By Katie Waldeck [1], Care2 Healthy Living [2]

Who doesn’t love a day at the beach? Here, discover just a handful of the planet’s most impressive beaches, and tell us about some of your favorites in the comments section!

1. Beaches of El Nido, The Philippines

The Philippines probably isn’t the first place you might think of when you think of a gorgeous tropical paradise — but it should be. Complete with turquoise waters, white sandy beaches — not to mention some of the most impressive vegetation and wildlife in the area, if not the world — El Nido Beach is a true stunner. What’s below the waters is equally as impressive: an endemic species of dolphin, 50 different kinds of coral, 813 fish species and 4 species of marine turtles, all of which are endangered. Still not convinced? Well, the views aren’t too shabby either: you’ll find several gorgeous cliffs, waterfalls and caves.

2. Myrtos Beach, Greece

In a country known for its gorgeous beaches, Myrtos rises above the pack. Indeed, it is often considered the nation’s best beach. Why, exactly? Well, the 1.5 mile-long white pebble beach nestled into dramatic cliffs sure doesn’t hurt. It’s also a great place for swimmers — water sports aren’t allowed. Another perk? Permanent structures aren’t allowed on the beach, so it’s all about the natural beauty.

3. Matira Beach, Bora Bora, Tahiti

The famed island of Bora Bora is home to one of the world’s most spectacular beaches. The white sandy beach sits on a lagoon protected from the ocean by a barrier reef. The temperature of the vibrant blue waters is usually around a pleasant 80° F. Though a popular tourist destination, Matira Beach is, like the rest of the island, quite secluded.

4. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida

Certainly, a number of beaches on this list are famous for their spectacular white sand. But few of them can claim to have the whitest and softest sand in the world. For that reason, Siesta Beach is often considered the best of its kind in the lower 48 states. Even better? The sand is 99% quartz, making it nice and cool no matter how hot it is outside – no burning feet here!

5. Hahei Beach, New Zealand

Tourists flock to see the spectacular scenery of Hahei Beach, including Cathedral Cove, a natural archway. And that’s not all — offshore islands, cliffs, caves, rock formations and coral reefs teeming with marine life are also on view above and under water. A quick hike down the shore takes you to Hot Water Beach, where simply digging a hole in the sand allows you to relax in your very own hot spring!

6. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

Off the coast of Southern Africa sits this tiny nation, home to some world-class beaches. The Anse Source d’Argent is perhaps the most famous, and for good reason. Pink sands, granite boulders, and calm and shallow turquoise waters all make this an ideal beach. Like neighboring Madagascar, Seychelles has unusual wildlife and marine life — along with a number of birds endemic to the islands, you’ll find a bustling reef just off the shore of this spectacular beach.

7. Playa Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Unlike plenty of Costa Rica’s Atlantic Coast, this beach has yet to fully develop into a tourist hotspot — though it is in the midst of development. Home to some of the best surfing in the nation, this beach is as stunning as it is long. With lush vegetation surrounding the light sand, this beach is not to be missed.

8. Lanikai Beach, Hawaii

Is this the best beach in Hawaii — or even the world?! With soft sands, palm trees, turquoise waters and ideal swimming conditions, many do consider Lanikai beach to be the cream-of-the-crop. Hawaiian for “heavenly beach,” the locals love this place as much as the tourists — which is always a good sign!

More from Care2:
8 of the Most Beautiful Waterfalls on Earth [3]
World's Most Stunning Bodies of Water [4]
8 of the World's Most Incredible Forests [5]