9 Secluded Beaches Near Iconic Destinations: Hidden Gems That Are Easy to Reach

Everyone craves a beach vacation with pristine sands, turquoise waters, and total seclusion—yet popular spots like Bondi and Ipanema swarm with crowds. The good news? Our travel experts have scouted nine serene alternatives right near these hotspots, backed by firsthand research for authentic escapes. Just pack your sunscreen.

Discover these tranquil beaches close to the world's top destinations:

1. Paradise Beach at Atlantis Resort, Bahamas—a peaceful retreat away from the waterpark and main hotel areas.

2. Happy Bay Beach, St. Martin—no commercial crowds, just a 15-minute hike from Friar's Bay. Note: It's a designated nude beach.

3. Skip bustling Cannes: From Hyères near Saint-Tropez, take a 20-minute boat to Île de Porquerolles and its pristine, secluded shores.

4. Sydney's best-kept secret, Milk Beach in Hermitage Bay, offers relaxed vibes just a 15-minute drive from the city bustle.

5. North of crowded Ocean City, Bethany Beach in Delaware's Quiet Resorts area delivers calm vibes and activities. Fenwick Island is another gem.

6. Just 30 minutes by train from Barcelona, Sitges beaches like Platja de Sant Sebastià offer fewer tourists, great amenities, and stunning Mediterranean views with an old-town charm.

7. At the quieter end of Rio's Copacabana, Leme Beach provides serenity and superior views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

8. Escape Waikiki's hustle via a short walk to Magic Island Lagoon, a serene spot on the man-made peninsula between Waikiki and Ala Moana.

9. On Croatia's Makarska Riviera between Split and Dubrovnik, explore Promajna's picturesque, abandoned inlets—easily accessible from ports.

Gabby Peyton is a Toronto-based travel writer, photographer, amateur archaeologist, and Champagne enthusiast. Her journeys are fueled by cuisine, with favorites including Istanbul, Bologna, and St. John’s, Newfoundland.