Tripadvisor Reveals World's Best Beaches for 2026: Top Destinations Unveiled

While summer may seem distant in the UK, combating grey skies and winter blues can start with planning your next vacation and dreaming of idyllic shores. Now, you can do so with expert guidance, as the world's best beaches for 2026 have been officially revealed.

Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards: Celebrating Excellence

Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards Best of the Best title honours the pinnacle of travel excellence. These accolades are bestowed upon destinations that garner a high volume of exceptional reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Whether you crave a serene beach paradise or a lively urban hub, this list offers something for every traveller. So, pack your sun hat and swimsuit as we delve into the full rundown of the winning spots.

1. Isla Pasion, Cozumel, Mexico

Topping the list is Isla Pasion, also known as Passion Island, in Cozumel, Mexico. This secluded small island, accessible via a 10-minute boat ride, is perfect for those seeking a restful escape. It's a popular all-inclusive day trip destination, featuring beach hammocks, bars, and an all-day food buffet. With a 4.6-star rating, reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with one traveller exclaiming, 'My excursion to Passion Island was nothing but the best - I now have my Mexican family!'

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2. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

Securing second place is Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, renowned for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters, often dubbed 'the Maldives of Europe' by visitors. Easily accessible for Brits, flights to Chania Airport in Crete start from just £44 with Ryanair, followed by a one-and-a-half-hour drive. Reviews praise it as 'one of the most beautiful natural paradises in the world' and 'the icing on the cake called Crete.'

3. Balos Lagoon, Crete, Greece

Next is Balos Lagoon, also in Crete, Greece, solidifying the region as a beach hotspot. This lagoon boasts warm, calm waters ideal for families, alongside picture-perfect white and pink sand. Described as 'magical' and 'a rather unique site' by visitors, it's easily reached from Chania Airport, with flights from the UK starting at £44.

4. Eagle Beach, Aruba

In fourth place is Eagle Beach in Aruba, an island country in the southern Caribbean Sea. It's most recognisable by its iconic Divi-Divi trees, wind-bent symbols of Aruba. The spot is popular for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and water sports like paddleboarding.

5. Praia da Falésia, Olhos de Agua, Portugal

Rounding out the top five is Praia da Falésia in Olhos de Agua, Portugal. Stretching over six kilometres, it features stunning red cliffs and golden sands, earning a 4.6-star rating. It's especially favoured by hikers and walkers for its magnificent views. One Tripadvisor reviewer noted, 'A unique beach that deserves a visit. Very nice colors, the cliffs are mesmerizing and the ocean very clean. A must in the Algarve, a favourite!'

6. Banana Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Number six is Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand, with a stellar 4.9-star rating on Tripadvisor. Reviews highlight its lack of crowds and abundance of fun activities, such as parasailing. One visitor shared, 'One of my favourite places in Thailand.'

7. La Jolla Cove, San Diego, California

Next up is La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California, praised for its calm waters and abundant marine life. Sea lions and seals are common here, attracting tourists eager for sightings. It's also a hub for surfers, kayakers, and paddleboard enthusiasts.

8. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia, Italy

The Sardinian beach La Pelosa, hailed as a family-friendly paradise, ranks eighth. Its waters remain at knee height far out, which may appeal to some or deter others. One review advised, 'A corner of paradise on a beautiful island, the only flaw is having to book long in advance to access, the alternative is to stay on the rocks just next to the beach and swim in crystal clear water without reservation.'

9. Manly Beach, Sydney, Australia

Number nine is Manly Beach in Sydney, Australia, outshining the more famous Bondi Beach. It offers plenty to do, with numerous shops, cafes, and scenic walks. Its proximity to the city's central business district makes it easily accessible and vibrant.

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10. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, Simon's Town, South Africa

Completing the top ten is Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in Simon's Town, South Africa. The main attraction is the large population of African penguins, viewable via wooden walkways in their natural habitat. For swimming, a nearby spot is available. Reviews are incredibly positive, with one stating, 'The hour+ drive from Cape Town is definitely worth seeing the penguins, especially those of us from colder climates who are only used to seeing penguins at the zoo, or on nature shows. There is a boardwalk where you can view the penguins without disturbing them, and provides great photo ops.'