The World's 50 Best Beaches has announced its annual rankings for 2026, with Entalula Beach in Palawan, the Philippines, taking the top spot. The beach is described as "one of those places you have to see to believe," known for its turquoise waters, untouched natural surroundings, and soft white sand. Its relative seclusion compared to other beaches in the region adds to its appeal.
Entalula Beach is set apart by towering limestone cliffs that rise sharply behind the sand, creating a visually striking setting. Accessible only by boat, the beach offers calm, clear waters ideal for swimming. The organisers call it an "overlooked slice of heaven" that is both dramatic and tranquil. Visitor reviews on TripAdvisor describe it as "magical" and "one of the most beautiful" excursions.
The beach beat strong competition from destinations including Greece, Australia, Mexico, and Thailand. Other European beaches in the top 50 include Cala Macarella in Spain, Cala dei Gabbiani in Italy, and Porto Katsiki in Greece. No UK beaches made the list, but Keem Bay in County Mayo, Ireland, ranked 50th.
Tine Holst, Co-Founder of The World's 50 Best Beaches, noted that the methodology was elevated for 2026, with the core team personally visiting and evaluating hundreds of beaches year-round, combined with insights from 1,000 industry experts.
