Best Beaches in the World: 16 Stunning Destinations to Visit in 2026

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Finding the best beaches in the world is not simply about looking for white sand and turquoise water. Some beaches are famous for their dramatic cliffs and secluded surroundings, while others attract visitors with calm swimming conditions, colourful coral reefs, beautiful island scenery and excellent facilities. The right choice depends on the kind of beach experience you want.

From the limestone islands of the Philippines and the Greek coastline to the tropical shores of Mexico, the Maldives and Thailand, the world’s most remarkable beaches offer something different in every destination. Some are perfect for a relaxing holiday, others are better suited to snorkelling and adventure, and a few are worth visiting simply for their extraordinary natural scenery.

Beach rankings can also vary depending on who creates them. The World’s 50 Best Beaches uses travel-industry expertise and destination assessments, while Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice awards reflect the experiences and reviews of travellers. In 2026, Entalula Beach in the Philippines received the top position in the expert ranking, while Isla Pasion in Mexico was named the world’s number-one beach in Tripadvisor’s global awards.

This guide brings together 16 outstanding beach destinations from these rankings and other internationally recognised coastal locations. It explains what makes each beach special, how to reach it, what to expect and when to plan your visit. You will also find recommendations for swimming, European beach holidays, honeymoons and travelling in August, along with practical advice for choosing the right beach.

Quick Comparison: Best Beaches in the World

These are selected destinations rather than a single official ranking. Seasonal guidance is general and should be checked against local weather, sea conditions and access rules.

The 16 Best Beaches in the World

1. Entalula Beach, Philippines

Entalula Beach, located in El Nido on Palawan Island, is one of the most spectacular tropical destinations in Southeast Asia. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, thick greenery and exceptionally clear water, it offers the kind of island scenery many travellers imagine when planning a tropical holiday.

The beach received first place in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking. Its appeal comes from its natural surroundings and relatively undeveloped character. Unlike large resort beaches, Entalula has a quieter atmosphere, with its dramatic landscape remaining the main attraction.

What to experience: Take an island-hopping boat trip from El Nido, enjoy the views of the limestone formations and explore the clear water with a snorkel. The surrounding islands also offer opportunities for photography and short beach stops.

How to get there: Most visitors reach Entalula by boat from El Nido. It is commonly included in island-hopping excursions around Bacuit Bay.

Best time to visit: December to April is generally the more favourable period for visiting Palawan. The rainy season can bring rougher seas and changes to boat schedules.

Travel tip: Facilities are limited, so bring drinking water, sun protection and anything else you need for the day. Choose a licensed boat operator and follow local instructions.

2. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Fteri Beach is one of Greece’s most visually striking coastal destinations. Situated on the island of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea, it is known for its pale pebble-and-sand shoreline, impressive limestone cliffs and brilliant blue water.

The beach ranked second in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. Its relatively secluded location makes it especially attractive to travellers who prefer natural landscapes over busy beach resorts.

Unlike beaches with long promenades and extensive facilities, Fteri has a more untouched character. Its cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, while the clear water makes the setting particularly appealing for photography and swimming when conditions are suitable.

What to experience: Spend time swimming in the clear water, photograph the surrounding cliffs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the island’s busier resort areas.

How to get there: Boat access is a popular way to reach Fteri. Land access may involve a demanding walk, so check the current route and conditions before attempting it.

Best time to visit: May, June and September are excellent months to consider. July and August bring warmer weather but also more visitors.

Travel tip: Bring water, suitable footwear and sun protection. Facilities are limited, and boat services can be affected by weather.

For more coastal destinations on the island and throughout the country, see our guide to the best beaches in Greece.

3. Wharton Beach, Western Australia

Wharton Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline near Esperance in Western Australia. Its wide sandy shoreline, turquoise water and open coastal scenery make it one of Australia’s most attractive beach destinations.

The beach ranked third in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. It is also known for surfing and the possibility of spotting dolphins in the surrounding waters.

