These Beaches Boast the Bluest Waters on the Planet

Beaches offer many incredible features, from soft white sands to luxurious resorts and perfect, sunny weather for all-day relaxation. However, when it comes to sheer visual beauty, it's hard to surpass beaches with crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters. Often found in serene coves, these tranquil stretches of sand invite visitors to swim, snorkel, or engage with the vibrant marine life. With hues ranging from soft turquoise to deep cerulean, these breathtaking beaches are just as enchanting as they are soothing.

Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

• Location: La Digue | Google Maps
• Where to stay: La Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort & Spa

The relaxed island of La Digue is home to this stunning white-sand beach, where gentle waves meet towering palm trees and clusters of smooth granite boulders that resemble a family of elephants huddling together. Access to the beach is through L’Union Estate, a former French colonial plantation for coconuts and vanilla, and a nearby beach bar serves fresh tropical fruits, juices, and shakes. Bird watchers flock here to catch sight of Seychelles blue pigeons and the endemic paradise flycatcher, but the most enchanting way to explore the waters and the vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface is by taking a three-hour guided tour in a transparent kayak with Crystal Water Kayaks.

Navagio Beach, Greece

• Location: Zakynthos, Ionian Islands | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Lesante Cape Resort & Villas

Located in the less-explored Ionian islands off the western coast of Greece, Zakynthos features dramatic coves and sea caves, but none are as striking as Navagio (or Shipwreck) Beach. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, this beach is named after the wreck of the Panagiotis, which ran aground here in 1980. While the circumstances of the ship's last journey remain a mystery, legend has it that it was pursued by naval authorities for smuggling contraband cigarettes. Regardless of how the Panagiotis ended up here, its rusted remains create a stunning contrast against the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, making it a popular spot for photographs. The beach also gained fame as a filming location for the Korean drama Descendants of the Sun, attracting many Asian tourists. While guided boat tours offer access, the most breathtaking view of this scene is from the cliff-top observation platform.

Trunk Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands

• Location: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Lovango Resort & Beach Club

Sixty percent of the Caribbean island of St. John is encompassed by Virgin Islands National Park, established after philanthropist Laurance Rockefeller donated his land for its preservation. Among the most pristine beaches in the region is the untouched Trunk Bay, named after the local term for leatherback turtles. Visitors are charged $5 per person for the privilege of enjoying this simple crescent of white sand, flanked by lush palms and sea grapes. The aquamarine waters feature an underwater trail complete with interpretive signs that introduce snorkelers to the local marine life, including parrotfish, trunkfish, and brain coral.

Gardner Bay, Ecuador

• Location: Isla Española, Galápagos Islands | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Galápagos

Española is the southernmost island in the Galápagos archipelago, and its rugged, remote nature adds to its allure. There are no hotels on the island, so visitors typically stay on nearby San Cristóbal. Most day-trippers include a visit to Gardner Bay, a pristine beach with coral sand that is home to a colony of sea lions. These playful creatures often swim alongside snorkelers and swimmers, and the crystal-clear water allows you to observe their underwater antics. The endemic Hood mockingbirds on shore are equally curious; they are so fearless around people that they will sometimes land on visitors' heads or shoulders in search of a snack!

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

• Location: Whitsunday Island, Queensland | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Qualia

Located about 550 miles north of Brisbane, the Whitsundays are an archipelago of 74 islands favored by recreational sailors. The turquoise waters of Whitehaven Beach create a stunning contrast against the powdery white sand, which consists of over 98 percent silica—eroded quartz; its presence remains a geological mystery, as this mineral is not typically found in the region. The sand is exceptionally soft and cool underfoot, earning it the nickname “whispering sand” from the Ngaro people due to its characteristic squeak. While enjoying the beach, you might spot baby lemon sharks, blue soldier crabs, goannas, and white-bellied sea eagles. Although camping is allowed on the southern end of the beach, most visitors stay on the mainland in Airlie Beach or on nearby Hamilton Island, accessing Whitehaven for a day trip via seaplane, helicopter, jet boat, or even a privately chartered yacht.

Railay Beach, Thailand

• Location: Krabi Province, Thailand | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Rayavadee

While part of the Thai mainland, Railay Beach is often mistaken for an island due to the imposing karst limestone cliffs and thick mangrove forests that isolate it. Accessing this hidden gem requires a long-tail boat ride from Ao Nang, costing around $3 per person each way. Upon arrival, you might see rock climbers scaling the cliffs, but if you'd rather relax, the crystal-clear waters are inviting. Afterward, you can stroll into town for a seafood lunch, then visit Phra Nang Cave, which features a shrine adorned with wooden phalluses left for the goddess by local sailors amidst the stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Lanikai Beach, Hawai‘i

• Location: Kailua, O‘ahu | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Waimanalo Beach Cottages

Tucked away behind a residential area on O’ahu’s serene Windward Coast, this white-sand beach is far from private—Hawaiian law ensures all beaches are public. You can access Lanikai via a network of narrow paths. The name, coined by developer Charles Frazier in the 1920s, was meant to suggest 'heavenly sea,' but locals find his Hawaiian somewhat off. As you gaze over the sparkling green-blue waters, you’ll spot Nā Mokulua, or 'the Mokes,' a pair of islets perfect for exploration by kayak. Join a guided paddling tour with Kailua Beach Adventures to glide through the feeding grounds of sea turtles, over vibrant coral reefs, and past a seabird sanctuary home to wedge-tailed shearwaters.

Cala Macarelleta, Spain

• Location: Menorca, Balearic Islands | Google Maps
• Where to stay: Meliá Cala Galdana

Menorca, often considered the more relaxed sibling of Mallorca, is home to a coastline rich with tranquil coves, including the well-known Cala Macarella. This beach frequently graces travel brochures and postcards, but for those seeking an even more peaceful escape, a five-minute walk down the coast leads to Cala Macarelleta. The water dazzles in a Gatorade-like blue, so transparent that it sometimes appears as though yachts are floating on air. For a unique perspective of the stunning landscape, consider traversing the Camí de Cavalls (Path of Horses), a historic 116-mile trail used for walking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, originally connecting coastal watchtowers and fortifications, possibly dating back to the 1300s.