The search for the perfect beach day often leads to disappointment when you arrive
at your chosen destination, only to find yourself fighting for a small patch of sand
among thousands of other sunseekers. But fear not, beach lovers!
For every overcrowded coastal hotspot, there’s usually a lesser-known alternative nearby that offers similar – or sometimes even better – experiences without the masses.
These hidden gems provide the same stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and soft
sands but with the bonus of tranquility and space to truly unwind.
Maya Bay vs. Koh Kradan, Thailand
While Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh Island gained worldwide fame after ‘The Beach,’
drawing overwhelming crowds that led to its temporary closure, Koh Kradan remains
a peaceful paradise in the Andaman Sea. This secluded island features the same
turquoise waters and limestone cliffs but with only a handful of resorts and far fewer
visitors.
You’ll find excellent snorkeling right off the beach, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life just a few feet from shore. The western side of the island offers particularly spectacular sunsets without the tourist boats that crowd Maya Bay.
Bondi Beach vs. Bronte Beach, Australia
Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach draws millions of visitors annually, making it
challenging to find space for your beach towel. Just a mile down the coastal walk,
Bronte Beach offers a more local experience with its historic ocean pool, excellent
surfing conditions, and grassy picnic areas.
The beach features the same golden sand and rolling waves as Bondi but with better cafes and a more relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy the famous Bondi to Bronte coastal walk without getting caught in the tourist crush at Bondi itself.
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Waikiki vs. Waimanalo Beach, Hawaii
While Waikiki’s famous stretch of sand in Honolulu teems with tourists and high-rise
hotels, Waimanalo Beach on Oahu’s windward coast offers five miles of pristine
shoreline with a fraction of the crowds. The powdery white sand and turquoise
waters are actually more picturesque than Waikiki’s, and the backdrop of the Ko’olau
Mountains adds dramatic scenery.
Local families favor this spot for its gentle waves, making it perfect for swimming and bodyboarding without the commercial chaos of Waikiki.
Copacabana vs. Prainha Beach, Brazil
Rio’s Copacabana Beach might be world-famous, but its crowds can make it feel
more like a bustling marketplace than a relaxing beach destination. About 20 miles
west, Prainha Beach offers a crescent of golden sand surrounded by rainforest-
covered hills.
This pristine beach attracts local surfers for its consistent waves, while the dramatic setting and clean waters appeal to swimmers and sunbathers. The handful of simple restaurants serve fresh seafood without the inflated tourist prices of Copacabana.
Venice Beach vs. El Matador State Beach, California
While Venice Beach’s boardwalk carnival atmosphere draws massive crowds, El
Matador State Beach in Malibu provides a more natural California beach experience.
Accessible via a steep trail, this hidden gem features dramatic rock formations, sea
caves, and pristine sand without the tourist throngs.
The beach’s secluded coves and towering cliffs create perfect spots for photography, picnicking, or simply enjoying the sunset in peace. Dolphins frequently pass by close to shore, adding to the magical atmosphere.
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Barceloneta vs. Platja de Sant Pol, Spain
Barcelona’s Barceloneta Beach suffers from overwhelming crowds and persistent
vendors, but an hour north by train lies the charming town of Sant Pol de Mar and its
pristine beach. This local favorite features clear Mediterranean waters, historic
fishing boats, and excellent seafood restaurants without the urban beach chaos.
The medieval town behind the beach adds cultural interest, while the clean sand and
calm waters make it perfect for families. You’ll hear Catalan instead of multiple tourist
languages, and prices reflect local rather than tourist economies.
Phi Phi Don vs. Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
The main beach areas of Phi Phi Don Island have become overwhelmed with party-
seeking backpackers and day-trippers, but nearby Koh Yao Noi remains
authentically Thai. This peaceful island offers empty beaches, traditional fishing
villages, and stunning views of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone karsts.
The western coast features several pristine beaches where you might be the only visitor, while small family-run restaurants serve authentic southern Thai cuisine at reasonable
prices. Local life continues unchanged by mass tourism, offering a glimpse of
genuine island culture.
South Beach vs. Pass-a-Grille Beach, Florida
Miami’s South Beach draws massive crowds to its Art Deco-lined shores, but four
hours west, Pass-a-Grille Beach offers a laid-back alternative with the same white
sand and warm waters. This historic beach town south of St. Pete Beach maintains
its old Florida charm with low-rise buildings and family-owned restaurants.
