Vacation: a wonderful word that motivates us throughout our lives. It’s the idea, the project, the destination we aspire to and the moment when we finally lie down on the sand, close our eyes and only worry about reapplying our sunscreen every two hours. But if we are careless in our choice of destination, the vacation can quickly be ruined. In reality, there are dangers lurking in their waters that can even be fatal in extreme cases, although deceptive oases are often considered meccas of relaxation. From shark colonies in search of surfers, cunning snakes, quicksand, radioactive water, jellyfish with deadly toxins in their tentacles. Which international beach vacations that aren’t worth your money are listed below. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Risky Vacation These Beaches Are Among The Most Dangerous In The World
Skeleton Coast
Location: Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Why you shouldn’t travel: strong winds, dense fog, Benguela Current
Approximate cost of a visit: €79/day*
A dense fog created by the cold Benguela Current and miles of silence without a trace of civilization characterize the images of the Skeleton Coast, which appear from post-apocalyptic scenarios. The coast is characterized by its shipwrecks, where the oldest desert in the world sinks into the Atlantic. With 11 species of shark inhabiting the waters and predators such as lions and hyenas patrolling the sand on the shores, the area exudes a sense of danger.
Skeleton Coast
Cable Beach
Location: Broome, Australia
Why you shouldn’t travel: Saltwater crocodiles
Approximate cost of a visit: €106/day*
Cable Beach, a 22-kilometer stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, is located four miles (about 6.4 km) from the town of Broome in Western Australia. It is known for its sunsets, which you can watch on a camel ride along the coast. Due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles, this little Australian corner is also a nudist beach that has all the ingredients to be a stunning oasis. Nevertheless, it is completely closed to travelers for most of the year. The authorities recommend avoiding this beach as a swimming destination, even if it is only open for a few months. When it comes to their dangerous fauna, Australians don’t take their recommendations lightly. So we would take this advice at face value.
Cable Beach
Trafalgar Lighthouse Beach
Location: Cádiz, Spain
Why you shouldn’t go: torrential current
Approximate cost of a visit: €145/day*
The lighthouse that bears this beach’s name was built in 1860, and one of the most popular activities for tourists visiting the area is climbing to the top inside to enjoy the view. It is 34 meters high. It is a seemingly quiet beach in a part of the country with a particularly warm climate. It is about 1.6 km long and 50 meters wide and varies from days with calm waters to days with choppy seas. At these times, the torrential river poses a real threat to bathers, making it one of the most dangerous beaches in Spain.
Trafalgar lighthouse beach
Jobos beach
Location: Isabela, Puerto Rico
Why you shouldn’t travel: strong currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €174/day*
Jobos Beach is one of the most popular beaches for surfers and one of the most visited spots in northeastern Puerto Rico. However, Isabela’s summer vacation spot is a beach with risks in its waters. Its currents create a kind of vortex that drives swimmers away from the shores, despite its popularity. Paramedics advise swimming with the current instead and trusting that this will get you out of the eddy. However, nothing is safe in these waters and it would certainly be the wisest decision not to expose yourself to this danger in the first place.
Jobos beach
The Marshall Islands
Location: Marshall Islands, Republic of the Marshall Islands
Why you shouldn’t travel: high radioactivity
Approximate cost of a visit: €60/day*
The Marshall Islands were used by the USA for nuclear bomb tests from 1946 to 1962. Located halfway between Australia and Hawaii, almost 70 atomic bombs were fired in less than ten years. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is located in Micronesia. According to new research by Columbia University, there are currently radiation levels higher than those in Chernobyl and Fukushima in some places on these islands. Although the tests were conducted on the atolls of Enewetak, Rongelap, Utirik and the infamous Bikini, they have contaminated almost all regions.
The Marshall Islands
Playa de Maho
Location: Philipsburg, St. Martin
Why you shouldn’t travel: Airport nearby
Approximate cost of a visit: €112/day*
Playa de Maho is famous for its proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport, which is located on the Dutch side of the island. The annual number of passengers at this airport is the third largest in the entire Caribbean. This leads to a high volume of air traffic. At just over 25 meters above Maho, the planes fly over the area, attracting interested tourists who can see the 747s up close. This dangerous activity attracts so many tourists that the local beach bars even post the flight times. Standing behind the planes during take-off and struggling to withstand the strong, high winds from the planes’ turbines is their daily task for experts. However, this risky activity has led to tourists being killed in the past.
