10 relaxing beaches in the world for a chill vacation

Long stretches of pristine golden sand, sparkling azure water, and cocktails within reach — this is what makes a relaxing beach vacation. Whether you’re looking for the perfect beach to lay out and bask in the sun, or you’re looking for the best beaches for vacations and snorkeling, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the sun-soaked sand of Greece’s Elafonisi Island and Navagio Beach to lively beaches in the Cayman Islands to small remote islets in Mauritius, these are the best relaxing beaches in the world.

1. Elafonisi Island, Greece

Highlights:

This coastal island off of Crete has stunning pink sand and crystal clear waters.

The best time to go:

The beginning or end of summer is best for fine weather because it isn’t uncomfortably hot.

Located just off the western coast of Crete is the breathtaking Elafonisi Island. Home to some of the most majestic beaches in the world, it has stunning pink sand and crystal-clear waters. Easily reached on a day trip from Crete, Elafonisi Island offers many boat tours for exploring this little slice of paradise, making it the perfect destination for beach lovers. Beat the crowds by heading to the island at the beginning or end of the summer.

2. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

Highlights:

Coral sands for sunbathing, inviting water for swimming, and lively restaurants and bars to enjoy.

The best time to go:

The Cayman Islands are warm year-round, but March and April are the best months to visit. There is a risk of hurricanes from June to the end of November.

Measuring only 5.5 miles, what Seven Mile Beach lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. Its clear waters and coral sands attract visitors from around the world. Enjoy lively bars and restaurants that line the beach as you soak in the Caribbean sun. Seven Mile Beach has something for everyone, whether you're sipping coconut water straight from the source or getting to know the local marine life on a snorkeling trip.

3. Harbor Island, Bahamas

Highlights:

Away from the crowds, this is the perfect spot for couples and families looking for calm beaches to enjoy the island beach atmosphere.

The best time to go:

The dry season is from November to late May, perfect for uninterrupted beach days.

Located off the northeast coast of Eleuthera Island, Harbor Island is a quiet refuge away from the busy Bahamian beaches. Popular among couples and families who enjoy relaxing beaches away from the masses, Harbor Island is home to peaceful beaches and a seemingly endless supply of sun loungers. And with no shortage of beachside bites, you’re sure to find something delicious to eat while you relax on the beach.

4. Matira Beach, Bora Bora

Highlights:

Idyllic white sand, shallow emerald waters, and a barrier reef to explore.

The best time to go:

Year-round good weather makes it a top travel destination anytime, but you can avoid the bigger crowds by visiting between November and April.

Matira Beach is the only public-access beach in Bora Bora. This stunning mile-long beach features long stretches of white sand and a shallow emerald lagoon. Relax in the sun, and during low tide, swim out to the barrier reef, because this is one of the best beaches in the world for snorkeling. For drinks and dining, you won’t have to walk far. Enjoy sunset views from one of the casual cafes scattered along the beach.

5. Reduit Beach, St. Lucia

Highlights:

Perfect for the active traveler or those looking to unwind. Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and nearby nature trails.

The best time to go:

Relax on the beach, visit a spa, or charter a boat. The best time to visit is during January and February.

Reduit Beach is located just south of Pigeon Island National Park along Rodney Bay. For the active traveler, this beach is perfect. Go snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, or join a Segway nature trail experience. For vacationers with a slower speed in mind, there are numerous ways to relax and luxuriate. Unwind on the beach, visit a spa, and charter a boat from the nearby marina if you want to live the high life.

6. El Nido, Philippines

Highlights:

Venture out from the popular spots in El Nido, the Philippines, to find numerous peaceful beaches with white sand, limestone formations, and sparkling blue water. Boat tours are another option to see other nearby islets — and don't forget that El Nido is one of the best cities for nightlife.

The best time to go:

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from January to April.

El Nido is a popular spot for tourists, but it still has some of the best relaxing beaches in the world. It’s the perfect place to spend a day in the sun, home to around 50 white-sand beaches. Get ready for dramatic limestone formations, stunning white sand, and intensely blue water. You can also go island hopping via boat tours in El Nido; there are four types to choose from. And don’t miss the sunsets — the Philippines is known for its gorgeous beach sunsets.

7. Navagio Beach, Greece

Highlights:

This remote beach is perfect for an adventurous traveler.

The best time to go:

It’s most popular during the summer, so the most relaxing times to visit this secluded beach are from March to May and September to early November when there are fewer visitors.

Navagio Beach, often called Shipwreck Beach or Smuggler’s Cove, is located on the coast of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands of Greece. This remote destination is perfect for an adventurous traveler as it’s notoriously tricky to reach and you’ll need to hop on a boat to get to the Navagio Beach. Take the experience up a notch via a day trip and see Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves at Xingia Beach.

8. Hyams Beach, Australia

Highlights:

On the shore of Jervis Bay and home to the whitest sand in the world. Relax on the beach, explore the coast, and enjoy whale watching in the bay.

The best time to go:

A great place to visit year-round, but for general outdoor activities best to visit from December to March.

Hyams Beach has the whitest sand in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records. However, this is just one reason to visit Hyams Beach. Located on the southern shores of Jervis Bay, a popular whale-watching spot, you can explore the area and enjoy a tour from Sydney that takes you to all the beaches along this coastal strip, including Hyams Beach.

9. Île aux Cerfs, Mauritius

Highlights:

This privately owned island might be the perfect paradise beach vacation — cruise to the island to enjoy the sun, snorkeling, and delicious food.

The best time to go:

Mauritius is a tropical island and an ideal beach vacation year-round. However, keep in mind that the summer (October to March) is hot and humid, and the winter is warm and dry along the coast, but windy on the east coast, where Île aux Cerfs is located.

Mauritius is notorious for its luxurious beach resorts and for having some of the prettiest beaches in the world. It’s a tropical paradise with stunning beaches and top-notch hotels. Île aux Cerfs is a privately owned island near the east coast of Mauritius that’s open to the general public. Most travelers make a day trip there, soaking up the sun, snorkeling, and enjoying lunch at one of the beach restaurants. There’s also a golf course on the island. You can get to the island by motorboat, or splurge on a private catamaran charter.

10. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

Highlights:

Pink sands, jagged rock formations, and inviting turquoise waters. A popular spot with secluded areas a short walk down the beach. Perfect spot for a fun beach day with chairs, bars, and a natural shallow pool.

The best time to go:

June or between August and November are perfect times to plan a trip to Bermuda.

Horseshoe Bay is Bermuda’s most famous beach. Known for its pink sands, turquoise water, and jagged rock formations, this is a popular beach, particularly among cruise ships. Just walk a little further east along the coast for a calmer beach spot. Horseshoe Bay has everything needed for a fun beach day: chairs, bars, and restrooms. For families, there’s Horseshoe Bay Cove, a natural shallow pool perfect for splashing around in.