Whitehaven beach named second best in the world

Whitehaven beach named second best in the world

Looking for an excuse to book a tropical vacation?

Well, look no further – because we’ve got just the thing.

Flight Network has just released their list of the World’s Top 100 Beaches, and boy are they stunning.

The list was composed with the help of over 1200 journalists, editors, bloggers and agencies from around the world, who “eat, sleep, and breathe travel”, according to Flight Network.

The extensive and heavily researched list will fill your travel plans with natural wonders, stunning waters and vibrant cultures from around the world.

But us Aussies won’t have to travel far to find one of the best beaches in the world – because Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays has been named the second best beach in the world! Which means you should get your butt up to Queensland, stat.

For other world-class beaches closer to home, Blinky Beach on Lord Howe Island, Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay, Cable Beach in Western Australia and Lucky Bay in Western Australia scored a spot in the top 50 as well. 

But to really get you inspired to start booking those international flights, here are the top 10 beaches in the world:

Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

Shipwreck Beach On Zakynthos

This secluded spot has become an Insta-sensation over the years, and is located in a cove surrounded by tall cliffs – making it accessible by boat only. Take a dip in the stunning turquoise waters, or check out the Freightliner MV Panagiotis shipwreck on the shore; either way, it’s easy to see why this beach is ranked as the best in the world.

Whitehaven Beach, Queensland, Australia

The pure white sand and cool aqua blue waters of Whitehaven Beach where the forest meets the sea in the Whitsunday Islands. Sailing boats and islands in the distance. Horizontal, copy space.

This infamous beach leaves everyone who visits completely obsessed, with jaw-dropping views of the Queensland rainforest from the beach. Plus, the average temperature is 27 degrees, year-round. Which means when it’s Winter in Sydney, it’s still perfectly warm up there.

Hidden Beach, El Nido, Philippines

Boat on the sea in El Nido - Palawan, Philippines. Transparent turquoise sea water

This beach is surrounded by amazing limestone cliffs, complete with breathtaking water. Take part in world-class diving by day and stay in luxurious resorts overnight for the perfect beachside getaway.

Praia do Sancho, Pernambuco, Brazil

Praia do Sancho at Fernando de Noronha

Although quite hard to reach, this beach is consistently voted among the world’s best, and it’s not surprising. But located in a national park, this pristine strip of sand is worth the hike.

Tulum Beach, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Ruins of Tulum

Another beach famous for being the best, Tulum Beach is perfect for a serene, idyllic vacation. Plus, restaurants and accommodation line the strip across from the beach, so you’re never far from paradise.

Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands

Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos

Another famous year-round destination, this beach is perfect for swimming and snorkelling, complete with a rainbow-coloured reef which shelters the beach from big waves and is home to thousands of sea animals.

Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands, Jamaica 

Palms, White Beach and Turquoise Sea

Despite being so close to restaurants, accommodation and shops, Seven Mile Beach is utterly secluded, yet also easily accessible. And did we mention it’s tropical paradise personified? We can picture ourselves laying under those palm trees very easily.

Anse Source D’Argent, La Digue Island, Seychelles

Anse Source d'Argent - beach on island in Seychelles

This is the world’s most photographed beach, and for good reason. With postcard-worthy views everywhere you turn and shallow waters, head to this stunning spot at sunset for the snap of a lifetime.

Maya Bay, Phi Phi Island, Thailand

Maya Bay

This beach is the backdrop for a ton of Hollywood flicks, and is a short boat ride from Phi Phi Don Island. You’ll be met with clear water, a stunning strip of beach, and towering cliffs. Sounds pretty good to us.

Varadero Beach, Cuba 

Beach umbrellas and coconut tree

Cuba has become a popular tourist destination throughout the past few years for its pastel houses and beautiful beaches – Varadero Beach being the best of the bunch. Shallow sandbanks and rolling waves make this spot perfect for any occasion.

Check out the full list right here.

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