Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Amanda Stancati

There’s no beach we aren’t willing to dig our toes into and test out, and these 8 are some of our favourites. Whether you’re planning your next vacation, looking to daydream, or need something to add to your bucket list, our list of 8 best beaches that need to be on top of your 2015 travel list should help:

1. Grace Bay in Providenciales Turks & Caicos

Grace Bay Beach is on the island of Providenciales, where the majority of Turks & Caicos’ population resides. The pure white sand beach is known for the luxury resorts and villas that rest along it. A large coral reef lines the Grace Bay beach area, making the destination perfect for diving and snorkeling as well as sunbathing on the shore. The area has been named one of the best beaches in the world by Conde Naste Traveler…don’t you agree?

2. Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana

Punta Cana, in the easternmost province of the Dominican Republic, is known around the world for its beautiful clear water and white sandy beaches where you can look out at the ocean for as far as the eye can see. Bavaro Beach, which lines much of Punta Cana’s resorts, is a 15 km long stretch between Macao Beach and Veron. With plenty of excursions and ocean activities available along the resorts that line the beach, Bavaro Beach is bustling with activity but its natural beauty still shines through.

3. Punaluu Beach, Hawaii

With lots of volcanic activity on this island state, Hawaii’s beaches range in colour from white to green to black. On the southeastern Kau coast, explore Punaluu Beach, one of Hawaii’s most famous black sand beaches. The current at Punaluu can be strong, so this may be not be the best swimming area — but the beautiful black sand and the endangered Hawksbill and Green turtles that are known to frequent the area are too exciting to pass by. The unusual but stunning beauty of Punaluu puts this beach on our list of best beaches for 2015 and one you shouldn’t miss!

4. The Seychelles Islands

The Seychelles Islands off the coast of South Africa have more than 40 beaches with beautiful views of the azure water that surrounds the country. Ranging from white-sand beaches to rocky shores, some areas of the Seychelles Islands are still mainly untouched, making for a peaceful getaway. Sail, dive or snorkel your way around the islands for a different view of the pristine beaches rather than looking out at the water from your sandy seat. The beaches in La Digue, Seychelles, are some of the most photographed beaches in the world with it’s surrounding cliffs and pink-tinted sand.

5. Bora Bora

French Polynesia’s Bora Bora is an internationally acclaimed honeymoon destination, and a beautiful escape for anyone looking for a romantic and relaxing vacation. Spend time lounging on some of Bora Bora’s beautiful beaches, but get closer to the water in one of the island’s over-water bungalows or floating villas. This beautiful destination with bright, turquoise waters is perfect for a luxury vacation…we’re sure you can find a reason you need one!

6. Aruba

With a number of beaches to choose from, the pale sands and turquoise waters of Aruba offer something for everyone, with water sport meccas, relaxing covers for sunbathing, and shaded areas read a good book. The pristine beaches in resort towns are perfect for your vacation, but don’t forget national parks and their beautiful, untouched shorelines when you’re making 2015 travel plans to some of the best beaches on this ‘one happy island.’

7. Natal, Brazil

Nestled amidst many beaches is the little town of Natal on the northern coast of Brazil. With sand dunes and beaches making Natal the perfect little getaway for a serene, quiet vacation, we couldn’t leave Brazil off our best beaches list. Climb – or buggy – to the top of the area’s dunes and look out over the sparkling water for a gorgeous view like no other.

8. Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

If an all-inclusive vacation isn’t what you’re looking for, visit Thailand and pay a visit to Maya Bay in Ko Phi Phi. Adding Maya Bay to your must-see list beaches list won’t be a disappointment: sheltered by rock cliffs on three sides, Maya Bay has several beaches, some only available for swimming at low-tide. Take in the beauty while wading in the green-coloured water or enjoy the sight from afar at high-tide. This beach is a big tourist attraction and might not be best if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, but grab one of the area’s speed boats to be taken out to sea for snorkeling and more beauty underwater!

For a list of stunning colourful beaches, click here.