Have you ever dreamed of taking a relaxing beach vacation this summer? Well, before you start planning, you may want to consider avoiding the top 10 worst beaches in the world. From overcrowded shorelines to polluted waters, these beaches are definitely not the ideal spot for your next getaway. Each beach on this list has its own unique set of challenges, whether it’s shark attacks at New Smyrna Beach or high levels of bacteria at Darwin, Australia.
With beaches like the highly polluted Chowpatty Beach in India to the dangerous box jellyfish-infested waters in Darwin, you might want to think twice before booking your next beach holiday. From the crowded Xinghai Beach in China to the noisy Maho Beach in Dutch Antilles, these destinations are far from the relaxing paradise you might be dreaming of. Before you pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, take a moment to explore the top 10 worst beaches in the world to avoid.
Xinghai Beach, China
Xinghai Beach, located in the major seaport of Dalian, China, is a popular tourist destination. With numerous top hotels and tourist attractions, it draws a large crowd of visitors. However, the downside to this popularity is that Xinghai Beach can be extremely overcrowded, especially on weekends. The beach is a favorite among both foreign tourists and domestic visitors, making it a bustling spot for beachgoers.
Calangute Beach, India
Calangute Beach in India is often seen as the ultimate beach vacation spot for many travelers. However, this beach paradise may not live up to its promises. Pushy vendors can detract from the relaxing atmosphere, and the presence of stray animals, such as cows and dogs, can create a less than ideal beach experience. Travelers looking for better alternatives can explore nearby Mandrem Beach, Agonda Beach, or Palolem Beach for a more serene environment.
Heard Island, Antarctica
Heard Island in Antarctica is a remote and desolate destination permanently covered in ice. The island boasts a stunning natural beauty, with a massive volcano known as Big Ben. However, the Antarctic climate on Heard Island is harsh and unforgiving, making it unsuitable for visitors. With summer temperatures barely reaching 4 degrees Celsius, this icy island is not an ideal location for beachgoers seeking warmth and relaxation.
New Smyrna Beach, United States
New Smyrna Beach in the United States is renowned for its beauty but comes with safety concerns. This picturesque beach has a high incidence of shark attacks, with over 100 attacks reported in just a couple of years. Particularly dangerous during hurricane season, the beach may not offer a safe swimming experience for visitors. Travelers should exercise caution when visiting New Smyrna Beach to avoid any potential risks.
Kamilo Beach, United States
Kamilo Beach in the United States is situated near the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, leading to significant pollution issues. Despite ongoing efforts to clean up the beach, the shoreline remains covered in plastic waste. The accumulation of plastic debris, including smaller plastic pellets known as nurdles, exceeds the natural sand on the beach. Visitors to Kamilo Beach may witness the detrimental impact of marine plastic pollution firsthand.
Maho Beach, Dutch Antilles
Maho Beach in the Dutch Antilles offers a visual paradise but comes with hidden drawbacks. Located near an airport, the beach is subject to frequent noise pollution from planes landing and taking off. With a runway closely adjacent to the shoreline, beachgoers may experience the sight of low-flying aircraft passing overhead. Despite its stunning scenery, Maho Beach’s proximity to an airport may disrupt the tranquility of a typical beach outing.
Doheny Beach, United States
Doheny Beach in the United States suffers from high pollution levels, posing risks to visitors. Testing has revealed that the water at Doheny Beach tested positive for bacteria in over 90% of samples taken. While efforts have been made to improve the water quality, significant progress is still needed to address the pollution issues plaguing the beach. Visitors should be cautious when considering a trip to Doheny Beach due to potential health hazards.
Hanakapiai Beach, United States
Hanakapiai Beach in the United States is visually stunning but comes with inherent risks. The beach is known for its strong currents and the absence of lifeguards, making it dangerous for swimmers. Visitors to Hanakapiai Beach should exercise extreme caution when entering the water, as the strong ocean currents can pose a significant threat to inexperienced swimmers. While the beach offers breathtaking views, it requires vigilance to ensure a safe visit.
Darwin, Australia
Darwin in Australia is home to beaches with dangerous marine animals that can pose risks to visitors. From box jellyfish to sharks and saltwater crocodiles, the waters surrounding Darwin are teeming with potentially harmful creatures. Additionally, high levels of bacteria in the water further compound the safety concerns for beachgoers. Travelers considering a beach visit in Darwin should be aware of the prevalent marine hazards and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Chowpatty Beach, India
Chowpatty Beach in India stands out for its high levels of pollution and waste impact. With a dense population and significant waste production in Mumbai, the beach at Chowpatty faces pollution challenges. Water quality tests reveal alarmingly high levels of fecal matter, making it unsuitable for swimming or recreational activities. Visitors to Chowpatty Beach should be mindful of the environmental issues and consider alternative beach destinations with cleaner and safer conditions.