10 Amazing Beach Spots Around The World
Few things in life are better than stumbling across a beach you’ve never heard of – one that isn’t plastered all over Instagram or packed with sunburned tourists.
Whether you like your shores wild and rugged or your sands soft and swimmable, the world has a treasure chest of lesser-known beaches that are worth seeking out.
We’ve done the legwork for you and would like to reveal ten oases that promise a mix of magic, charm, and adventure. We’ll even serve up a few places to rest, relax, and wine and dine while you’re here. Ready to relax and unwind together?
Sandcut Beach | British Columbia, Canada
Tucked along Vancouver Island’s misty southwest coast, Sandcut Beach is pure Pacific Northwest magic. This pebbled shoreline is strewn with driftwood, the water is cold and crisp, and the real showstopper is the hidden waterfall that tumbles right onto the beach.
If you can, time your visit for sunset when the sky sparkles in shades of pink and the waterfall looks almost surreal. You can beachcomb for smooth stones, watch bald eagles ride the sea breeze, or just sprawl out with a thermos of hot tea and soak it all in.
One of the happiest places to stay is the Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages in nearby Port Renfrew. There, you’ll enjoy the cozy waterfront vibes before and after grabbing a hearty meal at The Renfrew Pub, known for serving up deliciously fresh seafood and local craft beer.
Alentejo Coast | Portugal
You probably know the Algarve. But, if you, instead, drive a few hours north, you’ll hit the Alentejo coast – a sleepy, sun-drenched stretch of sand where time slows down and the beaches are often empty. Praia da Amália is the crown jewel here, hidden behind a tangle of eucalyptus and fig trees.
This wild beach is named after Portuguese fado legend Amália Rodrigues, who once owned a nearby retreat. You can expect golden cliffs, turquoise waves, and hardly any other souls. Spend your day hiking the Rota Vicentina trails or exploring some of the nearby whitewashed villages like Zambujeira do Mar.
While here, you might like to stay at Herdade do Touril, a charming farmhouse with sea views, and then head to O Sacas if you’d like to try some fresh grilled octopus.
Ponta do Ouro | Mozambique
Right near the border with South Africa, Ponta do Ouro is a sun-bleached paradise with warm Indian Ocean tides, soft sands, and a laid-back atmosphere that will make it very hard to leave.
What makes this spot so special isn’t just the beach, but the dolphin encounters. You can swim with wild dolphins here through local operators who prioritize the animals’ welfare. After your morning with these friendly mammals, you can rent a quad bike and roam the sandy tracks that crisscross the surrounding area.
We highly recommend a stay at Gala-Gala Eco Resort. It’s neatly nestled into the coastal dune forest with the friendliest staff. One night, be sure to dine in delight at The Love Café, known for its wood-fired pizzas and delicious wines.
Cirali Beach | Turkey
Far from the glitzy resorts of Antalya, Cirali Beach is a quiet, pebbly stretch of sand backed by orange groves and ancient ruins. Sounds magical, right?
The water here is clear and calm, perfect for snorkeling, and you’re steps away from the ruins of Olympos – a crumbled Lycian city half-swallowed by the vines.
At night, you can hike up to the eternal flames of the Chimaera, where natural gas seeps out of the mountainside and has burned for thousands of years. Talk about otherworldly.
To keep the magic floating, you’d be more than happy with a few nights at Arcadia Hotel. It’s actually a set of rustic wooden bungalows shaded by citrus trees. Then, being right by the sea, you know you have to try some of the local seafood. For that, all you have to do is sample the locally caught fish at Yörük Restaurant – right on the beach.