Bora Bora
#1 in Best Beaches in the World
This French Polynesian island is small but mighty. Measuring only 6 miles long and less than 3 miles wide, Bora Bora is packed with stunning beaches, green jungles and ritzy resorts featuring overwater bungalows. Matira Beach is ideal for sunbathing and strolling along sandy shores, while the beach at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is where you should head for Mount Otemanu views and calm water.
Fiji
#2 in Best Beaches in the World
Boasting 333 islands, resplendent resorts, sparkling waters and endless stretches of pristine sand, Fiji is the perfect spot for paradise-seeking beachgoers. Travelers who want to snorkel while on vacation should set their sights on Taveuni’s diverse coral reefs. Meanwhile, those pining for the tropical beaches featured in the movie “Cast Away” and multiple seasons of the TV show “Survivor” can catch a ferry from Port Denarau and head directly to one of the 20 islands that make up the Mamanuca Islands.
Mauritius
#3 in Best Beaches in the World
This scenic African island, which sits east of Madagascar, offers a multitude of beaches worth prioritizing. Visitors say the island’s west coast is where you’ll find the best strips of shoreline, including Flic en Flac and Le Morne beaches, which feature beautiful white sand and superb vantage points for sunsets.
Tahiti
#4 in Best Beaches in the World
Tahiti should be high on your list if you like your beaches paired with gourmet French cuisine. The largest of French Polynesian’s islands is known for offering top-notch fare, verdant jungles, lavish resorts and sandy shores. The smaller section of Tahiti (known as Tahiti Iti) is more secluded than the larger Tahiti Nui, but both are worth seeing. Tahiti Iti’s famous beach, La Plage de Maui, is highly regarded for a reason (think: sparkling sand and crystal-clear water), but the popularity comes with crowds.
Maldives
#5 in Best Beaches in the World
The Maldives is unlike any beach destination you’ll experience. This tropical paradise is made up of approximately 1,200 islands – and each beach is more beautiful than the last. You’ll likely stick to the island where your resort is, but you can expect pearlescent sands, towering palm trees, incredibly blue waters and surreal sunsets wherever you choose to lay down your towel.
Credit – travel.usnews.com