Wharton Beach feels different from highly developed coastal destinations. Its remote location gives visitors more space to enjoy the landscape, although it also means that preparation is important.

What to experience: Walk along the long sandy shoreline, enjoy the coastal scenery, watch for dolphins and explore the surrounding beaches of the Esperance region.

How to get there: Wharton Beach is reached by road from Esperance. A rental car is useful for exploring this part of Western Australia.

Best time to visit: December to March is generally the warmer summer period, making it a popular time for beach activities.

Travel tip: Check surf and weather conditions before swimming. Waves and currents can be powerful, and visitors should carry sufficient water, food and fuel when exploring remote coastal areas.

4. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar

Nosy Iranja is a remarkable island destination off the north-west coast of Madagascar. It consists of two small islands connected by a beautiful stretch of white sand that becomes particularly visible at low tide.

The surrounding water has different shades of blue and turquoise, while the island landscape creates a peaceful tropical setting. Nosy Iranja ranked fourth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list.

The changing sandbar is the main attraction. Walking across it when the tide is suitable offers a memorable experience, although visitors should always check local tide information and follow boat-operator guidance.

What to experience: Walk along the sandbar, enjoy the island views, swim where conditions are safe and explore the surrounding marine environment.

How to get there: Most trips begin from Nosy Be and involve a boat journey. Many visitors choose a guided day excursion.

Best time to visit: April to November is generally Madagascar’s drier period, although local weather and sea conditions can vary.

Travel tip: Plan your visit around the tide, carry cash and bring sun protection. Respect sea turtle nesting areas and never disturb marine wildlife.

5. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla

Shoal Bay East is one of the Caribbean’s most appealing beaches, known for its soft white sand, clear water and relaxed island atmosphere. Located on the north-eastern coast of Anguilla, it offers a combination of natural beauty and convenient beach facilities.

The beach ranked sixth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. Its long shoreline provides enough space for visitors to enjoy a quieter area even when some sections are busy.

The surrounding reef also makes the destination interesting for snorkelling. Visitors can explore the water, relax near the shore or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby beach establishments.

What to experience: Swimming, snorkelling, relaxing on the sand and enjoying the Caribbean coastal scenery.

How to get there: Anguilla can be reached through regional flights and ferry connections. Local taxis make it possible to travel to Shoal Bay East from other parts of the island.

Best time to visit: December to April is generally the drier and more popular travel season. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November.

Travel tip: Check sea conditions before entering the water and book accommodation in advance if travelling during the winter holiday period.

6. Dhigurah, Maldives

Dhigurah is a long, narrow island in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives. Unlike some destinations known mainly for luxury resorts, it offers visitors the opportunity to experience island life through local guesthouses and beach activities.

Its long sandy shoreline, tropical vegetation and surrounding marine environment make it an appealing destination for travellers who want more than a traditional resort holiday.

Dhigurah ranked seventh in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. The surrounding waters are also known for whale shark encounters, which attract snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

What to experience: Walk along the island’s long beach, enjoy snorkelling excursions, explore the local community and take a responsible whale shark-watching trip.

How to get there: Visitors generally travel from Malé by domestic transfer or speedboat, depending on schedules and the chosen service.

Best time to visit: December to April is generally the drier season, although marine wildlife sightings are possible at different times of the year.

Travel tip: Choose responsible marine tour operators. Keep a safe distance from whale sharks, never touch them and follow all wildlife protection guidelines. Remember that local islands have different visitor rules from private resort islands.

7. Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Playa Balandra is one of Mexico’s most recognisable beaches, famous for its shallow turquoise lagoon and distinctive mushroom-shaped rock formation. Located near La Paz in Baja California Sur, it is particularly appealing to visitors who enjoy calm coastal scenery.

The water is relatively shallow in many areas, creating an attractive setting for wading and relaxing. The protected environment also makes it important to follow visitor regulations and respect the surrounding ecosystem.

