33 Best Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches Around the World
If you’re a daydreamer or wanderluster, like me, then you’re going to love this article about the world’s best hidden coves and secret beaches.
I don’t know about you, but I can’t resist scrolling through beautiful images from around the world to inspire my next trip.
Isn’t it frustrating, when you see a beautiful picture of a stunning secret beach or secluded cove around the world, and then NO ONE tells you where it is, or how to get there? So I asked some top travel experts where their favourite beautiful coves and secluded beaches are. And, wow! they did not disappoint.
In this article, I bring you over 30 bucket-list-worthy secret coves and hidden beaches for you to discover all over the world. They’ll tell you where they are, how to get there and a load of awesome insider bits of knowledge that the guidebooks don’t tell you.
So, what are you waiting for? Stop dreaming, and get planning your next gorgeous getaway.
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33 Most Beautiful Hidden Coves and Beaches
If you’re dreaming of travel right now, scroll through and get some inspiration for your next vacation. Who knows, you might be really close to one of these hidden coves and secret beaches without even knowing it.
Before we delve into some of the lesser know destinations, here’s a lowdown of some of the most famous coves in the world to add to your travel bucket list.
Top Hidden Coves Around the World
Here are the top ten most beautiful hidden coves and beaches in the world. These gems offer a secluded experience away from the crowds. If you’re looking for a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of every day life, here are some of the best spots to consider:
- Railay Beach, Thailand
- Gilli Islands, Indonesia
- Nungwi Beach, Tanzania
- Elafonissi Beach, Greece
- Spyglass Hill Beach, Barbados
- Kaputas Beach, Turkey
- Navagio Beach, Greece
- Tulum Beach, Mexico
- Enderbury Island, Phoenix Islands
- Blue Lagoon Island, Bahamas
1. Railay Beach, Thailand
This hidden gem is surrounded by rugged limestone cliffs that cut it off from the rest of the mainland. You can only get there by boat, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Like a lot of Thailand, the water here is crystal clear framed by soft white sand. To top it off, it’s also surrounded by vibrant green forests.
Whether you want to climb the amazing rocks – rock climbing is popular here! – or just chill on the beach, Railay Beach is a must-visit during your Thailand itinerary.
Related Article: Ultimate Thailand Bucket List – 26 Best Things to Do in Thailand
2. Gilli Islands, Indonesia
The Gili Islands are a tropical paradise. The three amazing islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno are accessible from Bali. Whichever of the three you visit, the beaches are simply sublime, with soft white sand, green palm trees, and blue water.
Each island has a different vibe – but whichever one you choose, it’s the ideal place for relaxation – away from the noise and pollution of cars. There are plenty of top snorkelling and diving opportunities at the colourful coral reefs in these clear and calm waters.
And don’t miss the stunning sunsets – find a beachfront bar, settle on one of the giant beanbags and stip on a cocktail.
3. Nungwi Beach, Tanzania
This coastal gem has everything you could wish for soft, white sands, clear, blue waters, and colourful marine life!
You can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach, surrounded by the beauty of nature. You can also admire the traditional fishing boats and the amazing sunsets that paint the sky with different hues of purple, orange and yellow.
4. Elafonissi Beach, Greece
I honestly can’t get enough of Elafonissi Beach in Greece! The sand is pink! the water is so blue – it doesn’t look real.
It’s located on the west coast of Crete and is one of the best places in Greece, let alone on the island, to relax and enjoy the sun. You have to see it for yourself, you won’t regret it!
5. Spyglass Hill Beach, Barbados
This gorgeous cove is hidden on the southeast coast, away from the crowds and noise.
If you’re a fan of soft, golden sand and the clear, turquoise water that invites you to swim and snorkel, you’ll love it here. It’s a quintessential tropical oasis, surrounded by greenery and palm trees.
The beach is calm and quiet, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
6. Kaputas Beach, Turkey
Kaputas Beach is a gorgeous beach on the Turkish coast with welcoming blue waters and soft sand.
The water is clear and inviting, which makes it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. Under the waves, you’ll see colourful fish and coral reefs.
7. Navagio Beach, Greece
If you’re looking for a beach cove that looks like it’s been pulled straight from a movie set, look no further than Navagio Beach in Greece.
As beach coves go, this one is a little challenging to get to. It’s surrounded by steep cliffs and can only be reached by boat, giving you a feeling of adventure and privacy. The most amazing feature of this beach is the old derelict ship that lies on the shore, creating a fascinating and mysterious sight.
