From sandy stretches scattered with tiny flamingo-pink shells, to sleepy shores surrounded by blush-pink cliffs and emerald palm trees blowing in the warm breeze, pink sand beaches look as though they have been taken straight out of a Disney film. They are an aesthete’s dream and Mother Nature’s reality, so it’s no surprise that they draw admirers from far and wide. But what gives these blushing beaches their rose-toned sand? Is it a scattering of finely pulverised coral? Is it the way the sun hits the caster-sugar sand? In most cases, the pink hue is from foraminifera, a microscopic organism with a rosy-rouge shell, mixed with minute pieces of shattered coral, shells and, of course, sand. Don’t let that smidgen of science put you off; pink sand beaches are some of the most magical places on Earth. Below is a list of eight of the best pink sand beaches in the world…
- Pfeiffer Beach, California
- Elafonisi Beach, Crete
- Spiaggia Rosa, Island of Budelli
- Pantai Merah, Komodo Island
- Les Sables Roses on Rangiroa
- Crane Beach, Barbados
- Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera
1
Pfeiffer Beach, California
USA
Pfeiffer Beach sits on the legendary Big Sur down the Californian coast and boasts not only rose-tinted sand, but also hues of bright lavender and deep charcoal. Renowned as one of the best beaches in California and surrounded by rocky outcrops and imposing cliff faces, it’s also one of the best pink sand beaches in the world. Tucked away in a secluded bay, Pfeiffer beach rewards those who take the time to find it, with jaw-dropping views out over the churning Pacific. Once you’ve explored this beautifully wild expanse, hop in the car and discover the rest of the natural beauties that the Big Sur has to offer.
2
Elafonisi Beach, Crete
Greece
With its glassy, aquamarine waters and candy-floss sands, it’s no surprise that Elafonisi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Crete, as well as one of the best pink sand beaches in the world. We recommend hitting the winding roads that lead to the beach early in the morning to avoid the traffic and secure the perfect spot for a day of sunbathing, swimming and relaxing in this pink paradise. The warm, shallow lagoon is perfect for youngsters, or you can head further out with a snorkel and see if you can spot an endangered loggerhead sea turtle, before returning to bask on the warm sand.
3
Spiaggia Rosa, Island of Budelli
Italy
Budelli’s coral-coloured crescent beach is a drowsy, sun-soaked beauty, although Italy's Spiaggia Rosa isn’t exactly an under-the-radar gem. The powdery pink sand, rich with fragments of coral, granite and shells, was cordoned off by local authorities after overcrowding endangered the fragile ecosystem. These days, the hyacinth-hued haven can only be seen from neighbouring beaches so that it can be preserved for years to come. We recommend hopping on a boat for the day and exploring the archipelago, before catching a glimpse of this pink-tinted beauty. It’s also ranked among our top ten beaches in Italy.
4
Pantai Merah, Komodo Island
Indonesia
If meeting the island’s famous prehistoric residents, Komodo dragons, wasn’t enough of a reason to visit, Komodo National Park also has a picture-perfect pink beach. Bordered by coral-filled waters on one side, and rolling hills on the other, it’s unlikely that you will stumble across a beach quite as special as this. Lounge on the Barbie-pink sands of the beach, and head out into the turquoise waters with a snorkel for the chance to see giant manta rays and peaceful whale sharks.
5
Les Sables Roses on Rangiroa
French Polynesia
Rangiroa’s double crescent of dreamy beaches is a scene set for a Disney princess. Travel by boat between French Polynesian islands across the lagoon to Les Sables Roses, one of the most spectacular coral atolls in the world, complete with forget-me-not blue waters and tickle-me-pink sand – an otherworldly backdrop for snorkelling and diving adventures. This isolated spot, with its deserted pearly-pink beaches and gin-clear seas, is a real hidden treasure. With the only boat on the shore being yours, and the only other person on the beach being your guide, Les Sables Roses is undoubtedly one of the best pink sand beaches in the world.
6
Crane Beach
Barbados
Ranked as one of the 30 best beaches in the world, Barbados’ Crane Beach is a must-see spot when exploring the main island’s south-east coast. The striking juxtaposition of the luxe hotels and verdant greenery that fringes the beach makes for a stunning backdrop. Spend the afternoon sunbathing and cruising along the coast with a private guide, before settling down to enjoy some live music, with a zesty Bajan cocktail in hand as the setting sun paints the landscape with its golden glow.
7
Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera
Spain
Formentera is Ibiza’s cooler, less crowded younger sister, and Playa de Ses Illetes - its most spectacular beach, and perhaps one of the best beaches in Spain - is undeniably striking. It’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds, so pack up a fruity feast and picnic the morning away, as the sun’s rays warm your personal paradise before others arrive to experience the beach’s beauty. With gentle waves and a colourful coral shore, this is the perfect place to learn to paddleboard and embark on diving excursions to explore the marine wildlife that Formentera has to offer.
Written by Immy Kelly
