There's nothing quite like a beach vacation, right? From the sun beating down on your face to the feel of the sand between your toes, spending a day at the beach can be the perfect way to unwind. And while there are tens of thousands of beaches around the world, not all of them are suitable for a relaxing day with your friends and family. In fact, you might want to avoid the beaches on this list entirely, as they're some of the most dangerous around the world.
Kauapea Beach - Kauai, Hawaii
You should never judge a book by its cover, and that's definitely the case when it comes to beautiful beaches like this one. After all, Kauapea Beach may just look like another one of Hawaii's pristine beaches, but the reality is that this beach is one of the most dangerous in the world. And locals encourage tourists to stay out of the water - unless they want to be swimming amongst fresh lava.
Yes, this beach is so close to the active Kilauea volcano that lava spews into it on a regular basis. This, coupled with a strong underwater current, is just a disaster waiting to happen.
Bikini Atoll Beach - Marshall Islands
If you don't recognize the name of this collection of islands, perhaps you recognize the name Eschscholtz Atoll? This atoll was renamed in 1946 when the inhabitants of the islands were forcibly relocated so that the United States government could use the area to test their atomic bombs. Over the course of two decades, 23 nuclear tests took place here, making it now one of the most dangerous beaches the world has to offer.
No, this is not the kind of beach anyone would want to visit - but it turns out that you're not allowed, either. To visit these islands, you need to obtain prior approval and have local government representatives accompany you.
Gansbaai Beach - Gansbaai, South Africa
South Africa is known for its impressive wildlife, but would you want to swim at the 'Great White Shark Capital of the World'? Well, that's exactly what the beaches in Gansbaai are known as. And while these beaches are famous for their impressive surfing opportunities, many surfers have found themselves in trouble when they come face to face with these great whites over the years. That must be pretty scary!
Although the number of great whites in this area does seem to be dwindling, the beaches here are still considered to be some of the most dangerous in the world.
Qingdao Beach - Shenzhen, China
When you think of China, you probably don't think of beaches. You might associate this country with bustling cities and traditional temples - but it turns out that there are quite a few beaches in China. And while Qingdao Beach offers the perfect getaway for those living nearby in the hustle and bustle of Shenzhen city, you might want to give this one a miss, especially as the whole of China seems to visit this beach.
As one of the most overcrowded beaches in the country, Qingdao Beach is a hotspot for drowning incidents. Although the lifeguards try to maintain control, there are too many people to look out for.
Acapulco - Guerrero, Mexico
If you want to go loco down in Acapulco, you might want to think twice about these plans. Although this beach was once associated with exciting beach parties and bars, its reputation has changed over the years. As crime rates began to soar, more and more tourists began to find themselves in sticky situations - especially as homicide rates increased. Because of this, it's no longer as famous as it once was.
Although you'll find police patrolling the sand, Apacpulco still isn't very popular. And that might have something to do with the sewage that also spills into the water on a regular basis.
Lamu Island Beach - Lamu, Kenya
Over the years, the island of Lamu has become somewhat of a playground for the rich and famous - and it's not hard to understand why. The beaches are pristine, and its rich history makes it unlike anywhere else in the world. However, it seems as though they're not the only people attracted to the island, as Lamu has also become known as a pirate's paradise. Yes, Somalian pirates rule these waters.
These pirates have taken countless tourists hostage over the years. And while the government seems to be taking hold of this threat, it's still not 100% safe. So, why risk it?
Cable Beach - Broome, Australia
The area of Broome in Australia is known for having long stretches of beautiful open beaches that are perfect for a day out. And while there's nothing wrong with sitting on the sand and topping up your tan, you definitely don't want to go swimming on Cable Beach from November to May. If you do, you might not even live to regret it. That's because that is deadly jellyfish season.
The waters of Cable Beach are filled with box jellyfish and Irukandji during these months, and they're even known to wash up onto the sand. So, stay closer to the dunes!
Copacabana - Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
As one of the most iconic beaches in the world, Copacabana has solidified its place in history thanks to the song of the same name. And while many people plan to visit this place and tick it off their bucket list, they're sorely disappointed when they get there. And they probably won't stay there long, considering it's one of the most dangerous beaches in the world! In fact, the crime rate is extremely high.
