11 Must-Visit Beaches and Coastlines

Having grown up with childhood holidays along Britain's coastline in Cornwall and Norfolk, I've always felt a deep connection to coastal landscapes. Whether under sunny skies or stormy clouds, there's something profoundly grounding about sea air and the rhythm of waves. As a proud Briton, I'll gladly champion the hundreds of spectacular beaches we're fortunate to have at home. Yet like any traveler, I often find myself dreaming of sugar-white sands in sun-drenched destinations. I've developed a genuine passion for both the turquoise waters of tropical paradises like the Caribbean and the dramatic, windswept coastlines of destinations like Canada. Though many shores remain on my travel wishlist, I invite you to explore these spectacular beaches through this personal collection.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall, UK

I must begin with Cornwall, one of my cherished destinations. While I could recommend numerous favorites like Polzeath and Hawker's Cove, Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula stands supreme. Described by the National Trust as ideal for adventurous spirits, its brilliant white sand and turquoise waters rival any overseas destination.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Australia rightly boasts some of the world's finest shorelines, particularly the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Whitehaven Beach consistently ranks among global best beach lists and counts Mike and Zara Tindall among its admirers. HELLO!'s Lifestyle Editor Nichola Murphy notes: "Having visited over 15 years ago, I can confirm the Hill Inlet Lookout provides iconic views of the seven-kilometer beach and swirling waters that remain lifelong memories. Be mindful during cyclone season when conditions can change rapidly."

Reynisfjara, Iceland

My 2019 Icelandic journey revealed astonishing landscapes, particularly Reynisfjara's dramatic black volcanic sands within the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark. This otherworldly coastline transports visitors to what feels like a fantasy novel setting.

Blue Lagoon, Malta

Situated between Malta and Gozo, Comino's Blue Lagoon has become a major attraction. Fortunately, a new reservation system implemented from May 2025 will manage visitor numbers, ensuring a more controlled experience for those who plan ahead.

San Josef Bay, Vancouver Island, Canada

My 2023 Vancouver Island visit confirmed the region's spectacular coastal beauty. San Josef Bay stands out as essential viewing, where remote location, breathtaking scenery, and unique rock formations create an unforgettable experience.

PK-9 Beach, French Polynesia

French Polynesia's beauty seems almost unreal, yet this destination beloved by celebrities and royalty is very much authentic. PK-9 Beach, frequently voted the nation's finest, features sapphire-blue Pacific waters and pristine landscapes that could only be described as heavenly.

Pink Beach, Indonesia

Within Komodo National Park, Indonesia's Pink Beach attracts visitors fascinated by its unique rosy sand, created by red coral fragments blending with white grains. Still on my personal list, this destination is renowned as both a snorkeling and photography hotspot.

Pontal Do Atalaia, Brazil

While Copacabana often dominates Brazil's beach imagery, Pontal Do Atalaia offers a compelling alternative with its chalk-white sands and stunning blue waters, often called the 'Brazilian Caribbean.'

Ffryes Beach, Antigua & Barbuda

Having visited Antigua this year, I can personally attest to its magnificent Caribbean shores. Ffryes Beach draws visitors with spectacular sunsets and brilliant blue waters, while the popular Sheer Rocks beach bar adds to its appeal. My April visit, though toward the season's end (December-April being ideal), remained utterly breathtaking.

Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

This world-famous crescent-shaped shoreline perfectly balances water sports excitement with serene relaxation, offering both vibrant beach bars and peaceful stretches of sand.

Balos Bay, Crete, Greece

My affection for Greece finds perfect expression at Balos Beach lagoon, one of the country's most photographed locations. The warm, shallow waters create ideal swimming conditions amid absolutely stunning scenery.