Pink sand beaches are rare and captivating, attracting travelers seeking unique coastal experiences. These stunning stretches of shoreline owe their rosy hues to a combination of eroded coral, shells, and microscopic organisms like foraminifera. The presence of reddish minerals like garnet also contributes to the color. This guide showcases 13 of the most impressive pink sand beaches around the globe, detailing how to reach them and where to stay.
What Makes Sand Pink?
Sand is typically formed from eroded rock minerals like quartz and mica. However, the inclusion of organic matter—coral, shells, and tiny sea creatures—can dramatically alter its color. Beaches near garnet-rich rocks may appear brighter, while atolls with sand composed almost entirely of broken-down organisms often display the most vivid pink tones. The key ingredient is reddish organisms like foraminifera, microscopic creatures living on reefs that tint the sand when they decompose.
Africa and the Indian Ocean
Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles: The Seychelles, a luxury honeymoon destination in the Indian Ocean, boasts the iconic Anse Source d’Argent. Framed by granite boulders and lush palms, this beach takes on a pinkish hue when wet, especially vibrant at sunset.
– How to get there: Ferry to La Digue Island from Mahé or Praslin, then bike or walk to L’Union Estate.
– Where to stay: Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort & Spa offers hillside villas and Le Relax Luxury Lodge provides intimate Creole-style rooms.
Asia
Pantai Merah, Komodo, Indonesia: Komodo Island is famous for its dragons, but its pink sand beach is a hidden gem. The sand’s color comes from broken-down coral, and the area is part of Komodo National Park, requiring guided tours.
– How to get there: Fly to Labuan Bajo (Flores), then take a boat tour to Pink Beach within Komodo National Park.
– Where to stay: AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach is upscale, while Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa offers private villas with guided excursions.
Pantai Tangsi, Lombok, Indonesia: Closer to Bali, Lombok’s Pink Beach (Pantai Tangsi) gets its blush tone from red coral fragments. It’s a quieter alternative to Komodo, offering hiking, surfing, and cultural experiences.
– How to get there: Fly to Lombok International Airport, then drive to the Sekaroh Peninsula.
– Where to stay: Origin Lombok in Kuta provides stylish villas, while Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas offers beachfront access near Tanjung Aan.
Caribbean and Atlantic
Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas: The Bahamas’ Pink Sands Beach stretches nearly three miles, tinted by foraminifera in the surrounding reefs. This generous size ensures ample space for relaxation and water activities.
– How to get there: Fly to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) via Nassau, then take a water taxi to Harbour Island.
– Where to stay: Pink Sands Resort sits directly on the beach, while Coral Sands Inn & Cottages offers classic Bahamian charm.
Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda: Bermuda’s Horseshoe Bay is a wide crescent of pink sand and turquoise water, colored by crushed coral and microscopic shells. Despite its popularity, its size keeps it from feeling crowded.
– How to get there: Fly into L.F. Wade International Airport, then take a taxi or bus to the South Shore.
– Where to stay: The Loren at Pink Beach is secluded, while The Reefs and Coco Reef Resort offer South Shore access.
Crane Beach, Barbados: Barbados, with its easy visa options for expats, also boasts stunning beaches like Crane Beach. The pale pink sand is a perfect backdrop for surfing, rum tasting, and island life.
– How to get there: Fly into Grantley Adams International Airport, then take a taxi or bus to Crane Beach in St. Philip parish.
– Where to stay: The Crane Resort overlooks the beach, while Little Arches Boutique Hotel provides an adults-only atmosphere nearby.
Pink Beach, Bonaire: Bonaire’s Pink Beach offers calm waters and secluded beauty, popular with snorkelers and divers. The pale pink hue comes from a mix of coral and shells.
– How to get there: Fly into Flamingo International Airport, then drive south along the coastal road.
– Where to stay: Harbour Village Beach Club provides a private beach and dive center, while Buddy Dive Resort is a favorite among divers.
Europe
Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece: Crete’s Elafonisi is a cove-shaped sandbar with turquoise water and pink sand formed from crushed shells and coral. It’s a highlight of the island’s coastline.
– How to get there: Fly or ferry to Chania, Crete, then drive or bus southwest to Elafonisi.
– Where to stay: Domes Zeen Chania in Chania offers boutique accommodation, while smaller guesthouses are available near the beach.
Porto Covo, Portugal: Porto Covo offers pink-ish sand that changes depending on the light, best viewed during colorful sunsets. It’s about two hours from Lisbon, making it an accessible day trip.
– How to get there: Take a Rede Expressos bus or drive south from Lisbon.
– Where to stay: Hotel Apartamento Porto Covo provides simple accommodations, while Herdade do Touril offers rural guesthouse stays nearby.
Rauðasandur Beach, Iceland: Iceland’s Rauðasandur (“Red Sand Beach”) runs for over six miles, alternating between red, pink, and white due to scallop shells. It’s a unique spot for wildlife watching.
– How to get there: Drive or take the ferry to the Westfjords region, then follow Route 60, 62, and 614 (4×4 recommended).
– Where to stay: Fosshotel Westfjords in Patreksfjörður offers modern rooms, while Hotel Breiðavík sits near puffin-viewing areas.
Pacific Islands
Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, Maui, Hawai’i: Maui’s Kaihalulu is not a pastel pink beach but a bold red one, colored by iron-rich volcanic cinder.
– How to get there: The trail is unmarked and dangerous; exercise extreme caution.
These pink sand beaches offer unique travel experiences, blending natural beauty with cultural attractions. From the luxury of the Seychelles to the wild landscapes of Iceland, these destinations showcase the diversity of our planet’s shorelines.