The four- mile stretch of pristine shoreline rarely feels crowded, and the sunset celebration at Paradise Grille offers a more intimate experience than South Beach’s clubbing scene.
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Nice vs. Villefranche-sur-Mer, France
While Nice’s pebbly beaches get packed with tourists seeking the French Riviera
experience, neighboring Villefranche-sur-Mer offers a more authentic seaside
setting. The deep bay features sandy beaches instead of Nice’s stones, with
medieval architecture providing a spectacular backdrop.
The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the old town’s restaurants serve fresh Mediterranean cuisine without the tourist markup. The beach maintains its local character even in peak season.
Bali’s Kuta vs. Nusa Ceningan, Indonesia
Kuta’s legendary surf breaks now come with overwhelming crowds and aggressive
vendors, but tiny Nusa Ceningan offers world-class waves without the chaos. This
small island between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida features empty beaches,
crystal-clear waters, and excellent surf spots.
The Blue Lagoon and Secret Beach provide Instagram-worthy settings without the social media crowds, while local warungs serve fresh seafood at reasonable prices. The lack of large resorts helps maintain the island’s peaceful atmosphere.
Santorini’s Black Beach vs. Vlychada Beach, Greece
While tourists pack Santorini’s famous black sand beaches at Perissa and Kamari,
the dramatic Vlychada Beach at the island’s southern tip remains relatively quiet.
White pumice cliffs sculpted by wind and waves create an otherworldly backdrop to
this long stretch of dark sand.
The beach maintains its natural character with just a few sunbeds and tavernas, while the nearby tomato industrial museum offers an interesting cultural context. Even in peak season, you can find plenty of space to spread out.
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Tulum Beach vs. Xpu-Ha Beach, Mexico
As Tulum’s beach road becomes increasingly congested with influencers and luxury
hotels, Xpu-Ha Beach, 30 minutes north, offers a glimpse of how the Riviera Maya
used to be. This wide stretch of white sand features the same turquoise Caribbean
waters but with just a handful of beach clubs instead of wall-to-wall resorts.
Turtle nesting sites remain protected, and the coral reef lying close to shore provides
excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach clubs maintain reasonable prices and
local character.
Positano vs. Erchie, Amalfi Coast, Italy
While Positano’s famous beach fills up with visitors seeking the perfect Amalfi Coast
photo, the tiny village of Erchie offers similar views without the crowds. Two ancient
Saracen towers guard this small beach tucked between dramatic cliffs, creating a
more intimate setting than Positano’s busy shoreline.
The clear waters are perfect for swimming, while simple restaurants serve authentic Campanian cuisine at local prices. The absence of luxury hotels helps maintain the fishing village atmosphere.
Byron Bay vs. Broken Head Beach, Australia
As Byron Bay’s Main Beach becomes increasingly crowded with backpackers and
luxury seekers, nearby Broken Head Beach offers similar natural beauty in a more
peaceful setting. This protected beach features the same golden sand and excellent
surf breaks but with dramatic headlands providing additional scenic beauty.
The surrounding nature reserve offers walking trails with panoramic views, while the absence of commercial development maintains the natural atmosphere. Dolphins
and whales are frequently spotted from the headland.
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Mykonos’ Paradise Beach vs. Fokos Beach, Greece
While Paradise Beach has become a perpetual party zone, Fokos Beach on
Mykonos’ northern coast remains wonderfully undeveloped. This secluded beach
requires a bumpy drive down a dirt road, rewarding visitors with crystal-clear waters
and coarse golden sand without the throbbing music and party crowds.
A single excellent taverna serves fresh local specialties, while the surrounding hills provide beautiful walking opportunities. The beach faces north, offering protection from the strong Meltemi winds that can affect other parts of the island.
Nature’s Perfect Balance
Trading famous beaches for their lesser-known alternatives often leads to more
meaningful travel experiences. These hidden gems remind us that true coastal beauty lies not just in the sand and sea, but in the peaceful atmosphere that allows
us to fully appreciate nature’s wonders.
By venturing slightly off the beaten path, you’ll discover that the best beach days
often happen when you have space to breathe, room to explore, and time to connect
with both the environment and local culture.
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