Playa Balandra ranked eighth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list.

What to experience: Enjoy the shallow lagoon, photograph the famous rock formation, explore the coastal landscape and spend time swimming where permitted.

How to get there: La Paz is the usual starting point. Visitors can reach Balandra by car or local transport, depending on availability.

Best time to visit: October to May is generally more comfortable than the hottest summer months.

Travel tip: The protected area has visitor limits and access rules that can change. Check current entry arrangements before travelling, especially during weekends and holidays.

8. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain

Cala Macarella is one of Menorca’s most beautiful Mediterranean coves. Surrounded by pine-covered cliffs and clear turquoise water, it offers the classic scenery that makes the Balearic Islands so popular with beach travellers.

Its curved shoreline and relatively sheltered setting make it an attractive place for swimming and relaxing. The nearby Cala Macarelleta provides another scenic stop for visitors exploring the coastline.

Cala Macarella ranked twelfth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list.

What to experience: Swim in the clear water, enjoy the surrounding pine forest and explore the coastal walking paths.

How to get there: Visitors can reach the area through seasonal transport arrangements or by walking from designated parking areas. Access rules can change during the summer, so check local information.

Best time to visit: May, June and September are good options for pleasant weather with fewer visitors than July and August.

Travel tip: Arrive early during peak season, bring drinking water and follow marked paths through the protected landscape.

9. Isla Pasion, Cozumel, Mexico

Isla Pasion is a popular island beach destination near Cozumel, Mexico. It became especially prominent after receiving first place in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best global beach awards.

Unlike remote beaches that require extensive planning, Isla Pasion is designed around the visitor experience. Its soft sand, clear water, beach facilities and organised activities make it an attractive choice for travellers seeking a comfortable day by the sea.

The beach is particularly suitable for visitors who want a combination of relaxation and organised entertainment.

What to experience: Relax on the sand, enjoy water activities, explore the surrounding marine environment and take advantage of the island’s beach facilities.

How to get there: Boat excursions from Cozumel provide access to the island. Check tour arrangements and inclusions before booking.

Best time to visit: November to April is generally a popular period for visiting Cozumel, with warm conditions and relatively favourable weather.

Travel tip: Compare excursion packages carefully. Check what is included in the price, such as transfers, meals, activities and beach facilities. Avoid touching coral or disturbing marine animals.

10. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

Elafonissi Beach is one of the most recognisable coastal attractions in Greece. Located on the south-western side of Crete, it is famous for its shallow lagoon, pale sand with a pinkish tint in certain areas and beautiful turquoise water.

The pink colour comes from crushed shells and marine material, although it is not equally visible along the entire beach. The shallow water and natural scenery make Elafonissi especially popular with families and casual swimmers.

It ranked second in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travellers’ Choice global beach awards.

What to experience: Walk through the shallow lagoon, enjoy swimming in suitable conditions, photograph the unusual sand colours and explore the protected coastal landscape.

How to get there: Elafonissi can be reached by road from Chania, with organised excursions and rental cars being common options.

Best time to visit: May and September are attractive months for visitors who want pleasant weather without the busiest summer crowds.

Travel tip: Bring a hat, water and sun protection. Stay on marked paths and do not collect sand, shells or other natural material from protected areas.

11. Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos, Greece

Voutoumi Beach is one of the most beautiful coastal locations on the small Greek island of Antipaxos. Its white pebbles, turquoise water and surrounding green hills create a peaceful setting that feels far removed from larger tourist resorts.

The beach is especially attractive to travellers exploring the Ionian Islands by boat. Its clear water and scenic coastline make it a popular stop for swimming and photography.

What to experience: Enjoy swimming, relax beside the water and admire the contrast between the white shoreline and the deep blue sea.

How to get there: Antipaxos is usually reached by boat from Paxos, particularly from Gaios. Seasonal excursions may also operate from nearby coastal destinations.

