50 Best Beaches in the World

From the tropical lagoons of the South Pacific to the volcanic shores of Iceland, the world’s best beaches come in all shapes and sizes. Some are world-famous landmarks visited by millions every year, while others are hidden gems, just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re searching for the ultimate relaxation experience, a thrilling wildlife encounter or somewhere to photograph from underwater, these beaches deliver on almost every front. Here are the best beaches in the world in 2026.

Sun, Sea and Sand: Where Are The Best Beaches in the World in 2026?

50. Manly Beach – Australia

Just a short ferry ride from Sydney’s iconic harbour, Manly Beach is the perfect combination of city convenience and Australia’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. The golden sands of the beach back onto a lively promenade full of restaurants, cafes and bars, while the sea attracts swimmers and surfers year-round. Manly Beach is a quieter alternative to its bigger siblings, Bondi and Bronte Beach, and is perfect for families or travellers wanting a more authentic Sydney beach experience.

49. Seixal Beach – Madeira, Portugal

Found on the Portuguese island of Madeira, Seixal Beach provides one of Europe’s most striking coastal landscapes. The black volcanic sand contrasts beautifully with the crystal clear waters of the North Atlantic, while the mountainous backdrop shelters beachgoers from strong winds. Despite its growing popularity, Seixal Beach still feels wonderfully peaceful compared to many of Portugal’s mainland beaches.

48. Karon Beach – Phuket, Thailand

Stretching for over three kilometres along Phuket’s west coast, Karon Beach offers plenty of space to relax and unwind without feeling overcrowded. The spectacular coastal sunsets combined with the year-round warm waters of the Andaman Sea easily make Karon Beach one of Thailand’s most inviting beaches. While most beachgoers associate Phuket with neighbouring Patong Beach, if you don’t want the 24/7 party atmosphere, Karon Beach is a much quieter and more relaxed beach, ideal for families.

47. La Pelosa Beach – Sardinia, Italy

With shallow turquoise waters resembling a Caribbean lagoon, La Pelosa Beach is one of Italy’s most inviting coastal treasures. Found on the northwest tip of Sardinia, the calm conditions make water-based activities like paddleboarding and swimming a wonderful way to while away an afternoon under the Italian sunshine. During the summer months, tourist numbers are carefully managed so as not to disturb the pristine natural environment too much.

46. Sugar Beach – St Lucia

Sugar Beach boasts one of the most spectacular beach locations in the Caribbean. The dazzling white sands of the beach sit between two UNESCO-listed volcanic peaks, while the surrounding warm and clear waters are simply packed with colourful tropical fish, ideal for snorkelling and even scuba diving. St Lucia is a popular destination for honeymooners, and with a huge number of luxury resorts close to Sugar Beach, which blend perfectly into the surrounding lush rainforest, it’s easy to see why it’s such an attractive option.

45. Playa Akumal – Mexico

In the ancient Mayan language, Akumal means ‘Place of the Turtles’, and it’s easy to see why Playa Akumal is named as it is. Found on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, it’s one of the best places in the world to see sea turtles, which feed on the rich marine grasses just offshore. On land, the soft white sands and relaxed atmosphere help Playa Akumal feel a world away from the nearby bustling resorts, giving it a secluded, relaxed and truly unforgettable feel.

44. Shoal Bay East – Anguilla

On the tiny island of Anguilla in the Caribbean Sea, Shoal Bay East is frequently cited among the region’s – and the world’s – best beaches. Brilliant white sands stretch out for over 3 km and gently merge into turquoise waters. Even during the peak season, because of the length of the beach, it never feels overcrowded. Offshore tropical reefs attract snorkellers, divers, underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts, while beachfront restaurants serving freshly caught seafood are the perfect places to enjoy dinner as the sun goes down.

43. La Jolla Cove – California, USA

Southern California – or SoCal – is known for some of the best weather in the United States, but La Jolla Cove, found just north of San Diego, is also known for being one of the best beaches in the country. Sealions bask on the rocks under the Golden State’s blazing sunshine, while sea kayakers frequently explore nearby sea caves. Boutique restaurants, hotels and shops line the shore, offering a quaint Californian beach escape, far from the packed crowds along the beaches of LA, 200 km further north. 

42. Fteri Beach – Kefalonia, Greece

Despite being one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Fteri Beach is also one of the most difficult to access, requiring either a scenic hike or a boat trip. However, visitors are rewarded with one of the most tranquil and stunning beaches in the country. The secluded cove is dotted with white pebbles, polished smooth by the glistening waters of the Ionian Sea, and while there are limited facilities near the beach, the best part is that it’s still a hidden gem – make sure you visit before the word gets out!

