If you’re fortunate enough to travel leisurely, you can see some of the most beautiful places in the world. There are so many locations to visit that it’s hard to choose where to start.
What makes a destination one of the most beautiful places in the world? Is it white sand beaches or majestic mountains? Is it the area’s culture or history? Or is it a combination of all of the above?
Many of the most beautiful places in the world are located halfway across the globe, and others are closer to home. If your sense of wanderlust calls you, here are some sites to consider for your next adventure.
1. Monterey Bay, California
California is teeming with natural and manmade attractions with something that’s of appeal to any vacationer. While there are plenty of sights to see on land, the most impressive views are near the ocean.
Monterey Bay is home to an abundance of ocean wildlife, including whales. The bay, which sits on the Pacific Ocean, offers year-round whale-watching tours, with peak sightings of different species such as blue, gray, killer, and humpback whales throughout the year.
2. Bay of Fundy, Canada
Located between the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, the Bay of Fundy has a distinctive tidal pattern that’s unlike any on earth. At the highest tides, the waters can reach up to 53.5 feet.
When the tide is in, brave rafters can navigate the choppy waters. During the lowest tides, which last a few hours daily, visitors can walk, run, and dine on the ocean floor. Where else on earth can you experience such a phenomenon?
3. Punta Uva Beach, Costa Rica
Located north of the Panamanian border, Costa Rica’s Punta Uva Beach may be small compared to other beaches, but that only adds to its charm. The region doesn’t have large resorts, giving visitors and digital nomads a more authentic experience.
Beachgoers can enjoy Punta Uva Beach or beach hopping to places like Cahuita National Park for snorkeling. Those preferring to stay on land can visit the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge to see protected endangered species.
4. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
In southwest Bolivia, excursionists will find the Salar de Uyuni. The more than 6,575 miles of pure white Bolivian Salt Flats are large enough to be seen from space.
Located near the summit of the Andes, it’s 2.27 miles above sea level, meaning even the most eager explorer must adjust to the change in altitude. The views are worth the effort.
5. Valle de la Luna, Chile
Translated into English as “Valley of the Moon” or “Moon Valley,” Valle de la Luna, in the Atacama Desert, is considered uninhabitable because of its extremely arid climate. It’s also what makes it a visually striking place to observe.
Over time, the shifting of Earth’s crust led to the creation of natural salt sculptures called Las Tres Marías. These massive figures are housed within the sandy hills, valleys, and dunes as far as the eye can see.
6. Englishman’s Bay, Tobago
Nature lovers who can’t decide between traveling to the rainforest or the beach have the best of both worlds at Englishman’s Bay. Located on the island of Tobago, Englishman’s Bay is an isolated beach surrounded by a lush rainforest.
The view of the turquoise-hued water from the beach is already stunning. It’s even more incredible from the lookout spot strategically situated on the side of a hill.
7. Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica
The amazement felt when visiting Morne Trois Pitons National Park is attributed to its untouched beauty. It is a modern-day natural wonder that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
The Morne Trois Pitons consists of five volcanoes that have created a pristine landscape, including a boiling lake, hot springs, freshwater lakes, and valleys. It’s also considered the most biodiverse region in the Lesser Antilles.
8. Egremni Beach, Lefkada, Greece
Athens is easily the most popular and best-known place in Greece to vacation. Gallivants who want to enjoy a taste of Mediterranean culture off the beaten path visit Egremni Beach, Lefkada.
Egremni Beach, located on the Greek island of Lefkada, is more isolated than other popular destinations, but it’s worth the effort. The beach is accessed by a water taxi or a staircase adjacent to the road. Visitors are rewarded with white cliffs, clear blue seawater, and uncrowded beaches.
9. Lapland, Finland
If you believe the North Pole is the home of Santa Claus, you’d be mistaken. He resides in Lapland! Check out its scenic views, and it’s no wonder the jolly fellow (and his many reindeer) makes it his home.
Every year, residents and visitors alike become awestruck by the northern lights, which are visible in late August. Summer travelers also experience another phenomenon: three months of sunlight 24 hours a day, so don’t forget to pack those sunglasses!
