When you think of the beach, you might picture gentle waves, palm trees, and golden sand. But not every beach fits this idyllic image. Our planet is home to some truly bizarre beaches, from hidden oases to shores filled with shells. Let’s explore some of the most unique beaches around the world!
17. Hidden Beach: A Secret Oasis
Located on Marietta Island off the coast of Mexico, the Hidden Beach is a stunning secret. This beach is tucked away inside a cavern, making it invisible from the shoreline. To reach it, swimmers or kayakers must navigate through a rocky tunnel. Once inside, they are greeted by golden sand and crystal-clear water, illuminated by sunlight streaming through the open roof. Interestingly, this beautiful spot was formed from a bombing practice site used by the Mexican military in the early 20th century. Who would have thought a bomb site could turn into such a paradise?
16. Benagil Sea Cave: Nature’s Cathedral
On the southern coast of Portugal, the Benagil Sea Cave offers another unique beach experience. Accessible only by water, this cave features a large skylight that creates a breathtaking atmosphere. Over time, waves and rainfall have eroded the limestone, forming arches and a dome-like interior. Visitors can enter through two arches carved into the cliffs, but attempting to enter from above is not advisable. The beauty of this cave is often compared to a cathedral, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
15. Maho Beach: A Plane Spotter’s Dream
Maho Beach in St. Martin is famous for its proximity to Princess Juliana Airport. Planes land just a few feet above sunbathers, creating a thrilling experience for onlookers. While some might find this terrifying, many flock to the beach to watch the planes land and take off. Daily flight schedules are posted, so visitors can plan their beach time around the action. However, caution is advised, as the powerful jet blasts can be dangerous, as evidenced by a tragic incident in 2017.
14. Playa de Gori: The Beach Without the Sea
In Spain, Playa de Gori presents a puzzling sight. Located 30 feet inland from the Atlantic Ocean, this beach is actually a flooded sinkhole. Waves have eroded the coastline, creating underground caves that eventually collapsed. The result is a shallow beach that still experiences waves, despite being separated from the ocean. This unique location makes it a fascinating spot for beachgoers looking for something different.
13. Skeleton Coast: A Grizzly Graveyard
The Skeleton Coast in Namibia is not your typical beach. Known for its shipwrecks and whale carcasses, this area has a haunting beauty. The cold Atlantic current meets the hot air from the Namib Desert, creating dense fog that has led to many ships running aground. With nearly 1,000 shipwrecks scattered along the shore, it’s a place that tells a story of maritime tragedy. Adding to the eerie atmosphere, desert-adapted lions roam this coastline, making it a place of both beauty and danger.
12. Hot Water Beach: A Natural Spa
In New Zealand, Hot Water Beach offers a unique experience where visitors can dig into the sand to find hot water bubbling up from below. This phenomenon is due to volcanic activity that heats the water underground. When the tide is low, people flock to this beach to create their own natural hot tubs. With temperatures reaching up to 147°F, it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
11. Glass Beach: From Trash to Treasure
Fort Bragg, California, is home to Glass Beach, a stunning example of nature reclaiming human waste. Once a dumping ground, the beach is now covered in smooth, colorful sea glass. Over the years, the waves have worn down the glass, transforming it into beautiful pieces that attract thousands of visitors. This beach serves as a reminder that even trash can become treasure with time.
10. Hamlin Pool: A Shell Collector’s Paradise
In Shark Bay, Western Australia, Hamlin Pool is famous for its unique beach made entirely of tiny shells. This beach is composed of trillions of shells from one species, the Hamlin cockle. The high salt concentration in the water allows these mollusks to thrive, creating a beach that is both beautiful and unusual. Visitors can explore this shell-covered shore and appreciate the natural wonder it represents.
9. Star Sand Beach: A Microscopic Marvel
Okinawa, Japan, boasts a beach with sand made up of tiny star-shaped particles. These particles are the remains of a microscopic organism that builds intricate shells. When the tide brings these shells ashore, they create a stunning visual effect. This beach is a testament to the beauty of nature and the small creatures that inhabit our oceans.
8. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: A Volcanic Wonder
Punalu’u Beach in Hawaii is known for its striking black sand, formed from volcanic lava. The beach is not only visually stunning but also serves as a habitat for endangered sea turtles. The black sand absorbs heat, making it a perfect spot for these reptiles to bask. It’s a unique beach that combines natural beauty with ecological importance.
7. Diamond Beach: Icebergs on Black Sand
In Iceland, Diamond Beach features icebergs that wash ashore, creating a breathtaking contrast against the black sand. These icebergs are remnants of glaciers, polished by the wind and water. The sight of bright blue and white ice against the dark sand is truly mesmerizing. Despite the cold temperatures, this beach is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Iceland.
6. Green Sand Beach: Nature’s Color Palette
Papakōlea, or Green Sand Beach, in Hawaii, is famous for its unique green sand. This color comes from a mineral called olivine, which was brought to the surface by volcanic activity. The beach not only looks stunning but also plays a role in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. It’s a beautiful example of how nature can be both striking and beneficial.
5. Purple Sand Beach: A Colorful Coastal Gem
Fifer Beach in California is known for its natural purple sand, created by manganese garnet rock. After rainfall, the purple sand washes down from the cliffs, creating a stunning scene. This beach is also home to the Keyhole Arch, which attracts photographers during sunset. Fifer Beach is a colorful spot that showcases the beauty of nature’s palette.
4. Christmas Island: A Crimson Migration
Christmas Island is famous for its red beaches, but not for the reasons you might think. The vibrant color comes from millions of red crabs that migrate to the shore to mate. This annual event creates a striking scene as the crabs cover the beach. It’s a unique natural phenomenon that draws attention from around the world.
3. Bioluminescent Beaches: Nature’s Light Show
Some beaches, like those in San Diego, are known for their bioluminescent waves. This phenomenon is caused by microplankton that emit a bright blue light when disturbed. It creates a magical experience for beachgoers who can witness this natural light show. Other locations, like Toyama Bay in Japan, also feature glowing waves, attracting visitors eager to see this stunning display.
2. Cathedral Beach: A Natural Wonder
Praia das Catedrais in Spain is known for its stunning natural arches that resemble cathedral structures. These formations were created by years of erosion, resulting in breathtaking views. During low tide, visitors can walk through the arches and appreciate the beauty of this unique beach. It’s a place where nature’s artistry shines through.
1. Kellen King Beach: A T-Rex Illusion
Image: Tripadvisor
Kellen King Beach in Indonesia is famous for its limestone cliffs that resemble a T-Rex. This unique formation has made it a popular spot for tourists and Instagram enthusiasts. Despite its popularity, the beach is still a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the ocean. It’s a quirky beach that showcases the wonders of nature and imagination.
