EXPLORE The World's Most Dazzling Beaches the MARIOTT BONVOY Way

From mirror-clear waters to wine-dark seas, and secluded shorelines to a queen’s favorite coast, these 11 spots may well be some of the world’s best beaches and coastal towns. As always, check for travel restrictions or closures before planning your trip.

Huskisson, Australia

If you’re looking to flaunt your tan and snap selfies, Sydney’s Bondi Beach and the heavily Instagrammed infinity pool at Bondi Icebergs Club is the place to be. If you’re seeking a more laid-back scene in a truly spectacular natural setting, however, head to the sugar-sand beaches of Jervis Bay, located a scenic drive down the coast of New South Wales. Huskisson, a friendly oceanside village, is the ideal place to grab a beer at the local pub before booking a boat tour to spy humpback whales.

Matala, Crete

The peach-pink sands of Crete’s Elafonissi Beach are a big hit on IG feeds, but travelers in the know go to Matala, a bijou beach town where singer Joni Mitchell wrote her hit song “Carey” in 1970. Explore the caves above Matala’s horseshoe-shaped beach where Mitchell and folk-singing pals camped out, and then shop for handcrafted jewelry in narrow lanes behind the seafront. As sunset spills scarlet over Homer’s “wine-dark sea,” sup on rice-stuffed zucchini flowers and other home-cooked meze at Sunset, a family-owned tavern with spectacular views over Matala’s sheltered bay.

Orhaniye, Turkey