From the Philippines to Greece, the World’s 50 Best Beaches selects the top beaches for their beauty and remoteness.
A beach vacation is usually relaxing in itself, but imagine if it was the best vacation in the world.
For travelers looking for summer travel inspiration, the latest ranking of the World’s 50 Best Beaches, released on April 28, highlights the top global beaches of 2026, featuring Thailand, Australia and the Maldives.
This list was determined by a field survey in which more than 1,000 travel experts selected their favorite beaches they’ve visited. These were then scrutinized by the World’s 50 Best Beaches team to determine the final ranking based on eight criteria including unique features, wildlife, unspoiled nature and crowding. Every year, the No. 1 beach is archived so that new beaches can be discovered.
Tine Horst, co-founder of the World’s 50 Best Beaches, said this year’s list showed a broader shift in what makes beaches desirable: a sense of seclusion. People are not only attracted to the most popular or iconic beaches, but also value secluded and quiet locations.
“People are looking for natural beauty, how well the environment is preserved, and whether they still find it enjoyable even as travel continues to increase globally,” Holst said. “There is increasing recognition of beaches within protected areas and places that actively manage crowds, and this is becoming a key element in making beaches stand out.”
According to the World’s 50 Best Beaches, the top 10 beaches are:
10. Donald Duck Beach, Thailand
Located within the protected Similan Islands National Park, Donald Duck Beach can only be visited when the park is open from November to May. This also means that visitor numbers remain lower than other Thai beaches, despite having the same beautiful sea and soft sand.
9. Koh Rong, Cambodia
With little development and access to the island by boat, Koh Rong has a quiet and laid-back atmosphere. This beach offers something for everyone, from offshore coral reefs to secluded coves and the shade of tropical greenery.
8. Balandra Beach, Mexico
Playa Balandra in La Paz, Baja California Sur, remains in its natural state thanks to regulations regarding development and visitor numbers. Beachgoers can walk along the seven separate beaches in the vast bay or stroll along the waterfront where the tide is relatively low.
7. Dhigurah, Maldives
Almost all beaches in the Maldives are beautiful, but Dhigurah Beach stands out with its sandbar surrounded by calm, crystal clear waters. Offshore coral reefs teeming with marine life also attract snorkelers.
6. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla
Anguilla’s Shoal Bay East isn’t exactly a secret, but at over two miles long, it still has a quiet feel to it. Like most Caribbean beaches, the white sand and calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
5. East Beach, Fiji
East Beach on Fiji’s Bomo Island is surrounded by lush vegetation and set away from development, giving it a pristine, secluded feel. The coastline is protected, making it easy to swim in Fiji’s warm tropical waters.
4. Madagascar, the nosy Iranja
Off the coast of Madagascar, two small islands appear on a sandbar when the tide goes out. These are known as Nosy Iranja Be and Nosy Iranja Kelly, where visitors can enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles.
3. Wharton Beach, Australia
This remote coastline in western Australia is in stark contrast to the country’s famous beaches such as Bondi Beach, but it’s just as beautiful. Soft white sand, crystal clear water and spectacular waves draw bathers to this vast beach.
2. Fteri Beach, Greece
Greek islands often have some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and Kefalonia’s white pebble Fteri Beach is no exception. To reach the secluded cove, you’ll need to take a boat or hike down a steep path.
1. Entalula Beach, Philippines
Palawan Island in the Philippines will have the world’s best beaches in 2026. Entalla Beach is notable for its white sand and turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. It’s secluded and only accessible by boat, so you’ll feel like you have it all to yourself when you’re there.