10. El Nido, the Philippines
If you’re considering a trip to the Philippines, El Nido, on Palawan Island, is the ultimate tropical destination. Explorers can rent a kayak to search for hidden white sand beaches or study colorful coral reefs in clear blue waters.
Thrill seekers can zipline from El Nido to neighboring islands and hike up Taraw Cliff. Those who prefer lounging in the sun can absorb amazing views from Cabana Beach.
11. Mount Kelimutu, Indonesia
Mount Kelimutu isn’t an average mountain peak: it’s an active volcano with three different crater lakes. What makes these lakes exceptional is they frequently change colors for unknown reasons.
The Lake of Old People usually has a blue hue, the Lake of Young Men and Maidens is typically green, and the Bewitched or Enchanted Lake is generally red. According to folklore, when someone dies, their soul is sent to one of the three lakes based on their lives.
12. The Okavango, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is designated a World Heritage Site. It’s home to diverse plant and animal life and provides sanctuary for numerous endangered animal species. The delta is sustained by the Okavango River.
Okavango is a treasured place within the continent and is a self-proclaimed great wetland of the world. The tourism industry is built around sustainability, accommodating visitors while preserving delicate ecosystems.
13. Mount Mulanje, Malawi
At 10,000 feet in height, Mount Mulanje is the highest peak in Malawi. The site is surrounded by driving routes, but there are also paths for casual walkers and avid hikers, allowing for spectacular views.
As the elevation on Mount Mulanje changes, so do the flora and fauna. Travelers can view unique species like miniature antelope called klipspringer and birds like the white-necked ravens to black eagles.
14. Sharqiya Sands, Oman
The country of Oman may not be considered a top Middle Eastern travel destination compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but it’s one to consider. The gorgeous Sharqiya Sands, also known as the Wahiba Sands, are a stunning sight to behold.
Bedouin nomads inhabit the region, and with the expansion of modern amenities, their ways are rapidly being supplanted. It’s a great opportunity to capture a glimpse at an irreplaceable culture.
15. Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Located in the western part of Egypt near the Libyan border, the Siwa Oasis is a gem often overlooked by travelers to the regions surrounded by the Nile River. Architecture enthusiasts can admire the amazing buildings.
Amidst the salt lakes dense enough to float on is an amazing blend of ancient and new buildings. The crown jewel of the newer dwellings is the Adrère Amellal eco-lodge, made from kershef, an insulating mix made from salt, clay, and rocks.
16. Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
The dual attractions of Cradle Mountain and the adjacent Lake St. Clair National Park are a nature-lover’s dream. Hikers can explore the shores of the pristine Dove Lake, surrounded by the peaks and valleys of Cradle Mountain.
Lake St. Clair, created by melting glaciers throughout millions of years, is deeply connected to the Tasmanian Aboriginal people. Guests of the national park can learn more about the Indigenous people on the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Walk.
17. Akaroa, New Zealand
The picturesque town of Akaroa is less than 90 minutes from Christchurch. Foodies will enjoy French cuisine and locally sourced foods, but its natural beauty is equally impressive.
The top of the Akaroa Lighthouse offers spectacular views of the landscape. Lucky guests can glimpse rare Hector dolphins in the sea. There are colonies of protected Pōhatu penguins and Shamarra alpacas to cuddle with on land.
18. Kangaroo Island, Australia
Wayfarers who love seeing animals in their natural habitats should visit Kangaroo Island. Located off the coast of Australia, near Adelaide, It has a lot to offer.
As the name implies, kangaroos and koalas, tammar wallabies, and long-nosed fur seals inhabit the island. The island is a sanctuary without borders for plant life and animals on land and in the sea.
19. Tonga
The island nation of Tonga is made up of 176 islands, 40 of which are inhabited. Tonga, known for its friendly people, is paradise on earth. The island chain’s landscape rivals those of other Polynesian vacation sites.
Among the activities in Tonga are snorkeling, kitesurfing, and walking the vigorous Tongatapu trails. Adventurous travelers can also swim alongside majestic whales.
This article originally appeared on Travel Binger.
