What 7 of the world's most popular beaches look like in real life — and they're not as idyllic as you'd think

Hawaii's iconic Waikiki Beach looks irresistible when it's lit up and empty at night.

During the day, though, it's hard to find a speck of sand to yourself among the sea of sunbathing tourists.

The grass that surrounds Bondi Beach looks very green and lush.

But sometimes it's filled with rowdy Santas.

Huntington Beach is one of California's most well-known; its elevated boardwalk has been the subject of many photos.

But depending on the angle used to capture it, it's not all that impressive.

Who wouldn't want to visit such a well-manicured sandy oasis like Clearwater Beach in Florida?

And that's exactly why Clearwater won't actually look so manicured when you visit.

El Nido Bay in the Philippines is depicted as a vast expanse of bright turquoise waters filled with bobbing boats.

There are bobbing boats, but the water isn't always that bright.

Mexico's Playa Norte beckons with swaying palm trees and plenty of umbrellas to provide shade.

Good luck securing one of those shade spots, though.

Harbour Island in the Bahamas is known for its pale pink sands.

Turns out the sand isn't as pink as some photos would have you believe.