Barbie has taken the world by storm and one of the most iconic scenes sees Ken (played by Ryan Gosling) attempt to ride the waves that nearly ends up in the ultimate beach off. We’ve selected 8 beaches around the world perfectly placed for those who might want to stand proudly in the sand, keep track of the morning waves or just lean on a surfboard.

EUROPE

Sveti Stefan Island – Montenegro 

Long stretches of golden sand, secret coves and the calm, crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea; Montenegro’s spectacular coastline stretches 293 km offering visitors more than 117 beaches. The largest island in the southern Adriatic – Sveti Nikola – has made it to the top of Europe’s most beautiful beaches on numerous occasions. Located in Budva, the beach offers complete privacy and is surrounded by natural, wild beauty. Sitting pretty atop this island is the Aman Hotel; an 80-acre coastal estate with a 15th-century island fortress and the 19th-century Villa Milocer set on the mainland.

USA

Tigertail Beach, Florida’s Paradise Coast, Naples, Marco Island & the Everglades

With 30 miles of award-winning coastline, Florida’s Paradise Coast – Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades – and its beaches can be enjoyed year-round with the ever-felt sunshine and glistening Gulf water. Marco Island’s Tigertail Beach is a truly unique spot due to its sand bar shape and access route, either around the lagoon or through shallow waters. Once on the beach, visitors can enjoy the pristine white sands and clear waters, or go shelling or kayaking. Florida’s Paradise Coast

Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California 

Follow in Margot and Ryan’s footsteps in LA and live your ultimate Barbie dreams on Venice Beach While not quite (Spoiler Alert) the portal to Barbie Land, Venice Beach has 3 miles of coastline with 3 with 238 acres of beach – perfect for doing ‘beach’. If you fancy a little more, opt to roller skate like Barbie and Ken down the Venice Beach Boardwalk, picking up roller skate rentals from Perry’s Café and Beach Rentals’. Or visit Venice Pier which has a 1,300 foot pier with expansive views of the ocean and horizon. 

Storm Watching at Washington’s Beaches Region – State of Washington 

This corner of Washington is home to expansive and windswept coastline dotted with coastal communities. Search for sea glass and sand dollars, or just take in the singular beauty of the landscape. In the winter months, Washington’s Beaches Region is the perfect destination for storm watching. Cape Disappointment on the Long Beach Peninsula offers miles of windswept beaches, including Waikiki Beach, where visitors can watch the waves crash along the cliffs at the base of a historic lighthouse. 

JAPAN

Chichibuga Beach

Following a photograph competition run by Mitoyo Tourism Authority in 2016, this 1km long, flat beach has become an Instagram sensation for its mirror-like reflection. Now a popular picture destination, Chichibuga Beach in Kagawa has been recognised as Japan’s top sunset spot two years running. Its calm waters and mild climate have also made this beach a popular swimming destination and well worth the trek from the beaten path.

Ishigaki Beach

Mention Japan and you’re unlikely to think of tropical beaches and sun, but venture to Ishigaki Island and you’ll discover paradise. Home to beautiful secluded beaches, extensive limestone caves, forested mountains with great vistas, and fantastic scuba diving, Ishigaki is an idyllic haven for those looking for a slice of tropical paradise on their expedition to the Far East. 

Oceania

Taharuu Beach, The Islands of Tahiti 

Renowned for its crystalline waters, the beaches on The Islands of Tahiti are just as surreal and impressive. Taharuu Beach is one of the most spectacular, with fine black sand that’s soft to the touch. The beach is a top surf spot as well, with strong currents that draw local and visiting surfers alike. Palm trees provide shade but flip-flops are a must as the black sands get warm.

Hyams Beach, New South Wales

Recently appointed number ten in ‘The 50 best beaches in the world for 2023′ by Big 7 travel, Hyams beach on the idyllic South Coast of New South Wales is one of the region’s most iconic beaches. Known for its sugar-white sand, Hyams beach is a must-see holiday destination, with crystal clear waters and a fringe of national park completing the picture. Uncover scenic coastal walks, meet native wildlife and explore the glittering ocean in the small village of Shoalhaven.