Beach destinations are a great option for travelers looking to unwind and rest while traveling — but the definition of unwinding and resting can differ greatly from person to person. If you’re looking for beach clubs and a party scene, for example, you likely won’t care as much about noise pollution or well-maintained green spaces.
However, if you’re looking for a peaceful beach destination where you can truly unwind and relax in a serene space, a new analysis from long-haul travel specialists at Travelbag has just uncovered some of the most peaceful beach destinations worldwide. The analysis looked at things like noise and light pollution, overall cleanliness, and the number of green spaces and parks in order to rank the best options.
Here are some of the most peaceful beach destinations for travelers really looking to relax and unwind in serenity:
The Seychelles
The Seychelles earned top spot as the most peaceful beach destination. It’s famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters — but it also has the lowest noise and light pollution, low water pollution levels, and a high overall cleanliness score.
Cairns, Australia
The first of three Australian destinations on the list, Cairns earned second place thanks to its low noise and light pollution, high cleanliness score, and its easy access to green spaces, well-maintained public spaces, and a serene yet vibrant atmosphere.
Gold Coast, Australia
The third most peaceful beach — and second Australian destination on the list — is the infamous Gold Coast. Despite its slightly higher noise and pollution score, it boasts some of the highest-rated beaches in the world and a high cleanliness score when it comes to water cleanliness and pollution specifically.
Sydney, Australia
You might not expect a big city like Sydney to hit the top of the list but the quality of green spaces and parks, as well as the overall cleanliness, positions Sydney as a very good option for a peaceful beach vacation with a side of bustling city life.
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand earned fifth spot on the list thanks largely to its cleanliness score and the quality of its green spaces and parks. It earned a slightly higher than average level of noise and light pollution but makes up for it with its clean and well-maintained nature-focused spaces.
Barbados
With a low noise and light pollution score, low water pollution, and very high average beach reviews, Barbados is another standout spot for a peaceful beach destination. Its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches are some of the top-rated in the world.
The next most peaceful beach destination was Dubai, UAE, followed by Honolulu, Hawaii, Havana, Cuba, and Cancun, Mexico.