These 12 Beaches Have the Whitest Sand in the World, According to New Study
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What comes into your mind when thinking about the perfect beach getaway? You’ll probably imagine soaking under the sun along turquoise, crystal-clear waters and relaxing along pristine white sand. But did you know that some white sands are even whiter than others?
CV Villas recently conducted a study analyzing over 200 beaches worldwide to find out which ones have the whitest sands. The study used a color analysis theory, comparing Google Maps screenshots with the purest shade of white. Read on to find out which coast has the whitest sand in the world.
1. Tulum Beach, Mexico
Mexico’s Tulum Beach takes the title of the whitest sand in the world, with just 1.4 points off the whitest shade. To get there, you’ll have to take a two-hour trip from Cancun via bus, shuttle, rental car, or taxi. Its clear waters and pristine white sand, combined with an overlooking view of the Caribbean, add to its natural charm.
What sets Tulum Beach apart from other Mexican beaches is its well-preserved Mayan ruins. No other shore in Mexico has such historic sites, so don’t forget to snap photos of ancient wonders like the Temple of the Frescos and El Castillo.
Read also: Top 50 Beaches in the World
2. Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles
The beach with the second whitest sand in the world can be found on La Digue Island at Anse Seychelles. Anse Source D’Argent, which is also ranked 22nd among the 50 best beaches in the world, is just 4.3 points off the whitest shade. There are no rental cars or taxis here, so you’ll have to take an ox cart ride or a bicycle. Before getting to the beachfront, you’ll have to pass through the Union Estate, which used to be a coconut and vanilla plantation.
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Nearby restaurants and bars offer food and drinks, so you can sit back and relax along Anse Source D’Argent while being surrounded by granite boulders and palm trees. You can swim and snorkel and marvel at the coral reefs in its turquoise waters. Plus, you can explore some colonial architecture, like the Plantation House, and see the Giant Union Rock, which is about 700 million years old.
Read also: Budget-Friendly Beach Destinations in the World
3. Marmari, Greece
Up next on our list of the whitest sands in the world, you will find a Greek beach on the Dodecanese island of Kos. Marmari, which is just 6.5 points off the whitest shade, is a family-friendly coast where you can relax and enjoy the Aegean breeze. It is fairly accessible via taxi, bus, rental car or motorbike, as it’s only 20 minutes away from Kos.
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If you’re staying nearby, many accommodations offer umbrellas and sunbeds for a comfortable day by the sea. The best way to cap off your day at this Greek white-sand beach is through a horseback riding tour along the shore. Make sure to keep an eye out for sea turtles while you’re there! If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are watersports, boat tours, and even opportunities for wine and honey tasting or a tour around Kos.
Read also: Top Greek Islands for Beaches
4. Tropea, Italy
The fourth whitest sand in the world is in Tropea, which is just 6.9 points off the whitest shade. It’s about an hour from Lamezia Terme Airport and can be easily reached by train, bus, shuttle, or taxi.
Aside from its crystal-clear waters and amazing cliffs, it’s also close to historic sites. Don’t miss the Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola, an 11th-century church offering the best views of the area. Take a stroll through Tropea Old Town to explore its charming streets, the Tropea Cathedral, and the Grotta di San Leonardo.
Don’t forget to try the famous Tropea red onions, which are sometimes called Tropea’s “Red Gold.” The locals say you can even bite it like an apple—it’s pretty sweet. There are resorts and accommodations nearby, and you can also book boat tours to explore the nearby Aeolian Islands and even the volcanic island of Stromboli.
Read also: Underrated Italian Beach Destinations
5. Playa de Muro, Spain
Playa de Muro in Spain is tied with Italy’s Tropea at 6.9 points off the whitest shade. Located about 45 minutes from Palma de Mallorca Airport, you can get there easily by bus, shuttle, or rental car. This shore, known as one of the cleanest and most eco-responsible in the area, is perfect for families with kids thanks to its calm, shallow waters.
You’ll find plenty of hotels and restaurants where you can enjoy Mallorcan cuisine and live music. If you’re into water sports, Platja de Muro offers activities like paddleboarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing. For an enriching experience, you can also visit the nearby Sa Bassa Blanca museum or explore the natural beauty of S’Albufera National Park.
Read also: Underrated Beach Destinations in Spain
6. Cala Pluma, Spain
This hidden gem in the Balearic Islands is just 7.7 points off the whitest shade. It only takes around 15 minutes from Ibiza Airport to Cala Pluma, making it easy to reach by car. On the way to the shore, you’ll pass through the Ses Salines Natural Park, a haven for wildlife and a great spot for bird-watching, especially migratory birds. This park is home to Ibiza’s famous salt flats, too.
