Dive right in! WORLD'S BEST BEACHES

Discover some of Earth's most spectacular shorelines

AWAROA BEACH ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND 

Also known as “the people’s beach,” Awaroa’s backstory is legendary. Concerned that public access to its golden sands and turquoise waters could be restricted by a private sale, a pair of Kiwis launched an ambitious crowdfunding campaign in 2016 to buy the remote beach. Raising more than $2 million in just three weeks, the funds – topped up by the government and the Joyce Fisher Charitable Trust – secured the sale, after which Awaroa was ceded to Abel

Tasman National Park. Key to Awaroa’s allure is its secluded location on the north coast of the South Island, backed by granite hills and coastal forests. Walk the 60km Abel Tasman Coast Track over three to five days or explore the sparkling coastline by boat (look out for fur seals dozing on granite outcrops).

Coast Track walkers will need to cross the tidal estuary at the western end of the beach at low tide, when the receding water reveals an azure maze of golden sandbanks. If time permits, pick your way across the pools to the main stretch of beach for a restorative dip before continuing your journey. An overnight stay at a beachfront lodge, Department of Conservation hut or campsite allows more time to explore the area.

Awaroa is also the only place along the Abel Tasman Coast Track with a restaurant, which adds another incentive to lap up its natural beauty for longer. Listen out for the distinctive call of the kākā.

TA’AHIAMANU BEACH MO’OREA, FRENCH POLYNESIA