Best Beaches in the World: Top 16 Beaches for 2026 and How to Choose

Sources: rankings in this guide come from the World’s 50 Best Beaches 2026 list and the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Beaches 2026 awards. Related guides: Greece, Thailand, Portugal and America.

Ask ten travel lists for the best beaches in the world and you will get several different answers, because each list measures something different. The World’s 50 Best Beaches, which publishes a ranking every spring, crowned Entalula Beach in the Philippines number one for 2026. Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice awards, which are based on traveller reviews, named Isla Pasión in Mexico the top beach in the world the same year. Neither answer is wrong. They are simply asking different questions.

This guide pulls those rankings together and adds practical detail you will not get from a list alone. You will find sixteen beaches, including standouts from Greece, Thailand, Portugal and Croatia, with where they are, how you reach them, what the water is like and when to go. There are also sections for swimming, August, honeymoons, Europe, sea glass and travellers from Brazil and the USA. We built it at Explore Best Beaches to help you pick the right beach for your trip, not just the one with the best photo.

Two honest notes before the list. Many of the most beautiful beaches are remote, and some can only be reached by boat, so facilities and safety services can be limited. Rankings also change every year, and weather, access rules and visitor limits change with them, so check the latest local information before you book.

Quick Comparison: Best Beaches in the World The 16 Best Beaches in the World for 2026

1. Entalula Beach, Philippines

Entalula Beach in El Nido, Palawan, is the best beach in the world for 2026 according to the World’s 50 Best Beaches, and it earned the title by being hard to reach. It sits on a small island in Bacuit Bay, backed by limestone cliffs and ringed by coral, and it is reached only by boat. Most visitors come on an island-hopping tour from El Nido, so you share the sand with a few other boats at midday.

There are no facilities, so bring water, food, reef-safe sunscreen and snorkel gear, and take your rubbish back with you. Typhoon risk runs from June through October, so December to April is the best window for good weather. Go early or late in the day if you want the beach to yourself.

The water is clear and calm in good weather, which makes it good for snorkelling and gentle swimming. Book tours with a licensed operator, check sea conditions on the day and follow your boat crew’s safety advice. The beach scores highly for natural beauty and lack of development, which is also why access depends on boats and weather.

2. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Fteri Beach came second in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking, and judges praised its white pebble-and-sand shore beneath dramatic limestone cliffs. It is on the Greek island of Kefalonia, which has a reputation for bright, clear water and quieter beaches than some of its Ionian neighbours. The setting feels dramatic rather than polished, and that is part of the appeal.

Greek beaches like this are at their best from late spring to early autumn. Summer brings heat and crowds, so May, June and September are good choices if you want more space. Take sturdy sandals, because pebble beaches can be hard on bare feet, and bring shade and water, since facilities can be limited.

As with all cliff-backed beaches, pay attention to signs about falling rocks and stay out of areas marked as unsafe. Check access conditions locally, because paths and parking can change. Kefalonia is also a good base for other beaches, so you can use Fteri as one stop in a longer trip. For more ideas, see our guide to the best beaches in Greece.

3. Wharton Beach, Western Australia

Wharton Beach, on Western Australia’s remote south coast, was third in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking. It is known for dolphin sightings and surf, and it has the sort of wide, empty coastline that is rare near big cities. It is a good example of a beach that is beautiful because it is far from everything.

That remoteness has a cost. The area is a long way from services, and the surf can be powerful, so it suits experienced beachgoers more than casual swimmers. If you plan to enter the water, check conditions and stay close to shore. The Australian summer, roughly December to March, is the warmest time.

Bring plenty of water, fuel and sun protection, and tell someone your plans, since mobile coverage can be patchy. Respect park rules and keep to marked tracks. Australia has three beaches in the 2026 top 50 (Wharton Beach, Turquoise Bay and Wineglass Bay), so you can combine Wharton with other coastal stops in a longer trip.

4. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar

Nosy Iranja, ranked fourth in 2026, is a pair of small islands off the north-west coast of Madagascar, joined by a sandbar that appears at low tide. The sand is pale, the water is a layered turquoise and the place has the feel of a tiny, private paradise. It sits near Nosy Be, which is where most trips begin.

