20 Places with the Bluest Water in the World

If you're looking for inspiration this holiday, we highly recommend Travelzoo's list of places with the bluest water on the planet. It's the holidays, take a breath and dive in...

1. Upolu Island, Samoa situated among the lush greenery that lines the southeast coast of the Island, this 90 metre deep pool is supplied with its crystalline water by a series of underwater caves that connect to the nearby ocean. Formed naturally as ancient lava fields eroded over time, the trench is now fitted with a wooden ladder and diving board, providing one of the most unique swimming experiences in the world.
2. Lake Pukaki, New Zealand. The stunning turquoise shade that Lake Pukaki boasts is thanks to extremely fine minerals that flow from the surrounding glaciers and cover the lake’s floor. Although this is the largest, the area is filled with similar alpine lakes that make for a breathtaking view during a scenic bike ride or a hike through the mountainous region. 
3. Turquoise Bay, Western Australia. As the name would suggest, Turquoise bay is a shining jewel located on the West Coast of Australia. The region is home to a rich diversity of coral reefs and marine life that make it the perfect spot for snorkelling.
4. Lombok, Indonesia Lombok has increasingly become a favourite destination for Australian travellers in search of a tropical Island getaway, and it is easy to see why. Just east of Bali, this little slice of heaven is surrounded by startling blue water, its translucent quality making it an incredible spot to explore the open ocean and enjoy a variety of water-based tours and activities.
5. Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu Being the largest island in Vanuatu, Espiritu Santo certainly has a lot to offer. At the top of the list to check out is the legendary blue holes, each one different from the next, yet all equally as vibrant and mesmerising. These freshwater swimming pools are filtered by limestone and shine in an array of brilliant colours, from vivd blue to deep emerald.
6. Whitsunday Islands, Australia A list of the bluest water from around the world would not be complete without honouring the Whitsunday Islands. The region is widely recognised for being a gateway to the Great Barrier reef, however the 74 islands that make up the magical paradise have plenty more to offer. The many white sand beaches offer a brilliant contrast to the stunning turquoise water that maintains its pristine clarity thanks to an abundance of coral reefs.
7. Amalfi, Italy Amalfi is one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. It is hard not to be enthralled by the beauty of the sprawling Mediterranean Sea and the rich blue hue that seems to stretch endlessly over the horizon. With over 100 separate beaches, the Amalfi coast has plenty to discover.
8. Con Son Island, (also Con Don Island) Vietnam - Characterised by untouched beaches and sparkling lagoons, Con Son Island is situated off the coast of southern Vietnam and has surprisingly remained largely secluded from the country’s tourism, making it Vietnam’s best kept secret.
9. New Caledonia - Only a 3-hour flight from Sydney, New Caledonia is the ideal destination for travellers wanting a tropical island getaway without the long flights. The best spots to check out are the New Caledonia barrier reef, the longest continuous barrier reef in the world, and the brilliant Isles of the pines.
10. Manini'owali Beach, Hawaii- Manini'owali is a secluded beach that boasts magical azure waters and is encircled by lava rocks. Not only the perfect location to enjoy a relaxing swim, the beach is also a great spot for turtle and dolphin sightings.
11. Egremnoi, Greece- There is little mystery as to why Egremnoi beach has become a tourist hotspot despite its remote location. The vibrant turquoise water found at Egremnoi is some of Greece’s finest.
12. Exuma, Bahamas-When you think Bahamas, the image that most often comes to mind is crystalline waters and swimming pigs. The Exumas, an archipelago of 365 cays and islands, is the best place to enjoy the natural splendour of the Bahamas and meet cute swimming friends at Pig beach.
13. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia- One of the most iconic landscapes in Croatia, the scenery found at Plitvice Lakes National Park is something out of a fairytale. A chain of wooden walkways sits above the water and allows visitors a breathtaking view of the vivid blue pools and spectacular waterfalls. 
14. Palawan, Philippines-Palawan is an archipelago with 1,780 islands and is home to some of the most stunning beaches and lagoons in the world. The best spots to explore when visiting this small yet spectacular paradise include the Big Lagoon on El Nido and Palawan Island.
15. Blue Lagoon, Iceland-Considered one of the 25 wonders of the world by The National Geographic, the Blue Lagoon is a bucket list essential. The geothermal spas get their striking pale blue colour from the water’s high silica content.
16. Five Flower Lake, China- Five Flower Lake can be found in the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. The lake shifts between a unique range of hues as the sun reflects off the exceptionally clear water, transforming from a rich diamond blue colour, to emerald green and even yellow.
17. Cook Islands- Only a 6-hour flight from the east coast of Australia, the Cook Islands is located in the South Pacific Ocean and is comprised of 15 islands, all rich in tropical beauty. Enjoy the picturesque magic of the islands from an overwater bungalow in Aitutaki or head to the transparent waters of Titikaveka Beach to swim and snorkel.
18. Peyto Lake, Alberta, Canada-Peyto Lake's glacier-fed water is so blue that it is almost unbelievable. The remarkable lake is located in Banff National Park and is best viewed from the Bow Summit in the summer.
19. The Maldives- Maldives is an independent island country located in the heart of the Indian Ocean and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, impressive reef structure and rich underwater life.

20. Cala Macarelleta, Menorca, Spain- Cala Macarella is one of Spain's most famous bays thanks to its sparkling crystal waters. Connected by a sandy trail, you can also walk to the more secluded cove Cala Macarelleta that is nearby.