Baía do Sancho

Baía do Sancho has been crowned the world's best beach by TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards multiple times, and it's easy to see why. Located on the remote island of Fernando de Noronha, this Brazilian treasure offers an almost mythical combination of emerald waters, golden sands, and abundant marine life.

Accessing the beach is an adventure in itself. Visitors must descend through narrow crevices in the cliff face via a series of steep stairs and metal ladders attached to the rock walls. This challenging descent keeps crowds to a minimum and rewards the intrepid with a slice of paradise that feels utterly private.

The beach is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and strict visitor limits protect its pristine condition. The surrounding waters are a marine protected area where sea turtles nest, dolphins frolic, and over 200 species of fish thrive. The water clarity rivals anywhere on Earth—on calm days, visibility extends over 50 meters, making it one of the world's premier snorkeling and diving destinations.