9 ‘Secret’ Beaches That Are Surprisingly Easy to Find
Ironically, the one thing everyone wants on a beach vacation is the hardest thing to find: A secluded beach with pristine sand and turquoise waters. From Bondi to Ipanema, the world’s most popular beaches are bustling with millions of sun-seekers, making a serene experience seem unattainable. But you’re in luck, because we’ve done the research -- all you have to do is remember to pack the sunscreen.
Here are nine secluded spots near the world’s most popular beach vacation destinations.
1. Paradise Beach is still on the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, but it’s a little ways from the waterpark and the main hotel buildings.
2. There’s no commercial activity on Happy Bay Beach in St. Martin, and it's just a 15-minute hike from the beaches of Friar's Bay. Caveat: it's known to be a nude beach.
3. Forego Cannes and hire a boat in Hyères, just south of Saint-Tropez, to reach the island of Poquerolles and its secluded beaches within 20 minutes.
4. For a more relaxed experience down under, head to Milk Beach, Sydney’s best kept secret. It’s only a 15-minute drive away on Hermitt Bay.
5. Located in an area known as Quiet Resorts, Bethany Beach sits north of the beehive that is Ocean City and offers beach activities with a calmer atmosphere. Fenwick Island is also a great alternative.
6. Thirty minutes by train from Barcelona, the beaches of Sitges are much less crowded with tourists and have great amenities. Try Platja de Sant Sebastian for an old-town feel and gorgeous views of the Mediterranean.
7. Leme Beach can be found at the far end of Rio’s Copacabana beach, but it’s more peaceful with an even better view of Sugar Loaf Mountain.
8. Waikiki is one of the world’s hottest beaches, but just a short stroll away, you’ll find Magic Island Lagoon at the end of a spit of man-made land that breaks up Waikiki and Ala Moana Beaches.
9. Between Split and Dubrovnik is the Makarska Riviera, home to lesser-known beaches that are easily reached from either port of call. Check out the picturesque inlets of Promajna, which used to be home to a rehab center and now is abandoned.
Gabby Peyton is a writer based in Toronto. A photographer, dabbling archaeologist, and Champagne aficionado, Gabby’s travel is dictated by food; her favourite places are Istanbul, Bologna and St. John’s, Newfoundland.