At the time of writing, you can not go on to the beach due to the danger of the crumbling cliff faces – you can still view it from a boat. It may be reopened once a solution to the falling rocks has been put in place, there’s no set date for this yet.
8. Tulum Beach, Mexico
Tulum has seen a boom in popularity in recent years. And it’s easy to see why. This gorgeous beach features not only stunning natural scenery it’s also surrounded by ancient Mayan ruins.
The soft sandy beach with turquoise blue waters make this an ideal spot to relax and swim after a morning exploring the ruin sites
Also, there’s an abundance of things to do here, like snorkelling, diving, and exploring the coral reefs and marine life or sipping on a cocktail from one of the vibrant beachfront hipster bars.
It’s one of the most outstanding places on the Riviera Maya coast!
9. Enderbury Island, Phoenix Islands
You’ll need to charter a boat to reach this isolated and uninhabited island. Enderbury Island is one of the Phoenix Islands in the Pacific Ocean, and it’s so far away from everything that it’s still pure and untouched.
It makes for the quintessential desert island with white soft sand, surrounded by clear and blue water. Because this is a protected area, it’s a haven for all kinds of birds and marine life.
10. Blue Lagoon Island, Bahamas
If you’re looking for a slice of paradise, look no further than Blue Lagoon Island in the Bahamas! This private island, also called Salt Cay, has a gorgeous cove and beach with turquoise waters that give it an exclusive feel.
You’ll love sinking your toes into the soft white sand and soaking up the sun. Or you can swim in the calm water and snorkel with colourful fish and coral. It’s also famous for dolphin and sea lion encounters.
Worlds Best Hidden Coves and Beaches Around the World
We’ve just delved into some of the world’s most famous hidden coves and beaches. This next section lists over 20 lesser-known hidden coves to add to your bucket list.
Best Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches In North America
11. Cinnamon Bay, US Virgin Islands
Cinnamon Bay is part of the Virgin Islands National Park.
Cinnamon Bay is hidden on the north side of St. John behind the luscious green trees of the forest. While you can take a cab or drive to the beach from Cruz Bay, the most adventurous way (read: most fun) is by hiking the Cinnamon Bay Trail.
The trail provides gorgeous views over the island and the ocean surrounding it. At one point you have a view of Cinnamon Bay itself. The journey is part of the allure of this secluded spot.
Once you get there you may be the only ones on this long stretch of sand. It’s one of the most romantic spots I’ve ever been to.
There are picnic tables in the shade under the trees and the water is the clearest baby blue you’ll ever find. If you have your own snorkel equipment this is a great place to use it. There are tons of colourful tropical fish swimming right around your legs.
Recommended by Anna from Stuck On The Go
12. Tourmaline, San Diego, USA
San Diego, California, is known as America’s Finest City in part because it has over 70 miles of beaches. Although many of the beaches in San Diego can be crowded, there are still a couple of spots where you can take hidden paths down to empty beaches and secret coves.
Black’s Beach is the city’s most notorious ‘secret beach,’ and you can find quiet and solitude if you walk far enough down the sand to escape the naked old people roasting like raisins in the sun. However, my favourite spot when I lived in San Diego was a little variation on one of the city’s most famous surf beaches – Tourmaline on the far north end of Pacific Beach.
Tourmaline is a beautiful beach that ends in a bluff creating a secluded bay. Depending on the waves, this could be a glassy calm snorkelling area or a pumping surf break. To reach the cove, you have to walk about a mile down from the nearest parking lot, which means it’s almost always empty except for the extreme surfers who paddle in.
There’s a secret staircase of Sea Ridge Drive that gives you direct access to the farthest reaches of the beach with readily available parking.
Once you reach the water, you will get an upfront view of the area’s best surfers or walk around the point to a secluded palm grove where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Southern California.
Recommended by Jenn & Ed from Coleman Concierge
13. Shark Fin Cove, San Francisco, USA
Have you ever been to a place, and wondered how it can be so beautiful? That’s exactly what we thought when we encountered Shark Fin Cove! The place lives up to its namesake right away – the iconic offshore rock takes the exact shape of a shark fin, with crashing waves enveloping either side of this gorgeous location on the Pacific Ocean.
Shark Fin Cove is located in Davenport, California, just south of San Francisco. You can reach the cove by driving south on Highway 1 for 1.5 hours from the city!
There is no labelled parking lot for Shark Fin Cove, and you can easily miss it if you aren’t looking. The easiest way to locate the parking lot is to find the cove on Google Maps, change it to satellite mode, and locate the parking lot for reference as you drive by.
