blue waters, and Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island which is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sea turtle watching. More islands include Lobos Island, Chinese Hat, and Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island as well. Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving wildlife watching, hiking volcanic peaks, kayaking, paddleboarding, visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station, and more.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Snorkeling In A Natural World Wonder
A stunning natural wonder of the world the Great Barrier Reef is located off Australia’s Queensland Coast. The Great Barrier Reef has over 2500 reefs and 900 islands that stretch over 2300 kilometers along Queensland’s Coast. There is so much marine life, clear water, and beautiful coral gardens, making it one of the best places in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving. The reef offers a one-of-a-kind underwater experience that is an absolute must for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Take a ride on a glass-bottom boat to see the reef’s beauty by boat without getting in the water. Also, take a reef cruise that can be a luxury catamaran or a boat cruise to visit multiple reef locations where you can snorkel and relax.
Baa Atoll, Maldives – Swim With The Manta Rays
Another great beach to explore wildlife is Baa Atoll in the Maldives. Baa Atoll is the ultimate luxury beach paradise for your beach bucket list and is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This beautiful beach is known for its pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and amazing biodiversity. The Maldives are known for luxurious resorts, private beaches, and exclusive wildlife exploration. Snorkel at Hanifaru Bay which is a protected marine area famous for manta ray sightings. Dive with whale sharks. Island hop to other amazing lush landscapes. Kayak and paddleboard along the waters of Baa Atoll to enjoy the crystal clear waters where you can encounter dolphins and tropical fish.
Playa Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica – Beach Bucket List For A Jungle Paradise
Playa Manuel Antonio is located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and it is a stunning beach, that has lots of unique wildlife, lots of hiking trails, and many water activities. Spend some time hiking some of the best trails Costa Rica has to offer. Along many of these trails, you will encounter monkeys, sloths, and lots of tropical wildlife. Spend some time relaxing on the beautiful beaches and enjoying some water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding, and many more water activities.
For more on Costa Rica check out the blog post “THE ULTIMATE COSTA RICA TRAVEL ITINERARY FOR ADVENTURE AND RELAXATION“.
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil – Untouched Beauty And Beautiful Marine Life
Another marine wildlife-filled beach is Fernando de Noronha located off the northeast coast of Brazil. This stunning archipelago is wildly known for its untouched natural beauty, beautiful blue waters, and rich diverse marine life. Fernando de Noronha archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is full of unspoiled natural beaches, lush cliffs, and a collection of wildlife and marine life. This is a great area for snorkeling and diving with the clear waters, marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. Make sure to visit Atalaia Beach which has protected tide pools where you can find plenty of fish and octopuses. You could also take a boat tour around the islands to see secluded covers where you can see dolphins and whale sharks.
Need help packing for a beach vacation? Check out the post “THE ULTIMATE FAMILY BEACH VACATION PACKING LIST“.
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This post was all about the ultimate beach bucket list.
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