These 14 Unique Beaches Are Unlike Anything You’ve Ever Seen
1. Glass Beach, California
Glass Beach offers a sight to behold with its sparkling sea glass covering the coastline. Over the years, the ocean turned discarded glass into a kaleidoscope of smooth, colored pieces, transforming the beach into a vibrant mosaic. It’s part of the MacKerricher State Park and sits just three miles north of Fort Bragg.
You can explore this unique beach and its history by walking the paths that lead to the southern coves. Remember to leave the glass untouched, preserving its wonder for future visitors.
2. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas
The sands at Pink Sands Beach glisten with a warm rosy hue, creating a stunning setting that’s truly one of a kind. On Harbour Island, this three-mile stretch is the perfect spot for a day under the sun.
You’ll love how the cool water contrasts with the soft pink sand. It’s an ideal place for families, with gentle waves and a wide beach for building sandcastles. Plus, it’s never too crowded, so you can relax in peace.
Remember to take your camera – the views are worth capturing, especially at sunrise or sunset. And yes, those vibrant colors are all natural, thanks to crushed coral and shells!
3. Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, Puerto Rico
Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico, is sparkling like never before. Dazzling millions with its glow-in-the-dark waters, this bay takes beach beauty to new heights at night. Your eyes will marvel at the bright blue-green light created by tiny organisms when you move the water.
It’s like stars floating under your kayak. Take a nighttime tour and witness this natural wonder where the brightest bioluminescence lives. Don’t miss the chance to see such an extraordinary sight!
4. Hidden Beach, Mexico
Hidden Beach in Mexico offers a unique slice of paradise carved by nature. Nestled within the Marieta Islands, access to this secluded shore is through a water tunnel. It’s a sunbather’s dream, with golden sands and azure waters.
You’ll find tropical fish darting through the waves here. To visit, you’ll need to catch a boat from nearby Puerto Vallarta. Remember, the beach is accessible only at low tide, so planning your adventure is key.
5. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Renowned for its pristine beauty, Whitehaven Beach is a stretch of 7km along Whitsunday Island, in Queensland, Australia. Its sand is 98% pure silica, giving it a brilliant, white glow. As you walk along the shore, the fine grains squeak underfoot, a unique aspect you’ll find delightful.
The beach is also known for its Hill Inlet lookout, where the tide shifts create a mesmerizing blend of colors that’s simply breathtaking.
6. Red Sand Beach, Hawaii
Kaihalulu Beach is also known as Red Sand Beach and is a remarkable sight. Its crimson sands set it apart from any other beach you may know.
Nestled in Maui, this coastal spot takes a bit of hiking to reach, but once you see the contrasting blue waters against the red sands, you’ll find the trek worthwhile.
This hidden cove is vibrant, distinctly colored by its volcanic origins, and offers a view you won’t find just anywhere.
7. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Discover the enchanting landscape of the Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder on the coast of Northern Ireland. Picture roughly 40,000 basalt columns, formed by ancient volcanic activity, stretching out into the sea like a natural staircase.
Each hexagonal pillar is a geological marvel, creating a unique honeycomb effect that’s as beautiful as it is mystifying. Exciting tales of giants and folklore add a charming twist to your visit.
8. Papakolea Green Sand Beach, Hawaii
Papakolea Beach on Hawaii’s Big Island is a sight to see with its unique green sands. The green comes from olivine crystals, remnants of an ancient volcanic eruption.
If you’re up for an adventure, it’s a 2.5-mile hike to this rare beach, but your efforts are rewarded with stunning, olive-toned shores and a refreshing dip in the Pacific.
9. Pfeiffer Beach, California
Nestled in Big Sur, Pfeiffer Beach is a hidden gem you’ll adore. Its purple sands are a real curiosity, coming from manganese garnet particles washing down the cliffs. When sunlight hits just right, the beach glows with these unique hues. Parking is limited, and it’s a secret spot, so the early bird catches the worm!
Bringing your furry friend is fine, they just need to be on a leash. There’s a fee to park, but it’s worth it for a peaceful day away from the crowds.
10. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Iceland
Reynisfjara, with its striking black sand, is not your ordinary beach. Near the small village of Vík in Iceland, this natural wonder is a must-see. The sand is actually tiny volcanic fragments that give the beach its unique color.
Towering basalt columns add to the landscape, like nature’s own fortress. Nestled under the mountains, it’s a sight that stays with you. Your visit isn’t complete without looking out for the powerful waves – but stay safe at a distance.
11. Shell Beach, Australia
Shell Beach is a coastal wonder like no other, made of millions of tiny white shells up to ten meters deep and stretching for over 70 kilometers. Located in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, it’s a brilliant spot where instead of sand, a thick layer of cockle shells cover the shore.
The salinity in these waters is so high, few creatures can survive, hence the abundance of shells. If you’re visiting Western Australia, this natural wonder is a must-see.
12. Diamond Beach, Iceland
If you’re searching for a stunning and unique beach, Diamond Beach in Iceland is where you need to go. Icebergs from the nearby glacier float onto the black sand, shining like diamonds under the sunlight.
Your trip to Iceland isn’t complete without a visit to this chilly, magical shoreline.
13. Hyams Beach, Australia
Hyams Beach boasts some of the world’s whitest sand, and its stunning stretch in Jervis Bay is a sight to see. You’ll find the serene shores just a couple of hours from Sydney, offering a real escape into nature.
From May to November, it’s also a prime spot to catch glimpses of whales and dolphins. Enjoy the sun on the silky sands or take the scenic White Sands Walk for an invigorating day out.
14. Chandipur Beach, India
Imagine a beach where the sea plays a game of hide and seek with you. At Chandipur Beach, located on the coast of Odisha, India, the water recedes up to 5 kilometers during the ebb tide. Witnessing the ocean vanish before your eyes and then return is truly a rare sight.
This curious phenomenon is caused by the unique topography of the seabed, beckoning beachgoers for a walk on the exposed seabed. Surrounded by casuarina trees and a serene ambiance, Chandipur invites you to revel in its natural magic.
