12 Stunning Pink Sand Beaches You Must See at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Beachgoers planning a summer vacation always look for sun, sand, and turquoise waters. Luckily, stunning beaches around the globe offer just that. However, travelers looking to push their vacation into bucket-list territory might want something more spectacular, unique, and rare, like a pink sand beach.

Though rare, some beach destinations around the world feature beautiful pink-hued shorelines. Pair these sands with turquoise seas, and you’re in a photographer’s dream. Today, we’ll show you 12 stunning pink sand beaches you need to see. The beaches on our list are simply the most impressive pink sand beaches in the world!

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Pink Sand Beaches_Pfeiffer Beach, California, United States

Pfeiffer Beach, CA 1/5

Balos, Crete, Greece 2/5

Pink Sand Beaches_Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

Harbour Island, Bahamas 3/5

Pink Sand Beaches_Pink Beach, Komodo Island, Indonesia

Pink Beach, Komodo, ID 4/5

Best Beaches in the World Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda

Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda 5/5

Results

Pfeiffer Beach, CA

18 14

Balos, Crete, Greece

28 4

Harbour Island, Bahamas

18 14

Pink Beach, Komodo, ID

17 15

Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

24 8

Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda, Caribbean

Horseshoe Bay Beach in Bermuda is one of the most photographed coastlines in the Caribbean, and with good reason. Found in South Shore Park and named after its curved shape, this pink beach has blush sands, crystal clear turquoise waters, and a hiking trail that links it to other beaches.

The limestone boulders and cliffs that line the coast also add to its natural beauty. For beachgoers, Horseshoe Bayalso features amenities such as lifeguards, snorkeling equipment, water sports equipment, and a concession stand selling drinks and snacks. Therefore, spending a whole day relaxing and having fun at Horseshoe Bay is very doable.

Wear Water Shoes: The beach has some rocky areas and hidden coral, especially near the edges—water shoes will help protect your feet while exploring.
Check the Tide Schedule: At high tide, some parts of the beach can become narrow or submerged, so plan your visit around low tide for the best experience.

Balos, Crete, Greece

Balos Beach is nestled on the picturesque coast of Crete. Accessing Balos involves a bit of an adventure, as you must navigate a narrow, winding dirt road that leads to a parking area. The journey can be challenging but is undoubtedly worth the effort for the breathtaking views and pristine natural beauty.

Once you’ve parked, you’ll need to hike 20 to 30 minutes to reach the seashore. The trail is manageable even in flip-flops, though the midday sun can make the trek feel more strenuous. Despite the heat, the path to Balos is lined with scenic spots ideal for taking breaks and enjoying panoramic views of the sea.

Take a Boat Instead: If the rugged drive and hike seem too demanding, consider taking a boat tour from Kissamos, which offers a more relaxed way to reach Balos while enjoying the stunning coastline.
Pack Sun Protection: The hike to Balos offers little to no shade, and the beach itself has limited natural cover, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay comfortable.
Gramvousa Island Add-On: If you’re taking a boat trip to Balos, many tours include a stop at Gramvousa Island, famous for its Venetian castle atop a hill. The hike to the castle is steep but worth it for the views. The castle is free to explore, but bring water as it gets hot with no shade.

Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain

Admittedly, Playa de Ses Illetes on Formentera Island in the Mediterranean Sea doesn’t have the brightest pink sand, but it’s still a spectacular shore. It’s approximately 1,476 feet (450 meters) long and has golden sands with a subtle pink hue, clear waters, and breathtaking coastal views.

Better still, Playa de Ses Illetes also offers some of the most picturesque sunsets in Spain, so consider visiting in the evening, too! The best time to visit is between June and August, when you can enjoy warmer weather and sunshine. In August, temperatures on the beach reach highs of 86°F (30°C). It’s also worth noting that various watersport activities, such as kitesurfing and sailing, are available at Playa de Ses Illetes.

Sunset Viewing Tip: Plan to stay into the evening to experience one of Formentera’s stunning sunsets. Head to the southern end of the beach for the best vantage point. This area is typically quieter and offers uninterrupted views of the sun dipping below the horizon.
Bring Cash for Beachside Dining: Some restaurants and beach bars near Playa de Ses Illetes operate on a cash-only basis, so carrying some euros ensures you can enjoy fresh seafood or a cold drink without hassle.

Pink Sand Beaches, Tikehau, Tahiti

Commonly referred to as the “Pink Beach Island,” Tikehau is a secluded island approximately an hour’s flight from Papeete, the capital of Tahiti. With a name like that, you can expect great things from its beaches. Tikehau is also home to glorious white-sand coastlines, but the island’s rose-colored beaches are by far the most impressive.

