The 10 Most Overrated Beach Destinations and 10 Beaches You Should Visit Instead
The 10 Most Overrated Beach Destinations and 10 Beaches You Should Visit Instead
The 10 Most Overrated Beach Destinations and 10 Beaches You Should Visit Instead
We pulled together information and research from our travel experts to give you a comprehensive list of the best and worst beach destinations on the planet. Don't book your next vacation without reading this.
1. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii - Overrated
Oversaturated with tourists, Waikiki Beachs' original charm and tranquility has largely faded. With a full beach and murky waters, the experience often doesn't replicate the serene Hawaiian getaway many envision.
2. Lanikai Beach, Hawaii - Underrated
A much quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, Lanikais' crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and serene atmosphere offer an ideal spot for relaxation and kayaking.
Genevieve Perron-Migneron
3. Venice Beach, California - Overrated
The muscle-bound and street performance heavy Venice Beach is more about entertainment than a relaxing beach getaway. An overcrowded and less than clean area, visitors may be sidestepping more than stepping on sand.
Scott Jones
4. El Matador Beach, California - Underrated
With stunning rock formations, open sand and a much more quiet environment, El Matador hits that proper beach getaway vibe with gusto.
5. Maya Bay, Thailand - Overrated
Despite the fame Maya Bay has garnered from "The Beach", it suffers greatly from an influx of tourists and has to often close down for environmental damage.
6. Koh Lipe, Thailand - Underrated
Pristine beaches, clear waters, laid-back vibes. What more could a beach getaway entail? Far from the crowds, the "Maldives of Thailand" offers a serene and peaceful alternative to the hubbub of Maya Bay
7. South Beach, Miami, Florida - Overrated
Art deco and South Beach nightlife drastically detract from the that ideal peaceful day at the beach that vacationers were looking for.
8. Anna Maria Island, Florida - Underrated
With a small-town exclusivity charm, pristine sands and clear water, Anna Maria offers that almost "secretive" getaway location that beach-goers may crave.
9. Bondi Beach, Australia - Overrated
Despite the natural beauty, during the summer the influx of beach-goers can take away from the natural beauty and landmarks.
10 Manly Beach, Australia - Underrated
A hop, skip and "surf" away, Manly Beach gives you the space, the views and atmosphere to take that proper getaway in peace
11. Cancun, Mexico - Overrated
Despite the blue waters, Cancun is jam-packed with resorts which bring you away from the true Mexican culture in favour of a more "curated" experience.
12. Tulum, Mexico - Underrated
A rich cultural heritage and chock full of beaches and Mayan ruins, Tulum is that little slice of paradise hidden away with both beauty and history.
13. Bali, Indonesia (Kuta Beach) - Overrated
Litter, hawkers and a party scene that takes away from the cultural and natural beauty of Kuta Beach.
14. Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia - Underrated
With dramatic cliffs, clear waters and a much more refined atmosphere, Uluwatu offers the peace that Kuta may not have.
15. Ibiza, Spain - Overrated
Beaches in Ibiza are often dwarfed by its nightlife and music scene, making a relaxing getaway attempt a tad overstimulating
16. Formentera, Spain - Underrated
As if in a world of its own. Pristine beaches, beautiful clear waters and a serene vibe, Formentera, while close to Ibiza, does not feel at all like its counterpart
17. Phuket, Thailand (Patong Beach) - Overrated
Another nightlife heavy, urban sprawl, the natural beauty of Patong Beach is often falling short as it is dwarfed by the urban life.
18. Koh Tao, Thailand - Underrated
Koh Tao takes a break from the urban sprawls and plants you in your own slice of paradise with beautiful bays and an island lifestyle.
19. Boracay, Philippines - Overrated
Unfortunately, with issues of pollution and influx of beach-goers, Boracay has needed to go through multiple closures for rehabilitation measures.
20. Siargao, Philippines - Underrated
Laid-back and far flung from the masses of Boracay, the stunning landscapes and crystal clear waters offer a much more pleasant beach getaway.
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