Best time to visit: May to September is generally the main visitor season.

Travel tip: Boat schedules depend on weather and sea conditions. Bring water and suitable footwear, as some access routes and steps can be steep.

12. Keem Beach, Achill Island, Ireland

Keem Beach is a dramatic coastal destination on Achill Island in County Mayo, Ireland. Unlike the tropical beaches elsewhere in this guide, it offers a landscape of green cliffs, open Atlantic views and cool blue water.

The beach is surrounded by steep hills that create a natural amphitheatre. Its remote setting and impressive scenery make it especially appealing to photographers, walkers and travellers who enjoy quieter coastal destinations.

Keem Beach ranked fiftieth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list.

What to experience: Enjoy the coastal views, walk along the sand, photograph the surrounding cliffs and explore the nearby scenery of Achill Island.

How to get there: Keem Beach is accessible by road from the main settlements on Achill Island. The final approach is narrow and winding.

Best time to visit: June to August generally offers the most favourable conditions for a summer visit.

Travel tip: Atlantic water can be cold even during summer. Check local swimming conditions, pay attention to warnings and bring warm clothing because coastal weather changes quickly.

13. Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal

Praia da Falésia is a spectacular stretch of coastline in Portugal’s Algarve region. It is known for its long sandy shore and striking cliffs, which display beautiful shades of red, gold and white.

The beach ranked forty-third in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list and is particularly popular with visitors who enjoy long coastal walks, swimming and photography.

Its length gives visitors the opportunity to move away from the busiest access points and find a more peaceful section of shoreline.

What to experience: Walk along the golden sand, admire the colourful cliffs, enjoy the coastal viewpoints and swim where conditions are safe.

How to get there: Praia da Falésia is accessible from the Vilamoura and Olhos de Água areas. Local roads and designated access points connect visitors to different sections of the beach.

Best time to visit: May, June, September and October are attractive months for a beach holiday, while August is generally the busiest.

Travel tip: Check the local flag system before swimming. Stay away from unstable cliff edges and the base of eroding sections.

For more coastal destinations, explore our complete guide to the best beaches in Portugal.

14. Donald Duck Bay, Similan Islands, Thailand

Donald Duck Bay is one of the most recognisable beaches in the Similan Islands, off Thailand’s Andaman coast. Its name comes from a distinctive rock formation that resembles the famous cartoon character.

The beach is known for its bright white sand, large granite boulders and clear water. The surrounding marine environment also makes it a popular stop for snorkelling excursions.

Donald Duck Bay ranked tenth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list.

What to experience: Explore the sandy bay, photograph the unusual granite formations and enjoy snorkelling in permitted areas when sea conditions are suitable.

How to get there: Most visitors travel by boat from Khao Lak or nearby coastal departure points. Some excursions operate from Phuket, depending on the tour and conditions.

Best time to visit: The Similan Islands are generally open during the national park’s seasonal operating period, usually from November to May. Exact opening and closing dates should be confirmed before travel.

Travel tip: Choose a licensed operator and follow national park regulations. Avoid touching coral, feeding fish or entering restricted areas.

For more coastal destinations in the country, see our guide to the best beaches in Thailand.

15. Zlatni Rat, Brač, Croatia

Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn, is one of the most recognisable beaches in Croatia. Located near the town of Bol on the island of Brač, it extends into the Adriatic Sea in a distinctive pointed shape.

One of its most interesting features is that the tip of the beach changes slightly with wind, currents and sea conditions. This natural movement gives the coastline a different appearance throughout the year.

The surrounding pine trees, clear water and open coastal views make it popular with beachgoers and watersports enthusiasts.

What to experience: Swim in the Adriatic, relax along the pebble shoreline, enjoy windsurfing and explore the nearby coastal paths.

How to get there: Brač is accessible by ferry from mainland Croatia, with local transport connecting visitors to Bol.