Getting there takes a boat journey, so plan a full day or an overnight stay, and check tide times before you walk across the sandbar. Madagascar’s drier season, roughly April to November, is generally better for calm seas. Bring cash, sun protection and your own snorkel gear if you have it.

The islands are also nesting areas for sea turtles, so follow local rules about lights and nests, and do not touch wildlife. Remote beaches rely on community rules and conservation fees, so use a local operator and respect any guidance. Check the latest travel advice for Madagascar before you book.

5. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla

Shoal Bay East, number six in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking, is a long stretch of soft white sand on the north-east coast of Anguilla. It is a classic Caribbean beach: calm water in many conditions, a few beach bars and enough length that you can walk away from the busier end. Many visitors rate it highly for easy swimming, which fits the ranking’s focus on easy water entry and calm conditions.

The reef close to shore makes good snorkelling, and the water is usually clear. The drier season, roughly December to April, is the most popular time, while hurricane season runs from June to November and can bring storms. Book accommodation and flights early for peak winter weeks.

Beach facilities include loungers and food, so you can stay all day without planning much. Check swimming conditions with the lifeguard or beach staff, because currents and swell vary. Anguilla is small, so it also pairs well with a quiet, relaxed stay.

6. Dhigurah, Maldives

Dhigurah, number seven in 2026, is a long, narrow island on the southern edge of the Ari Atoll in the Maldives, with a sandy shoreline that stretches for several kilometres. It is known for whale shark sightings in the surrounding waters, which are reported through much of the year, so many visitors combine beach time with a snorkel trip.

The Maldives are usually associated with expensive resorts, but local islands like Dhigurah offer guesthouses and a more affordable way to visit. Rules on dress and alcohol are stricter on local islands, so check the guidelines before you go. The drier season, roughly December to April, is the most popular time.

Book whale shark trips with licensed operators who follow the rules about distance, never touch the animals and do not feed them. Sightings are never guaranteed. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a rash vest, since the equatorial sun is strong.

7. Playa Balandra, Mexico

Playa Balandra, number eight in the 2026 list, is a shallow, turquoise lagoon near La Paz in Baja California Sur, and it looks like a swimming pool set into the desert. The water is calm and warm, with a famous mushroom-shaped rock on the shore. It is one of the easiest beaches in this guide for casual swimmers.

Because the area is protected, there are limits on how many people can visit and rules about what you can bring in, so check the current regulations and arrive early. Weekends and holidays are the busiest times. Bring water, shade and sun protection, since there is little natural shade.

The cooler months, roughly October to May, are the most comfortable, while summer can be very hot. Respect the signs, do not walk on delicate areas and take your rubbish with you. La Paz is a good base, with boat trips to nearby islands for sea lions and snorkelling.

8. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain

Cala Macarella, number twelve in 2026, is a small bay on Menorca’s south-west coast with pale sand, pine-covered cliffs and clear turquoise water. It is one of the best-known beaches in the Balearic Islands, and in July and August it fills up fast. The calm, shallow water makes it good for families and casual swimmers.

You reach it on foot from a car park or along the island’s coastal path, and in peak season access arrangements and parking can change, so check locally. May, June and September are quieter and still warm. Bring shade and water, because facilities are limited and the sun is strong.

The cove sits next to quieter neighbours, including Macarelleta, which is reached by a short walk. Menorca is a protected biosphere reserve, so follow signs and keep nature intact. Arrive early or late to avoid midday crowds.

9. Isla Pasión, Cozumel, Mexico

Isla Pasión is Tripadvisor’s best beach in the world for 2026, and it is more of a beach-day destination than a wild shoreline. It sits about ten minutes by boat from Cozumel, and visitors praise its private-island feel, hammocks, kayaks and relaxed service. It is also a popular venue for weddings and group trips.

That makes it very different from remote, boat-only beaches such as Entalula. It is easy, comfortable and set up for visitors, with food, drinks and activities, but it is also a managed experience, not a pristine wilderness. Check what is included, whether there are entry or booking fees and how crowded it gets on cruise days.

