Sun, sand and cocktails. Most would argue these are the vital things needed for a truly relaxing, indulgent, luxurious holiday
All beaches are beautiful, fact. But some are superior to others, the movie-style beaches that look like they have been built on a film set or in CGI are hard to find and seem out of reach for the average holidaymaker. However, the world’s most beautiful beaches aren’t out of your reach – we polled British travellers to find out their perfect beach and the results are in! The five most beautiful beaches as voted for by Brits are accessible to everyone and don’t require Hollywood glamour to enter.
1. Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii
This two-mile stretch of sand is something bored office workers have daydreamed about for the last 50 years. Whether you’re into surfing, snorkelling, swimming or just catching a tan, it’s all available to you along the Waikiki Beach or just behind on the bustling promenade filled with shops, restaurants and bars all catered to the holiday goer. Waikiki and Hawaii can get very busy so the best months to visit for a more spacious beach are April, May, September and October.
KAYAK Tip: Duke’s Waikiki is legendary along the stretch for serving delectable surf ‘n’ turf, tiki delights and, of course, themed cocktails – a must see.
2. Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Bondi Beach has become synonymous with Sydney beach culture and the laid-back attitude, counterculture nature of the city that surrounds this small bay. Visitors have flocked to Bondi to greet its glistening waves, pristine waves and reliable surfing status but be warned, rip tides are rife on the southern side of the beach but flags mark the areas that are unsafe. The best way to reach Bondi is to take the scenic route, walk the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk for spectacular views, make sure you stop to take a dip in the Bondi Icebergs pool.
KAYAK Tip: For an affordable seaside meal skip the expensive and packed restaurants situated on the beach front and walk 20 minutes inland to Panama House. A warehouse style venue offering hip South American dishes and even hipper cocktails.
3. Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas
The almost neon-like pink sands of Harbour Island give the entire island a fantastical feel as the colour reflects off the crystal clear water. The surrounding area of Dunmore Town is scattered with charming pastel-coloured houses with idyllic white picket fences, home to some of the friendliest people you’ll meet, happy to give you tips about what to do and see on the island. It’s easy to see why this beach has been named as one of the most popular beaches in the world.
KAYAK Tip: For a beachside lunch we’d recommend Sip Sip, a Harbour Island favourite serving traditional and local seafood in a quaint setting.
4. Capri Beaches, Capri, Italy
This discerning island of the Bay of Naples is home to some of the most unique and stunning beaches in the entire world. You won’t find stretches of soft golden sand but instead pebbled streams, rocky pools and wooden platforms are all that lies between you and the waters edge. These minuscule coves are tucked behind awesome cliffs with smatterings of bars, beach clubs and restaurants in between, the perfect place to dive directly into the crystal clear water. Highlights on this island include Marina Piccola, a fan favourite make sure you get there early to relax and float in the open sea solo for a bit. Gradola is right next to the Blue Grotto, a famous blue tinged cave, here you won’t find anything but a rocky stretch of coast and the perfect place to launch into the waters.
KAYAK Tip: Bagni Tiberio is right at the water’s edge and serves the freshest seafood and pasta treats every lunchtime and a few evenings in the summer – unmissable views to be had.
5. Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
We defy anyone to read Copacabana and not start singing the song immediately in their head, and just like the song the Copacabana beach is fun, addictive and very popular. The fun-loving atmosphere of the Copacabana beach is what made it such a worldwide name and it’s New Year’s Eve celebration should be on every savvy traveller’s bucket list. Try your hand at some beach volleyball which is very popular on the sandy stretch, or head inland to Bip Bap a world-famous bar to listen to choro and dance to some samba music like a real local.
KAYAK Tip: The Atlantis Copacabana Hotel is located right next to the beach and close to the centre of Rio, making it the perfect place for travellers looking to get out on the town. Best of all the 3-star ‘Excellent’ rated hotel is on average only £55 per night – bargain.
Note: These rates are based on search queries made on KAYAK.co.uk on September 5th, 2017. The prices are quoted in GBP. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