While you’re at Cala Pluma, don’t miss the chance to visit Ibiza’s historic Old Town, Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also see the Ibiza Cathedral and Ibiza Castle to soak in some of the island’s rich history.
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Read also: Underrated Beach Destinations in Spain
7. Plage de Valras, France
Plage de Valras in France, just 7.9 points off the whitest shade, is a beautiful beach that’s easily accessible, located less than 30 minutes from Beziers Airport. You can reach it by bus, taxi, or rental car. It is known for being one of the cleanest in Europe, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation.
Around Plage de Valras, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. For a unique experience, consider booking a cruise on the Canal du Midi, a 150-mile-long canal that passes through Beziers and stretches from Toulouse to Etang de Thau. While you’re in the area, you can also enjoy some French cuisine and wine tasting. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss a visit to the Lego Museum in Valras Plage, which adds a fun and educational twist to your beach day.
Read also: Stunning Beach Destinations in France
8. Cala Brandinichi, Italy
Dubbed “Little Tahiti” for its turquoise waters and soft white sand, Cala Brandinchi in Italy is just 8 points off the whitest shade. This beach is just about 30 minutes from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, and it’s easy to reach by shuttle, taxi, or car.
There are nearby amenities like bars and restaurants, where you can grab a bite or a drink after a day in the sun while sitting on the shore surrounded by pine trees and lush vegetation. If you’re into watersports, Cala Brandinchi has you covered—you can borrow equipment for activities like canoeing or pedal boating.
Read also: Hidden Beach Gems in Italy
9. Stocking Island, Bahamas
Landing at ninth place, Stocking Island in the Bahamas is just 8.5 points off the whitest shade. You’ll have to take a short ferry ride from George Town to reach this stunning beach after a 20-minute trip from the airport to the Port. Stocking Island is home to other beautiful beaches, including Flip Flop, Starfish, Hamburger, and Powder.
There are nearby accommodations and resorts which offer boat trips and charters. The island is perfect for those who love swimming and diving, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and trekking. You can also rent an ATV or a buggy to explore the island’s natural wonders. You can cap off your adventure by visiting the Straw Market in George Town, where you can pick up souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Read also: Cheap Beach Towns in the Caribbean
10. Taylor Bay Beach, Turks & Caicos
Also tied with the Bahamas’ Stocking Island, Taylor Bay in Turks & Caicos is just 8.5 points off the whitest shade. This beach is just 15 minutes away from Providenciales International Airport and is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it a child-friendly destination.
Taylor Bay is also less crowded than other shores in Turks & Caicos. However, there are relatively few accommodations and no lifeguards. Take note that there are no bars or restaurants on Taylor Bay, so be sure to pack everything you’ll need for the day.
You can also explore the nearby Sapodilla Bay, a small cove, and check out the Sapodilla Bay Hill Rock Carvings—inscriptions left by shipwrecked sailors from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Read also: Luxury Caribbean Holiday Destinations
11. Varadero, Cuba
Varadero, which is ranked 47th out of the 50 best beaches in the world, is just 8.9 points off the whitest shade. Its name, which translates to “Blue Beach,” is almost two hours away from Havana. The soft sand and clear blue waters make it a perfect spot to relax and bask in the sun.
History buffs will love visiting the nearby Cueva de Ambrosio, a million-year-old cave that features fascinating pre-Columbian paintings. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants where you can enjoy some local cuisine. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can book a catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco, where you can explore even more of the region’s natural beauty.
Read also: Inexpensive Beach Destinations in the Caribbean To Live
12. Punta Prosciutto, Italy
The last beach on our list with the whitest sand in the world is Punta Prosciutto in Italy, with just 9 points off the whitest shade. Some say that it got its name from the nearby cliff resembling a ham, thus the name “Punta Prosciutto.” It is over an hour away from Brindisi Airport, although you can quickly reach it by taking the train, too.
History lovers can also explore the nearby Torre Colimena, a 16th-century watchtower. At the same time, bird watchers will certainly enjoy exploring the Palude del Conte National Reserve, a haven for wildlife, flora, and fauna. Make sure to visit the nearby city of Lecce, often called “Florence of the South,” and explore its impressive Baroque architecture.
Read also: Best Beach Destinations in Italy