Cozumel is known for diving and reef snorkelling, so you can combine the beach with an underwater day. The island is in the Caribbean hurricane zone, so check the forecast and your insurance if you travel from June to November. Traveller reviews, not expert judges, decide the Tripadvisor list, so it reflects what visitors enjoyed in practice.

10. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

Elafonissi, on Crete’s south-west coast, ranks second on Tripadvisor’s 2026 world list and was its world number one in 2025. It is famous for sand with a pinkish tinge from crushed shells, and for a shallow lagoon that you can wade across to a small island. The water is warm and clear, and it is good for families.

The beach is busy in July and August, so travellers who want more space are advised to go in May or September. An entrance or parking fee may apply, and there are sunbeds and snack stalls, but not much natural shade. Bring sunscreen, a hat and water.

The area is protected, so do not take sand or shells, and stay on marked paths. Crete’s roads are winding, so allow extra time for the drive from Chania. The beach is a big draw for day trippers, so go early if you want a quiet start.

11. Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos, Greece

Voutoumi is the best-known beach on Antipaxos, a tiny Ionian island just south of Paxos, and it ranked 12th on the 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. The shore is a mix of white pebbles and sand, and the water shifts from turquoise to deep blue beneath steep limestone cliffs. The seabed slopes gently, so it works well for less experienced swimmers and children.

There is no ferry. Visitors reach Antipaxos by a short boat crossing of around 15 minutes from Gaios on Paxos, by day cruises from places such as Corfu or Parga, or by hiring a boat. The island is active mainly from May to September, when tavernas and boat services operate, and there is no public drinking water, so bring your own.

Two tavernas serve the beach, one on the sand and one up a steep set of steps with views over the bay. The beach can get busy at midday when day boats arrive, so go early or stay late. Check weather and boat schedules, because all trips depend on conditions.

12. Keem Beach, Achill Island, Ireland

Keem Beach, number fifty in 2026, is a surprise on a list full of tropical names. It is a crescent of pale sand on Achill Island, in County Mayo on Ireland’s west coast, set beneath steep green cliffs. The scenery is dramatic, the beach is wide and the Atlantic water is clear, but also cold.

It works best as a walking and photography beach, with a swim for the brave. Summer, from June to August, is the most reliable season, though the weather can change quickly. Bring layers, waterproofs and sturdy shoes, and expect wind.

Swim only when conditions are calm, preferably when a lifeguard is on duty, and watch for currents and cold-water shock. The drive to Keem Bay is narrow and winding, so take it slowly. It is a good choice for travellers who prefer scenery to sunbathing.

13. Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal

Praia da Falésia, ranked 43rd on the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list, is a long ribbon of pale sand backed by red, gold and white cliffs on Portugal’s Algarve coast, near Vilamoura and Olhos de Água. It is one of the most photographed beaches in southern Portugal, and its length means you can walk away from the busier access points and find space even in summer.

The Atlantic is cooler than the Mediterranean, and waves and currents can be strong, so check the flags and swim near a lifeguard. May, June and September are warm and quieter, while August is the busiest month. Bring shade and water, since the cliffs give little cover, and stay away from the cliff base because the rock is unstable.

Many Algarve beaches are reached by steps or sandy paths, so wear sturdy sandals. Falésia works well as a base for a longer trip along the coast, with plenty of other coves within a short drive. For more ideas, see our guide to the best beaches in Portugal.

14. Donald Duck Bay, Similan Islands, Thailand

Donald Duck Bay, number ten in 2026, is a small, sheltered bay in the Similan Islands, off Thailand’s Andaman coast, named after the shape of a rock formation on the shore. Fine white sand, granite boulders and clear water make it one of the most striking beaches in Southeast Asia, and the reef close to shore is good for snorkelling.

The islands sit inside a national park and are open only during the park season, typically from November to May, so plan your trip for those months. Most visitors come on a day trip or liveaboard from the Khao Lak area or Phuket by speedboat, and the journey can be rough in poor weather. Park fees and rules apply, so book with a licensed operator and confirm current conditions.

There are very few facilities, so bring water, sun protection and reef-safe sunscreen. Do not touch coral or feed fish, and keep to marked areas. For other options across the country, see our guide to the best beaches in Thailand.