To reach the shores of the cove, you must climb down a very steep dirt trail. However, some of the best views are experienced from the bluffs just north of the cove. This is an extremely popular spot for photographers, especially during sunset. We don’t recommend this cove for swimming as the waves can be fierce and rough!
We think it’s the best secret cove in the world for the incredible photography opportunities it provides! My husband and I absolutely love capturing the beauty of nature on our road trips, and this was hands down one of the most magical places we’ve seen!
Recommended by Emily from The Mandagies
14. Bahia de las Aguilas, Dominican Republic
I’ve been lucky to visit many amazing beaches in my life, but the most beautiful I’ve ever seen is definitely Bahia de las Aguilas, located in the Pedernales province in the Dominican Republic, not far from the border with Haiti.
The Dominican Republic is known for its beautiful beaches, but they’re usually very built up with hotels and resorts. Bahia de las Aguilas is special because it’s located in Jaragua National Park, and so it’s blissfully free from development – the only accommodation option are two eco-friendly glamping resorts.
The beach is 7 km long and sandy, with the clearest, bluest water I have ever seen, but the best thing about it is the feeling of truly being alone.
To get there it’s necessary to stay at one of the two eco-resorts, who will then drive you by boat to some of the remotest and most pristine sections of the beach. You can spend your day swimming, relaxing under the shade of trees, snorkelling, sunbathing or simply enjoying the beauty of the place.
Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet
15. Kirby Cove, San Francisco, USA
The Golden Gate Bridge is, of course, going to be near the top of the list in terms of things to see on your San Francisco itinerary. But at pretty much every viewpoint of the bridge, you’re going to find hundreds of tourists looking to get that perfect view, and often failing because of the seemingly ever-present fog during summers in San Francisco.
What if I told you that there was a place just outside of San Francisco where you could get an unobstructed view of the Golden Gate Bridge that isn’t packed with tourists? That place is Kirby Cove, where you’ll get a staggering view of the world-famous bridge from the water level.
The price of entry? A one-mile hike (one way) down from Battery Spencer on Conzelman Road, where you’ll need to park. The winding trail, just under a mile long, descends down through the trees all the way to the water’s edge. From here, you’ll have an incredible view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the southeast.
It’s an amazing spot for a romantic sunset in San Francisco when the setting sun will bathe the bridge in a golden light, accentuating the colours of the famous red structure. Wait a few more minutes, and you’ll see the lights of San Francisco start to turn on, which gives you an unbeatable view of the city and its most famous landmark.
If you book one of a couple of campsites at Kirby Cove six months in advance, you can camp down near the beach, which is a bucket list experience for your trip to San Francisco.
Recommended by Matt from Wheatless Wanderlust
Best Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches In Asia
16. Secret Beach, Koh Rong Cambodia
It’s already one of the more difficult places to reach in South East Asia but did you know that Koh Rong, perched just off the coast of Cambodia, has a few secret beaches? Think pristine white sand, azure waters and lush jungle infringing on the seashore, Koh Rong is absolutely idyllic even without some of the remote sandy shores dotted around its perimeter.
Even though it’s a bit of a nightmare to get to this utopian outpost via ferry from the slightly seedy seaside town, of Sihanoukville, it’s worth the effort.
Go hiking through thick vegetation to Long Beach, navigate the mangroves of Long Set or even kayak out to Police Beach, a remote stretch which you’ll probably only share with a handful of other intrepid sun worshippers. You can even swim with bioluminescent plankton each evening if you time it just right.
However, the best way to get around Koh Rong is definitely by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, which is how you’ll find the unnamed beaches. Like the one featured here, located just a ten-minute paddle from the Ariya Resort (also home to the island’s only sunset treehouse experience).
The beach, which doesn’t boast a name (let’s call it the Scribes Beach shall we?), is only accessible by boat or kayak, meaning you’ll usually have the entire coastline to yourself! In our five hours on this beach, we didn’t encounter another soul, spending our time scrunching our toes in the sand, wading through the water and generally feeling like we’d found our own version of paradise.
There might not be much to do here – don’t expect a beach bar or even a lounger for hire – but that’s the appeal of it all. Just you, the strangely ochre-tinted waves (we think it was silt from the jungle) and the sun warming your skin.
Explored by Lee from The Travel Scribes
17. Tanjung Aan Beach, Lombok, Indonesia
Located on the South coast of Lombok, Indonesia is the stunning Tanjung Aan Beach. This beach is something out of a postcard that will wow you from start to finish. Upon arrival, you are blinded by the white, soft sand, which will make you shoot your gaze upwards towards to vivid blue ocean.