41. Long Beach – Koh Rong, Cambodia

Stretching for over 7km along Koh Rong’s western coastline, the aptly named Long Beach straddles a sea which transforms from a light turquoise to a deep blue throughout the day. Because of its western location on the island, the beach is home to some of the finest sunsets in Cambodia, splashing the sky with hues of purple, pink and yellow. While Koh Rong is quickly becoming a popular island-hopping destination, Long Beach is still a fairly unknown spot on the island for a beach visit.

40. Bávaro Beach – Dominican Republic

Found on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic in Punta Cana, Bávaro Beach is one of Hispaniola’s finest. Swaying palms sit on top of the sugar-white sands, creating a classic Caribbean scene, straight off a postcard. Offshore coral reefs protect the beach from large Atlantic waves, creating idyllic conditions for swimming and snorkelling. Whether you want to relax in one of the beachside luxury resorts or enjoy a speedboat trip over the water, there’s something for every type of traveller at Bávaro Beach.

39. Playa Blanca – Colombia

Found on Isla Barú just off the coast of Cartagena, Playa Blanca – literally meaning ‘white beach’ – is famed for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. While it is a popular beach for day-trippers, locals and tourists during the day, one of the best travel tips is to stay as the sun goes down, because not only are you rewarded with one of Colombia’s best sunsets, but the peaceful evenings are accompanied by the sounds and smells of beachside restaurants cooking freshly caught seafood, perfect for a romantic seaside dinner for two. 

38. Playa Varadero – Cuba

Thanks to its white sands, which seemingly stretch for miles, Playa Varadero has earned its reputation as Cuba’s best-known beach destination. The 20km stretch of sand across the Hicacos Peninsula is bordered by coral reefs in the sea, which make pleasant conditions for swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding. Despite its popularity, the beach never feels overcrowded due to its enormous size, making it a superb destination for a relaxing holiday.

37. Piha Beach – New Zealand

One of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal destinations, with its striking black volcanic sand and rugged rock formations, Piha Beach is a favourite among both locals and travellers. With the crashing waves of the Tasman Sea creating incredible surfing conditions for the experienced surfer, as well as fantastic opportunities for photography, Piha Beach showcases the incredible power of nature along the coastline on a daily basis.

36. Playa Kenepa Grandi – Curaçao

Found on one of the aptly named ‘ABC islands’ (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao), Playa Kenepa Grandi – also known as Grote Knip – is a lesser-known destination in the Caribbean, but that simply means it is one of the best places for a quiet, secluded beach getaway. This picture-perfect beach has ideal conditions for snorkelling and seeing the hundreds of tropical fish which live just metres offshore. For the more adventurous, the rocky cliffs which surround the beach are a favoured spot for cliff jumping into the gorgeous waters below.

35. Waikiki Beach – Hawaii, USA

Easily one of the most recognisable beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach sums up Hawaiian culture: golden sands, long days filled with sunshine, and music, vibes and good food just a stone’s throw from the ocean. The backdrop of Diamond Head makes this one of the USA’s most scenic beaches, while the gentle waves also make it a good place for beginner surfers to learn. Whether you want to experience a sunrise swim or a sunset stroll, Waikiki Beach delivers any time of day, any time of year.

34. Le Morne Beach – Mauritius

The tiny African island nation of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean is home to Le Morne Beach, one of the continent’s most scenic. beaches Overlooked by the dramatic Le Morne Brabant mountain, Le Morne Beach combines powdery-soft sand with crystal-clear lagoons. While swimmers enjoy the calm waters just offshore, surfers and kite surfers make the most of the prevailing winds of the Indian Ocean slightly further offshore for an adrenaline-fuelled experience under the warm sun.

33. Champagne Beach – Vanuatu

Champagne Beach gets its name from the volcanic gases under the seabed, which release tiny bubbles up to the water’s surface, giving it the image of sparkling like a glass of champagne. This beach truly is as magical as it sounds, with the turquoise waters of the South Pacific lapping up against the white sands on shore, making it a dreamy destination to sit back under the sun and relax with your favourite book, or to cool off in the sea after an afternoon of sunbathing.

32. Chumbe Island – Zanzibar, Tanzania

Chumbe Island is part of Zanzibar just off the coast of Tanzania, and it offers one of East Africa’s most pristine beach experiences. Part of a protected marine reserve, it is home to some of the most vibrant and healthy coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, which in turn create a wonderful habitat for the local marine life, making snorkelling or scuba diving a must when here. The beach itself remains largely undeveloped, and it is a haven for both nature lovers and eco-conscious travellers.

