Whitehaven Beach

Whitehaven Beach runs seven kilometers along Whitsunday Island in Queensland, Australia, on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, reachable only by boat or air. The sand is almost pure silica: bright white, cool underfoot, and it squeaks as you walk. It makes the perfect slow day after the adventure of the Reef: no diving, no schedule, just soft sand and calm turquoise water. Day trips leave from Hamilton Island (about 30 minutes) and Airlie Beach. The boat ride from Hamilton Island is famously bouncy, and half the fun. Do not miss the Tongue Point lookout over Hill Inlet, where the tide swirls sandbars through turquoise water. Best season: May to October. Stinger season runs November to April, when operators provide protective suits. No shops or cafes on the island, so bring food and water.