15. Zlatni Rat, Brač, Croatia

Zlatni Rat, near the town of Bol on the Croatian island of Brač, is the best-known beach on the Adriatic coast. It is a pebble spit that stretches into the sea like a tongue, and its tip shifts with the wind and currents, so the beach looks a little different from year to year. Pine trees line the shore, and the water is clear and turquoise.

The beach is pebble rather than sand, so bring water shoes. It is also a popular windsurfing and kitesurfing spot when the afternoon wind picks up. The season runs roughly from May to September, with July and August the busiest, so go early or choose the shoulder months. Cafés and sunbeds are nearby, but shade is limited on the spit itself.

Brač is reached by ferry from Split, so check schedules in advance, especially if you are travelling in peak season. Combine it with other Dalmatian islands for a longer trip. For more ideas, read our guide to the best places to visit in Croatia.

16. Porto Katsiki, Lefkada, Greece

Porto Katsiki, number 34 in 2026, is one of the most dramatic beaches in the Ionian Islands. White limestone cliffs rise behind a crescent of pale pebbles and sand, and the water shifts from bright turquoise to deep blue. It is on the south-west coast of Lefkada, which is linked to the Greek mainland by a short causeway.

Reaching the shore involves a long set of steps down from the road, so wear proper shoes and bring water, since the climb back up is tiring in summer heat. You can also arrive by boat from Nidri or Vasiliki, which gives you a view of the cliffs from the water. Go early or late in the day to avoid the midday crowds, and avoid the base of the cliffs.

The season runs roughly from May to September, with July and August the busiest. A small café operates in season, but facilities are limited. Pair Porto Katsiki with Fteri on Kefalonia for an Ionian beach trip. For more Greek options, see our guide to the best beaches in Greece.

What Is the #1 Beach in the World?

It depends on who you ask. In 2026, the World’s 50 Best Beaches named Entalula Beach in the Philippines the best beach in the world, and Tripadvisor’s travellers named Isla Pasión in Mexico the best. In 2025, the expert list was won by Cala Goloritzé in Sardinia, which has since moved into a “Best of the Best” hall of fame, and Tripadvisor’s winner was Elafonissi Beach in Crete.

The highest-rated beach in the world is therefore a moving target. Use the rankings to build a shortlist, then choose by what matters to you: remoteness, easy swimming, wildlife, family facilities or price.

Most Beautiful Beaches in the World: The Top 10 List

If you want the short list of the most beautiful beaches in the world according to the 2026 expert ranking, these are the first ten: Entalula Beach (Philippines), Fteri Beach (Greece), Wharton Beach (Australia), Nosy Iranja (Madagascar), East Beach on Vomo Island (Fiji), Shoal Bay East (Anguilla), Dhigurah (Maldives), Playa Balandra (Mexico), Koh Rong (Cambodia) and Donald Duck Bay (Thailand).

The full top 50 includes beaches in Spain, Ireland, Barbuda and the Cook Islands, among many others. Greece, Thailand and Australia each have three beaches on the 2026 list.

Best Beaches in the World by Country

If you are choosing by country, these are the standouts from the 2026 lists.

• Greece: Fteri Beach on Kefalonia, Elafonissi on Crete and Voutoumi on Antipaxos. See our guide to the best beaches in Greece.
• Australia: Wharton Beach in Western Australia, plus Turquoise Bay and Wineglass Bay from the expert list, and Manly Beach in Sydney from the Tripadvisor list.
• Philippines: Entalula Beach in El Nido, Palawan.
• Mexico: Playa Balandra near La Paz and Isla Pasión in Cozumel.
• Spain: Cala Macarella on Menorca.
• Thailand: three beaches in the 2026 top 50, including Donald Duck Bay. See our guide to the best beaches in Thailand.
• USA: La Jolla Cove in California topped the US list on Tripadvisor, and Siesta Beach in Florida made the World’s 50 Best Beaches list in both 2025 and 2026. See our complete guide to America’s best beaches.

Best Beaches in Greece, Thailand, Portugal and Croatia

Four countries come up again and again in beach searches, and each rewards a different kind of trip. Here is a short guide to what makes each one worth your time, with links to our fuller country guides.