Best time to visit: May to September is the main beach season, with July and August attracting the largest crowds.

Travel tip: Water shoes are useful on the pebble shore. If you are planning a wider coastal holiday, explore our guide to the best places to visit in Croatia.

16. Porto Katsiki, Lefkada, Greece

Porto Katsiki is one of the most dramatic beaches in the Ionian Islands. Situated on the south-western coast of Lefkada, it is known for its tall white cliffs, pale pebble shoreline and striking blue water.

The beach ranked thirty-fourth in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. Its natural setting makes it one of Greece’s most photographed coastal locations.

The contrast between the limestone cliffs and the bright water creates a memorable landscape, particularly when viewed from the surrounding viewpoints.

What to experience: Enjoy the coastal scenery, take photographs from the viewpoints and swim when local conditions allow.

How to get there: Porto Katsiki is accessible by road from other parts of Lefkada, followed by a descent down a staircase. Boat trips from nearby ports are another option.

Best time to visit: May, June and September offer attractive conditions, while July and August are generally busier.

Travel tip: The steps can be tiring during hot weather. Bring water and appropriate footwear, and avoid sitting directly beneath unstable cliff sections.

What Is the Number One Beach in the World in 2026?

There are two notable answers, depending on the ranking you follow.

According to the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking, Entalula Beach in El Nido, Philippines, is the number-one beach in the world. The ranking draws on travel-industry expertise and destination assessments.

Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best awards named Isla Pasion in Cozumel, Mexico, the world’s leading beach. Its results are based on traveller reviews and opinions collected over the previous 12 months.

These rankings measure different aspects of the beach experience. An expert-led ranking may place greater emphasis on natural beauty, scenery and destination character, while a traveller-review ranking reflects visitors’ experiences with accessibility, facilities and activities.

For that reason, neither list should be treated as the only definitive answer. The best beach for your holiday is the one that matches your interests, budget and travel plans.

Most Beautiful Beaches in the World: 10 Places Worth Exploring

If natural scenery is your main priority, these ten destinations offer some of the most memorable coastal landscapes in the 2026 expert ranking:

1. Entalula Beach, Philippines – limestone cliffs and tropical island scenery.
2. Fteri Beach, Greece – white shoreline beneath dramatic cliffs.
3. Wharton Beach, Australia – open coastline and opportunities for dolphin spotting.
4. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar – a remarkable island sandbar.
5. Mamanuca Beach, Fiji – tropical island scenery and clear water.
6. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla – soft sand and Caribbean blue water.
7. Dhigurah, Maldives – a long island beach and rich marine environment.
8. Playa Balandra, Mexico – shallow turquoise water and desert surroundings.
9. Koh Rong, Cambodia – tropical island coastline.
10. Donald Duck Bay, Thailand – granite boulders and white sand.

This is the order of the 2026 expert ranking, not a universal measurement of beauty. Different travellers may prefer quieter beaches, more facilities or easier access.

Best Beaches in the World for Swimming

A beautiful beach does not automatically offer safe swimming conditions. Water depth, waves, currents, tides and lifeguard availability are important factors when choosing where to enter the sea.

For a more relaxed swimming holiday, consider these destinations:

These are general suggestions rather than guarantees of safe swimming. Conditions can change within hours, and even calm-looking beaches can have currents or unexpected hazards.

Always follow lifeguard instructions, check local warning flags and supervise children closely. For additional information, consult the National Weather Service’s rip current safety guidance.

Best Beaches in the World to Visit in August

August is one of the busiest travel months in many northern-hemisphere destinations. Mediterranean beaches are particularly popular because of their warm weather, long daylight hours and established summer tourism facilities.

Some good destinations to consider include:

Greece: Fteri, Elafonissi and Voutoumi offer beautiful island scenery, although popular access points can become crowded.

Spain: Cala Macarella is an attractive choice for visitors looking for clear Mediterranean water and pine-covered coastal scenery.