The water is so blue it looks like blue Kool-Aid or Gatorade, a sight most eyes long for. It is rare to find such a beautiful place so untouched by humans and so private.
The beach is reachable by car or scooter, but the ride isn’t the easiest. To get there you must travel on the route through the back roads of Lombok and you will most likely be faced with a cowherd in the way at least once during your drive there. This is accompanied by huge potholes, passing jungle villages, and confusing signs. It is an adventure, to say the least.
Once you get here you can do whatever your heart desires. The crystal-clear water is the perfect temperature for swimming in and there are no rocks or stones to hurt your feet on. There are also swings set up all along the beach that are great for fun and unique Instagram photos (guilty)! In a place as private and romantic as this, the hardest part is leaving.
Recommended by Samantha from Sam Sees World
18. Caramoan Islands, Philippines
The untouched region of Bicol in the Philippines is home to the quiet and deserted islands in Caramoan. They are filled with pristine beaches and powdery white sand surrounded by jagged rock formations and turquoise blue waters.
This hidden gem in the Camarines Sur is an ideal destination for those looking for secret beaches or hidden coves, as pretty much every island in the Caramoan fits that description. In order to find these little spots of paradise you must island hop on an outrigger from one serene spot to another in search of the coves, such as my favourite one, Tugawe Cove. It is perfect for watersports, swimming or just sunbathing on its golden sands.
The islands are so remote, that it’s unlikely you’ll see anyone else, in fact during our three nights we only saw a handful of fishermen as we island-hopped around the Caramoan. This is just one of the reasons why the islands have been used to film the popular US TV show, Survivor.
The difficulty in reaching the Caramoan islands is part of the reason why it has remained a secret Filipino paradise. From the capital Manila, you must catch a one-hour flight to Legazpi City in Bicol, followed by a three-hour drive to Sabang Port, and then a two-hour speed boat ride to the Caramoan peninsula.
Recommended by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within
Best Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches In EUROPE
19. Achmelvich Cove, Scotland
Achmelvich Cove is a secluded cove featuring white sands and ‘Carribeanesque’ turquoise waters. You would be forgiven for forgetting that you are in Scotland whilst visiting this pristine cove. The water looks straight out of a movie.
Achmelvich Cove is an hour’s drive away from Ullapool. Ullapool is a stunning ‘wee’ fishing village in the north of Scotland in Wester Ross. This is the base for exploring the far north of Scotland, Torridon, Wester Ross and Sutherland.
The cove is in the far north of Scotland and a nearly 5-hour drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh, the closest largest cities. This truly is off the beaten track.
A popular site for kayakers and wind and water surfers, Achmelvich is also very family-friendly. You can borrow (for free) a net from the on-site ranger’s hut and go rock-pooling. Kids can see shore carb, butterfish and common blenny in the pools. All of this happens with Sulvein, a dramatic shark’s fin-shaped mountain, as the impressive backdrop.
Driving to Achmelvich takes you through Sunderland, some of Scotland’s most picturesque, untouched landscapes. Steep, rocky hills rise out of sprawling flat plains, empty and bereft of civilization.
If you really love the cove, you can even stay the night on the beach. There’s a touring caravan park and a campsite right on the water’s edge, and even a basic hostel.
Recommended by Graham from My Voyage Scotla
20. Praia dos Estudantes, Portugal
Just outside of the old city of Lagos, Portugal is a hidden cove with a special surprise! Walk along the Lagos coastline away from the town until you reach Praia dos Estudantes, a secluded golden-sand beach surrounded by cliffs.
At low tide, you’ll be able to pass through a tunnel in the cliff face that takes you to a secret cove. Here, you’ll find the Lagos Roman Bridge connecting two rock formations. Not much is known about this secret stone archway, but it’s definitely a fun attraction to find while you’re out sightseeing.
While the water in the Atlantic can be quite chilly all year round, this is a popular spot for sunbathers and watersports enthusiasts. You’ll likely see kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, and sailboats cruising around the rock formations of Praia dos Estudantes.
This hidden cove is the perfect place to spend the day enjoying history and natural beauty in the heart of Lagos, Portugal.