31. Whitesands Beach – Wales

Located on Wales’ spectacular Pembrokeshire coast, Whitesands Beach proves that you don’t need tropical weather to enjoy a stunning beach. Rolling surf foams onto the golden sands, while the rugged cliffs which provide the backdrop to the beach make Whitesands a favoured spot for families, hikers, and surfers alike. While the coastline looks its wildest during winter, on a clear summer’s day, the sea views can rival those of any beach in the world. 

30. Santa Monica Beach – Cape Verde

While most of the recent attention turned towards Cape Verde has been on its football team’s incredible debut at the FIFA World Cup, the West African island nation is also home to one of the world’s best beaches. Stretching along Boa Vista’s southwest coast, Santa Monica Beach is one of Cape Verde’s most pristine seaside escapes. With rolling waves and no company for miles on end, this is the best place to soak up the island’s natural, secluded beauty.

29. Reynisfjara Beach – Iceland

Another world-famous beach, Reynisfjara Beach is truly like no other. Jet-black volcanic sand rolls gently into the dark waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, while towering basalt columns stand strong against the crashing waves. Reynisfjara creates a dark, moody atmosphere that feels unlike any other beach on Earth and is easily not just one of Iceland’s but one of the world’s most unforgettable coastal attractions.

28. Palombaggia Beach – Corsica, France

Found on the French island of Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea, Palombaggia Beach’s clear waters and white sand are backed by distinctive red granite rocks, making it one of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean. The fragrant pine forests nearby help this beach feel secluded and give it a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for swimming or soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine. 

27. Horseshoe Bay – Fiji

A classic South Pacific beach which feels like it has been plucked out of a novel like Treasure Island or Robinson Crusoe, Horseshoe Bay’s crescent-shaped beach is one of Fiji’s best. Vibrant, colourful coral reefs under the turquoise waters make spotting marine life when snorkelling or swimming practically a guarantee, while its secluded location makes relaxation a definite guarantee.

26. Railay Beach – Krabi, Thailand

While many of Thailand’s beaches could have easily made this list, Railay Beach on the island of Krabi definitely deserves a spot. Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach feels like a secluded Thai paradise, with towering limestone cliffs emerging from the emerald waters. Whether you’re into rock climbing, sea kayaking or simply relaxing under the Southeast Asian sunshine, there’s something for every type of beach lover at Railay Beach.

25. Haukland Beach – Norway

A far cry from many of the tropical beaches on this list, Haukland Beach is found in the Lofoten Islands in northern Norway. Despite that, at first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking that this was, in fact, in the Caribbean, with the pristine white sands and vivid blue sea more closely resembling Nicaragua than Norway. Nearby hiking trails offer spectacular panoramic views over the beach, while the beach itself is one of the best places to see the Midnight Sun during the summer, or the Northern Lights during the winter.

24. Seven Mile Beach – Grand Cayman

It’s no secret that the Cayman Islands are a favoured destination for the ultra-rich, and with beaches like Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, it’s easy to see why. Soft coral sand and calm waters make it one of the Caribbean’s finest beaches, and due to its size (around five miles, unlike its name suggests), it never feels overcrowded, even during peak season. Whether you’re enjoying a fine dining experience in a beachside restaurant or relaxing under the shade of a coconut palm, there are few beaches which can rival the luxury feel of Seven Mile Beach.

23. Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island, India

Set within the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal, Radhnagar Beach on Havelock Island is known for being one of the best beaches in the Indian Subcontinent. With its untouched jungle surroundings, the dense tropical forest stops abruptly at the golden sands, while calm, warm waters offer some of the best swimming and snorkelling conditions in the Andaman Sea. Plus, if you’re there on an evening, Ranhanagar Beach is known for one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, which is just another reason to visit this spectacular beach.

22. Dhigura Beach – Maldives

This entire article could’ve easily been solely comprised of Maldivian beaches, which means that Dhigura Beach must be doing something special to make this list as the sole Maldivian entry. Stretching along one of the Maldives’ longest islands, this picture-perfect beach is made up of snow-white sands and crystal-clear waters, forming warm lagoons just offshore. Swim slightly further offshore, and you’re presented with one of the best opportunities anywhere on Earth to swim with two of the ocean’s gentle giants: whale sharks and manta rays.