Tikehau’s pink sand shores are serene, tranquil, and utterly breathtaking. The sand on the island gets its color from a single-cell organism called foraminifera, which has been depositing reddish-pink shells for millions of years. To top things off, Tikehau’s lagoon is home to abundant marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, gray reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, and eagle rays, making it a prime snorkeling and scuba diving spot.

Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort Restaurant: Located at the Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort, this open-air restaurant offers a mix of French, Polynesian, and international dishes. Fresh seafood, like grilled tuna or mahi-mahi, is a highlight here.
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen: The delicate marine ecosystem in Tikehau is easily affected by chemicals in regular sunscreen. Bring a reef-safe alternative to protect both your skin and the stunning coral reefs.

Pink Beach, Komodo Island, Indonesia

This mesmerizing stretch of soft pink sand beach can be found on Indonesia’s Komodo Island. Home to the fearsome Komodo Dragon, Komodo Island is famed for its wildlife, rugged landscape, pristine sands, and crystalline waters. However, Pink Beach often steals the show.

This pink beach gets its color from a red pigment left on coral reefs surrounding the island by microscopic organisms. As such, the coral reefs around the Komodo Islands also feature a vibrant hue of color. Unsurprisingly, this makes the waters off Pink Beach a popular snorkeling and scuba diving hub. If you’d prefer to keep your feet dry, take a relaxed stroll along the coast with your camera instead. Due to its remote location, Pink Beach doesn’t have any amenities.

Hike to the Viewpoint: For a stunning panoramic view of Pink Beach and its surrounding turquoise waters, take a short hike up the nearby hills. The trek is relatively easy and well worth it for breathtaking photos.
Bring Your Own Gear and Supplies: Since Pink Beach lacks amenities, pack essentials like snorkeling gear, water, snacks, and sun protection. This ensures you can fully enjoy the beach without inconvenience.
Wildlife Caution: Remember, you’re on Komodo Island—home to the Komodo dragon. Always stay with your guide and stick to designated paths if visiting the island itself. Dragons usually stay away from the beach, but it’s best to stay cautious.

Tangsi Beach, Lombok, Indonesia

Another Indonesian beach on our list is Tangsi Beach on the island of Lombok, which is not too far away from Bali, Indonesia’s most popular island. Tangsi is well-known worldwide for its tall rocky cliffs, pink sand, and turquoise waters. The sand here is a bright cherry blossom color, so you won’t want to forget your camera.

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The best time to visit Tangsi is from May to October to avoid the rainy season. At the coast, you can relax, unwind, and swim in the sea. Meanwhile, adventurous travelers will enjoy kayaking and snorkeling from the beach. Alternatively, you could hike to the Tangsi viewpoint to capture epic photographs of the beach from above.

Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Many pink sand beaches are surrounded by delicate coral reefs. Using reef-safe sunscreen helps protect marine life while you enjoy the water.
Pink Beach Seafood Stalls: Occasionally, locals will set up pop-up seafood BBQ stalls right by the beach. The menu typically includes freshly caught grilled fish, prawns, and squid, paired with steamed rice and spicy chili sauce (sambal).

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Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

On the eastern side of Harbour Island in the Bahamas, travelers are treated to a picture-perfect beach with lush green forest, vibrant pink sand, and clear blue waters. Located just a few miles from Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, this island has almost 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) of coastline to walk along, but Pink Sand Beach is the most impressive stretch to explore.

During your visit to Pink Sand Beach, take lots of photographs, dip your toes in the sea, and grab a refreshing drink from one of the hotel bars. If you want to explore the rest of the island, hire a kayak and paddle to the other side.

Wear Water Shoes: Some pink sand beaches have coral fragments mixed into the sand, making certain areas rough on bare feet. Water shoes will keep you comfortable while walking and swimming.
Bring Cash for Local Vendors: Many remote beach destinations have limited access to card payments, so carrying some cash ensures you can enjoy local snacks, drinks, or small souvenirs without hassle.
Golf Cart Rentals: The easiest way to get around Harbour Island is by golf cart. Rentals cost about 50–60 USD per day and are available near the ferry dock.

Spiaggia Rosa, Sardinia, Italy

The Sardinian coastline is famous for its impressive beaches and tropical waters. Spiaggia Rosa on Sardinia’s Budelli Island is a fine example of what the area offers. Thanks to a tiny organism called Miniacina miniacea, Spiaggia Rosa features a long stretch of pinky-purple sand.

Spiaggia Rosa was once so famous that tourists would travel from afar to take sand away by the bag. This led to the death of organisms and the loss of the delightful pink hues. To prevent any further damage and restore the beach to its former glory, Spiaggia Rosa was listed as protected. As a result, travelers can’t walk on the coast or swim in the sea, so you’ll have to admire the beach from afar.

