17 Cliffside Beaches Only Locals Know About
This is something you definitely don’t want to miss if you’re searching for peace away from packed shorelines Cliffside beaches have a way of stealing your attention without saying a word. Tucked beneath steep cliffs and open skies, these places aren’t on most travel itineraries.
That’s probably why locals want to keep them a secret. The path might be rugged, but the reward is a stretch of sand so quiet you’ll hear nothing but the waves Some sit below ancient stone walls while others are hidden behind winding trails and pine-covered cliffs.
Each one offers a mix of solitude and adventure you won’t find at a typical beach.
1. Praia da Marinha, Portugal
If you’ve ever dreamed of a postcard-perfect beach, Praia da Marinha is the place. Nestled between rugged cliffs, this hidden gem offers golden sands and crystal-clear waters. You’ll find it mesmerizing to explore the unique rock formations that nature has artistically carved over the years.
It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, with an underwater world waiting to be discovered. The vibrant marine life makes every dive an exciting adventure.
When you stroll along the shoreline, the panoramic views are simply breathtaking. A visit here immerses you in Portugal’s untouched coastal beauty.
2. Navagio Beach, Greece
How extraordinary is a beach with a shipwreck? Navagio Beach, often referred to as Shipwreck Beach, is precisely that. Encircled by towering limestone cliffs and blessed with strikingly blue waters, it offers a unique allure.
The iconic shipwreck, rusting on the sandy shore, adds an element of mystery and adventure.
When you gaze up at the cliffs, the contrast against the azure sea is stunning. Accessible mainly by boat, reaching this beach feels like discovering a well-kept secret. It’s an unforgettable experience etched into Greece’s Ionian coastline.
3. Playa de las Catedrales, Spain
Did you know some beaches resemble cathedrals? Playa de las Catedrales, with its natural arches and caves, is one such marvel. Visible during low tide, these formations create a heavenly landscape, inviting you to wander and wonder.
It’s fascinating how the tide transforms the scenery, making every visit unique. As you walk through the arches, the play of light and shadow feels almost sacred.
Where the Atlantic meets the land, this beach in Galicia is a reminder of nature’s architectural prowess. It’s a spiritual and visual feast.
4. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Are you searching for paradise on earth? Whitehaven Beach, located in the heart of the Whitsundays, is renowned for its pure white sands. These sands, composed of 98% silica, provide a dazzling contrast to the vibrant turquoise waters.
It’s a pristine environment where the beauty is unmatched, and the tranquility is absolute.
When you set foot here, you’re enveloped in an untouched wilderness that feels like a retreat from the world. A visit to Whitehaven Beach is a journey into Australia’s untouched splendor, offering solace and serenity.
5. Cala Luna, Sardinia, Italy
Where does adventure await? At Cala Luna, of course! This Sardinian gem is a treasure trove of natural beauty and thrilling exploration. With crystal-clear waters and dramatic caves, it offers endless opportunities for discovery.
The beach is framed by a backdrop of rugged cliffs, creating a stunning visual feast.
It’s a haven for both relaxation and adventure, where you can swim, sunbathe, or explore hidden grottoes. Cala Luna embodies the wild and enchanting spirit of Sardinia. It’s a place that beckons to the adventurer in us all.
6. Furore Beach, Amalfi Coast, Italy
When you stumble upon Furore Beach, it’s like finding a secret paradise. Tucked away in a fjord-like inlet, this tiny beach is a hidden jewel on the Amalfi Coast. The colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water add a charming touch to the dramatic scenery.
It’s a quiet escape, where the sound of the waves echoes off the cliffs.
Taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters, you feel the stress of the world melt away. Furore Beach is an intimate encounter with Italy’s coastal charm, offering tranquility and sheer beauty.
7. Plage de Saleccia, Corsica, France
Though not easily accessible, Plage de Saleccia is worth the effort. This remote Corsican beach boasts white sands and turquoise waters that seem almost unreal.
Surrounded by lush vegetation, it offers a serene escape from the bustling world. It’s a spot where the scent of pine mingles with the sea air, creating a refreshing ambiance.
Here, you can relax, swim, or simply bask in the natural beauty. It feels like stepping into a paradise untouched by time. Plage de Saleccia is Corsica’s hidden treasure, waiting to be discovered.
8. Dune du Pilat, France
This is where the land meets the sky. Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and lush forest. Standing atop this natural wonder feels like being on the edge of the world.
It’s a playground for paragliders, with the wind in their favor. As you climb the dune, the shifting sands challenge and exhilarate in equal measure.