Greece

Greece is one of the three countries with the most beaches on the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list, with Fteri Beach (No. 2), Porto Katsiki (No. 34) and Porto Timoni (No. 46) all making the cut. Fteri on Kefalonia and Voutoumi on Antipaxos are covered above, and Elafonissi on Crete is the traveller favourite. Porto Katsiki on Lefkada is known for white cliffs and bright water, and it involves a steep climb or boat trip, so wear proper shoes.

The Greek beach season runs roughly from May to September, with July and August the busiest. For more ideas on islands, coves and what to expect, read our guide to the best beaches in Greece.

Thailand

Thailand also has three beaches on the 2026 list: Donald Duck Bay (No. 10), Paradise Beach and Freedom Beach. Donald Duck Bay is in the Similan Islands, inside a protected national park, and it is only open during the park’s season, typically from November to May. Freedom Beach is near Phuket and is a good example of a quieter spot close to a busy resort area, and Banana Beach near Phuket appears in Tripadvisor’s top 10.

The weather differs between Thailand’s Andaman and Gulf coasts, so check the season for the coast you plan to visit. Boat tours and national park rules can change, so confirm with licensed operators. Our guide to the best beaches in Thailand covers more beaches and regions.

Portugal

Portugal’s headline entry is Praia da Falésia in the Algarve, which ranks 43rd on the 2026 world list and sits among the top beaches in the World’s 50 Best Beaches European ranking. Other Algarve beaches, including Praia da Marinha and Praia do Camilo, are also popular. The Algarve is known for golden cliffs, rock arches and small coves, and many beaches are reached by steps, so wear sturdy sandals.

Beach season runs roughly from May to October, with August the busiest month. The Atlantic is cooler than the Mediterranean, so swim cautiously and check flags, since waves and currents can be strong. For more places and planning tips, see our guide to the best beaches in Portugal.

Croatia

Croatia’s beaches are mostly pebble and rock, with very clear water, and several are among the country’s best known, including Podraće in Brela, Pasjača, Zlatni Rat on Brač and Stiniva on Vis. Zlatni Rat is a pebble spit whose tip shifts with the wind and currents, and Stiniva is a hidden cove with a narrow entrance reached by a steep path.

The season runs roughly from May to September. Bring water shoes for the pebbles, plan for crowds in July and August and check ferry schedules if you are visiting islands. For a wider look at the coast and nearby towns, read our guide to the best places to visit in Croatia.

Best Beaches in Europe

Europe has some of the best beaches in the world, and most of them are in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Fteri Beach (Kefalonia), Cala Macarella (Menorca), Elafonissi (Crete), Voutoumi (Antipaxos) and Keem Beach (Ireland) all feature in this guide. La Pelosa in Sardinia is also in Tripadvisor’s top 10, and Cala Goloritzé, the 2025 expert winner, limits visitor numbers and is reached by a hike or a boat. For more coastal ideas, see our guides to the best beaches in Portugal and the best places to visit in Croatia.

Beach season runs roughly from May to September in the Mediterranean, and later in the Atlantic. July and August are the busiest and hottest months, so shoulder months give you more space and often lower prices. Several European beaches have visitor limits, parking restrictions or entry fees, so check before you go.

Best Beaches in the World to Swim

A beautiful beach is not always a good swimming beach. The World’s 50 Best Beaches scores calm water and easy entry as criteria, and those are the features to look for: a gently sloping seabed, clear water, shelter from waves and, ideally, a lifeguard.

From this guide, Voutoumi, Playa Balandra, Shoal Bay East, Cala Macarella and Elafonissi are good options for confident but casual swimmers, while Keem Beach and Wharton Beach are better for watching than for swimming. Always check the local flag system, swim where a lifeguard is on duty if possible, and never swim alone in unfamiliar water.

Rip currents can occur at many beaches, so learn the basics: do not fight a current, swim parallel to the shore and call for help if you cannot get out. The US National Weather Service has a clear rip current safety guide. Children need constant supervision, and beaches with strong waves or cold water carry extra risk. If you are unsure, ask a lifeguard or local operator.

Best Beaches in the World to Visit in August

August is high summer in the northern hemisphere, so Europe is at its busiest. Greek and Spanish beaches such as Fteri, Elafonissi, Voutoumi and Cala Macarella are warm but crowded, and booking ahead matters. Keem Beach in Ireland has its best weather in summer.