Use a Zoom Lens for Better Photos: Since you can’t walk on Spiaggia Rosa, bringing a camera with a good zoom lens will help you capture the stunning pink sand from a distance without losing detail.
What to Bring: As Spiaggia Rosa is a protected area, there are no facilities. Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and swimming gear for stops at other swimmable beaches nearby. Reef-safe sunscreen is particularly important to protect marine life.

Pink Sand Beach, Great Santa Cruz Island, Philippines

Pink Sand Beach on Great Santa Cruz Island in the Philippines is a secluded beach you can only reach by boat. As such, it offers a more relaxed and quiet experience. This shore gets its pink hues from pulverized red organ pipe coral. While there isn’t much on the island, there is a small village where tourists can get something to eat and drink.

Thanks to Pink Sand Beach’s clear waters and excellent visibility, snorkelers and scuba divers often visit the island. Unfortunately, though, coral mining has destroyed much of the island’s marine life. After spending time on Pink Sand Beach, you could see the island’s mangroves.

Bring Cash for Local Purchases: The small village on Great Santa Cruz Island has limited facilities, and credit card acceptance is rare. Carry cash for food, drinks, and any small souvenirs.
Pack a Dry Bag: Since you’ll reach the island by boat, a dry bag will keep your valuables, like your phone and camera, safe from splashes or unexpected rain.
Dining Options: The island has a small village that serves simple local meals, such as grilled seafood, rice dishes, and bottled drinks. These are very budget-friendly, costing around PHP 100–200 (2–4 USD) per dish.

Pfeiffer Beach, California, United States

Sitting along California’s Pacific coastline is a unique beach where the sand changes color depending on the weather conditions. Tucked away in Los Padres National Forest, this hidden gem has pinkish-purple sand that has even been reported as turning green. This unique phenomenon is caused by manganese garnet runoff from the nearby mountains.

Pfeiffer Beach also has a unique rock formation called Pfeiffer Keyhole Rock. If you walk along the coast at sunset, you’ll catch a glimpse of the sun setting through the rock’s keyhole arch. If you time your photograph perfectly, you might also snap a photo of the sunlight reflecting off the spray of waves crashing against the rocks.

Check Road Conditions Before Visiting: Pfeiffer Beach is accessed via a narrow, winding road (Sycamore Canyon Road) that can sometimes be closed due to weather or maintenance.
Hiking and Exploring: While Pfeiffer Beach is primarily a destination for relaxing and photography, walk along the sandy stretch to admire the manganese garnet sand, which glimmers differently depending on light and weather conditions. Make sure to explore around Pfeiffer Keyhole Rock, but avoid climbing it for your safety.

Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece

Elafonisi Beach is a hugely popular pink sand beach located on Crete. Arguably one of the world’s most standout pink beaches, it features a long stretch of bright pink sand paired with beautiful turquoise waters. The two colors create a postcard-perfect picture that no Instagram filter can compete with.

Aside from a serene stretch of Greek coastline, Elafonisi also offers convenient seaside amenities. These include public parking, sun loungers, bars, and bathrooms. During the holiday season, Elafonisi has lifeguards, too. Most definitely an all-day destination, spend your time at the shore walking along the sandbar, photographing the landscape, and dipping your toes in the warm Greek waters.

Bring Water Shoes: The shallow lagoon and rocky seabed at Elafonisi Beach can have sharp shells and stones, so wearing water shoes will make wading and swimming more comfortable.
Visit the Protected Dunes Respectfully: The sand dunes around Elafonisi are part of a protected nature reserve. Walking on them is prohibited to preserve the unique ecosystem, so stick to designated paths when exploring.

Les Sables Roses, Rangiroa, French Polynesia

French Polynesia draws thousands of tourists yearly with the promise of wall-to-wall sunshine, crystal-clear blue waters, and long white sand beaches. However, one of the best beaches in the region is pink. Les Sables Roses is a gorgeous beach with pinky-white sand that shines bright on a sunny day.

This area is so secluded you can only reach it via an organized lagoon tour. It will take more than two hours to get there, though, so you’ll want to book a tour that includes a picnic. Due to its remote location, you’ll almost have this small stretch of sand entirely to yourself. Popular activities on Les Sables Roses include sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Snorkeling and Photography: The lagoon’s clear waters make for incredible snorkeling, with vibrant corals and marine life. Bring a snorkel mask and underwater camera to capture the beauty. Don’t miss taking photos during mid-morning or late afternoon when the pink hues of the sand are most striking.
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen: The pristine waters and delicate coral ecosystem around Rangiroa are sensitive to chemicals, so use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect marine life while enjoying the beach.