The World's Most Beautiful Beaches

There's something about the beach that appeals to people of just about every age.  The soft feel of sand under the feet, the warmth of the breeze coming off the water, and the general sense of being at peace can do wonders for anyone that wants to relax for awhile.  Beautiful beaches are found all over the world, but a few of them stand out from the rest.

Porto da Barra

While many people are aware of the beautiful beaches in Brazil, not everyone is aware of what Porto da Barra, located near Salvador, has to offer.  Serving as the entryway to the Bahia de Todos os Santos, Porto da Barra is a thriving area that offers something to amuse and delight people of all ages and backgrounds.  Along with chances to soak up the sun, you can also enjoy volleyball, walks along the calm waters of the bay, and a magnificent view of the surrounding hills.  Since the beach is situated facing west, there is also the chance to take in breathtaking sunsets while you relax.

Getting to Salvador is not difficult at all.  It is possible to fly into Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport, sometimes on direct flights from cities located in Europe, the United States, and other countries in South America.  Flights from the other major cities in the country, such as Rio and Brasilia, also run daily. 

It is also possible to enjoy a cruise to Salvador, as the city is listed as stop on a number of South American pleasure cruises.  Check with a travel agent to determine if a cruise to the city would fit in with your travel plans. 

Las Islas Cies

For those who want stunningly white sand and clear water that glimmers like turquoise in the noonday sun, Las Islas Cies is the way to go.  Located along the coastline of Galicia in Spain, the area is now a national park that is open to the public during the summer months.  Unlike many of the other famous beaches around the world, Las Islas Cies does not command a huge tourist influx during the summer.  This means that a trip to the area will allow you to not feel cramped as you spend the day enjoying the balmy weather and the ample sunlight.  

One thing to keep in mind is that the water is cold – very cold.  Those who are not used to extremely cold water will want to be careful about taking a sudden dip; it is not for the faint of heart.  Still, it is possible to enjoy the outside by setting up a simple campsite in the nearby pine trees, and enjoying a view of the ocean first thing in the morning.

Reaching Las Islas Cies by air is easy.  Three airports serve Galicia, including Lavacolla in Santiago, Alvedro in La Coruna, and Peinador in Vigo.  Many of the flights are routed through Madrid, but some are direct flights into Santiago or Vigo.

Palawan

Not many people think of going to the Philippines for a beach excursion, a fact that has helped keep the beaches on the islands of Palawan among the most unspoiled and beautiful to be found anywhere on the planet.   Composed of several islands, the area is home to Honda Bay, which is noted for the beauty of its limestone formations and sand that is as white as the purest sugar.  Enjoy the combination of unspoiled rainforests, interesting coves, and gorgeous views in every direction, while also spending time soaking up the sun as long as you like.

The bay includes such notable areas to relax as Cannon Island, Starfish Island, and Bat Island, each with their own set of charms to offer.  You can either spend your time on some of the more populated islands, or do some exploring and find a deserted stretch of beach that you can call your own for the day. 

The easiest way to reach the islands that make up Palawan is to either fly or take a ferry.  The best bet is to fly into Manila and then connect to any of the several airports that are found in the area.  Philippine Airlines makes flights into Puerto Princesa, while other airlines offer flights to and from Coron, El Nido, and Busuanga several times a week.

Whitsunday Islands

As anyone who has been there will tell you, Australia has some of the most beautiful spots on the planet.  Among them are the Whitsunday Islands, home to Whitehaven Beach.  Considered one of the crown jewels among the many gorgeous beaches found in Australia, Whitehaven offers some of the finest and whitest sand to be found anywhere in the world.  The surrounding waters are clear and pristine, with a hue of azure that is impossible to describe; the only way to truly appreciate the water is to see it for yourself.  Nearby tropical forests provide a breathtaking backdrop for spending the day in the sun, as well as offering comfort and shade when you feel the need.

While the beauty is unmistakable, Whitehaven is not for everyone.  For a good part of the year, swimming in the water requires wearing a stinger suit for safety purposes.  Those who wish to have the amenities of a large hotel and resort nearby will be disappointed; the only way to stay near the beach is to camp.  In addition, it takes some effort to get to Whitehaven, which may turn off some travellers.

Reaching the Whitsunday Islands is best accomplished by flying in.  One option is the Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on Hamilton Island.  Whitsunday Coast Airport, located at Proserpine, is another relatively convenient way to reach the area.  Getting to Whitehaven will require ground transport, but is well worth the effort.

Before making travel arrangements that include any of these beaches, check into local festivals and holiday activities that take place throughout the year.  This will help you find the peace and quiet you desire, or be in a position to participate in large celebrations, if that is your preference.   With all these options, try to arrange your travel plans to spend at least a few days in the area; the time you spend there will allow you to enjoy nature in ways that are hard to manage anywhere else in the world.