Paradise doesn't have to be so pricey, after all. TripAdvisor announced its Travelers' Choice awards [1] for the top 10 beaches in the world [2], plus the cheapest month to visit. The rates for each beach per night ranged from as low as $40 to as high as $492. This year's global winner was Baia do Sancho in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, based on the number and quality of reviews and ratings over a span of 12 months. See which spots made the cut ahead!
Galapagos Beach at Tortuga Bay, Ecuador
This Galapagos Islands beach [4] has white sand and wildlife with excellent waters for snorkeling.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $208
Cheapest month to visit: December ($176 per night)
Elafonissi Beach, Greece
Considered one of the best beaches in Europe and now the world, Elafonissi Beach in Crete [5] boasts warm, clear water and pink sand.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $65
Cheapest month to visit: March ($40 per night)
Radhanagar Beach, India
This extremely clean beach on Havelock Island [6] has the gentlest waves and most gorgeous sunsets.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $172
Cheapest month to visit: August ($114 per night)
Playa Norte, Mexico
This laid-back beach at Isla Mujeres [7] won't remain uncrowded for much longer. Its white sand and clear blue shores make this spot the ultimate paradise.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $275
Cheapest month to visit: September ($191 per night)
La Concha Beach, Spain
La Concha Beach is the longest beach [8] in San Sebastian, and it's equally as wonderful to visit during its emptier Winter months.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $220
Cheapest month to visit: January ($108 per night)
Siesta Beach, US
Siesta Beach in Florida (between Roberts Bay in Sarasota and the Gulf of Mexico) is known for its powder soft sand. There are also great surrounding shops and restaurants.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $260
Cheapest month to visit: September ($214 per night)
Playa Paraiso, Cuba
Playa Paraiso is a must see when in Cayo Largo [9] with its sparkling waters and white sand.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $199
Cheapest month to visit: June ($106 per night)
Eagle Beach, Aruba
Visitors get to enjoy warm weather and turquoise water year-round at Eagle Beach [10].
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $399
Cheapest month to visit: October ($301 per night)
Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
Though the nearby hotels are typically pricey, this calm and serene beach [11] is worth the visit to Providenciales.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $712
Cheapest month to visit: September ($492 per night)
Baia do Sancho, Brazil
This picturesque beach in Fernando de Noronha [12] isn't #1 for nothing. Travelers won't be disappointed by this uncrowded paradise that's especially perfect for snorkeling.
Avg. nightly hotel rate: $248
Cheapest month to visit: April ($190 per night)