Playa De Maho
Zipolite Beach – ‘Beach of Death’
Location: Zipolite, Mexico
Why you shouldn’t go: strong ocean currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €83/day*
San Pedro Pochutla is home to the titular jewel of Oaxaca, one of the 570 municipalities in the region. Over time, the beach has become increasingly popular due to its natural beauty and its nudist area, which stretches over 1.75 km. There are numerous restaurants, bars and hotels in the area ready to cater to the needs of tourists. In addition, the area has a year-round temperature of 75 to 95 degrees, making it suitable for travel for all twelve months. However, all that glitters is not gold. As the inhabitants of the city buried their dead here, it is nicknamed the “beach of the dead” in the Zapotec language. The subterranean sea current, which has often proved fatal to visitors, is the greatest danger today. It is also located in the danger zones for hurricanes. It is perhaps cursed for having been used as a burial ground for years.
Zipolite Beach – ‘Beach of Death’
Boa Viagem Beach
Location: Recife, Brazil
Why you shouldn’t travel: deadly shark attacks
Approximate cost of a visit: €133/day*
Boa Viagem beach is part of Recife, the Brazilian city with the most shark attacks. Despite the lifeguard posts and the red flags showing where to go, there are always attacks on the 7-kilometer-long coastline. These shark attacks have only been recorded in Recife since 1992. Two main reasons for the unexpected occurrence are the construction of the port of Suape and the ocean currents that carry the animals through the sections of Boa Viagem. Despite the fact that these attacks also occur on other beaches around the world, the fatal attack rate in Recife differs significantly. Due to the bull shark and tiger shark species, 24 people have died in two decades.
Boa Viagem beach
Darwin
Location: Darwin, Australia
Why you shouldn’t travel: poisonous jellyfish and crocodiles
Approximate cost of a visit: €102/day*
Australia is known around the world for its beaches, which are almost as deadly as its wildlife. With crystal clear waters attracting thousands of tourists every year and idyllic landscapes in every corner of the country, it can be easy to forget about any harmful critters. But there are some risks behind these images that act as the perfect backdrop for a vacation. The Northern Territory is home to Darwin, the area’s capital and most widespread city. With plenty of deadly jellyfish, crocodiles and even sharks on the beaches, you should think twice about visiting, even though the tropical climate invites you to do so. Perhaps in a country where there are so many options, you should look for other destinations in its vast territory. Did you know that Australia is the sixth largest nation in the world?
Darwin
Dumas Beach
Location: Surat, India
Why you should not travel: King Cobras
Approximate cost of a visit: 22 €/day*
Due to its dark-colored sand, Dumas Beach is located on the Arabian Sea in the state of Gujarat in India. It has an unmistakably picturesque feel. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the south of the region is the Dariya Ganesh Temple, which is located on the beach and is of great architectural and cultural importance to tourists. It is located 21 kilometers from the city of Surat. It also has an unattractive side, although it has all these special attractions. Since it served as a center for human cremations until the mid-20th century, it is a place that is considered haunted by many travelers. It is home to deadly king cobras.
Dumas beach
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Location: Orange County, California, USA
Why you shouldn’t travel: poisonous snakes
Approximate cost of a visit: €272/day*
From Warner Avenue to Seapoint Avenue in Orange County lies three miles (about 4.8 km) of beach. It is mainly used for surf fishing. The desired fish are perch, croaker, bighead and shovelnose guitarfish. Despite the fact that it is a beach surrounded by restaurants and easily accessible due to its location, there are always toxic snakes lurking nearby. Due to their black and yellow color, these snakes, which stay underwater for up to three hours, can be mistaken for an inflatable boat or garbage. This makes them even more dangerous. We advise you to pay the estimated price for a trip to other nearby beaches with less risk before flirting with danger.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Gansbaai – ‘Capital of the Great White Shark’
Location: Gansbaai, South Africa
Why you should not travel: Sharks
Approximate cost of a visit: €91/day*
A few beaches of soft white sand, colorful waters contrasting with dramatic cliffs and areas of lush vegetation are all South Africa has to offer. Nevertheless, Gansbaai beach, in particular, is far from the tranquillity that the pictures on the internet convey. Due to its numerous underwater activities, it is often visited by divers as well as tourists who enjoy whale watching. The fishing village, known as the “Great White Shark Capital”, is inhabited by a large number of underwater inhabitants. As a result, the area has even become a tourist attraction for many daredevils who have chosen to dive into the water in cages. Our suggestions? Don’t forget to put your feet in the water and head to other attractions in the area.