Some beaches are poor choices in August. The Philippines has typhoon risk from June to October, so Entalula is better from December to April, and the Caribbean is in hurricane season, with the peak of activity usually in late summer and autumn. If you want warm, dry weather in August, choose the Mediterranean or parts of the southern hemisphere where it is winter and dry, but expect cooler water.

Best Beaches in the World for a Honeymoon

Honeymooners tend to want privacy, calm water and a sense of occasion. Dhigurah in the Maldives, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Voutoumi in Greece and Isla Pasión in Mexico are popular choices. Nosy Iranja in Madagascar and Entalula in the Philippines suit adventurous couples who do not mind boat transfers.

Book early for peak dry seasons, ask about private beach areas and check what is included in any package. If you plan boat trips or remote stays, build in a spare day for weather. A beach with few facilities can be magical, but it needs preparation.

Best Beaches in the World for Sea Glass

Sea glass hunting is a different kind of beach trip, and the best places are usually old dumping sites where glass has been tumbled smooth by the waves. Glass Beach near Fort Bragg in California is the most famous, but it is part of MacKerricher State Park and taking glass is not allowed. Seaham Beach in County Durham, England, is another well-known spot, and Bermuda also has beaches where glass washes up.

The best times to look are early in the morning, at low tide or after a storm, but be careful on rocky shores and cliffs. Rules on taking sea glass vary by place, so check the local regulations and leave protected beaches as you found them. If you do collect, take only a small handful.

Best Beaches for Travellers from Brazil and the USA

From Brazil: you have a world-class beach at home. Baía do Sancho on Fernando de Noronha ranked 33rd on the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list, and Pontal do Atalaia in Arraial do Cabo ranked 44th, though visitor numbers are limited on Noronha and an environmental fee applies. For a trip abroad, Isla Pasión and Playa Balandra in Mexico, Dhigurah in the Maldives and the Greek, Portuguese and Croatian beaches in this guide are the most popular choices.

Check entry rules for each country before you book, and compare flights through major hubs. Beaches in the southern hemisphere have their summer when Brazil does, while northern beaches peak from May to September.

From the USA: Mexico’s Playa Balandra and Isla Pasión are the easiest long-weekend options, and Shoal Bay East in Anguilla is a short Caribbean flight from many US cities. Closer to home, La Jolla Cove and Siesta Beach are both worth a look in our guide to America’s best beaches. Check passport and entry requirements with the US Department of State before you book.

How to Choose the Best Beach for Your Trip

Start with what you want from the day, then match it to the beach.

• Calm swimming: Voutoumi, Playa Balandra, Shoal Bay East.
• Wildlife and snorkelling: Entalula, Dhigurah, Nosy Iranja.
• Dramatic scenery: Fteri, Keem Beach, Wharton.
• Easy, comfortable days: Isla Pasión, Elafonissi.
• Fewer crowds: shoulder months in Greece, Spain and the Mediterranean.
• Families: shallow, sheltered bays with lifeguards and shade.

Beach Safety and Responsible Visiting

The most beautiful beaches are often the most fragile. Take your rubbish with you, use reef-safe sunscreen, stay on marked paths and keep away from nesting areas. Do not take sand, shells or coral, and never touch or feed wildlife.

For safety, check the weather, tide times and any warnings before you go. Tell someone your plans if you are visiting a remote beach, carry water and sun protection, and follow lifeguard flags. Some beaches in global lists are in countries where governments advise against or restrict travel, so always check your own government’s travel advice before you book, for example through the UK Foreign Office or the US Department of State.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Beach

Most problems come from planning, not from the beach.

• Choosing by rank alone: a remote beach that is number one may be a poor fit for children or weak swimmers.
• Ignoring the season: typhoon, hurricane and monsoon seasons can wipe out a trip.
• Underestimating access: boat-only beaches depend on weather and tides.
• Forgetting shade and water: many top beaches have no facilities.
• Leaving travel advice unchecked: some ranked beaches are in countries with serious warnings.
• Visiting at midday in peak season: go early or late to avoid crowds and heat.

