We’ve Ranked the World's Best and Worst Beaches — Find Out Which Ones Are Worth Going To

Ready to sink your toes into the world’s best beaches? Or maybe avoid the ones that don’t live up to the hype? We’ve ranked the most breathtaking beaches you need to visit and the ones that might leave you sandy and sad. Whether you're dreaming of sun-kissed shores or planning your next escape, our 2024 beach guide has got you covered!

1. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Imagine lounging on soft, sugary sand with a backdrop of lush, green mountains and a lagoon that's clearer than your morning coffee. Bora Bora is the beach that dreams are made of. Snorkeling here feels like swimming in a giant fish tank, and every sunset is a painter's masterpiece.

1. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Whether you're paddling over to a private bungalow or just floating in the warm water, this beach is the epitome of relaxation. It's the perfect spot to forget about the world and embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing.

2. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, USA

Waikiki Beach is where surfers catch their first wave, and every sunset feels like a VIP show. This iconic Hawaiian spot buzzes with life, from beach volleyball games to hula dancing on the shore. The nearby shops and restaurants add to the lively atmosphere, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists.

2. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, USA

Don't miss the legendary Hawaiian shave ice - because nothing says 'I'm on vacation' like a rainbow-colored brain freeze! Whether you're riding the waves or just soaking up the sun, Waikiki promises endless fun.

3. Copacabana, Brazil

Copacabana is the beach that never sleeps. With its famous black and white tiled promenade and endless stretch of golden sand, it's a fiesta for the senses. By day, join a game of beach soccer or bask under the Brazilian sun. As night falls, the samba beats take over, turning the beach into a vibrant dance floor.

3. Copacabana, Brazil

Street vendors offer everything from fresh coconut water to caipirinhas. Whether you're a sun worshiper or a party enthusiast, Copacabana's lively spirit ensures there's never a dull moment on this legendary beach.

4. Black Sand Beach, Iceland

Forget palm trees and sunbathing, Black Sand Beach in Iceland is all about dramatic landscapes and wild beauty. This otherworldly spot features pitch-black volcanic sands contrasted by towering basalt columns and the roaring Atlantic Ocean. It's the perfect place for moody selfies and awe-inspiring strolls.

4. Black Sand Beach, Iceland

The sea is cold, so swimming is for the brave, but the sheer visual spectacle makes it worth every shiver. Visiting this beach feels like stepping into a fantasy novel, complete with puffins and the occasional seal sighting.