The world's most famous beaches

29 September 2024

There are countless lists of the world's most beautiful beaches, which is why we have focused on coastlines that offer more than just parasols and deck chairs. We have selected beaches that have rich wildlife and human life. In other words, beaches for those who are a little restless and need impulses and entertainment.

Here's a list of beaches worldwide you really don't want to miss:

1. Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

"Everyone" has heard of Copacabana Beach, the beach with white sand and majestic Sugarloaf Mountain in the background. Copacabana beach is over four kilometres long and stretches out towards the Atlantic Ocean.

The beach is on our iconic list since it has appeared in countless films and series (An Idiot abroad, Moonraker, Fast Five), books, songs, and social media, in addition to having an awesome atmosphere. 

Discover this: A luxurious beachfront hotel where elegance meets the rhythm of Ipanema. Indulge in the ultimate escape with a world-class spa, offering serenity just steps from the golden sands.

This is a place where locals gather for football, samba, and Brazilian culture from morning to night, including on the seafront's many bars and restaurants. If you're feeling restless, you can even head from the beach up to the mountaintop!

2. Santa Monica Beach, California

The final destination on legendary Route 66 is one of the world's most famous beaches. Why is Santa Monica Beach cool? It's where nostalgia meets the modern Californian lifestyle – you can cycle along the promenade, which is several kilometres long, watch street performers and skaters, work out at legendary Muscle Beach, or simply lounge on the beach.

Stay at Fairmont Miramar Bungalows—a sanctuary of pure luxury on the golden shores, where the ocean breeze meets timeless elegance.

There is also an amusement park and a bunch of restaurants and market stalls. A visit here is a real must when you're in Los Angeles.  

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3. Renaissance Island, Aruba

This private island belongs to the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, but you can visit by boat. The island is home to Flamingo Beach, which you're bound to have seen in an Instagram post at some point.

As its name suggests, the beach is full of pink flamingos! It's an experience out of the ordinary, although it might give you pause that the animals are wing-clipped, a practice used to keep bird species in semi-free environments. 

Do not miss this: A luxurious beachfront resort where sophistication meets the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Just steps from the Renaissance Mall Aruba, this elegant retreat offers world-class spa experiences, inviting you to unwind and rejuvenate.

4. Isla Holbox, Mexico

This small island lies at the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, about two hours by car north of Cancún. It's a real beach paradise, with turquoise water and everything you need to find peace.

Nomade Holbox—an idyllic beachfront haven, where the tranquil rhythm of the ocean meets serene luxury. Just steps from Holbox Beach, this boutique hotel invites you to unwind by the outdoor pool, surrounded by the natural beauty of the island.

The island also has no cars, but you can cruise around on a moped or in a golf cart. The most exotic thing here is the wildlife, especially underwater, where you can swim with whale sharks: Isla Holbox – Mexico's unknown holiday paradise 

5. Sotavento Beach, Spain

Sotavento is located in Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, Spain. Although the islands have a reputation as a cheap package holiday destination, the label is unfair as you can find incredibly fine beaches and culture there.

Our focus is on the former, and we must then mention Sotavento Beach, which is actually a series of beaches spread across a several- kilometre long stretch of coast. Sotavento has it all: relaxation, abundant wildlife, and plenty of water sports. In fact, Sotavento Beach is one of the most popular windsurfing and kitesurfing destinations in the world.

Stay here: Iberostar Waves Playa Gaviotas – All-Inclusive, a 4-star beachfront resort where luxury and relaxation blend seamlessly. Located near the stunning Las Gaviotas Beach, this all-inclusive paradise offers a world-class spa, inviting you to unwind and recharge. 

6. Praia do Norte, Portugal

The city of Nazaré is located on Portugal's Atlantic coast. It gained prominence when American surfer Garrett McNamara rode a giant 30-meter wave there in 2013. The incredible feat took place in Praia do Norte, a beach famous for its big waves.

This is where the most experienced surfers go as well as or those who want to witness enormous forces of nature and see surfers from all over the world doing wild stunts.  

By the beach: Villamar Style Maison—a 4-star bed & breakfast offering an exclusive blend of elegance and comfort. Just moments from Nazaré Beach, this stylish retreat features a refreshing outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day by the sea.

7. Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

This legendary beach stands out because it ticks all the boxes on a long checklist:

1. Just a half-hour ride from Sydney.

2. Dine like a local hipster at one of the many restaurants on the main street, Campbell Parade, which is the entrance to the beach.

3. Take a surf course in the perfect waves. (Don't worry, the beach has a shark net.) 

4. Snap a selfie and brag that you've been to the beach, which is featured in the TV series Bondi Rescue.  

5. Lie down and just enjoy the sun and all the action going on around you: skaters, lifeguards, tourists, and people playing volleyball and dancing to music.

6. Take a swim in the iconic Bondi Icebergs Pool. This is the world-famous Olympic swimming pool located virtually in the sea which offers views of the Pacific Ocean and Bondi Beach. 

Stay here: QT Bondi—a luxurious 5-star hotel just a short stroll from the iconic Bondi Beach. Offering a vibrant blend of modern design and coastal charm, this stylish retreat is the perfect place to relax and experience the laid-back elegance of Sydney’s most famous beach. With its contemporary flair and impeccable service, QT Bondi promises an unforgettable stay, where the energy of Bondi meets the sophistication of luxury.