The Two Best Beach Destinations in the World
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.