Take a moment to sit and watch the sunset paint the ocean in hues of orange and pink. Dune du Pilat is a place for dreamers and adventurers.
9. Kalapathar Beach, Andaman Islands, India
If tranquility is what you seek, Kalapathar Beach is your sanctuary. Known for its golden sands and striking black rocks, this beach offers a stunning visual contrast.
The clear blue waters invite you to dive in and leave the world behind. It’s a tropical paradise where time seems to stand still, allowing you to unwind completely.
Strolling along the shoreline, the gentle waves and whispering palms create a serene symphony. Kalapathar Beach is an invitation to relax and reconnect with nature. It’s a haven for those who cherish peace and beauty.
10. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
How about a beach with pink sands? Elafonissi Beach is famous for its rosy-hued sands and turquoise lagoon. The shallow waters are perfect for wading, offering a unique experience in a landscape of surreal beauty.
It’s a place where you can wander freely, exploring the intricate patterns of sand and sea.
When the sun sets, the pink sands glow softly, casting a magical ambiance. Elafonissi Beach is Crete’s fairytale setting, inviting you to explore and dream. It’s a destination that captures the imagination and the heart.
11. Praia do Ursa, Portugal
Did you ever dream of escaping to a secluded paradise? Praia do Ursa is the answer. Hidden between majestic cliffs, this beach offers dramatic rock formations that captivate the eye.
Its clear blue waters invite you to dive in and explore. It’s a place where adventure awaits around every corner, with secret coves and hidden paths. As you sit on the sands, the sounds of the waves create a peaceful melody.
Praia do Ursa offers a retreat from the ordinary, where nature’s raw beauty takes center stage. It’s an explorer’s dream come true.
12. Playa de los Genoveses, Spain
This is where the desert meets the sea. Playa de los Genoveses is an expansive sandy beach framed by volcanic hills. Its rolling dunes provide a sense of adventure and exploration.
It’s a place where the warm Mediterranean sun bathes the landscape in golden light.
Walking along the shore, you feel the connection between land and sea. Playa de los Genoveses is a natural oasis in Spain’s Cabo de Gata, offering solitude and serenity. It’s a place to escape and embrace the beauty of nature.
13. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Scotland
Are you ready to be swept away by beauty? Luskentyre Beach, with its wide sandy shores and turquoise waters, is a breathtaking sight.
Surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Isle of Harris, it’s a place where nature reigns supreme. It’s a place of solitude, where the sky meets the sea in an endless embrace. As you wander along the shore, the ever-changing weather creates a dynamic backdrop.
Luskentyre Beach is Scotland’s hidden gem, inviting you to lose yourself in its wild beauty. It’s an unforgettable destination for dreamers and wanderers.
14. Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France
It’s a scene from a postcard. Plage de Palombaggia, with its white sands and clear blue waters, is a picture-perfect beach on Corsica’s southern coast.
The pine trees lining the shore add a touch of greenery to the pristine landscape. It’s a place where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax under the warm Mediterranean sun.
As you take in the views, the gentle sea breeze offers a refreshing respite. Plage de Palombaggia is a haven of tranquility, offering a slice of paradise. It’s a destination where you can escape and unwind.
15. Secret Beach, Kauai, Hawaii, USA
This is where secrets unfold. Secret Beach, located on the north shore of Kauai, is a secluded haven with golden sands.
Surrounded by lush greenery and cliffs, it feels like a world apart. It’s a place where you can find solitude, with the sound of the waves as your only companion.
As you explore the shoreline, the beauty of Hawaii’s natural landscape envelops you. Secret Beach is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. It’s an invitation to relax and reconnect with nature.
16. Punta Uva, Costa Rica
Where does the jungle meet the sea? At Punta Uva, the lush rainforest spills onto the golden sands of this tropical paradise.
The clear waters are a haven for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. It’s a place where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Walking along the beach, the sound of the jungle creates a symphony of nature. Punta Uva offers a unique blend of biodiversity and beauty, making it a must-visit destination. It’s a place to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
17. Llanddwyn Island Beach, Wales
This is where myths come alive. Llanddwyn Island Beach is steeped in legend, with its sandy shores and rocky outcrops. The lighthouse in the distance adds a touch of mystique to the dramatic landscape.
It’s a place where history and nature intertwine, creating a unique experience. As you walk along the beach, the wind whispers tales of love and adventure.
Llanddwyn Island Beach is a magical destination, offering a glimpse into Wales’s rich heritage. It’s a place to explore, dream, and be inspired by the beauty that surrounds you.