There is no place where I feel more at peace, more fulfilled, and more connected to nature than the beach—especially on an island. There’s something about the rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the soft sand underfoot that makes everything else fade away. Whether it’s swimming in the open ocean, lounging on the shore, or simply soaking in the beauty of my surroundings, beach days are my ultimate escape.
Wherever I go, I’m always searching for the perfect beach—a place to relax, recharge, and embrace the simple joys of island life. But not all beaches offer that same sense of tranquility. Some are breathtaking, with crystal-clear water and untouched white sand, while others are overcrowded, littered, or lack the peaceful energy that makes a beach truly special. Over the years, as I’ve traveled to over 30 countries, explored 20 U.S. states, and visited countless islands, I’ve discovered two destinations that stand above the rest when it comes to world-class beaches.
These places don’t just have one or two beautiful beaches—they are overflowing with them. They set the global standard for pristine coastlines, where vibrant turquoise waters, powdery sand, and island charm define the entire experience. These destinations are a paradise for beach lovers, surfers, snorkelers, and anyone who dreams of spending endless days under the sun. If you love the ocean as much as I do, keep reading to discover the two best places in the world to find the most stunning and relaxing beaches.
The Philippines: A Tropical Wonderland with Endless Shores
The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, is a dream destination for beach lovers. With thousands of islands to explore, the variety and sheer number of beautiful beaches here are unmatched. Some are more secluded than others, but they all share the same stunning features—crystal-clear blue water, soft white sand, and a laid-back island atmosphere that makes you want to stay forever.
Whether you’re looking for hidden coves, dramatic limestone cliffs, or expansive coastlines lined with palm trees, the Philippines has it all. From the world-famous beaches of Palawan to the untouched shores of siquijor, every beach here feels like a slice of paradise. The Philippines isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience, where every swim in the ocean and every sunset on the shore feels like a dream.
Hawaii: Where Nature and Ocean Collide in Perfection
The Hawaiian Islands, made up of seven main islands and dozens of smaller ones, are home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. With their iconic mix of white sand, crystal-clear water, and perfect surf conditions, Hawaii’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. But what truly sets them apart is their energy—a feeling of magic and serenity that I’ve never found anywhere else.
In Hawaii, the mountains meet the ocean in the most spectacular way. Lush green cliffs tower over stunning beaches, while powerful waves crash along the shores of the North Shore. Whether you’re watching the sunrise from Lanikai Beach, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Hanauma Bay, or catching waves on Oahu’s famous surf breaks up north, the beaches here are pure magic. Having lived in Hawaii for over three years, I’ve explored many of its most incredible beaches—and my all-time favorite beach in the world is right here. Stay tuned to find out which one!
What Makes These Beaches So Incredible?
What sets the beaches of Hawaii and the Philippines apart from the rest of the world is their sheer diversity, pristine beauty, and sheer abundance. While many destinations may have one or two stunning beaches, these two island paradises offer an endless selection of breathtaking shorelines, each with its own unique character and appeal. Whether you’re looking for a secluded, untouched escape or a lively beach town with plenty of activities, both Hawaii and the Philippines have something to offer every kind of traveler.
From the white-sand beaches of Palawan to the surf breaks of Siargao, and from the turquoise waters of Kailua Beach to the dramatic cliffs of Maui’s coastline, these destinations deliver everything you could ever want from a beach getaway. Whether it’s catching waves at Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline, or floating in the tranquil, crystal-clear waters of Siquijor or Lanikai Beach, you’ll never run out of incredible places to explore.
Let’s dive into some of my favorite beaches in each destination, starting with the Philippines.
Exploring the Philippines’ Stunning Beaches
The Philippines is home to over 7,000 islands, which means there are thousands of beaches waiting to be discovered. Even with a month of travel, I barely scratched the surface. However, the beaches I did explore left me in absolute awe—each offering its own unique charm, from lively beach towns to remote, untouched paradises.
Palawan: The Crown Jewel of Philippine Beaches
Palawan is often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and for good reason. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden lagoons, it’s a dream destination for any beach lover. What’s great about Palawan is that it’s not just one beach—it’s an entire region filled with diverse coastal experiences.