Portugal: Praia da Falésia is suitable for travellers who enjoy long sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. Check the Atlantic surf conditions before swimming.

Ireland: Keem Beach offers impressive coastal scenery, although the Atlantic water is cold and weather conditions can change quickly.

There are also destinations that require extra seasonal consideration. The Philippines may experience typhoon-related disruption during parts of the summer, while the Caribbean is within its Atlantic hurricane season.

If you are travelling in August, book accommodation and transport early, check local weather forecasts and consider visiting popular beaches in the morning.

Best Beaches in the World for a Honeymoon

A honeymoon beach holiday is often about more than swimming and sunbathing. Couples may want privacy, attractive accommodation, beautiful sunsets and opportunities to enjoy activities together.

These destinations are worth considering:

Dhigurah, Maldives: A good choice for couples who want a long island beach, tropical scenery and marine excursions. Local guesthouses provide an alternative to expensive private-island resorts.

Shoal Bay East, Anguilla: Ideal for couples who enjoy a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, clear water and nearby beach facilities.

Nosy Iranja, Madagascar: A memorable option for adventurous couples who appreciate remote island scenery and boat excursions.

Entalula Beach, Philippines: An appealing destination for couples who enjoy natural surroundings and exploring tropical islands.

Isla Pasion, Mexico: A more organised beach experience for couples who prefer convenient activities and facilities.

Before booking, compare accommodation, boat transfers and seasonal weather. Remote islands can require additional planning, particularly when transport depends on sea conditions.

Best Beaches in Greece, Thailand, Portugal and Croatia

Some countries appear repeatedly in international beach searches because they offer a combination of natural scenery, accessible coastal towns and a wide choice of beach experiences.

Greece

Greece is particularly strong for island beaches, limestone cliffs and clear Ionian and Aegean water. Fteri, Elafonissi, Voutoumi and Porto Katsiki each offer a different coastal experience.

Kefalonia is a good option for dramatic beaches and quieter scenery, while Crete offers a broader choice of beaches, towns and cultural attractions.

The main beach season runs from May to September. July and August are generally the busiest months.

Explore our guide to the best beaches in Greece.

Thailand

Thailand is known for its tropical islands, limestone formations, white-sand beaches and snorkelling opportunities. Donald Duck Bay in the Similan Islands is a standout for its natural scenery.

Other popular destinations include Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands and beaches along the Andaman coast. The Gulf of Thailand follows a different seasonal weather pattern, so check conditions for the particular island you plan to visit.

Explore our guide to the best beaches in Thailand.

Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve region is particularly famous for golden cliffs, long sandy beaches and small coastal coves. Praia da Falésia is one of the country’s most recognisable destinations, while Praia da Marinha and Praia do Camilo are also popular.

The main beach season generally extends from May to October. The Atlantic can be cooler and rougher than the Mediterranean, so swimming conditions should always be checked.

Explore our guide to the best beaches in Portugal.

Croatia

Croatia’s coastline is known for clear Adriatic water, pebble beaches, rocky coves and beautiful islands. Zlatni Rat on Brač is particularly famous for its unusual shape, while other coastal locations offer secluded swimming areas and historic seaside towns.

May to September is the main beach season. Island visitors should check ferry schedules and plan transport ahead of time, especially during July and August.

For more destination ideas, read our guide to the best places to visit in Croatia.

Best Beaches in Europe

Europe offers an impressive variety of coastal landscapes. The Mediterranean is known for warm water, small coves and island beaches, while the Atlantic coast offers dramatic cliffs, broad sandy shores and cooler swimming conditions.

