Craving a truly peaceful beach escape? Discover stunning shores where tranquility reigns and the crowds are nowhere in sight. The world is home to secret coastal treasures, and each offers its own unique reason to settle in and soak up the calm. Here’s your guide to remarkable hidden beaches, each chosen for their untouched landscapes, distinct beauty, and the relaxing experiences that await.

Playa Cueva, Costa Rica

Tucked away on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Cueva is a stretch of soft, golden sand bordered by lush jungle. Access to this shoreline leads you through tropical greenery alive with wildlife—including monkeys swinging overhead and vibrant tropical birds. The gentle curve of the bay sees only the calmest tides, perfect for swimming and meditative walks along the waterline. Low-key eco-lodges are hidden behind the treeline. In the early morning, mist hovers above the jungle, while at sunset, the entire cove glows with a serene warmth. Snorkelers will find colorful fish and healthy coral formations close to shore, and a sense of privacy that’s rare even in Costa Rica’s famed coastal regions.

Shell Beach, Western Australia

Located in Shark Bay, Shell Beach is a natural marvel, stretching for over 60 miles with a surface made up entirely of millions of tiny, white cockle shells. Unlike typical sandy beaches, this unique setting creates a crunch beneath your feet and a sight unlike any other along the coast. Waters here are unusually clear and shallow, shimmering against the pure white of the shoreline. Because this beach is remote, it’s common to have entire sections to yourself. Wildlife, such as dolphins, dugongs, and rare birds, frequent the bay's tranquil waters. The sunsets, reflecting over the shell-white expanse and the calm Indian Ocean, are unforgettable.

Calanque d’En-Vau, France

Hidden within the dramatic limestone cliffs of Calanques National Park, Calanque d’En-Vau is a secluded cove that seems designed for quiet adventure. Accessible either by a moderate hiking trail winding through pine forests or by kayak from neighboring coves, the destination rewards every visitor with peace and awe-inspiring scenery. Towering cliffs frame turquoise waters, creating a serene natural amphitheater. The pebbled beach is rarely crowded, thanks to its protected status and the effort required to reach it. Swimming in these crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering walls of white stone is an experience both refreshing and surreal. Adventurers can paddle along the calanques' network of inlets or picnic in the dappled shade along the water’s edge.

Papakōlea Beach, Hawaii

One of Earth’s only green sand beaches, Papakōlea lies on Hawaii’s Big Island and stands out for its fascinating color and unspoiled character. The sand gets its hue from olivine crystals, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, giving the shore a surreal emerald glow. To reach Papakōlea, visitors cross 2.5 miles of rugged terrain dotted with windswept grass and volcanic rock, creating a thrilling approach and ensuring an uncrowded setting upon arrival. Waves crash against cliffs, and the vibrant blue ocean contrasts dramatically with the green sand below. While the beach is remote, the payoff is a quiet, otherworldly shoreline perfect for contemplation, photography, and appreciating Hawaii’s rare geological wonders.

Praia do Carvalho, Portugal

Tucked along southern Portugal’s Algarve coast, Praia do Carvalho is a cove framed by weathered limestone cliffs, accessed via a unique tunnel carved into the rock. The entrance feels like a secret passage, opening onto a peaceful stretch of golden sand where the sea meets the cliffs. Clear Atlantic waters offer excellent conditions for snorkeling, revealing rocky underwater landscapes and colorful marine life just offshore. Caves and rock arches around the beach invite exploration. Despite its central location in the Algarve, Praia do Carvalho remains shielded from the crowds, creating a spot to relax and listen to the soft roll of the waves echoing in the sheltered bay.

Agios Sostis, Greece

On the lively Greek island of Mykonos, Agios Sostis stands out as a rare haven of calm. No umbrellas, bars, or beach clubs line this stretch—instead, simple beauty prevails. Golden sand slopes softly into balmy, sparkling blue water. The gentle curve of the bay is flanked by rolling hills and wildflowers. Only a handful of visitors arrive each day, drawn by the beach’s off-the-beaten-path atmosphere and authentic charm. A rustic local taverna stands nearby, welcoming you with classic Greek dishes and breezy hospitality. Afternoons slip by amid quiet swims and sun-drenched naps far removed from the rush of Mykonos’s busier beaches.

Playa de Gulpiyuri, Spain

Northern Spain hides an exceptional marvel just inland from the Bay of Biscay: Playa de Gulpiyuri. This circular, freshwater beach sits in a green meadow, with a secret underground channel connecting it to the sea. Waves travel through limestone tunnels, filling the pool with saltwater and creating gentle tides in an unlikely spot. Soft, pale sand and grassy banks shape a picturesque scene. Because it’s only about 40 meters long and set apart from the coastline, Playa de Gulpiyuri remains a tranquil choice for those in search of relaxation and novelty. It provides a memorable, photogenic escape well worth the scenic walk from the nearest road.

Anse Marron, Seychelles

Anse Marron on La Digue Island is often cited by insiders as one of the Seychelles’ most exquisite and hidden beaches. Massive granite boulders and lush palms enclose the spot, sheltering a string of tidal pools with bath-warm water and small, creamy-sand bays. Access involves a guided walk through the island's thick vegetation and over giant rocks, adding a bit of adventure and dramatically thinning the crowds. The result is a private, paradise-like setting. Snorkelers find underwater gardens and bright tropical fish, and every visitor can enjoy panoramic views as the Indian Ocean meets untouched coast.

Secret Beach, Oregon, USA

Found along the magical coastline of southern Oregon, Secret Beach lives up to its mysterious name. Accessed by a forest trail and a steep but short descent, the beach rewards effort with sea stacks, calm tide pools, and swathes of golden sand hemmed by mossy cliffs. Misty mornings turn the area ethereal, while afternoon light casts a golden sheen over the wild Pacific. Dramatic rock formations create tide pools filled with starfish, anemones, and tiny crabs. Few visitors know about this stretch, so the only sounds are crashing waves and seabirds overhead, making it perfect for escaping into raw nature.

Tips for Exploring Hidden Beaches

  • Start early to enjoy the quietest times and best lighting for photos.
  • Respect local guidelines and preserve natural beauty for others to enjoy.
  • Embrace the adventure—getting to these beaches is often half the fun!