Gansbaai – ‘Great White Shark Capital’
Hanakapiai Beach
Location: Napali, Hawaii
Why you shouldn’t travel: Underwater currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €206/day*
The drive to Hanakapiai Beach is uphill from the start and is difficult to get to. Given our location in Hawaii, we assume we’re in a vacation mood, like a little hidden oasis full of tropical plants and warm, balmy weather. However, we find somewhat the opposite at this beach, as the Napali Coast is particularly dangerous for those who venture there. Swimmers can very easily get swept into the depths of the sea with its strong rip currents and massive waves. As there are no large reefs to impede this water movement, it is almost impossible to swim against it. These currents can only be felt, literally and figuratively, in deep water.
Hanakapiai beach
Morecambe Bay
Location: Morecambe, England
Why you shouldn’t travel: Quicksand
Approximate cost of a visit: €90/day*
Morecambe Bay is the largest area of mudflats and sand in the UK, covering a total area of 310 km2. In front of the quicksand and hidden channels, which travelers are sure to discover the hard way as they explore the area, is a huge space with posters in bold capital letters. The skeletons nearby are a reminder of why you shouldn’t enter the area. Various locals have tried to visit the area by off-road vehicle or horse-drawn cart without achieving anything more than their means of transportation sinking into quicksand.
Morecambe Bay
Shark Alley
Location: Gansbaai, South Africa
Why you shouldn’t go: Shark-infested waters
Approximate cost of a visit: €120/day*
Known as “Shark Alley,” this stretch of ocean off the coast of Gansbaai is infamous for its large population of great white sharks. These waters are filled with thousands of seals, making it prime hunting grounds for sharks. Although it attracts thrill-seeking divers who opt for cage diving to get an up-close view of these deadly creatures, it is a location not recommended for casual swimmers or surfers. The sheer number of great whites and the unpredictable nature of these predators make Shark Alley one of the most dangerous spots in the world for beachgoers.
Shark Alley
Fraser Island
Location: Queensland, Australia
Why you shouldn’t go: Dingoes and venomous creatures
Approximate cost of a visit: €150/day*
Fraser Island may seem like a tropical paradise, but lurking within its dense foliage and on its sandy shores are dangers not to be taken lightly. It is home to the infamous wild dingoes, which are known to attack humans if provoked or cornered. In addition to dingoes, the waters surrounding the island are infested with venomous jellyfish and stingrays. These threats combine to make Fraser Island a risky destination for unprepared tourists.
Fraser Island
Chowpatty Beach
Location: Mumbai, India
Why you shouldn’t go: Polluted waters
Approximate cost of a visit: €30/day*
Chowpatty Beach in Mumbai might be a famous location for festivals and gatherings, but beneath its surface lies a ticking time bomb of pollutants. The beach’s waters are heavily contaminated by untreated sewage and industrial waste, making swimming dangerous to your health. The high levels of bacteria and toxic chemicals have led to numerous cases of waterborne diseases. Despite its popularity for cultural events, it’s best to avoid entering the water here.
Chowpatty Beach
New Smyrna Beach
Location: Florida, USA
Why you shouldn’t go: Shark attacks
Approximate cost of a visit: €110/day*
New Smyrna Beach holds the unfortunate title of the “shark attack capital of the world.” Located on the east coast of Florida, this beach sees more shark bites than anywhere else globally. The shallow waters are perfect for surfers but also for the sharks that prey on the fish they hunt. The chances of encountering a shark while swimming or surfing here are alarmingly high. Authorities frequently close sections of the beach due to increased shark activity.
New Smyrna Beach
Playa Zicatela
Location: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Why you shouldn’t go: Giant waves
Approximate cost of a visit: €95/day*
Often referred to as the “Mexican Pipeline,” Playa Zicatela is world-famous for its massive waves, making it a hotspot for professional surfers. However, these same waves pose a significant risk to inexperienced swimmers. With waves reaching up to 10 meters high during peak season, the beach can be deadly for those unprepared for the power of the ocean. Drownings are common, and even seasoned surfers have found themselves in dangerous situations.
Playa Zicatela
Copacabana Beach
Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Why you shouldn’t go: Crime and unsafe swimming
Approximate cost of a visit: €180/day*
While Copacabana Beach is an iconic destination for tourists, it’s not without its risks. The beach is notorious for petty crime, including theft and muggings, especially targeting tourists. In addition, the waters here can be dangerous due to strong currents and large waves, which often catch swimmers off guard. Although lifeguards patrol the beach, caution is always advised, especially for those unfamiliar with the conditions.
Copacabana Beach
Praia do Norte
Location: Nazaré, Portugal
Why you shouldn’t go: Record-breaking waves
Approximate cost of a visit: €85/day*
Praia do Norte is known worldwide for its towering waves, which can reach heights of 30 meters or more, especially during the winter months. This beach has become a mecca for big-wave surfers looking to break world records, but for average beachgoers, the extreme conditions pose a deadly threat. Even standing too close to the shore can result in being swept out by the powerful waves, making Praia do Norte one of the most dangerous beaches in the world.