Some of the most appealing choices include:

• Fteri Beach, Greece: A secluded coastal setting beneath impressive limestone cliffs.
• Elafonissi Beach, Greece: Pink-tinged sand and shallow lagoon scenery.
• Cala Macarella, Spain: A beautiful Mediterranean cove surrounded by pine trees.
• Praia da Falésia, Portugal: A long sandy beach backed by colourful cliffs.
• Porto Katsiki, Greece: A striking shoreline beneath tall white cliffs.
• Keem Beach, Ireland: A dramatic Atlantic beach with green mountain scenery.
• Zlatni Rat, Croatia: A distinctive pebble beach extending into the Adriatic.

For Mediterranean holidays, May, June and September can be more comfortable than the busiest summer weeks. July and August are generally warmer but bring larger crowds and higher accommodation demand.

Best Beaches for Sea Glass

Sea glass beaches offer a different kind of coastal experience. Rather than focusing on swimming or sunbathing, visitors search for small pieces of weathered glass that have been naturally smoothed by waves and sand.

Some well-known destinations include:

Glass Beach, California: Located near Fort Bragg, this beach is famous for its colourful glass fragments. It is part of MacKerricher State Park, and collecting glass is not permitted.

Seaham Beach, England: Located in County Durham, Seaham is well known among sea-glass enthusiasts for pieces of coloured glass that wash onto the shore.

Bermuda: Some beaches around Bermuda are also known for sea glass, although collecting rules vary by location.

Early mornings and low tides can be good times to explore, particularly after suitable weather conditions. Always check local regulations before collecting anything. On protected beaches, leave natural materials where they belong.

Best Beaches for Travellers from Brazil and the USA

International beach travel often depends on flight connections, travel time, entry requirements and the season. Some destinations are easier to combine with a short holiday, while others deserve a longer trip.

For travellers from Brazil

Travellers from Brazil already have access to some outstanding coastal destinations at home. Baía do Sancho in Fernando de Noronha and Pontal do Atalaia in Arraial do Cabo are excellent examples of Brazil’s natural beach scenery.

For an international holiday, Mexico, the Caribbean, Portugal and Greece are worth considering. The best choice depends on flight connections, budget and the time of year.

Remember that northern-hemisphere summer and winter seasons are opposite to those in Brazil, so seasonal planning is important.

For travellers from the USA

Mexico and the Caribbean are attractive choices for many US travellers because of their relatively convenient flight connections from several major cities.

Playa Balandra and Isla Pasion in Mexico are worth considering, while Shoal Bay East in Anguilla offers a classic Caribbean beach experience.

Closer to home, destinations such as La Jolla Cove in California and Siesta Beach in Florida provide excellent coastal options. For more domestic inspiration, explore our guide to America’s best beaches.

Before international travel, check passport requirements, entry conditions and government travel advisories.

How to Choose the Best Beach for Your Holiday

The best beach is not necessarily the highest-ranked destination. A remote island may be perfect for adventurous travellers but unsuitable for families looking for facilities and easy access.

Consider these factors before choosing:

For calm swimming: Look for sheltered bays, shallow water, a gently sloping seabed and lifeguard services where available. Playa Balandra, Elafonissi and some sections of Shoal Bay East are worth considering, subject to local conditions.

For snorkelling and marine life: Entalula, Dhigurah and Donald Duck Bay are attractive choices. Choose responsible tour operators and follow marine conservation rules.

For dramatic scenery: Fteri, Keem Beach, Porto Katsiki and Nosy Iranja offer distinctive landscapes that are particularly rewarding for photography.

For comfortable beach days: Isla Pasion and Shoal Bay East offer visitor facilities and organised experiences.

For a quieter holiday: Consider travelling during shoulder seasons and choosing beaches away from major resort centres.

For families: Prioritise beaches with suitable swimming conditions, accessible facilities, shade and lifeguard services.

Beach Safety and Responsible Visiting

Beautiful beaches are often fragile natural environments. Coral reefs, dunes, coastal vegetation and marine wildlife can be damaged by careless tourism.

