100 under-the-radar beaches everyone should visit in their lifetime Part 9

By Alison Millington From Business Insider

Whether you’ve only spent a handful of days on the sand in your life or you’re a full-blown sunseeker, there are plenty of breathtaking beaches on this planet waiting to be discovered.
And, whether you look for a spot with an element of adventure, peace and quiet, or you simply don’t like your towel to be too close to a stranger, many of them fly under-the-radar to tourists despite their spectacular beauty.

Business Insider asked some of the most influential travel bloggers and experts, from the likes of Lonely Planet, Secret Escapes, KAYAK, British Airways, Airbnb, lastminute.com, and HolidayPirates for the most incredible under-the-radar beaches they’ve ever visited. Jet-setters in our own office also contributed. Together, their choices don’t disappoint.

Mercer Bay, New Zealand.
Secret Escapes

“Located between Piha and Karekare, this beach is one of the most stunning in Auckland,
boasting some of the most dramatic cliff views,” according to Emma Mcwhinney, Deputy Editor at Secret Escapes. “It remains largely unknown due to the difficulty of getting there. Beyond the cliffs, visitors can enjoy the spectacular caves and warm rock pools on offer.”

Lord Howe Island in New South Wales, Australia.
Secret Escapes

“The locals describe this island as the ‘Last Paradise.’ The pristine stretch of sand remains largely untouched and ready for exploring,” said Mcwhinney. “With coloured fish swarming the sea beds and a glistening blue sea floor, you won’t be disappointed by its mesmerising beauty.”

Ao Tanot Bay, Ko Tao, Thailand.
Secret Escapes

Mcwhinney said: “Though difficult to reach for tourists alike, Ao Tanot Bay offers nothing short of a spectacular coastline. The clear waters and quiet, secluded atmosphere is enough to calm the mind and ease the soul.”

James Bond Beach, Jamaica.
Secret Escapes

“James Bond Beach is a beach that sits on a small peninsula located on Jamaica’s
northeastern coast,” Mcwhinney said. “Surrounded by crystal waters and the mountains of St Mary as it’s backdrop, it offers the ideal Jamaican setting and charm. The beach is also known for its fresh fish, which is served up the same day it’s caught at a restaurant located on the seafront.”

Pink Beach, Bonaire, Caribbean.
Secret Escapes

“According to the Tourism Corporation of Bonaire, Pink Beach gets its pink coloured sands
from the crushed shells of bright pink sea creatures called foraminifera,” according to Mcwhinney. “The beach stays secluded year-round as there aren’t many facilities on offer for tourists, however this means visitors will be left alone to enjoy its breath-taking sands and explore the undisturbed sea life on offer.”

Manzanillo Beach, Providencia, Colombia.
Chiara / Flickr

“The island of Providencia retains its Caribbean authenticity due to its isolated location, with
the lack of a direct flight connection to the Colombian mainland,” Mcwhinney said.

“Described as a ‘hidden treasure,’ the beach offers a 300-metre long stretch of white sand, palm trees, and light blue waters with the only building in site being a Reggae beach-bar serving rum cocktails. Visitors from February through to May will also be able to spot sea turtles that nest on the beaches.”

Isla Holbox, Mexico.
Carlos Bruzos / Shutterstock

“Reported to be Mexico’s last secret beach town, the island which is located off Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula offers empty beaches of white coral sand and a chance to snorkel with the largest fish in the world: Whale sharks,” said Mcwhinney.

Benagil Sea Cave, West Algarve, Portugal.
Secret Escapes

“This striking stretch of sand and secret natural coves can only be reached either by a short swim or kayak ride from the mainland of Praia de Benagil,” Mcwhinney said. “Those wanting to see it at its most deserted should aim to get there in the early hours where they can also watch the sunrise pour into and illuminate the caves below.”

Beauport Beach, Jersey, Channel Islands, UK.
DavidYoung / Shutterstock

“Few visitors manage to find this beach, as its hidden away on the southwest coast and can only be reached by a fairly steep path. This means it’s pretty much isolated throughout the summer season making it perfect for those looking to walk on the sand in solitude,” Mcwhinney said. “The beach is also reported to be a suntrap by visitors and makes the perfect spot to bask in the British summer sun’s rays.”

Guincho Beach, Cascais, Portugal.
Secret Escapes

“This beach is just 5km from the town of Cascais, and can be visited on a short city break in Lisbon,” Mcwhinney said. “The golden sands, massive waves, and clear skies make this beach so striking as a destination. There is a constant powerful breeze on this beach and it’s a little further out than other beaches in the region, therefore making it less frequented by tourists.”

For more on this story go to: http://www.businessinsider.com/100-under-the-radar-beaches-everyone-should-visit-in-their-lifetime-2018-1/#furore-italy-1