Recommended by Nicola from See Nic Wander
21. Sandwood Bay, Scotland
Sandwood Bay is located near Kinlochbervie, Scotland. This wild beach is reportedly the most beautiful in Britain. Though getting to it is not the easiest…
I went to this beach on my Honeymoon trip. It was a gloomy, stormy day. Typical Scotland. But that did not take away from the majesty of the place. To get to Sandwood Bay you take the single-track road northwest from Kinlochbervie. Once you get to the small hamlet of Blairmore there is a small gravel car park. There is no public transport to this spot.
It is then a four-mile walk to Sandwood Beach. The track takes you over moorland, with views over lochs. Eventually, you come to sand dunes and once you have gotten over them you finally reach the remote beach.
The bay faces the North Atlantic, and so is often buffeted by the winds. With pink sands flanked by cliffs, the trek is well rewarded. It is possible to wild camp at Sandwood Bay, but there have been reports of a ghost and the most recent sighting of a mermaid in Britain was recorded here in 1900. So watch out for them if you decide to stay the night!
A word of caution; do not swim here. The undercurrents are too strong for swimming. This is how the ghost came to be on the beach.
Personally, I found the remoteness and wildness of the beach captivating. It was one of the many stops on my Honeymoon that I would love to visit again (though hopefully with better weather next time).
Recommended by Nat from Natpacker
22. Caletta Toraiello, Italy
During our 15-day road trip across Puglia in Italy, we got to marvel at many of the region’s pristine beaches. Yet none of them felt as laid-back and authentic as Caletta Toraiello, a hidden cove which is situated about 6km north of the gorgeous seaside town of Otranto in southern Italy. From here, you can get to the beach in 10 minutes by car or 25 minutes by bus.
Caletta Toraiello really is a secret beach. So secret that we never had the intention to visit in the first place as we didn’t even know it existed. In our effort to find Baia dei Turchi, one of Puglia’s most popular beaches, a couple of wrong turns, as we walked in the midst of a thick pine forest to get there, led us to this slice of heaven that is Caletta Toraiello instead.
This cove is quite sheltered with shallow crystal clear waters, thus ideal for families travelling with kids. Caletta Toraiello is also perfect for anyone who loves to enjoy a good book under the sun in a peaceful setting away from the crowds. Speaking of sun, there’s not much natural shade so either bring a beach umbrella along or visit as late in the afternoon as possible.
We fell in love with Caletta Toraiello. That’s not to say that we didn’t like Puglia’s other beaches. But Caletta Toraiello is one of those secret coves that you’ll most probably have all to yourselves and there’s nothing that can beat this feeling, is there?
Recommended by Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me
Read Next: 15 Best Things to See in South Italy
23. Great Bay, Isles of Scilly, UK
Great Bay is a beautiful arc of sand backed by heathland with not a building or road in sight. Even in the height of summer, it is only visited by a handful of people each day.
Great Bay is located on the island of St Martin, one of the Isles of Scilly, in the UK. As with any secret beach, it takes a while to reach Great Bay. The Isles of Scilly are 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall in south-west England. There are flights from several regional airports or you can take the ferry which passes St Michael’s Mount and the Minack Theatre.
The ferry docks at the main island of St Mary’s and from there it’s another boat ride to the island of St Martin’s. Once you’ve reached St Martin’s it’s a beautiful 30 walk across the island to Great Bay. There are no facilities at the beach so ensure you’ve stocked up at the bakery near the dock. There are a couple of eateries on the island to choose from too.
Great Bay is perfect for swimming, the water is crystal clear (but a little chilly). The sand is fine and soft. If you visit the Isles of Scilly with kids, your children will love Great Bay for sandcastles and splashing in the sea.
Recommended by Annabel from Smudged Postcard
24. Cala Antoniareddu, Sardinia, Italy
Cala Antoniareddu is a small secret cove not far from Cagliari, and one of the best beaches in Sardinia. Characterized by incredibly clear and shallow waters and surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation where goats and sheep often roam free. It’s a must-see for your Italian bucket list.
This is a place where you can enjoy endless hours of swimming and snorkelling. The cove is protected from the wind, so even on a windy day, the sea tends to be quite calm. There is absolutely no kind of service there in terms of kiosks, restaurants, gear rentals – it’s just as wild as it gets.
The fact that there isn’t direct road access and any building close to this beach makes it less popular and less crowded than many others nearby, and this only adds to its beauty.
To get to Cala Antoniareddu from Cagliari you need to drive along State Road SS195 and then take a left turn to SP71. You need to stop where you see a sign that points to Pinnetta Village, where you will find a gate that leads you to a parking lot.
From there, it’s about a 1 km walk (best to wear shoes for that) to get to the beach. Alternatively, the beach can be reached by boat from either Chia or Capo Malfatano beaches.
Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Sardinia
Looking for more beautiful beaches in Italy? Discover Favignana near Trapani, Sicily
25. Porth Joke Cove, Cornwall, UK
One of my favourite beaches in the world is Porth Joke Cove, near Perranporth in Cornwall, UK.
This tiny cove has incredibly soft sand and, most importantly, is relatively quiet throughout the year- despite the popularity of Newquay only a short distance away.
This entire coastline has wonderful beaches, full of caves and great surfing waves, but that, of course, draws the crowds to match!
We were recommended to add Porth Joke to our Cornwall road trip itinerary as somewhere to get away from the people- even in high summer.
The beach is a short walk from the car park, which is probably why it remains so empty all year round, but it’s definitely worth the effort.
It’s sheltered on 3 sides, so you’re fairly well protected from the wind, but you can still enjoy some of the famous surf. It’s quite shallow, so safe for swimming or snorkelling (but please be aware of rip tides which are common all along this coastline- don’t let children go too far offshore.)
Having said that, children aren’t too common at this beach; there are no toilets or cafe so most families choose to go elsewhere with more facilities- making it a perfect retreat for couples or those with older kids.
There is no shade, so I highly recommend taking a parasol if you’re going to spend the day (and you are definitely going to want to spend the day!)
Bring a cooler with lots of drinks and food (yes, you’ll need to carry it from the car) and settle down to do nothing but listen to the surf, paddle, poke at rock pools and watch the sunset. Sheer magic.
Recommended by Kat from Wandering Bird
26. San Fruttuoso, Italy
San Fruttuoso is a beautiful cove hidden on the rugged coast of the Italian Riviera. Although you won’t be alone when you visit, it is an adventure to get there, as it is accessible only by boat or on foot.
The best way to get there is to take a boat from Rapallo to the tiny town of Portofino, then, after spending some time exploring, head up the hill and hike along the coast to tiny San Fruttuoso Bay.
The hike from Portofino along the coastline takes about two hours, passing by olive farms and fields of wildflowers, with the Mediterranean sparkling far below. The descent is down a switchback, through shady woods, and finally past a tenth-century Benedictine Abbey.
The former monastery, which dominates the bay and frames the pebbly beach, is home to a small museum. In addition to the abbey, there are a handful of seafood restaurants, deck chairs and umbrellas for rent and little else. Which is perfect.
The water is a beautiful emerald green, and especially refreshing after hiking to get there. This is an ideal spot for a romantic lunch, then a relaxing afternoon lying on the beach and swimming in the sea.
There are several boats throughout the day in season (you can skip the hike if you prefer), so at the end of the day, take the boat back to your hotel in Rapallo or nearby Santa Margherita Ligure.
There is also a sunken statue of Jesus Christ just off the coast of San Fruttuoso, which makes a great dive site for scuba divers.
Recommended by James at Travel Collecting
Related Article: The Amalfi Coast Road Trip in Italy
27. Cala Moraig, Alicante, Spain
One of our favourite secret coves and an insider’s tip for the best beaches in Alicante is for sure the Cala Moraig in Spain. This fantastic Spanish beach is located on the north of the “Costa Blanca” – the white coast of Alicante, in the area of the town Jaeva/Xabia.
This cove can only be reached by foot walking a steep road. Perhaps this is why this hidden bay is still so quiet and never crowded, not even in summer.
Once at the bottom, you will enjoy a picturesque ambience, the sea is really clean and glows in the most beautiful shades of blue. The beach is surrounded by a huge cliff, and the soft white sand is just perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
On the edge of Cala del Moriag, there is a small sea cave (Cova dels Arcs) – a natural attraction that is also worth a visit.
The sea is just amazing and shines in the most divine sea colours. Due to the many stones and the clear water, the Cala del Moraig is ideal for snorkelling.
We were surprised by the extraordinary backdrop of huge rocks, the blue sea and the light sand that makes Cala Moraig one of the most beautiful coves in the world. If you are travelling through Spain, you should definitely visit this natural gem.
Recommended by Martina & Jürgen from Places of Juma
Read Next: The Best 10 Days In Spain Itinerary
28. Benagil Caves, Portugal
Benagil Cave is a beautiful sea cove located on the Algarve Coast in Portugal with a little hidden beach inside. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal as well as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world due to its unique formation.
The cave is made up of limestone like most of the other formations on this rocky coastline of Portugal. The rocks inside the cave have a unique and stunning circular banded appearance.