As tourists flock to the beach, so do the thieves. Not only that, but it's also becoming increasingly dirty, with garbage and drinks bottles everywhere. It's just not what it once was.
Playa Chowpatty - Mumbai, India
While Mumbai may be an impressively busy city, it does boast a beach - and Playa Chowpatty is extremely popular with locals looking for a little breathing space. However, there's no doubt about the fact that its popularity has waned over the years, especially as the area has become more and more contaminated. This is largely due to the fact that Playa Chowpatty is a popular place for festival celebrations.
Instead of being cleaned up, this beach seems to get dirtier and dirtier, with garbage sitting everywhere. Because of this, tourists are encouraged to stay away from the beach and avoid the water at all costs.
Camber Sands - Camber, England
With its beautiful sand dunes and clear water, Camber Sands is considered to be one of the best beaches in England. And while countless tourists travel there for a beach vacation every single year, there's no doubt about the fact a huge number of incidents also happen here each year. That's because, while Camber Sands looks beautiful, the unpredictable tides and strong winds can be deadly. Yes, this place may look safe - but it's anything but.
The dangers at Camber Sands have caused the deaths of many visitors, and its remote location means that helicopters often have to be flown in to help those in trouble.
Boa Viagem Beach - Recife, Brazil
Many people travel to Recife in Brazil to take in the culture and experience what life in Brazil is really like. But when vacationers speak to the locals, they're encouraged to stay away from Boa Viagem Beach - and that's totally understandable. Although sharks roam the waters across the world, they're especially active around this beach, and shark attacks are pretty common here.
Over the past decade, over 20 people have died as a result of a shark attack at this beach. And it's been reported that they're attracted to the low-frequency sounds that container ships emit.
Skeleton Coast Beach - Skeleton Beach, Namibia
The Skeleton Coast is a 500 km long coastal stretch in Namibia, and while that sounds like a dream, the reality is that this place is hostile and barren. And do you want to know why it was given this name? The Skeleton Coast is so-named because of the high number of animal skeletons that wash up on the beach every single day. But as if that wasn't enough, this place is also home to animals such as elephants, hyenas, and lions.
Although surfers sometimes try to take advantage of the big waves here, even the locals know that this is the kind of place they need to avoid at all costs.
Uttakleiv Beach - Lofoten, Norway
Did you know that there are countless small islands off the coast of mainland Norway? The Lofoten Islands are known for their adorable villages and their proximity to the Northern Lights, but that's not all. They're also known for the stunning Uttakleiv Beach, which proves that appearances can really be deceiving. Although this place looks like a postcard, it's also extremely dangerous and has caused the death of countless visitors.
Although the beach itself is safe, the water is not. The Arctic climate is not tourist-friendly, and the cold waters are not to be taken lightly. So, stay out in the warm!
Playa De Maho - Philipsburg, Saint Martin
Normally, beaches are famous for their white sand, their coral reefs, or their crystal clear waters. However, it's safe to say that Playa de Maho in Saint Martin is most famous for its extremely close proximity to Princess Juliana Airport. As a result, beach-goers can feel the heat of the planes as they fly just above their heads. And while this must be an impressive experience, it's also super dangerous.
As the planes fly just 25 meters above those on the beach, the government encourages tourists to check out the flight times and move further away from the beach when an incoming flight is due.
Cape Tribulation Beach - Queensland, Australia
You just have to know a little bit of history about Cape Tribulation Beach to realize that it shouldn't be on your bucket list. After all, this beach was found by Captain Cook, who gave the beach his name when "here began all our troubles." And that's not hard to believe, considering this beach is home to deadly crocodiles, jellyfish, and venomous snakes that could kill you in an instant.
Although this beach is at its most dangerous from November to May, there are other critters swimming below the surface for the rest of the year. So, is it even worth it?
Playa Zipolite - Oaxaca, Mexico
There are hundreds of impressive beaches in Mexico, so next time you're in southern Oaxaca, try to choose one of those beaches instead of this one. That's because the Playa Zipolite beach is infamous, even with the locals who call it the "Beach of the Dead." And you probably don't need us to tell you why it has acquired this nickname, especially when we tell you that the currents here are deadly.