Port Barton: A Tranquil Beach Escape
Port Barton, a quiet coastal town about two hours south of El Nido, offers a laid-back alternative to the more touristy spots. Its main beach is a long, peaceful stretch of white sand lined with swaying palms, perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
For those looking for even more solitude, two nearby beaches are absolute must-visits:
- Coconut Beach – A quiet retreat lined with hundreds of coconut trees, often visited by friendly wild pigs.
- White Beach – True to its name, this beach boasts powdery white sand, clear waters, and a serene, untouched vibe, making it an idyllic spot for unwinding.
El Nido: A Beach Lover’s paradise
El Nido is famous for its stunning scenery and incredible island-hopping opportunities. While it has become a well-known tourist hotspot, its beaches still offer something for everyone.
- El Nido Beach – The heart of the town, this beach is lined with beachfront cafés and serves as the main launching point for island-hopping tours. It’s lively, scenic, and perfect for people-watching.
- Caalan Beach – Just a short walk from the main strip, this quieter beach offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and mountains. It’s a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful sunset.
- Nacpan Beach & Duli Beach – Located further from town, these long, golden-sand beaches are perfect for those looking for space to spread out. Nacpan is calm and great for swimming, while Duli Beach is ideal for surfing.
- Las Cabanas Beach – A fantastic spot for sunset, swimming, and even zip-lining between islands for a unique panoramic view of the coastline.
The Untouched Islands Between El Nido and Coron
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in the Philippines was taking an island-hopping expedition from El Nido to Coron. The islands in this region are truly untouched, with some of the bluest, clearest waters I’ve ever seen. During the multi-day journey, I swam in stunning lagoons, snorkeled above vibrant coral reefs, and relaxed on secluded white-sand beaches with no one else in sight. The marine life here is incredible, making it a dream destination for snorkelers and nature lovers alike.
Siquijor: A Hidden Gem of Tranquility
Siquijor, located south of Cebu and Bohol, is a quieter, more natural island known for its mystical charm and breathtaking beaches. While it’s not as famous as Palawan or Boracay, it’s easily one of my favorite places in the Philippines.
- Paliton Beach – A picture-perfect stretch of soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear water. It’s an amazing spot to relax, swim, and catch some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the Philippines.
- Candanay Sur Beach – A local favorite, this peaceful beach offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
- Tubod Beach – This stunning beach is part of a marine sanctuary, making it the best snorkeling spot on the island. The crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making every swim an unforgettable experience.
Philippines Final Thoughts
The Philippines is a true paradise for beach lovers, offering an endless variety of stunning coastlines to explore. With so many islands and beaches to discover, it’s impossible to see them all in one trip—but that’s what makes this country so magical. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the Philippines is the perfect place to experience island life at its finest.
Hawai’i’s Beaches: A Tropical Paradise for Every Traveler
Hawai’i is a magical archipelago, full of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Each island has its own unique charm—whether it’s the vibrant energy of O’ahu, the lush mountains of Kaua’i, the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, or the dramatic coastlines of Maui. With everything from powdery white sand to striking black and red sand beaches, massive surf breaks to tranquil turquoise waters, Hawai’i offers something for every beach lover.
O’ahu: The Heart of Hawai’i’s Beach Culture
As the most visited island in Hawai’i, O’ahu is home to the bustling city of Honolulu, world-famous surf breaks, and a mix of lively and secluded beaches. Whether you’re looking to catch a wave, soak up the sun, or explore pristine coastlines, O’ahu has it all.
Waikīkī Beach – This legendary beach is at the heart of Honolulu, nestled against the iconic Diamond Head crater. A paradise for beginner surfers, it boasts gentle rolling waves and a vibrant atmosphere. Lined with high-end resorts, shopping centers, and beachfront restaurants, Waikīkī is the perfect place for those who love convenience with a tropical backdrop.
Diamond Head Beach – Just beyond Waikīkī, this lesser-known surf spot offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu’s skyline in the distance.
Windward Coast Beaches – On the island’s eastern side, you’ll find some of the most scenic and serene beaches:
- Lanikai Beach – Known for its powdery white sand and calm, crystal-clear waters, Lanikai is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s the perfect spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just floating in the gentle waves while admiring the two Mokulua Islands offshore.
- Kailua Beach – Just next to Lanikai, this long stretch of soft sand offers plenty of space to relax, as well as opportunities for kayaking and windsurfing.