21. Navagio Beach – Zakynthos, Greece

Better known as ‘Shipwreck Beach’, Navagio is one of Greece’s most photographed coastal locations. Only accessible by boat and set underneath bright white limestone cliffs, the powdery sands of the beach and the electric blue waters make boats look like they’re floating above the water rather than on it. The shipwreck – which ran aground in 1980 when caught allegedly smuggling contraband from Turkey to Italy after being chased by the Greek navy – only adds to the beach’s mystery and lore.

20. Boulders Beach – South Africa

One of the only beaches in the world where you can see penguins without having to travel to Antarctica, Boulders Beach is known for its year-round colony of endangered African penguins. The calm waters of the sheltered cove also make great conditions for swimming – and there’s no need to worry about South Africa’s infamous great white sharks here, as they’re found further away in False Bay.

19. Ksamil Beach – Albania

Known as the ‘Maldives of Europe’, Ksamil has seen a huge surge in popularity over the last couple of years, and with good reason. This tropical-looking beach on the Albanian Riviera is accessible in around four hours from the nation’s capital, Tirana, or, more popular for international visitors, via a short ferry ride from nearby Corfu, Greece. Turquoise waters lap up against soft white sands, while beach huts and bars give Ksamil a truly Caribbean feel.

18. Copacabana Beach – Brazil

Another of the world’s most easily recognisable beaches, Copacabana Beach is framed by Rio de Janeiro’s unforgettable skyline and is one of South America's most iconic beaches. Filled with samba music, beach volleyball, football, bustling cafes and bars, Copacabana Beach is truly a beach like no other. It’s also one of the few beaches that are as lively at night as during the day, creating a round-the-clock party atmosphere.

17. Eagle Beach – Aruba

Consistently ranked among the Caribbean’s best beaches, Eagle Beach in Aruba is known for its inviting year-round warm sea and powder-soft white sands. Aruba’s iconic divi-divi trees also call this beach home, shaped by the strong trade winds which blow ashore and have done for centuries. Peaceful, quaint and simply gorgeous, it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and be at one with nature.

16. Unawatuna Beach – Sri Lanka

The warm waters of the Indian Ocean surround Sri Lanka, and there are few better places on the island to visit than Unawatuna Beach. With swaying palm trees atop the golden sands creating a wonderful atmosphere on shore, the colourful coral reefs just offshore create calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling, protecting the beach from strong underwater currents. Beachside cafes and bars create a lively atmosphere, while vendors frequently sell fresh fruits along the beach for the perfect tropical seaside snack.

15. White Beach – Port Barton, Palawan, Philippines

Tucked away on Palawan's northwest coast, Port Barton beach offers a much more relaxed beach experience than many of the island nation's other busier destinations. White sands meet crystal clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, while swaying palms lining the beach add to the stunning tropical vibe. With its relaxed atmosphere, unspoiled surroundings, and excellent snorkelling opportunities, White Beach is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the quieter side of Palawan.

14. Keem Beach – Ireland

Tucked away on Achill Island just off Ireland’s wild Atlantic Coast, the rolling green hills which provide the stunning backdrop to Keem Beach are just one of many reasons to visit this gorgeous area. The horseshoe-shaped bay creates a secluded atmosphere, while calm waters make swimming easily accessible. The surrounding hiking trails provide scintillating panoramic views, making Keem Beach one of Ireland’s true hidden gems.

13. Tortuga Bay – Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Just a 45-minute walk from Puerto Ayora along a beautifully maintained trail, the beach is lined with dazzling white sand and native vegetation. The sheltered bay means the waters are ideal for swimmers, while the mangroves, which create a wild, natural feel to the beach, are also home to numerous bird and other marine species. You can rent a kayak to go deeper into the waters, and it's an excellent place to spot sea turtles, baby reef sharks, and plenty of tropical fish.

One of the best ways to experience Tortuga Bay is as part of a land-based itinerary with a local operator such as Uniquely Galapagos, whose community-focused tours encourage visitors to spend more time supporting local businesses and guides on Santa Cruz Island. 

12. Starfish Beach – Phu Quoc, Vietnam

As its name suggests, numerous starfish can be seen relaxing in the waters just off Starfish Beach on the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc. The crystal-clear waters make snorkelling and getting up close to the native starfish a wonderful experience, and the calm, quiet nature of the island feels a world away from the busier, tourist-heavy hotspots that Vietnam is typically associated with.

