When you picture a beach, you probably see soft white sand and turquoise water, but nature has a bigger paint palette. Around the world, there are stretches of coast in shades you wouldn’t believe unless you saw them yourself. We’re talking about black volcanic shores, red cliffs spilling into scarlet sand, and even cotton candy–pink beaches that look more like they belong in a dream than on a map. Colored sands come from all sorts of geological quirks: crushed coral, volcanic rock, mineral deposits, or shells ground down over centuries. Each beach has its own story, and you'll learn just how different the coast can look and feel depending on where you are in the world.
1. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas
Soft blush sand stretches for miles, thanks to microscopic coral fragments mixing with white grains. The water is as gentle as the color under your feet.
2. Punaluʻu Beach, Hawaii, USA
This black sand beach on the Big Island is pure volcanic power. Turtles often nap here, perfectly matching the dramatic shoreline.
3. Kaihalulu Beach, Maui, USA
A rare red sand beach formed by a nearby volcanic cinder cone. The bay is partly sheltered, so you can swim while surrounded by deep crimson hues.
4. Pfeiffer Beach, California, USA
Patches of purple sand appear here after rain, caused by minerals washing down from the cliffs. It’s a subtle effect, but beautiful in the right light.
5. Ramla Bay, Gozo, Malta
Known for its golden-red sand, Ramla Bay feels warm even before the sun hits it. The shallow water makes it a favorite for swimmers.
6. Papakōlea Beach, Hawaii, USA
One of only four green sand beaches in the world, its olive color comes from a mineral called olivine, left behind by an ancient volcanic eruption.
7. Porto Ferro, Sardinia, Italy
Here, reddish-orange sand is made from crushed shells and volcanic rock. Pine forests back the beach, making it a colorful contrast to the water.
8. Kokkini Beach, Santorini, Greece
Bright red cliffs frame equally red sand, making the water look even bluer by comparison. It’s accessible by a short boat ride or hike.
9. Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
A wild black sand beach lined with towering basalt columns. The waves here are no joke – beautiful to watch, but not safe for swimming.
10. Hyams Beach, Australia
It’s officially known for having some of the whitest sand on Earth, so bright you almost need sunglasses just to look down.
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