Crater Lake, Oregon: The dark blue waters of Crater Lake make it one of the most beautiful places in the US. Sitting in the caldera of the sunken Mount Mazama volcano, Crater Lake’s vibrant color comes from the fact that there are no incoming streams or rivers.

Five-Flower Lake, China: Sitting in Jiuzhaigou National Park in Sichuan province, Five-Flower Lake is so clear it looks like a sheet of glass. The water is perfectly still, allowing visitors to see the fallen trees that line the bottom of the lake and the reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Peyto Lake, Canada: Located in Banff National Park, Peyto Lake gets its brilliant bright-blue color from the glacial runoff from the nearby Wapta Icefields. The best way to capture the beauty of the lake is from above, on Bow Summit, near Lake Louise.

Palawan, Philippines: Just a short flight from Manila, Palawan is the beach escape you’ve dreamt about. The jungle-filled archipelago is surrounded by teal water, incredible lagoons and coves, and sparsely-filled secluded beaches.

The Maldives: If we could sum up paradise in one picture it would be the Maldives. The island nation in between the Indian and Arabian seas is breathtaking. White sand beaches, crystal clear blue water, and a vibrant coral reef ensure travelers will never want to leave.