11. Luskentyre Beach – Scotland

Found on the Isle of Harris off the northwest coast of Scotland, Luskentyre Beach looks like it has been plucked right out of the Caribbean and placed on the Scottish coastline. The white sands and turquoise waters make it hard to believe that you’re closer to Norway than Cornwall, although the rugged mountain backdrop does create an iconic Highland look. On a hot summer’s day, it’s easy to forget that you’re off the coast of northwest Scotland.

10. Mirissa Beach – Sri Lanka

Mirissa Beach combines unforgettable wildlife experiences with authentic, laidback Sri Lankan beach vibes. The golden crescent of sand is perfect for relaxing, while the sheltered bay provides excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean just off the coast of Mirissa Beach are also some of the richest, and therefore one of the best places in the world to see the iconic blue whale.

9. Porthcurno Beach – England

Hidden beneath towering granite cliffs in Cornwall, Porthcurno Beach is easily one of England’s most beautiful. The entire Cornish coast is known for its rugged coastline and significantly better weather than the rest of the UK, and with the clear waters and bright sands of Porthcurno Beach, it’s easy to imagine that you’re in the tropics. The nearby Minack Theatre also adds to the overall aura surrounding Porthcurno Beach.

8. Cala Macarella – Menorca, Spain

Menorca is the quieter and smaller sibling of Mallorca and Ibiza, and it is also home to one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Accessible by boat or a scenic coastal hike, Cala Macarella soft sands and turquoise waters make swimming an absolute pleasure. The cove is sheltered by pine-straddled cliffs, helping to make the beach a suntrap with minimal wind, ideal for relaxing, swimming and sunbathing  in the afternoon.

7. Matira Beach – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Matira Beach shows exactly why Bora Bora is so famous. The powdery white sands gently slope into the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon, creating simply perfect swimming and snorkelling conditions throughout the day. While Bora Bora can be difficult to access, it is worth every minute of travel to relax on the beach and look up to the island’s volcanic peaks peeking out of the water, helping to complete this paradise-perfect image of the South Pacific.

6. Whitehaven Beach – Australia

Found on the Whitsunday Islands off the coast of Queensland, Whitehaven Beach is one of the most easily recongisable beaches in the world. Stretching over seven kilometres, the twisting patterns on the silica-white sands are among Australia’s most photographed natural wonders – and when a country has as many natural wonders a Australia does, for one of the country’s 11,761 beaches to be among the most photographed natural wonders shows just how special it is.

5. Ee Motu Beach – Cook Islands

Aitutaki’s Ee Motu Beach is another truly incredible South Pacific masterpiece. Overlooking one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons, complete with powdery-white sand and crystal-clear waters, you can expect nothing but complete tranquility here. Whether you’re looking for the hundreds of tropical fish that call this region home, or simply want to sit back and enjoy the views, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this idyllic paradise.

4. Sandy Lane Beach – Barbados

Luxury and natural beauty go hand-in-hand at Sandy Lane Beach, where the gorgeous sands and gentle waves seamlessly blend together as one along the uninterrupted stretch of Barbadian beach. Despite Sandy Lane’s reputation for luxury and celebrity second (or third, or fourth) homes, the beach is open to all members of the public, and is a perfect location for swimming, snorkelling and diving. 

3. Pink Beach – Indonesia

While many visitors to Indonesia might be attracted to the beaches of Bali or Gili T, one of the country’s best is also one of its most unique: Pink Beach, found on Komodo Island. Tiny fragments of red coral mix with the sand on the beach, creating a pink hue to the sand, and resulting in one of the most unique beaches on Earth. With a rich biodiversity surrounding the island, it’s a great spot for scuba diving or snorkelling. And while the feared Komodo dragon inhabits the island, these enormous lizards are rarely seen on the beach, making it safe to visit. 

2. Entalula Beach – Philippines

While the Philippines is a favoured destination for island-hoppers, Entalula Beach remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets. The beach is only accessible by boat. Palawan’s natural landscape complements the beach, with the huge limestone cliffs surrounding a pristine strip of white sand, providing natural shelter for beachgoers. Calm emerald waters are perfect for snorkelling, while the secretive nature of the beach makes every visit feel like you’ve just discovered your very own private island.

1. Anse Source d’Argent – Seychelles

Topping the list is Anse Source d’Argent, found on La Digue in the Seychelles. Known for its huge granite boulders – which also help to shelter the beach from strong winds – shallow lagoons, and brilliant white sands, Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. The extraordinary surroundings make every corner look like it should be on the front of a postcard, while the calm waters invite swimmers, snorkellers and divers on a year-round basis. Few beaches combine the seclusion, tranquillity and sheer beauty better than Anse Source d’Argent.