9. Elafonissi Beach: Greece
It wasn’t that long ago Elafonissi Beach was known only to local inhabitants of Crete. However, when Trip Advisor named it one of the World’s Top 25 Beaches in 2014, all of that changed. Today, everyone from young day trekkers and backpackers to sun worshipers and families hauling spades and buckets can be found. During high season it seems like the entire world is vacationing at Elafonissi Beach. So what makes it so special? The warm lagoon and shallow waters are part of the attraction. Plus, there’s a sandbar that is submerged just underneath the water so visitors can enjoy the ocean but still stand u right. And while The beach is often dotted with umbrellas and lounge chairs, you can wade out to a small island and experience another world if you choose. It’s completely remote, classified as a nature preserve and just as stunning as Elafonissi Beach. More than 100 rare plants and winter flowering plants can be found there, making it a true one of a kind nature spot.