Crashing waves, warm sunshine, swaying palm trees, and golden sand...just a few of the things we daydream about when planning a beach vacation. If you are looking for some inspiration for your next beach getaway, then read on to explore our list of top 5 unique beaches to visit in your lifetime.

Sunrise Beach in Koh Lipe, Thailand

Along with the gorgeous idyllic views, you can enjoy the calmness of the water at Sunrise Beach in Thailand. The sunrises are gorgeous here and you can stay in a hotel that has cabanas right on the beach. This is a great beach for any sailing adventurer because it takes a bit of effort just to reach the beach. First, you must catch a ferry, then the ferry will drop you off at a pontoon, which will then lead you to a longboat that will finally take you to the beach. But hey, once you reach the beach, you will find the journey was well worth the effort! 

Playa La Poza in Todos Santos, Mexico

Playa La Poza has a freshwater lagoon that runs into it. If you are a bird watcher, this is the beach for you as it draws an incredible number of them. From gulls and herons to frigates, ducks, cormorants, sandpipers, pelicans and more, you can catch quite the variety of aviary wildlife. The beach is nearly deserted, making it a great place to relax in peace. The waves are quite strong though, so you may not want to get in the water much if at all. Sometimes you can even spot whales on the shores of Todos Santos!

Playa Balandra in La Paz, Mexico

Set your eyes on some of the clearest waters you've ever seen at Playa Balandra Beach. This beach runs off of a shallow bay and features pristine white and powdery gorgeous sand for miles. Thanks to the bay, which protects the beach from the open sea, this beach has calm waters that are perfect for swimming. Cacti and sand dunes surround you, adding to the intrigue of this one-of-a-kind beach. Balandra Beach was even voted most Beautiful Beach of Mexico in 2017 by USA Today. 

Red Beach in Santorini, Greece

This vibrant red sand beach contrasts against the brilliant blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Red beach is located on the gorgeous island of Santorini, which is an island that is almost too beautiful for words. The sand on this beach will leave you without words. The red color comes from the red lava rock found on the surrounding cliffs. Red Beach is nestled in its own protected cove. You will need to hike a little to get here but it is very much worth your efforts.

Trawangan Beach in Gili Trawangan, Lombok

Near Bali is the breathtaking island of Gili Trawangan. The clear blue waters at this beach will make you think you have entered into a different realm. The air is crisp and clean and the diving is out of this world amazing in the clear waters. You do not even need to wear a snorkel mask to see the fish within. No cars or scooters are allowed on this island and the people around are very friendly. You can also see the sunset and sunrise from the same spot on this enchanting beach.