This effect has been created by multiple layers of limestone over the years. Right in the centre of the cave is a huge circular hole that lets natural light flood into the cave and on the beach.
The colour of the limestone in contrast with the blue sky visible from the hole in the ceiling is what makes this cave even more stunning. No amount of pictures or videos does justice to the beauty of this cave.
The nearest towns to Benagil caves are Lagos and Albufeira. You can easily get a taxi or a rental boat to the Praia De Benagil where the cave is situated. Once you get there, the only way to access the cave and reach the hidden beach is by swimming or kayaking there.
You will find Kayak rental places at the Bengil Beach which is where the cave is situated. Be warned though, the water here is pretty cold even during the summer months.
The secret cove is usually packed with people throughout the day. So if you would like some peace and quiet, early mornings are the quietest and the best time to visit this secret beach.
Recommended by Merryl from Merryl’s Travel and Tricks
Read Next: 36 Most Famous Landmarks in Portugal
29. Calanque de Sugiton, Southern France
Calanque de Sugiton is my favourite secret cove on the Mediterranean coast. Calanque de Sugiton is part of the Parc National des Calanques Marseille – Cassis, a coastal park located in the South of France, between the city of Marseille and the town of Cassis.
The National Park includes a terrestrial part, made of limestone cliffs and pudding, creeks and islets, and its corresponding marine part, so it’s a great combination of sea and mountains, of hikes and swims.
Calanque de Sugiton has a very wild setting, surrounded by high cliffs on the north and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean on the south. It is a secluded creek that – compared to other Calanques nearby – does not see many people.
To get to the creek from the main hiking path on the top of the creek, there is a path and it usually takes 45 minutes to walk downhill. Of course, you can also reach Sugiton by catamaran and this is a very popular day trip from Marseille or Cassis.
Common activities in this calanque are swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and diving. If you want to spend your day here bring your picnic as there are no facilities selling food and drinks.
Calanque de Sugiton is easy to reach by public transportation. From Marseille, take bus #21 from L’avenue du Prado, at Castellane, in the direction of Luminy, and get off at the terminus. From there, you can follow the above-mentioned path downhill.
Recommended by Elisa from France Bucket List
30. Agiofili Beach, Greece
Located in the Ionian Sea off of mainland Greece, Lefkada is a Greek Island with a wealth of beautiful beaches! Among them, Agiofili Beach stands out as one of the most picturesque and lesser-known. We had a great time snorkelling, soaking up the sun and revelling in the beauty of this stunning cove.
The beach is small and covered with little white pebbles and the waters are crystal clear and popular for snorkelling so don’t forget to take some equipment with you. You’ll spot little fish and other critters in the waters around Agiofili Beach.
It is a great spot for sunbathing and swimming too. You can rent a sunbed but there are no restaurants or other amenities at Agiofili beach so bring refreshments, something to eat and anything else you’ll need for a day at the beach.
There are a couple of ways to get to Agiofili. You can drive and then walk 10 minutes via a goat path however it is not recommended because the dirt road is severely damaged. You can walk from Vasiliki along the coast but it can be difficult when the sun is high in the sky.
Or, you can hire a taxi boat from Port Vasiliki like we did. We would suggest you chose the latter for a relaxing day at one of the best (secret) beaches in Europe.
Recommended by Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel
Best Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches In Oceania
31. Cathedral Cove, New Zealand
The Cathedral Cove in New Zealand’s Coromandel is quite a known “secret“. You will instantly fall in love with the tunnel cave view of the massive rock. It’s a charming place.
Getting up early to be there for sunrise is definitely worth it – the morning light is simply perfect for your photos. Fans of Chronicles of Narnia will recognize this place from the scene, where the siblings discover the ruins of Cair Paravel.
How to get to Cathedral Cove? The car park, located right at the beginning of the Cathedral Cove walk, is closed during the summer season. You can park here and pay during the winter season. However, it’s best to park in the town of Hahei (at Visitor Car Park) and walk from there to the trailhead (it’s about half an hour’s walk).
Hahei Visitor Car park is very well marked. You can also take a shuttle bus during the summer. Toilets are available at the Cathedral Cove walk trailhead.
There is a very nice viewing platform as well. It takes about 40 minutes from there to Cathedral Cove. It is an easy walking track with staircases descending to the beach.
Recommended by Adriana from Czech The World
32. Second Valley, South Australia
If you promise not to tell anyone, I’ll let you in on one of South Australia’s best-kept secrets.
