Playa del Amor in the Marietas Islands, off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

© ferrantraite/Getty Image

Secluded sands in Mexico. Playa del Amor, Marietas Islands, Mexico

This gorgeous shot was taken at Playa Del Amor—also known as 'hidden beach'—a remote destination northwest of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, known for its pristine beauty and unique features. To get to it, you'll need to take a boat toward the mouth of Banderas Bay at the base of the Marietas Islands. This beach is only accessible through a tunnel formed due to erosion. The walls hide within it a sandy cove, a visual delight due to the contrast between the turquoise waters, flora-laden cliffs, and a window to the sky above. Playa del Amor, or 'Lovers Beach' in English, has become very popular among tourists, but the number of visitors is limited to preserve its natural beauty and ecosystem.