The most beautiful beaches are often chosen as the best in the world. These are the beaches where the water is so clear that it looks blue and the sand is so soft that it feels like powdered sugar. A great beach is more than just a pretty sight, though. A great beach should be open to everyone, no matter who they are, where they come from, or what skills they have. If not lively, then at least fancy, a great beach should have a vibe. Lastly, a great beach should be connected to culture in some way, whether it’s through history or pop culture today.

BeachAtlas, a London-based company known for its beach guides, thought about all of these things and more. This year, the Golden Beach Award 2024 winners were chosen by looking at beaches in a bigger picture, highlighting hidden gems that offer more than just pretty views and soft sand. Then, they asked influential people and travel experts from all over the world to rank the final list.

The result is a list of 100 beaches that offer a wide range of qualities, such as natural beauty, party and lifestyle options, community, cultural importance, and openness to everyone. An island group in French Polynesia called Bora Bora has the best beach in the world.

It is said by BeachAtlas that Bora Bora is “where your wallet whispers ‘help’ but your Instagram screams ‘heaven.'” Dive into the clear water during the day, and take pictures of the sunset at night.

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The name “Bora Bora” makes people think of beauty, wealth, and privacy. Its land size is only 12 square miles, and it is protected by a barrier reef and a bright blue lagoon. Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, two dormant volcanoes that rise from the middle of the main island, are what make it stand out. The main island is ringed by motus, or small islands, that are usually too small for more than a few beach chairs.

The main island of Bora Bora is surrounded by small stretches of sand. Matira Beach, the main public beach, is generally thought to be one of the best on the island. Regardless of where you choose to stay, you’ll have a great view of the lagoon’s artificially blue waters, the towering hills of Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, and palm trees waving in the wind.

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BeachAtlas chose 99 beaches, besides Bora Bora, that stood out because of their past, the communities they build, or the way they make everyone feel welcome. Here are the top 10 pictures:

  1. Bora Bora
  2. Boulders Beach, South Africa
  3. Waikiki Beach, U.S.
  4. Copacabana, Brazil
  5. Maya Bay, Thailand
  6. Black Sand Beach, Iceland
  7. Glass Beach, U.S.
  8. JBR Beach, UAE
  9. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
  10. Omaha Beach, France