Second Valley doesn’t make it onto the radar of most travellers. Located 90 minutes south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, it is often overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbour – Rapid Bay.
Surrounded by rolling hills and a rugged coastline, Second Valley has something for everyone from cliff-top walks to water activities. The small beach has clean, white sand perfect for relaxing and soaking up some sun. It is a great spot for families, the water is clear and calm and the bottom is sandy with a gentle slope.
Second Valley is also popular with Kayakers. There are several sea caves to explore and launching from the beach is the easiest way to access them. It is not unusual to see dolphins as you paddle around.
Bring your snorkelling gear too. The rocky reefs around the beach have all sorts of marine life to discover. If you have an eagle eye you might spot a leafy sea dragon! For more adventurous snorkelers, Lasseter’s Reef 300 meters out from the beach has large schools of fish.
There is a general store and a small caravan park in Second Valley but not much else. Bring a picnic, stay for the day and see why Second Valley is so loved by the locals.
Recommended by Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers
33. Point Lookout, North Stradbroke Island, Australia
There are dozens of islands off the coast of Australia with wonderful places to visit and stay. One of the best-kept secrets is Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island in Australia. It is the jewel in the crown of this part of the world.
The island is accessible only by passenger and vehicle ferries, as there is no bridge from the mainland. Which acts as a natural filter on who goes to the island.
Point Lookout has something for everyone.
Want to go for a swim in a weather-protected cove? Then Cylinder Beach is the place for you and your kids.
Go for a surf? Try world-class Main Beach.
Want to travel on tens of kilometres of unspoiled beach in your 4WD? Then you’ve come to the right place.
Or go for a romantic walk along the headland beaches of Frenchmans Beach and Deadmans Beach. Don’t let the names put you off; they are magnificent, easily accessible beaches and coves.
If the beach is not your thing, then go for a swim in one of the two freshwater inland lakes – Lake Bummiera and Lake Kaboora. Or simply enjoy a whole dining experience at the Blue Room Café, with clifftop views across the Pacific Ocean. Pick the right time of year and you’ll see migrating whales while you sip on your latte. Then go on to spend a lazy afternoon relaxing at the iconic Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel.
There’s a range of accommodations available, from glamping to resort-style units and houses. Why would you want to be anywhere else?
Recommended by Keith from Travelin Lite
Best Beaches & Coves Around the World – FAQs
Before you go on these picturesque beaches with coves, here are some answers to frequently asked questions that will help make your travel experience truly unforgettable!
What Is a Cove?
A cove is a small, sheltered bay or inlet along a coastline, often surrounded by cliffs or rocks, offering protection from rough waters and providing a serene and secluded environment, making it an ideal spot for beaches and leisure activities.
What Is a Cove Beach?
Cove beaches are small, picturesque beaches located within a cove. These beaches are often secluded and surrounded by natural formations such as cliffs or rocks, creating a tranquil and intimate setting for beachgoers to enjoy the sun, sand, and water.
What Shape Do Most Coves Have?
Most coves have a semi-circular or crescent shape. This shape is a result of erosion and geological processes over time, where waves and currents work on the coastline, carving out the bay or inlet, typically with a narrower entrance and a wider, more open area towards the centre.
What Is a Secluded Bay Called?
A secluded bay is commonly referred to as a “hidden bay” or a “private bay.” These secluded bays are often pristine and peaceful, offering a tranquil escape.
What’s the Most Famous Cove?
There are many famous coves around the world. One of the most famous coves in the world is “Navagio Beach,” also known as “Shipwreck Beach,” located on the Greek island of Zakynthos. It is renowned for its stunning beauty and the rusting wreck of a smuggler’s ship that adds an intriguing element to the picturesque setting.
What Are Some of the Most Beautiful Coves in the World?
Some of the most beautiful coves in the world include Navagio Beach in Greece (Shipwreck Beach), Kaputas Beach in Turkey, Nungwi Beach in Tanzania, Spyglass Hill Beach in Barbados, and the Gilli Islands in Indonesia (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno). Each cove offers its unique charm and stunning natural beauty.
Which of These Beautiful Coves and Beaches Are on Your List?
I hope you agree that this is a pretty damn-fine list of beautiful secluded getaways from all over the world.
I’d like to thank every one of the contributors who made putting this article together possible by giving their professional insight into these beautiful hidden coves and beaches.
The only difficult part now is choosing which one to visit! I know I’ll be adding some of these to my travel bucket list, now, where’s my passport?
Looking for more inspirational articles on travel destinations? read more articles here…