Beaches usually conjure up thoughts of the Maldives, Bali and Hawaii. Yet there are hundreds of undiscovered coasters out there. These undiscovered beach destinations offer a more authentic experience, quieter beaches and a peace of mind than the big boys. Let’s take a look at seven of the world’s best undiscovered beaches.
1. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar, the “Spice Island” is a private island off the east African coast. Its sandy white beaches, turquoise waters and coral reefs are rife with marine life. If the island’s ancient Stone Town does get its share of visitors, its beaches at Nungwi and Kendwa are eerily empty.
Why not: Facing African safaris.
What to do: Fish, go to the mangroves, and eat Zanzibari dishes with cinnamon and cloves.
2. Isla Holbox, Mexico
The tranquil island north of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Isla Holbox offers a more relaxed version of Cancun’s chaos. The tidal island boasts soft sand, limpid blue water and bioluminescent plankton that glistens in the evening light.
More obscure: Hidden behind the Riviera Maya resorts.
What to do: Bathe in the water with whale sharks, or paddle out among the mangroves, or just hang out on a hammock.
3. Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal
Porto Santo is a small island in Portugal’s Madeira archipelago, with sand beaches stretching for miles. Its volcanic origins made it a source of medicinal sands believed to relieve arthritis. Unlike its more popular neighbour, Madeira, Porto Santo is an idyllic retreat.
Why not: Not as common as mainland Portugal or Madeira Island.
What to do: Relax on its 9 km-long beach, hike up to Pico de Ana Ferreira, and go see Christopher Columbus’ home museum.
4. Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba
Cayo Largo del Sur, an undeveloped island in the Caribbean Sea, offers crystal-clear water. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a vacation away from the tourist crowds.
Why you should be on the lookout for it: A little harder to come by than other islands in the Caribbean.
What to do: Visit Playa Paraiso and Playa Sirena, both postcard-sightseeing beaches. Try snorkelling among the underwater splendours of coral reefs.
5. Havelock Island Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) has the most pristine blue sea, lush forest and marine life in the world. The island’s beaches and especially Radhanagar Beach are repeatedly listed among the best in Asia.
Why it gets overlooked: International obscurity and geographic isolation.
What To Do: Scuba dive or snorkel at Elephant Beach, enjoy seafood and hike through mangrove jungles.
6. Salema, Algarve, Portugal
While Portugal’s Algarve is a seaside resort, Salema is a sleepy fishing village not demolished by mass tourism. Its golden sands, sheltered by limestone cliffs, make it a peaceful haven.
Why is it not well-known: It’s surrounded by larger Algarve cities like Lagos and Albufeira.
What to do: Eat local fish, watch fishing boats, explore the underwater caves around the island.
7. Tikehau, French Polynesia
Tikehau, the island sometimes overlooked by Bora Bora or Tahiti, is a French Polynesian coral reef with powder-pink sands and an abundance of marine life. The lagoon is home to thousands of species of fish, and a diving paradise.
What to do: Snorkel in the coral gardens, kayak around the lagoon, and chill out in overwater bungalows overlooking the Pacific.
These Are Some Of The Best Beaches In India?
These places tend to be more quiet, cheaper and eco-friendly than their marketed competitors. Be sure to visit unknown beaches too, which strengthens local economies and helps eliminate crowding in tourist spots.
If you’re looking for a summer vacation, head over to these small paradises for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You may even simply discover a new favourite destination.
Whether you’re an indie traveller, or just looking for quiet time, these overlooked beaches can accommodate any one of us. Take your eyes off the workaday world, look at nature as it is, and leave lasting memories.