A responsible beach visit begins with a few simple habits:

• Take rubbish with you and use designated waste facilities.
• Never touch, stand on or remove coral.
• Keep a safe distance from turtles, dolphins, seals and other marine animals.
• Avoid disturbing nesting areas and protected coastal vegetation.
• Use designated paths and access points.
• Follow local swimming flags, lifeguard instructions and weather warnings.
• Avoid swimming alone in unfamiliar water.
• Choose licensed boat operators who follow environmental rules.

For remote beaches, carry enough drinking water, sun protection and essential supplies. Boat-only destinations may have limited facilities and can become inaccessible when weather conditions change.

Check current local travel guidance before booking international trips, particularly when visiting remote islands or destinations with seasonal access restrictions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Beach

Even a highly rated beach can disappoint when the trip is poorly planned. These common mistakes are worth avoiding:

Choosing by ranking alone: A beach ranked number one may not suit your swimming ability, budget or travel style.

Ignoring seasonal weather: Typhoons, hurricanes, monsoons and winter swells can affect beach access and sea conditions.

Underestimating travel time: Remote beaches may require several hours of road travel or a boat transfer.

Expecting facilities everywhere: Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches have no restaurants, toilets, shops or lifeguards.

Ignoring swimming warnings: Clear water does not always mean safe water. Currents, waves and sudden changes in weather can create dangerous conditions.

Travelling during peak hours: Arriving early can make popular destinations more enjoyable and reduce the difficulty of finding parking or boat transfers.

Final Thoughts

The best beaches in the world offer different experiences, from remote tropical islands and dramatic limestone cliffs to long Mediterranean shores and comfortable Caribbean beach destinations.

Entalula Beach and Fteri Beach stand out for their natural scenery, while Wharton Beach offers a more open Australian coastline. Nosy Iranja is memorable for its changing sandbar, Dhigurah attracts marine-life enthusiasts, and Playa Balandra is an excellent choice for travellers who appreciate shallow turquoise water.

For a more comfortable holiday, Isla Pasion and Shoal Bay East are worth considering. Meanwhile, Europe’s beaches provide a remarkable variety of coastal experiences, from the Greek islands to Portugal’s golden cliffs and Ireland’s dramatic Atlantic scenery.

Take time to compare destinations, check the right season and understand how to reach each beach. The most memorable beach holiday is not necessarily the one with the highest ranking. It is the one that matches what you want from your journey.

For more inspiration, destination advice and coastal travel guides, Explore Best Beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world?

The 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking places Entalula Beach in the Philippines first, followed by Fteri Beach in Greece, Wharton Beach in Australia, Nosy Iranja in Madagascar, Mamanuca Beach 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. These destinations offer a variety of landscapes, from tropical islands to dramatic coastlines.

2. What is the number-one beach in the world in 2026?

The answer depends on the ranking. Entalula Beach in the Philippines was named number one by the World’s 50 Best Beaches in 2026. Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best awards named Isla Pasion in Cozumel, Mexico, the world’s top beach for the same year. Both lists use different evaluation methods.

3. What are the best beaches in the world for swimming?

Some beaches worth considering for swimming include Playa Balandra in Mexico, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Elafonissi in Greece and Cala Macarella in Spain. These destinations have attractive coastal settings and areas that can be suitable for casual swimming. However, conditions change with weather, tides and currents, so always check local safety information before entering the water.

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

The Mediterranean is a popular choice in August, particularly Greece, Spain and Portugal. Fteri, Elafonissi, Cala Macarella and Praia da Falésia are attractive options for summer holidays. Keem Beach in Ireland is another choice for travellers who prefer cooler Atlantic scenery. Book early because many European beach destinations are busy during this month.

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

Dhigurah in the Maldives, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Nosy Iranja in Madagascar and Entalula Beach in the Philippines are appealing choices for couples seeking tropical scenery and a memorable coastal holiday. Isla Pasion in Mexico is a good alternative for couples who prefer organised beach facilities and activities. The ideal destination depends on your budget, privacy preferences and travel season.