The currents are so strong and unpredictable that it's reported that around 50 people die here every single year. But locals still love lounging on the beach here, as it's Mexico's only legal nudist beach.
Morecambe Bay - Morecambe, England
While many people associate England with rolling green hills and rainy days, there are a huge number of pristine beaches in this country. And while Morecambe Bay certainly looks like one of them on a good day, there's no doubt about the fact that this beach has also become one of the most dangerous in the world. After all, where else will you find quicksand and tunnels looking to sweep you underground?
Despite the signs that encourage tourists to stay away, that doesn't stop some people from trying to traverse the quicksand in their vehicles. Unfortunately, they get stuck in their tracks.
West End Beach - Grand Bahama, Bahamas
Many people travel across the globe to embark on the ultimate beach vacation in the Bahamas. And while it's easy to understand why, people need to be careful when picking their vacation location. After all, there are many beaches in the Bahamas that aren't exactly swimming-friendly. Especially West End Beach, which is home to some of the most tiger sharks in the world. In fact, shark attacks are incredibly common.
But these aren't the only sharks found in these shark-infested waters. West End Beach is also home to bull sharks, hammerheads, and blacktips. Because of this, you might want to find another beach to swim at.
Praia Do Norte - Nazare, Portugal
The area of Nazare in Portugal is hugely popular with those who want to attend the religious festivals that take place near the iconic Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. However, that's not the only reason that this town is so famous. It's also home to one of the most dangerous beaches in the world, thanks to the giant waves that make it stand out from the crowd - and not in a good way!
As this area boasts the Nazare underwater canyon, the currents here are second to none. And while professional surfers love to tackle these giant waves, tourists are encouraged to stay away for their own safety.
Dumas Beach - Gujarat, India
Have you ever heard of a haunted beach? Well, locals believe that Dumas Beach in India is one of the most haunted beaches in the world - and that's not just because the sand is black. Over the years, countless occasions of paranormal activity have been recorded here, and it's believed that the beach was once used as an ancient burial ground. However, that's not the only reason it's considered to be a dangerous beach.
This beach is home to a huge number of king cobras - and there's no doubt about the fact that you don't want to come face to face with one of those.
Isla De Ré - France
Connected to France by a bridge, Isla De Ré is an island unlike any other. It's just 15 miles long and three miles wide, and its unique size and location see it welcome countless visitors every single year. However, tourists have been careful when they visit this place - and it's suggested that they avoid the water at all costs. That's because this island is home to a strange natural phenomenon rarely seen elsewhere.
In the summer, this island is home to Sinusoidal waves, which make a cross-hatch pattern in the water. And while these look cool, they're extremely deadly as the currents are strong and unpredictable.
Second Beach - Port St. John's, South Africa
Port St. John's is a hugely popular destination in South Africa, and it's not hard to understand why. This town features some impressive coastline, and while Second Beach is considered to be one of the best in the area, it's also one of the most dangerous. Bull sharks live here in their thousands, and that's one of the reasons why so many people travel here. After all, this is the place for shark diving!
And while many people have been able to dive with sharks without incident, others have tragically lost their lives in these waters. It just depends if you want to risk it or not.
Rio Negro Beach - The Amazon, Brazil
The Amazon is one of the most impressive feats of natural beauty that this world has to offer, so it should come as no surprise to learn that people dream of traveling to this rainforest and seeing the river for themselves. However, you wouldn't want to do this without a guide - and you certainly wouldn't want to go swimming at Rio Negro Beach. Not unless you want to be eaten by a piranha, anyway.
Not only is the water around this beach black in color, but the red-bellied piranhas have no problem attacking humans with little provocation. So, it might just be a good idea to avoid the water altogether.
Kosi Bay - Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
Although South Africa is a must-visit place, this list has probably taught you that many of the beaches in this country are a no-go. And the Kosi Bay beach in Kwazulu-Natal is just another beach to add to that list. Although it's one of the most beautiful sights that this world has to offer, thanks to its interconnected lakes and sand dunes, this beach is pretty dangerous, mostly because of the bull sharks and malaria outbreak.
If you want to avoid going home with a shark bite or contracting malaria, you're encouraged to stay out of the water and take your antimalarial drugs with you for your trip.