- Waimānalo Beach – A local favorite, this pristine beach is backed by towering trees and calm waters, making it an ideal place for a peaceful day away from the crowds.
Sandy Beach – Located on the southeastern shore, Sandy’s is famous for its powerful shore break, making it a prime spot for experienced body surfers and boogie boarders. However, the strong waves can be dangerous for casual swimmers.
The North Shore: A Surfer’s Paradise
O’ahu’s North Shore is world-renowned for its massive winter swells, drawing professional surfers from all over the globe. However, in the summer, the waves calm down, revealing tranquil swimming and snorkeling spots.
- Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline) – One of the most famous surf breaks in the world, Pipeline hosts major surfing competitions every winter. Watching the pros tackle the massive waves is an experience in itself.
- Sunset Beach – Known for its long stretch of golden sand and incredible sunsets, this beach is perfect for both watching surf competitions in the winter and enjoying a leisurely swim in the summer.
- Waimea Bay – Another iconic surf spot with towering winter waves. When the ocean is calm, the bay turns into a paradise for swimming and cliff jumping.
For a more detailed breakdown, check out my article on O’ahu’s Best Beaches!
Kaua’i: The Garden Isle’s Hidden Gems
Kaua’i is the most rugged and untouched of the major Hawaiian Islands, home to lush cliffs, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. If you’re searching for raw, unspoiled beauty, this is the place to be.
Kalalau Beach – Only accessible by hiking the famous Kalalau Trail or via boat/helicopter, this remote beach on the Nā Pali Coast is pure magic. Towering green cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and sea caves create an otherworldly backdrop. The golden sand and blue waters make this one of the most breathtaking beaches on Earth. If you’re up for the challenging trek, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After visiting over 30 countries and thousands of beaches, I’ve yet to find a beach that is as beautiful and magical as this one.
Hanalei Bay – This bay in northern Kaua’i is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and even beginner-friendly surfing. The lush mountains surrounding Hanalei provide a stunning setting, and the nearby town offers a laid-back island vibe perfect for families!
Tunnels Beach – Famous for its towering mountain backdrop and vibrant underwater world, Tunnels is a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving. The outer reef provides excellent surfing waves, while the inner reef offers calmer waters for exploring marine life.
Poʻipū Beach – A family-friendly beach on the sunny south shore, Poʻipū is great for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles. It’s located nearby to many resorts and restaurants making it super convenient!
Anahola Beach – A lesser-known local beach with beautiful views, calm waters, and a more secluded atmosphere compared to Kaua’i’s busier spots.
Maui: Diverse Coastlines and Pristine Waters
Maui offers an incredible variety of beaches, from golden sand shores to red and black sand coves, making it an island full of surprises.
Kaʻanapali Beach – One of Maui’s most famous beaches, Kaʻanapali is home to luxurious resorts, great snorkeling near Black Rock, and some of the most stunning sunsets on the island.
Makena Beach (Big Beach) – A vast, open beach with golden sand and crystal-clear water, Makena is perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Kaihalulu Beach (Red Sand Beach) – A rare red sand beach near Hāna, tucked away in a quiet cove. The sands unique color comes from the iron-rich volcanic rock surrounding it, making it a special place to explore.
Waiʻānapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach) – Located along the famous Road to Hāna, this striking black sand beach is surrounded by lava cliffs, sea caves, and lush greenery. It’s a must visit in Maui!
The Big Island: Volcanic Wonders and Black Sand Beaches
The Big Island is the youngest and most geologically active of Hawai’i’s islands, meaning its beaches are unlike any other.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach – One of the most famous black sand beaches in the world, Punaluʻu is a must-visit for its jet-black shoreline, swaying palm trees, and frequent Hawaiian green sea turtle sightings.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach – One of only four green sand beaches in the world, this unique spot has a super social atmosphere and natural beauty that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.
Hāpuna Beach – One of the Big Island’s largest white sand beaches, Hāpuna is great for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the sand and enjoying the island life.
Hawaii Final Thoughts
Hawai’i’s beaches are as diverse as the islands are. Whether you’re seeking world-class surf, secret spots, black sand beaches, or clear blue waters, there’s a beach here for you. Each island offers something special and magical, making Hawai’i one of the most incredible destinations for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
For more destination inspiration, check out our full collection of travel guides to help plan your next unforgettable getaway.