Praia Do Norte
Kilauea Beach
Location: Hawaii, USA
Why you shouldn’t go: Active volcanic area
Approximate cost of a visit: €200/day*
Kilauea Beach is located near one of Hawaii’s most active volcanoes, and while it offers stunning views, it is far from a safe vacation spot. The beach is often covered in volcanic ash, and the water can be heated by underwater lava flows, reaching temperatures that are unsafe for swimming. Additionally, the surrounding area is prone to sudden eruptions and lava flows, which could trap visitors on the beach with no warning.
Kilauea Beach
Bikini Atoll
Location: Marshall Islands
Why you shouldn’t go: Radioactive contamination
Approximate cost of a visit: €70/day*
Bikini Atoll is famous for the nuclear tests conducted by the United States in the 1940s and 50s. Though the atoll is now open to limited tourism, the levels of residual radiation still make it a risky destination. Visitors are warned not to eat local produce or fish, and swimming in the lagoon is discouraged due to lingering radioactive contamination. Despite its beauty, the health risks far outweigh the allure of this tropical destination.
Bikini Atoll
Myrtle Beach
Location: South Carolina, USA
Why you shouldn’t go: High crime rates
Approximate cost of a visit: €150/day*
Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the East Coast of the United States, but it also has one of the highest crime rates for a beach town. Visitors often fall victim to theft, assaults, and other crimes, especially in the bustling boardwalk area. While the beach itself may seem safe during the day, venturing out at night can be dangerous. Travelers are advised to stay vigilant and avoid isolated areas.
Myrtle Beach
Cayo de Agua
Location: Los Roques, Venezuela
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong currents, lack of rescue services
Approximate cost of a visit: €120/day*
This idyllic beach may look like paradise, but its strong currents can pose a significant threat to swimmers. With limited rescue services and no lifeguards on duty, those who venture into the water should exercise extreme caution. The beauty of Cayo de Agua can quickly turn dangerous.
Cayo De Agua
Reunion Island
Location: Indian Ocean
Why you shouldn’t go: Shark attacks
Approximate cost of a visit: €95/day*
Reunion Island has been plagued by a spate of deadly shark attacks in recent years, with more attacks per capita than almost anywhere else in the world. The island’s beaches are dotted with warning signs, and authorities frequently close the waters to swimming due to the high risk. Despite the crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes, the persistent threat of shark attacks makes this island a dangerous destination for beachgoers.
Reunion Island
Sandy Bay
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Why you shouldn’t go: Shark sightings and strong currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €80/day*
Sandy Bay, located just south of Cape Town, is known for its stunning scenery but also its treacherous waters. The bay is notorious for strong rip currents that can pull swimmers out to sea. In addition, shark sightings are frequent, making the waters unsafe for swimmers. While the beach itself is a popular spot for sunbathing and enjoying the views, entering the water is strongly discouraged.
Sandy Bay
Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven)
Location: Oahu, Hawaii, USA
Why you shouldn’t go: Dangerous terrain
Approximate cost of a visit: Free (but illegal to access)
While not a traditional beach, Haiku Stairs leads to breathtaking views of Oahu’s coastline. However, the steep and treacherous hike has made it notorious for accidents. The stairs are officially closed, but adventurous souls still attempt to access them, often resulting in dangerous situations and rescues.
Haiku Stairs (Stairway To Heaven)
Playa de las Catedrales
Location: Galicia, Spain
Why you shouldn’t go: Rapid tides
Approximate cost of a visit: €65/day*
Playa de las Catedrales is renowned for its stunning rock formations and natural arches. However, the beach’s beauty can be deceptive, as rapid tides can sweep in quickly, leaving visitors stranded. It’s essential to check tide schedules and plan visits accordingly to avoid dangerous situations.
Playa De Las Catedrales
Punta de Lobos
Location: Pichilemu, Chile
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong currents and waves
Approximate cost of a visit: €85/day*
Punta de Lobos is a popular surfing destination known for its powerful waves. While the beach is famous among surfers, the strong currents can be hazardous for those not experienced in ocean conditions. Visitors should be aware of the potential dangers before entering the water.
Punta De Lobos
Playa de la Cueva
Location: Canary Islands, Spain
Why you shouldn’t go: High tides and strong currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €75/day*
This beach is known for its stunning caves and clear waters, but it can be dangerous during high tide. The combination of strong currents and rocky terrain makes it a risky spot for swimming. Visitors should be mindful of the conditions before heading into the water.