Playa De Los Muertos - Carboneras, Spain
You don't need to be fluent in Spanish to realize that the name of this beach doesn't exactly fill us with hope. Translated as "Death Beach," this beach in Spain is considered to be one of the most morbid in the world. That's because the strong currents often sweep the dead bodies of lost sailors onto the beach, resulting in a horrifying shock for those that dare set foot on the beach.
As if that wasn't enough, swimmers have also found themselves in danger on this beach, as the shoreline drops off extremely suddenly. As a result, many people have drowned here.
The Pipeline - Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is famous for its impressive waves, and it's no wonder that so many keen surfers travel to this Hawaiian island to stretch their surfing legs. But if you're a novice to this sport, you probably want to avoid the Pipeline. Considered to be the world's highest and most dangerous wave, it averages around nine feet tall. However, the highest wave ever recorded here came in at a whopping 20 feet.
Around five people have died while riding this giant wave, but many more have been injured - especially as the beach itself is full of jagged rocks and sharp edges.
Kamilo Beach - Naalehu, Hawaii
When you think of Hawaii, you might think of a beach paradise. And that's exactly why so many people book to visit this island as part of their beach vacation. Of course, there are some amazing beaches - but Kamilo Beach isn't one of them. Often called "plastic beach," this place is full of garbage and marine debris that hides most of the sand. But that's not the only danger.
This beach is also home to monk seals, who will happily charge at humans if they feel as though their space is being invaded. So, time to find another beach?
Reunion Island - Indian Ocean
Located in the Indian Ocean, Reunion Island is about 180km away from Mauritius and 680km from Madagascar. And thanks to its remote location, this island is full of pristine beaches that look like they've been pulled from a postcard. However, looks can be deceiving, and it turns out that these beaches are home to some of the deadliest sharks in the world. And, unfortunately, shark attacks are pretty common here.
Many people have died swimming in the waters of Reunion Island, which has forced the governing body to put bans on people swimming or taking part in any watersports at certain times of the year.
The Red Triangle - California
There are so many amazing coastal regions in California, but have you ever heard of the Red Triangle? This area extends from Bodega Bay to the Farallon Islands and then to Monterey and is a hive of marine life. However, the animals that live here are the favored prey of great white sharks - meaning it's one of the most dangerous places in the world. In fact, 38% of great white shark attacks on humans in the US have occurred here!
Because of this, it's considered to be incredibly dangerous for people to swim in and around these waters. That doesn't stop people from giving it a go every so often, though.
Fraser Island Beach - Fraser Island, Australia
Fraser Island is a hugely popular tourist destination, but there's a reason why less than 200 people actually live here. While the beaches look stunning and the water looks pristine, what lies below the surface is less than desirable. This place is a hotspot for deadly box jellyfish and great white sharks! As if that wasn't enough, the water conditions are extremely rough, with powerful riptides that have swept swimmers under on countless occasions.
Due to its remote location, lifeguards aren't around to help swimmers who find themselves in trouble. Because of this, the government encourages people to stay out of the water entirely.
Clifton Beach - Cape Town, South Africa
From the iconic Table Mountain to the nearby safari opportunities, it should come as no surprise to learn that Cape Town is one of the most popular destinations around the world. And while most people don't head here for a beach vacation, there's no doubt about the fact that this place has some incredible beaches. Unfortunately, Clifton Beach isn't one of them. It's super dangerous and to be avoided at all costs.
In fact, the country's animal control has had to put nets up on this beach to ensure that swimmers have the chance to swim away from deadly crocodiles or sharks.
Tamarama Beach - New South Wales, Australia
Even if you're a strong swimmer, you're probably going to want to avoid Tamarama Beach. While it may look beautiful with the jagged rocks and rockpools, the reality of this beach is that it's a huge danger to human life. And we're not just talking about the rocks, either! With incredibly deep water and some of the biggest rip currents in the world, people are swept out to sea here every single day.
In an effort to combat incidents, lifeguards do put out flags to indicate the safer spots. However, even they require you to be switched on every second of your swim.
Mindanao Island - The Philippines
You just need to Google pictures of The Philippines to realize that this country is full of amazing islands with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. And while Mindanao Island looks like one of them, it's actually one of the most dangerous beaches in the world. This small island is rife with crime, and terrorist attacks and kidnappings are way too common for most people's liking. After all, it's just not worth the risk.
