15 World Most Famous Beaches That Are Closed to Tourists

Everyone loves a good beach getaway, the sun, the waves, the endless relaxation. But not all beaches are open to the public. Some of the world’s most famous beaches have been closed to protect their delicate ecosystems or preserve their cultural heritage. These beautiful spots, though popular and often dream destinations, are now restricted areas.

Let’s take a look at 15 such beaches and the reasons why tourists can no longer visit them.

1. Maya Bay, Thailand

Made famous by the movie The Beach, Maya Bay used to welcome thousands of tourists daily. It became one of Thailand’s most famous beaches, drawing in visitors with its clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs. But the large crowds severely damaged the coral reefs and local marine life. To restore its natural beauty, the Thai government closed the beach in 2018, reopening it years later with strict access rules. Only a few visitors can view it each day, and swimming is no longer allowed.

2. Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach), Mexico

This beach is located inside a crater on the Marieta Islands and is only accessible during low tide. As one of Mexico’s most famous beaches, its hidden beauty and unusual shape made it a social media sensation. But the rising number of visitors started to disturb the wildlife and fragile landscape. Authorities limited access to protect endangered birds and marine species. Tourists now need special permits, and daily visitor numbers are tightly controlled.

3. Anse La Roche, Grenada

Nestled on the island of Carriacou, Anse La Roche remains untouched and rarely visited. It ranks among the Caribbean’s most famous beaches for its crystal-clear waters and secluded feel. However, increased interest from travelers threatened the beach’s biodiversity. To avoid overdevelopment and protect local fish habitats, the area was placed under environmental conservation rules. Locals work together to ensure the beach remains preserved.

4. Whitehaven Beach, Australia (Certain Zones)

Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays is a seven-kilometer stretch of pure silica sand. It’s one of Australia’s most famous beaches, often featured in postcards and travel brochures. However, some parts of the beach are now off-limits to protect sea turtles and migratory birds. Tour operators must follow strict guidelines, including limited visitor hours. This helps reduce human impact on the delicate ecosystem.

5. Bioluminescent Beach, Maldives

This magical beach glows at night due to the presence of tiny plankton that light up with movement. Among the Maldives’ most famous beaches, it attracts those eager to witness its glowing waves. However, repeated disturbances from tourists walking and swimming during peak bloom have affected the glow. Officials now restrict visits during the bioluminescent season to minimize harm. Access is allowed only through guided eco-tours.

6. Papakōlea Beach, Hawaii

Papakōlea, known as the Green Sand Beach, owes its unique color to the mineral olivine. As one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, it drew visitors from around the world despite being in a remote spot. But the journey to get there caused damage to the surrounding land, especially due to illegal off-road driving. To prevent further erosion, the state banned all unauthorized access. Locals monitor the area to protect the site’s natural charm.

7. Chandipur Beach, India

Chandipur is known for its disappearing waves, where the sea retreats up to five kilometers during low tide. It stands among India’s most famous beaches because of this rare phenomenon. However, this same feature makes the area risky for tourists unfamiliar with the tide timings. To ensure safety and conserve the beach’s fragile environment, authorities now restrict access during certain hours. Local guides are required for any exploration.

8. Pink Beach, Komodo Island, Indonesia

This beach gets its pink hue from crushed red coral mixing with white sand. It’s one of Indonesia’s most famous beaches, often listed as a must-see location. Unfortunately, rising foot traffic started damaging coral reefs and threatening marine life. To protect the habitat of the endangered Komodo dragons nearby, the government limited entry. Visitors now need permits and must stick to guided paths.

9. Shoy Beach, U.S. Virgin Islands

Shoy Beach offers a calm and quiet retreat with soft sand and turquoise waters. It’s considered one of the most famous beaches in the Virgin Islands, especially for those seeking peace. Yet, recent concerns over private property boundaries and environmental wear have limited public access. The beach is now partially restricted, with access only allowed through designated paths. Local groups continue to monitor the beach’s condition.

10. Ujung Genteng, Indonesia

Once a hidden gem, Ujung Genteng gained fame for its surf waves and peaceful setting. It became one of Java’s most famous beaches, attracting backpackers and nature lovers. However, sea turtle nesting grounds were constantly being disturbed. To prevent extinction threats, the government shut down parts of the beach. Conservation teams now work on restoring the area and educating the public.

11. Boulders Beach (Certain Sections), South Africa

Famous for its colony of African penguins, this beach combines wildlife and natural beauty. As one of South Africa’s most famous beaches, it receives thousands of visitors each year. Some sections were recently restricted to give the penguins more space to breed and live undisturbed. Wooden walkways and viewing platforms are the only way to see them now. These changes help reduce stress on the animals and preserve their home.

12. Praia de Atalaia, Brazil

This remote beach features stunning tidal pools full of marine life. It stands out as one of Brazil’s most famous beaches for snorkeling and nature exploration. Due to the fragile ecosystem, the number of visitors allowed per day is extremely limited. Tourists must follow rules about footwear, time spent in the pools, and interaction with wildlife. These steps ensure long-term conservation.

13. Playa Escondida, Costa Rica

This beach is only visible during low tide, hidden between cliffs and rainforest. As one of Costa Rica’s most famous beaches, its secret charm attracted more visitors than it could handle. But the increasing foot traffic caused erosion and disturbed nesting sea turtles. To prevent further damage, parts of the beach are now closed during nesting seasons. Conservationists are working closely with local communities to keep it safe.

14. Kaho‘olawe, Hawaii

Once used for military training, this island has been off-limits to the public for decades. It houses one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, though few have seen it in person. Unexploded bombs, ongoing restoration, and cultural importance keep it closed. Only native Hawaiians and restoration volunteers are allowed limited access. The island is treated as sacred and is slowly healing from years of destruction.

15. North Sentinel Island, India

This island is home to one of the most isolated tribes in the world. It also features one of India’s most famous beaches, though it remains untouched by modern tourism. Outsiders are strictly banned to protect both the Sentinelese tribe and those who might come in contact with them. The Indian government has declared the area a no-go zone. The beach remains a mystery, preserved in its purest form.