Summer might feel like it’s still ages away for us here in the UK.
But an antidote to the grey skies and the cold-weather blues might be planning your next vacation – and fantasising about the beaches you’d like to visit.
And now you can do so fully informed, as the world’s best beaches for 2026 have been revealed.
Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel.
The titles are awarded to destinations that receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet beach paradise or a vibrant hub in a busy city, there’s something for you.
So, pack your sun hat and swimming costume as we share the full rundown of the winning spots…
1. Isla Pasion, Cozumel, Mexico
Isla Pasion in Cozumel, Mexico tops the list in the number one spot
Isla Pasion, also known as Passion Island, takes the crown in the ranking.
The small island off the coast of Cozumel, Mexico is secluded and can be reached via a 10-minute boat ride, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a restful break.
It’s also a popular all-inclusive day trip destination, as it boasts beach hammocks, bars and an all-day food buffet.
With 4.6 stars, reviews are highly positive – one of which reads: ‘My excursion to Passion Island was nothing but the best – I now have my Mexican family!’
2. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
Elafonissi beach in the municipality of Kissamos in the region of Chania, Crete, Greece
Coming in second place is Elafonissi Beach, located in Crete, Greece.
The beach is world-famous because of its pink sand and crystal-clear water, having been described as ‘the Maldives of Europe’ by several reviewers.
Luckily, it’s easy to get to, as Brits can fly to Chania Airport in Crete, one and a half hour’s drive from the beach – from just £44 with Ryanair.
Reviews praise the beach as ‘one of the most beautiful natural paradises in the world’ and ‘the icing on the cake called Crete’.
3. Balos Lagoon, Crete, Greece
Beautiful nature is on display at Balos Lagoon, Crete, Greece
Next up is Balos Lagoon, also in Crete, Greece – a veritable beach hotspot.
Balos Lagoon has warm, calm waters which are perfect for families – as well as picture-perfect white and pink sand.
Described as ‘magical’ and ‘a rather unique site’ by visitors, it’s well worth a visit.
It’s also easily reached from Chania Airport, again meaning you could fly there from the UK from as little as £44.
4. Eagle Beach, Aruba
Eagle Beach, Aruba, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world
In fourth place is Eagle Beach, situated in Aruba, an island country located in the Southern Caribbean Sea.
It’s most recognisable by its Divi-Divi trees, a wind-bent tree that is often used as a symbol of Aruba.
The spot is popular for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling and water sports such as paddleboarding.
5. Praia da Falésia, Olhos de Agua, Portugal
Praia da Falésia near Albufeira is one of the longest beaches in the Algarve
Praia da Falésia, in Olhos de Agua, Portugal rounds out the top five in the ranking.
Stretching for more than six kilometres, it boasts red cliffs and golden sands – and a 4.6-star rating.
It’s especially good for hikers and walkers, with magnificent views.
One happy visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: ‘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
Turquoise clear waters are on offer at this holiday paradise, Banana Beach in Phuket
Number six is Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand, which has a 4.9-star rating on Tripadvisor.
Reviews of this popular beach are extremely positive, with comments saying it is not too crowded and full of fun activities to try, such as parasailing.
One visitor wrote: ‘One of my favourite places in Thailand.’
7. La Jolla Cove, San Diego, California
La Jolla is a hilly seaside and affluent community within the city of San Diego, California
Next up is La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California – praised for its calm waters and marine life.
Sea lions and seals are a dime a dozen here, drawing in many tourists eager to spot the creatures.
It’s also popular among surfers, as well as kayak or paddleboard fans.
8. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia, Italy
La Pelosa beach in Sardinia, Italy comes in at spot number eight
The Sardinian beach La Pelosa, hailed for being a family-friendly paradise, comes in at number eight in Tripadvisor’s list.
Waters remain at knee height far out, which will either be a huge plus or a reason to avoid, depending on your priorities.
One review read: ‘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
Manly Beach is next up on the list, a popular spot in Sydney, Australia
Number nine is Manly Beach in Sydney, Australia, beating the city’s arguably most famous spot, Bondi.
There’s plenty to do here, with many shops, cafes and walks to enjoy.
It’s also near the city’s central business district, making it easily accessible and vibrant.
10. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, Simon’s Town, South Africa
The Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town, Cape Town, South Africa rounds out the top 10
Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Beaches
1. Isla Pasion, Cozumel, Mexico
2. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
3. Balos Lagoon, Crete, Greece
4. Eagle Beach, Aruba
5. Praia da Falésia, Olhos de Agua, Portugal
6. Banana Beach, Phuket, Thailand
7. La Jolla Cove, San Diego, California
8. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia, Italy
9. Manly Beach, Sydney, Australia
10. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, Simon’s Town, South Africa
11. Falassarna Beach, Crete, Greece
12. Platja De Muro, Mallorca, Spain
13. Tobacco Bay Beach, St George, Bermuda
14. Paleokastritsa Beach, Corfu, Greece
15. Kite Beach, Dubai, UAE
16. Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Indonesia
17. Clearwater Beach, Florida
18. Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa, Italy
19. Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
20. Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, Spain
21. Poipu Beach Park, Koloa, Kauai, Hawaii
22. Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France
23. Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
24. Spiaggia La Cinta, Sardinia, Italy
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town, South Africa rounds out the top 10.
The main draw? The huge number of African penguins that call this spot home, drawing in enthusiastic tourists and animal lovers from all around the world.
The penguins can be viewed in their natural habitat via wooden walkways – and if you prefer to swim, you can head to a nearby spot for a dip.
Reviews of the beach are incredibly positive, with one saying: ‘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.’
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