Although many people do still travel to this island, rebels have been fighting the military here for decades. And so far, hundreds of people have been killed on the island.
North Sentinel Island - India
Many people travel across the globe looking for remote and small islands that they can explore. But you'll have a hard time exploring North Sentinel Island, as you won't be able to get on it in the first place. That's because it's home to a hostile tribe that has made it their mission to stay away from the rest of human civilization. When outsiders get close, they whip out their bows and arrows.
It's not known exactly how many tribespeople live on this island, but it's estimated to be around 200. So, you won't be able to tick this island off your bucket list anytime soon.
Heard Island Beach - Heard Island, Australia
Separated from mainland Australia, Heard Island is located around 4,000 kilometers away in the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it's not the kind of place that you'd visit on a regular basis. But even if you feel the need to travel to this island, we'd suggest that you avoid the beach at all costs unless you want to get caught up in an Antarctic blast or traverse dangerous glaciers, of course.
Heard Island is most popular with scientists looking to conduct their research, but more of them have died getting on and off the island than those who actually make it there.
Volusia County - Florida
Florida is a hugely popular destination for tourists looking for a beach vacation, but you might want to stick with Orlando next time you plan a trip. In fact, you need to just avoid Volusia County altogether. The beaches in this area are teeming with sharks, and it seems as though shark attacks are incredibly common in this area. Since 1982, there have been almost 300 shark attacks! Thankfully, none of them have been fatal.
But what makes this place even more intense is that the beaches around this county are prone to thunderstorms. Because of this, your chance of getting struck by lightning on this beach is pretty high.
Manaus Beach - The Amazon, Brazil
When looking at this photo, it would be easy to assume that this is just a harmless beach in one of the most impressive places in the world. But you know what they say when you assume, and there's no doubt about the fact that Manaus Beach is anything but harmless. In fact, it's considered to be one of the most dangerous beaches in the world, thanks to all of the animals that float beneath the surface.
From piranhas to anacondas to electric eels, the waters here are full of deadly creatures that won't hesitate to harm you. So, maybe just find a hotel with a pool here.
Schitovaya Bukhta Beach - Russia
While most people don't head to Russia for a beach vacation, you might be surprised to know that there are some beautiful beaches in this country. Unfortunately, this isn't one of them. The Schitovaya Bukhta Beach is one of the most deadly and dangerous beaches in the world, and anyone who comes near this location needs to adhere to strict rules and obtain a permit. After all, there's radiation everywhere.
This beach is located nearby a Russian military facility and has become somewhat of a dumping ground for old weapons, submarines, and missiles. Because of this, it's extremely dangerous - but that doesn't stop surfers from taking advantage of the epic waves!
Qawra Beach - Qawra, Malta
Many places around the world have made a name for themselves as tourist destinations, and Qawra is no different. This tourist resort welcomes those looking for a great beach vacation, and there's no doubt about the fact that it has a lot to offer. After all, there are countless restaurants and water sports options, and the weather is always hot. However, this heat also works against it in the summer.
Unfortunately, Qawra Beach has acquired a nickname over the years; the Malta sewer. That's because the waters are highly contaminated with human waste, and the whole area is incredibly smelly and disgusting when the heat rises.
Myrtle Beach - Horry County, South Carolina
Everyone knows Myrtle Beach, right? This resort town is one of the most famous in the United States, and countless people head there for a beach vacation every single year. And while there are certainly positives to heading to this beach resort, there are also some serious downsides. In fact, Myrtle Beach has become a crime hotspot and is now the third-most dangerous place in America based on FBI crime reporting numbers.
Unfortunately, with party-goers comes criminals - and it seems as though the crime rates in Myrtle Beach won't drop until people stop going there. But we don't see that happening.
There's nothing quite like a day at the beach, right? From the sun beating down on your face to the feel of the sand between your toes, spending the day at the beach can be the perfect way to unwind after a long week. And while there are tens of thousands of beaches across the globe to choose from, you should probably do your research before packing your swimsuit. A lot of the beaches on this list might be beautiful, but it turns out that they're some of the most dangerous beaches in the world.