The most beautiful beaches worldwide, from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean. Discover stunning coasts, insider tips and the best travel times for your perfect beach holiday.
The most beautiful beach destinations include the Algarve, Sardinia and Fuerteventura in Europe, and Zanzibar, the Maldives and Koh Lipe further afield. The Mediterranean and the Canary Islands are ideal for summer holidays, tropical long-haul destinations in winter. Budget, flight time and season decide which destination suits you best.
There is hardly anything more relaxing than walking barefoot over warm sand in the morning, listening to the sound of waves and gazing out across the endless sea. Beach holidays are the most popular type of holiday – and for good reason.
Whether a romantic cove in Sardinia, an endless sandy beach on Fuerteventura or a tropical paradise in the Maldives: there is the perfect beach for every taste and budget. And it is far more than just sunbathing – snorkelling, surfing, kayaking or simply walking along the shore for hours make a beach holiday a versatile experience.
In this guide we present six of the best beach destinations, give you real insider tips and help you with planning – so your next beach holiday will be unforgettable.
From Europe's coasts to tropical islands – these beaches make holiday dreams come true.
Dramatic cliff coastlines, golden sandy beaches and over 300 sunny days a year. The Algarve offers spectacular grottoes, crystal-clear water and excellent value for money. Perfect for families and couples alike.
Powder-white beaches, turquoise water and spice plantations. Zanzibar combines tropical beach paradise with Arab and African culture. The underwater world is spectacular for snorkelling.
The ultimate for beach lovers: overwater bungalows, endless lagoons and an underwater world like no other. Perfect seclusion and pure luxury – but also possible on budget islands.
Caribbean feeling in the heart of Europe! Sardinia offers beaches with crystal-clear water that can easily compete with the Caribbean. Plus Italian cuisine, charming villages and wild, untouched nature inland.
The little paradise in the far south of Thailand. Koh Lipe impresses with small, quiet beaches, fantastic snorkelling opportunities and a relaxed atmosphere away from mass tourism. Ideal for those seeking peace and nature.
Endless white sandy beaches, year-round mild climate and perfect conditions for surfers and kitesurfers. Fuerteventura is the least touristy Canary Island and offers desert-like landscapes and absolute tranquillity.
All top beaches at a glance – find the perfect destination for your budget and travel time.
| Destination | Budget | Flight Time | Best Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algarve | $$ | 3h | May–Oct | Cliffs & Grottoes |
| Zanzibar | $$ | 10h | Jun–Oct | Tropical & Culture |
| Maldives | $$$$ | 10h | Nov–Apr | Luxury & Diving |
| Sardinia | $$ | 2h | May–Oct | Caribbean in Europe |
| Koh Lipe | $ | 12h | Nov–Apr | Quiet & Affordable |
| Fuerteventura | $$ | 4.5h | Year-round | Surfing & Dunes |
Real tips from experienced beach lovers that make the difference between good and unforgettable.
Most tourists don't arrive until 10 am. Early risers have the most beautiful beaches almost to themselves – and experience the best lighting for photos.
Many tropical beaches have sea urchins, coral or sharp rocks. Light water shoes protect your feet and cost just a few euros.
Sun protection needs time to absorb. Apply cream at your accommodation, not just at the beach. SPF 50 is essential in tropical regions.
Many beach destinations are just as beautiful in the off-season but 40-50% cheaper. September is often the best month in the Algarve: warm, affordable, quiet.
The best beaches are often not directly in front of the hotel. Ask locals or search Google Maps for secluded coves.
Even without a diving licence, many beaches offer great snorkelling. A waterproof camera or phone case for 20 euros is absolutely worth it.
In some countries (Greece, Italy), sun loungers cost 15-30 euros per day. Budget for this or bring your own beach mat.
Apps like Windy or Windfinder show you exactly which beach is best sheltered on which day. Wind can vary greatly, especially on islands.
Plastic waste is a problem in many beach towns. A reusable bottle saves money and waste. Many accommodations offer free refills.
Flights are often more expensive and airports more crowded on Sundays. Tuesday to Thursday offer the best flight prices for beach holidays.
So you don't forget anything – these items belong in every beach suitcase.
3 free HolidayGenie tools help you plan: Budget Calculator, Packing List and Holiday Finder. They run directly in your browser and complement the destination tips on this page.
Frequently asked questions
Among the most beautiful beaches in Europe are the Algarve in Portugal (dramatic cliff coastlines, Praia da Marinha, Benagil Cave), Sardinia in Italy (crystal-clear water, Spiaggia La Pelosa, Costa Smeralda) and Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands (endless white sandy beaches, Playa de Sotavento, perfect for surfing). All offer year-round mild climate and are reachable in 2-4.5 flight hours from Germany.
The best time depends on the destination: For Mediterranean beaches (Algarve, Sardinia) May to October is ideal, for the Maldives and Koh Lipe in Thailand November to April. Fuerteventura is suitable year-round. Tip: The off-season (e.g. September in the Algarve) often offers the best value for money with similarly good weather.
The most important items for a beach holiday: SPF 50 sunscreen (apply 30 minutes before), wide-brimmed sun hat, UV protection shirt, water shoes against sea urchins and sharp rocks, waterproof phone case, snorkel set, reusable water bottle and a beach bag. A power bank and waterproof pouch for valuables are also highly recommended.
Yes, the Maldives are also possible on a smaller budget. Besides the well-known luxury resorts, there are local islands like Maafushi that offer significantly cheaper accommodation. There you can snorkel, experience the bioluminescent beach and enjoy the underwater world without spending a fortune.
The best beaches are often not directly in front of the hotel. Ask locals or search Google Maps for secluded coves. It also pays to be at the beach early in the morning – before 10 am you'll have the best spots almost to yourself. Apps like Windy also help find the most sheltered beach of the day.
If you like Beach Holidays, you may also enjoy Family Holidays, Diving Holidays and Wellness. For every holiday type we show the best destinations with travel season, budget and insider tips.
Discover more dream beaches or use our holiday finder to find your perfect beach destination.
