For those yearning to escape the crowded tourist hotspots and find their slice of paradise, there’s nothing quite like discovering a secluded beach. Hidden away from the hustle and bustle, these lesser-known beaches offer tranquility, unspoiled natural beauty, and a unique opportunity to connect with nature. This guide will take you on a journey to ten hidden beach gems around the world, perfect for your next off-the-beaten-path beach holiday.
Koh Kradan, Thailand
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Koh Kradan is nestled within Thailand’s Trang Province; you’ll discover a secluded paradise characterized by its crystal-clear waters and untouched beaches. This island, less commercialized than its more famous neighbors, provides a serene escape for those seeking tranquility. As you explore its shores, you’ll find yourself in an ideal spot for snorkeling, where the vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life just waiting to be discovered. The calm and clear waters make spending hours marveling at the underwater world easy. Koh Kradan is a place where you can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty in peace, far from the bustling tourist crowds.
Insider’s Tip
Visit during the weekdays to experience even more solitude.
When To Travel
November to April for the best weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Trang and take a boat from Pak Meng Pier.
Salema, Portugal
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In Salema, in Portugal’s picturesque Algarve region, find yourself in a charming fishing village boasting a beautifully serene beach. This hidden gem is an ideal retreat from the more frequented tourist destinations in the Algarve. As you stroll along its stunning shoreline, you’ll experience the tranquility of a less-traveled beach and the authentic charm of traditional Portuguese coastal life. The village’s laid-back atmosphere invites you to relax and soak in the scenic beauty. It is a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful beach experience away from the hustle and bustle.
Insider’s Tip
Explore the dinosaur footprints on the western end of the beach.
When To Travel
May to September for warm, sunny weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Faro and drive to Salema in the Algarve region.
Playa del Amor, Mexico
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At Playa del Amor, commonly called the Hidden Beach, located in the Marietas Islands, you’re in for a truly unique beach experience. This secluded paradise is accessible only through a long water tunnel, adding an element of adventure to your visit. As you make your way through the tunnel, you’ll emerge onto a beach that feels like a world of its own, encircled by natural rock formations and the open sky above. This hidden cove offers you a chance to bask in a rare kind of solitude, surrounded by the stunning beauty of nature. It’s a place where the outside world’s hustle fades away, leaving you in a tranquil haven that feels almost otherworldly.
Insider’s Tip
Visit early in the morning to avoid the tour groups.
When To Travel
October to May to avoid the rainy season.
How To Get There
Fly to Puerto Vallarta and take a boat trip to the Marietas Islands.
Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
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You’ll find yourself on one of the most iconic beaches in the world at Anse Source d’Argent in Seychelles. Situated on La Digue Island, this beach is renowned for its extraordinary rock formations and crystal-clear waters. As you walk along the soft, white sands, you’ll be captivated by the granite boulders that dot the coastline, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. The shallow, turquoise waters are perfect for leisurely swimming or snorkeling, where you can explore the vibrant marine life. Anse Source d’Argent’s serene and scenic environment makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in a truly postcard-worthy setting.
Insider’s Tip
Stay until sunset for breathtaking views.
When To Travel
April to May and October to November for mild weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Seychelles International Airport and take a ferry to La Digue Island.
One Foot Island, Cook Islands
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One Foot Island is a secluded haven in the Cook Islands,, ideal for those seeking a day of pure relaxation. As you step onto this island, you’re greeted by pristine white sandy beaches that stretch out invitingly before you, fringed by the kind of turquoise waters that dreams are made of. It’s where you can swim in crystal-clear lagoons, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or just lounge on the beach, letting the gentle sound of waves and the soft breeze lull you into complete relaxation. One Foot Island is more than just a destination; it’s a tranquil escape from the everyday world, a perfect spot to disconnect and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature.
Insider’s Tip
Don’t forget to get your passport stamped at the world’s smallest post office.
When To Travel
May to October for the best weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Rarotonga and then take a domestic flight or boat to Aitutaki.