Playa De La Cueva
Amity Island Beach
Location: Martha’s Vineyard, USA
Why you shouldn’t go: Shark-infested waters
Approximate cost of a visit: €110/day*
Made famous by the movie “Jaws,” Amity Island Beach is known for its shark-infested waters. While it’s a beautiful location, the beach has a history of shark attacks, making swimming a risky endeavor. Visitors should heed local warnings and be cautious when entering the water.
Amity Island Beach
Black Beach (Reynisfjara)
Location: Iceland
Why you shouldn’t go: Rogue waves and strong currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €95/day*
Reynisfjara, known as Black Beach, is famous for its black sand and stunning basalt columns. However, it’s also notorious for its rogue waves that can sweep unsuspecting visitors off their feet. Swimming is highly discouraged, and even standing too close to the water’s edge can be dangerous.
Black Beach (Reynisfjara)
Shark Bay
Location: Western Australia
Why you shouldn’t go: High shark population
Approximate cost of a visit: €100/day*
As the name suggests, Shark Bay is known for its large shark population. While the bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the waters can be dangerous for swimmers due to the presence of various shark species. Visitors are advised to be cautious and avoid swimming in the area.
Shark Bay
Punaluu Beach
Location: Big Island, Hawaii
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong currents and volcanic rock
Approximate cost of a visit: €60/day*
Punaluu Beach, known for its black sand and sea turtles, is beautiful but can be perilous due to its strong currents and sharp volcanic rocks. Visitors should be careful when swimming or wading into the water to avoid injuries.
Punaluu Beach
Heceta Beach
Location: Oregon, USA
Why you shouldn’t go: Rip currents and cold water
Approximate cost of a visit: €70/day*
Heceta Beach is known for its scenic views and lighthouse, but it can also be dangerous due to its cold waters and strong rip currents. Swimmers should be aware of the conditions and should swim only in designated areas.
Heceta Beach
Polihale State Park
Location: Kauai, Hawaii
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong winds and dangerous surf
Approximate cost of a visit: €80/day*
Polihale State Park features stunning sunsets and a long stretch of beach, but it is also known for its unpredictable surf conditions and strong winds. Swimming can be dangerous, and visitors should heed local warnings and be cautious of the powerful waves.
Polihale State Park
El Salvador Beaches
Location: El Salvador
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong waves and riptides
Approximate cost of a visit: €75/day*
El Salvador is home to some stunning beaches, but many of them are known for their powerful waves and strong riptides. Surfing may be popular here, but swimming can be dangerous for those unfamiliar with the ocean’s conditions.
El Salvador Beaches
Bondi Beach
Location: Sydney, Australia
Why you shouldn’t go: Dangerous riptides
Approximate cost of a visit: €90/day*
Bondi Beach is famous for its surf culture and beautiful scenery. However, it is also notorious for its riptides, which can be very strong and dangerous, especially for inexperienced swimmers. Lifeguards are present, but visitors should always stay aware of the conditions.
Bondi Beach
Zicatela Beach
Location: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Why you shouldn’t go: Powerful waves and currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €80/day*
Zicatela Beach is known for its big waves and is a favorite among surfers. However, it is not recommended for casual swimmers due to its powerful waves and strong currents. The beach can be beautiful, but it requires respect and caution.
Zicatela Beach
Playa Norte
Location: Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong currents and marine life
Approximate cost of a visit: €70/day*
Playa Norte is famous for its beautiful white sand and turquoise waters, but it is also known for its strong currents. Additionally, the presence of jellyfish and other marine life can make swimming hazardous. Visitors should remain vigilant while enjoying the beach.
Playa Norte
Magens Bay
Location: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong currents
Approximate cost of a visit: €100/day*
Magens Bay is often rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, it can be dangerous due to strong currents that can catch swimmers off guard. Visitors should be aware of the swimming conditions and follow local advisories.
Magens Bay
Playa del Carmen
Location: Quintana Roo, Mexico
Why you shouldn’t go: Strong currents and jellyfish
Approximate cost of a visit: €85/day*
While Playa del Carmen is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches, it can be hazardous due to strong currents and jellyfish. Visitors should be cautious when swimming and pay attention to local warnings about marine life.
Playa Del Carmen
Chaojing Park
Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Why you shouldn’t go: Water pollution and dangerous waves
Approximate cost of a visit: €65/day*
Chaojing Park is a scenic area but has faced issues with water pollution and dangerous waves. Swimming is discouraged, and visitors should be mindful of the water quality when visiting the park.
Chaojing Park