Bioluminescence in Jervis Bay, Australia
There are beaches that offer more than sun, sand and good mood. There are beaches that are so unique that they become destinations we point out in our Bucket List – the list of things we want to do before we die.
Since seeing the airplanes in the Caribbean to penguin tours in South Africa: there are things we have to see in person before we die.
The magazine has elaborated on Tuesday a list of 10 extraordinary beaches that deserve a place on your bucket list-and surprise, surprise: two of them “live” in Portugal.
1. Beach of the Benagil Cave, Portugal
Benagil Grotto
This we all know. Located on the Algarve, the Benagil cave is a charming marine cave with a natural skylight that allows sunlight to illuminate its orange limestone and blue waters.
Accessible only by boat or kayak – which, beware, – is one of the most stunning coastal attractions in Europe.
2. Beach Maho, São Martinho
Wikimedia Commons
For aviation enthusiasts, Maho beach offers a very rare experience. In this beach of St. Martin, the planes descend over the bathers before landing at Princess Juliana International Airport.
Visitors can relax on white sands or enjoy drinks in bars such as Sunset Bar and Grill, which have flight locations for those who want to observe the aircraft more carefully.
3. National Park The Baths, British Virgin Islands
The Baths, located on the British Virgin Islands, has huge plain granite rocks that create natural pools and caves – a unique scenario for swimming and exploring.
4. Harbour Island, Bahamas
Famous for its pink sand, the curious shade of the Harbor Island coastline comes from the microscopic insects of the coral known as Foaminifera.
Here’s the tip: Pastel sands are more vibrant between December and May. It is undoubtedly a dream destination.
5. Navagio Beach, Greece
Also known as Sawn Praia, Navagio Beach, in Zakynthos, is the home of a smuggling wreck that rests against imposing cliffs.
This iconic Greek beach, often identified as the most beautiful in the country, should reopen by 2025, after conservation efforts to avoid landslides.
6. Jervis Bay, Australia
Bioluminescence in Jervis Bay, Australia
Jervis Bay is one of the few places where visitors can witness the rare phenomenon of bioluminescence.
During the hottest months, plankton in the water emits a bright blue neon light, creating a mesmerizing – and frighteningly beautiful – view at night.
7. Praia da Falésia, Portugal
Another Algarvian “tuga”, named by the TripAdvisor ‘Choice Travelers, enters this ranking Da acclaimed Forbes.
Planteesia Beach is known for its impressive red cliffs and serene waters, which makes it an ideal beach for families with a breathing landscape.
8. Boulders Beach, South Africa
Boulders Beach, near Simon’s Town in South Africa, is the home of an African penguin colony. Visitors can observe these charming creatures from a walkway while appreciating the scenic coast.
9. Twelve Apostles, Australia
Throughout the Australian Great Ocean Road, the twelve apostles are the imposing limestone formations that rise from the ocean.
Better viewed to sunrise or sunset, they offer a natural spectacle worthy of this top10, with helicopter tours available for a different air perspective.
10. Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
With black volcanic sand and dramatic basalt columns, Reynisfjara beach in Iceland undoubtedly contrasts with traditional tropical beaches.
Your visitors can glimpse something you cannot see in any other beach: the boreal dawn.