Cies Islands, Spain
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Off the coast of Spain, the Cies Islands await as a hidden gem, largely untouched by the rush of mainstream tourism. Here, you’ll discover Rodas Beach, frequently lauded as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. As you step onto Rodas Beach, the fine white sand underfoot and the crystal-clear waters stretching before you create a picture of serene beauty. These islands offer a peaceful retreat where you can bask in the sun, swim in the calm, inviting waters, or simply stroll along the shore, enjoying the unspoiled natural surroundings. The Cies Islands provide an idyllic escape, perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach experience away from crowded tourist spots.
Insider’s Tip
Book your ferry ticket in advance as visitor numbers are limited.
When To Travel
June to September for the best weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Vigo and take a ferry to the Cies Islands.
Luskentyre Beach, Scotland
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On the Isle of Harris in Scotland, Luskentyre Beach presents itself as a breathtaking spectacle of nature. Known for its expansive stretches of white sand set against a backdrop of dramatic mountain scenery, this beach offers a starkly beautiful and rugged landscape. As you wander along the shore, the contrast of the soft white sands against the rugged, heather-clad hills creates a sense of awe. Luskentyre Beach is ideal if you appreciate the raw, natural beauty of the outdoors. The beach’s remote location adds to its charm, offering a sense of solitude and a chance to connect with nature in its most unadulterated form.
Insider’s Tip
Dress warmly, even in summer, as the weather can be unpredictable.
When To Travel
May to September for the best chance of good weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis and then drive or take a bus to Harris.
Butterfly Beach, India
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In Goa, India, Butterfly Beach awaits as a secluded treasure hidden away from the more frequented tourist spots. This picturesque cove, accessible only by a boat ride or a trek through dense forest, offers an intimate experience with nature. As you arrive at Butterfly Beach, you’ll find yourself in a tranquil haven perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The beach is an excellent spot for watching breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vivid hues, creating a serene atmosphere. Additionally, it’s a great place to spot dolphins playfully navigating the waters, adding a touch of magic to the already idyllic setting. Butterfly Beach provides a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and enjoy the simpler pleasures of nature.
Insider’s Tip
The beach is best accessed by boat to truly appreciate its beauty.
When To Travel
November to March for pleasant weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Goa and take a boat from Palolem or Agonda beach.
Mona Island, Puerto Rico
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Julio Salgado
Mona Island, situated off the coast of Puerto Rico, is a destination that stands apart, often referred to as the ‘Galapagos of the Caribbean’. This comparison stems from its remote and unspoiled nature, making it a haven for those seeking an authentic escape from the hustle and bustle of civilization. As you set foot on Mona Island, pristine beaches and a sense of untouched wilderness will surround you. The island’s isolation has preserved its natural beauty, offering you a rare opportunity to experience an environment that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. It’s a place where the rhythms of nature dictate the passage of time, providing a tranquil retreat for anyone looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Caribbean.
Insider’s Tip
Bring all necessities as the island has no facilities.
When To Travel
December to April for the dry season.
How To Get There
Fly to Mayaguez and arrange a boat trip to Mona Island.
Wharariki Beach, New Zealand
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Klanarong Chitmung
At the northernmost tip of New Zealand’s South Island, Wharariki Beach presents a landscape of dramatic beauty. With its vast sand dunes and striking rock formations, this windswept coastline creates a scene of raw, natural power. As you explore Wharariki Beach, you’ll find it a photographer’s paradise, offering a canvas of ever-changing light and shadow, perfect for capturing stunning, dynamic images. The beach is also a fantastic location for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can observe seals in their natural habitat, often seen lounging on the rocks or playing in the surf. The combination of the beach’s rugged beauty and the opportunity to witness wildlife up close makes Wharariki Beach a truly remarkable destination, offering a unique experience at the edge of the world.
Insider’s Tip
Visit at low tide to explore the beach’s full expanse and caves.
When To Travel
December to March for the warmest weather.
How To Get There
Fly to Nelson, then drive to the northern tip of the South Island.
The Bottom Line
Exploring these off-the-beaten-path beaches offers more than just a typical beach holiday; it’s an adventure into some of the world’s most secluded and stunning coastal destinations. Each beach has unique charm and character, promising a serene and memorable experience away from the crowds. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat or an adventurous escape, these hidden beach gems will surely provide an unforgettable experience.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dmitry Pichugin.