The Most Colorful Beaches in the World: From Golden to Red Sands

23 August 2025

Let’s be honest—when you think of beaches, the first thing that probably comes to mind is soft white sand and crystal-clear water, maybe a coconut drink in hand. But what if I told you that there’s a whole world full of beaches that come in shades you wouldn’t believe? We're talking pink, red, black, purple, green, and even orange sands. Nature really outdid herself on these ones.

If you’re tired of the same old beach vibes and want something that will seriously wow your Instagram feed (not to mention your soul), then buckle up. We’re going on a journey to the most colorful beaches in the world. These places aren't just pretty—they're mind-blowing. And yes, they’re totally real.

Let’s dive in—pun intended.

1. Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

Ever wondered what walking on cotton candy feels like?

Well, it’s not sticky—at least not at Pink Sands Beach in the Bahamas. This beach is famous for its stunning pale pink shorelines that stretch for about three miles. The color comes from microscopic coral insects called foraminifera, which have reddish-pink shells. When they die, the shells mix with the white sand, giving it that dreamy rosé tint.

It’s soft, it’s warm, and it’s like stepping into a sunset that forgot to leave.

Why Go?

- Gentle waves, perfect for swimming
- Ideal for romantic getaways
- Great chance to live your pink paradise dreams

2. Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, Hawaii, USA

Yep, you read that right. Green. And not just mossy or algae-covered—we’re talking a deep olive tone that looks like something out of a fantasy film.

This beach gets its rare green color from a mineral called olivine, found in the surrounding volcanic cones. There's a bit of a trek (about 3 miles each way) to get there, but the payoff? Totally worth it.

Why Go?

- It’s one of only four green sand beaches in the world!
- Epic selfie background? Check.
- Chance to brag you hiked to a green beach in Hawaii? Double-check.

3. Red Beach, Santorini, Greece

Let’s switch gears and go bold. Picture this: dramatic red cliffs dropping into turquoise Aegean waters with a deep reddish-maroon beach at your feet. That’s Red Beach in Santorini.

The red coloring comes from the iron-rich volcanic rocks in the area. It's like stepping into a Martian postcard, only with better food and wine.

Why Go?

- Unreal contrast between red sand and blue water
- Close to ancient ruins and quaint Greek villages
- Killer views for photographers and dreamers alike

4. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, Hawaii, USA

Okay, black sand sounds spooky at first, right? But when you see it, it’s pure magic.

Punaluʻu Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most famous black sand beaches in the world. Formed from volcanic basalt, the sand gets its dramatic, charcoal color from lava rapidly cooling when it hits the ocean.

Also, you might come across Hawaiian green sea turtles lounging on the shore… like they own the place (and maybe they do).

Why Go?

- It's the stuff of Gothic beach dreams
- Hawaiian sea turtles are basically beach royalty
- Unforgettable contrast between black soil, green palms, and blue skies

5. Ramla Bay, Gozo, Malta

Golden sand fans, we haven’t forgotten you.

Ramla Bay doesn’t just have your typical pale sand. Nope, this Maltese gem is home to rich, golden-red sand that practically glows under the sun. It's warm, grainy, and feels like walking on a sun-kissed cushion.

Plus, it’s unspoiled and less crowded than many tourist traps. You might even feel like you’ve discovered a secret beach no one else knows about.

Why Go?

- Rich golden-red sand you won’t find anywhere else
- Peaceful, with stunning countryside views
- Perfect for a chill beach day with a twist

6. Hyams Beach, New South Wales, Australia

We're shifting gears to the light side—literally.

Hyams Beach claims to have the whitest sand in the world, and honestly, it’s hard to argue. The sand is so bright, you might need sunglasses just to handle the glare. It squeaks under your feet like fresh snow, and the water is impossibly blue.

It looks like someone turned the saturation up to 11.

Why Go?

- Whiter-than-white sand that’s almost surreal
- Calm, clear waters perfect for swimming
- Great jumping point to explore Jervis Bay

7. Pfeiffer Beach, California, USA

A purple beach? You bet.

Tucked away in Big Sur, Pfeiffer Beach is not your typical West Coast surf spot. The sand here has streaks of deep violet and lavender, thanks to manganese garnet particles that wash down from the surrounding cliffs during heavy rainfall.

It’s strange, moody, and 100% unforgettable.

Why Go?

- Eerie, beautiful purples in the sand you have to see to believe
- Not super touristy—feels like a secret
- Classic Big Sur misty vibe with a colorful twist

8. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Another fiery beach in Hawaii? You better believe it.

Kaihalulu is more of a hidden gem—but wildly worth the effort to find it. The red sand is deep and dramatic, thanks to the eroding red lava cinder cliffs. Reaching it requires a short, somewhat sketchy hike (slippery when wet), but what awaits you is a jaw-dropping secluded cove.

Why Go?

- A secret beach with brooding, lava-red sand
- Surreal contrast between red cliffs and turquoise water
- Feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet

9. Porto Ferro, Sardinia, Italy

You know how Italy does everything with flair? Even its beaches.

Porto Ferro is famous for its orange sand, created from crushed shells and volcanic deposits. Backed by pine forests and dunes, it’s not just colorful—it’s also super chill and ideal for surfing.

It’s like the beach version of an Aperol Spritz. Bright, bold, and a little unexpected.

Why Go?

- Unique burnt-orange sand
- Great for surfers
- Less crowded than other Italian beach hotspots

10. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Iceland

Let’s end with a beach that looks straight out of a fantasy epic.

Reynisfjara is dramatic—and I mean that in the best way. You get black sand, towering basalt columns, powerful waves, and epic sea stacks jutting out of the Atlantic. It’s moody, powerful, and just plain stunning.

You won’t be sunbathing here (it’s Iceland, after all), but you will feel like you’ve stepped into magic.

Why Go?

- Iconic black sands with jaw-dropping geology
- Feels like another world
- Ideal for moody photographers and Game of Thrones fans

Why Are These Beaches So Colorful Anyway?

You might be wondering—how do these beaches get their Crayola-worthy sands?

Here’s the deal. Sand gets its color from the minerals and rock types in the area. When you have volcanic activity (hello, Hawaii), coral reefs (think Bahamas), or unique geological erosion (like in Santorini), you get a rainbow of beach colors. Weather, wave action, and even microscopic organisms can all play a role.

It’s nature wearing her best dress, and honestly? She wears it well.

Final Thoughts: Color Me Impressed

Sure, a basic white sand beach is great. Nothing wrong with it. But if you're craving something extraordinary—somewhere that makes your jaw drop and your camera work overtime—then these colorful beaches are calling your name.

Each beach on this list has its own personality. Some are fiery and bold, others soft and romantic. And just like people, their colors come from their stories—formed over centuries by lava flows, coral deaths, iron-rich cliffs, and the occasional microscopic sea creature.

So, which one’s going on your bucket list first?

(And don’t forget to charge your phone. You’re gonna need it.