Final Thoughts

The best beaches in the world are the ones that fit your trip, not just the ones at the top of a list. Entalula and Fteri show what expert judges love: wild scenery and effort. Isla Pasión and Elafonissi show what travellers love: ease, comfort and clear water. Voutoumi, Playa Balandra and Cala Macarella sit comfortably between the two.

Pick a beach for the right season, check access and safety before you go, and bring water, shade and a plan for rain. Visit outside peak weeks when you can, take your rubbish home and give wildlife space. A beach is at its best when you leave it as you found it.

Lists change every year, so treat them as a starting point and check current conditions before you book. The best beach is often the one you reach on a calm morning with the right gear and no rush. For more beach ideas and destination guides, browse Explore Best Beaches. The World’s 50 Best Beaches publishes a new ranking every spring, so check the latest list before you plan next year’s trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world?

According to the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking, the first ten are Entalula Beach in the Philippines, Fteri Beach in Greece, Wharton Beach in Australia, Nosy Iranja in Madagascar, East Beach on Vomo Island in Fiji, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Dhigurah in the Maldives, Playa Balandra in Mexico, Koh Rong in Cambodia and Donald Duck Bay in Thailand. By other measures, such as traveller reviews, Isla Pasión in Mexico and Elafonissi in Crete rank highest. Beauty is personal, so use the list as a starting point and choose by the kind of scenery you like.

What is the #1 beach in the world?

It depends on the ranking. The World’s 50 Best Beaches, voted by more than 1,000 travel professionals and backed by on-site scouting, named Entalula Beach in the Philippines number one for 2026. Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice awards, based on traveller reviews, named Isla Pasión in Mexico the top beach in the world the same year. There is no single official winner among the best beaches in the world, so check which list you are reading.

What is the highest rated beach in the world?

“Highest rated” usually means the top of a review-based list. For 2026, that is Isla Pasión in Cozumel on Tripadvisor, and Elafonissi Beach in Crete held the top spot in 2025. Review lists favour beaches that are easy to reach and enjoy, while expert lists favour wild and remote places. If you want the highest-rated beach for a comfortable day, use the traveller list, and if you want scenery and solitude, use the expert list.

What are the best beaches in the world to swim?

Look for calm water, a gently sloping seabed and, if possible, a lifeguard. In this guide, Voutoumi in Greece, Playa Balandra in Mexico, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Cala Macarella in Menorca and Elafonissi in Crete are good for confident casual swimmers. Remote or wild beaches such as Wharton and Keem Beach are better for scenery than swimming. Always follow local flags and never swim alone.

What are the best beaches in the world to visit in August?

In August, the Mediterranean is at its warmest and busiest, so Greek and Spanish beaches such as Fteri, Elafonissi, Voutoumi and Cala Macarella are popular, and Keem Beach in Ireland has its best weather. Entalula in the Philippines is a poor choice in August because of typhoon risk, and the Caribbean is in hurricane season. If you travel in August, book early and visit the best beaches in the world early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.

What are the best beaches in the world for a honeymoon?

Dhigurah in the Maldives, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Voutoumi in Greece and Isla Pasión in Mexico are popular choices for calm water and a sense of occasion. Adventurous couples may prefer Nosy Iranja in Madagascar or Entalula in the Philippines, which need boat transfers. Book peak seasons early, and ask about private beach areas, what is included and what happens if the weather turns.

What are the best beaches in Europe?

The best beaches in Europe from this guide are Fteri on Kefalonia, Voutoumi on Antipaxos, Elafonissi on Crete, Cala Macarella on Menorca and Keem Beach in Ireland. Praia da Falésia in Portugal also features on the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list, and La Pelosa in Sardinia is in Tripadvisor’s top 10. Cala Goloritzé, the 2025 expert winner, limits visitors and is reached by a hike or a boat. Beach season runs roughly from May to September in the Mediterranean, so shoulder months give you more space.

What are the best beaches in the world for sea glass?

Seaham Beach in County Durham, England, and Glass Beach near Fort Bragg in California are the best known. Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach is part of MacKerricher State Park, so taking glass is not allowed, and Bermuda also has beaches where glass washes up. Hunt early in the morning, at low tide or after a storm, check the local rules, and take only a small handful where collecting is permitted.