The best beaches in North America were ranked and this Canadian destination made the cut
The only beach in Canada to make the list.
San Josef Bay beach in British Columbia, Canada.
Canada is making some big waves when it comes to the best beaches in North America.
The World's 50 Best released its annual list of the top 50 beaches in North America and one Canadian beach managed to make the cut. In fact, only one Canadian beach made the 2024 ranking.
World's 50 Best polled over 1,000 travel professionals, including judges and beach ambassadors, as well as members of the World's 50 Beaches team to compile the ranking and this British Columbia beach managed to snag the 26th spot.
Located in Cape Scott Provincial Park, San Josef Bay Beach was ranked as one of the best beaches in North America. Boasting a pristine and remote coastal experience, San Josef Bay is known for its soft white sand, towering sea stacks, and calm waters.
While the bay is only accessible by taking a 45-minute hike through the rough and undisturbed wilderness, it's often said that the scenery and sense of tranquillity are well worth the trek. Along the way, you'll encounter towering trees, fern-lined paths, and possibly even wildlife such as deer or bald eagles.
Upon reaching San Josef Bay, visitors are greeted with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, punctuated by dramatic sea stacks rising from the water. These geological formations add to the rugged charm of the coastline and provide excellent opportunities for photography and exploration.
The beach itself offers ample space for leisurely strolls, picnics, beachcombing, and, for the more adventurous, swimming (although the water can be chilly).
Wondering which other beaches made the cut? Here's the complete top 10 of the best beaches in North America, per World's 50 Beaches:
- Trunk Bay — US Virgin Islands
- Meads Bay — Anguilla
- Lanikai Beach — Hawaii
- Balandra Beach — Mexico
- Grace Bay — Turks & Caicos
- Seven Mile Beach — Cayman Islands
- Grote Knip — Curaçao
- Horseshoe Bay — Bermuda
- Maundays Bay — Anguilla
- Grand Anse — Grenada
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
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