The best beach in the world for 2026 has been named
The winning sands earned first place for their visually striking surroundings
Aliver
A beach in the Philippines has been named the best in the world for 2026, according to a new report.
Entalula Beach in Palawan was named the most spectacular stretch of sand in the annual World’s 50 Best Beaches list.
The awards are decided by a voting body of more than 1,000 travel professionals.
The beaches are evaluated based on certain criteria, including uniqueness, wildlife, how untouched it is, its natural soundtrack, whether the water is easy to enter and calm, crowding levels and the likelihood of a “perfect beach day”.
Entalula earned its place for the towering limestone cliffs that skirt its soft white sand, creating one of the most breathtaking shorelines in the world.
Compared to nearby beaches, the judges say it sees fewer visitors and that the water is clear and gentle, making it easy to swim.
The beach, however, can only be accessed by boat, but this means Entalula remains quieter and preserves its natural feel.
Second place in the world, and Europe’s best beach for 2026, went to Fteri Beach in Kefalonia, Greece.
The beach is found in a secluded cove on the island, and like Entalula, it is surrounded by cliffs and is primarily accessed by boat, although it can also be reached by hiking down a steep trail.
Comprising white pebbles and sand, the beach meets the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
Judges loved Fteri due to its untouched beauty and tranquil environment, something that can be rare in Greece.
Also on the list was Australia’s Wharton Beach, which impressed the judges for its remote location.
Nosy Iranja in Madagascar received fourth place for its unique sandbar that connects two islets at low tide, as well as its abundance of marine life, including nesting sea turtles.
In fifth place, East Beach on Vomo Island in Fiji claimed its spot for being an easy swimming location and for its peacefulness.
Rounding off the top 10 were Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, Dhigurah in the Maldives, Playa Baladra in Mexico, Koh Rong in Cambodia and Donald Duck Bay in Thailand.
Greece, Thailand and Australia have emerged as beach hotspots in 2026 with three beaches each on the list.
As was the case last year, no British beaches made the worldwide list. Ireland appeared in the 50th position with Keem Beach, loved for its natural beauty and blue waters.
To maintain an ever-evolving guide, The World’s 50 Best Beaches has created a “Best of the Best” hall of fame, where former top spot beaches are permanently retired from the annual voting pool.
Last year’s winner, Cala Goloritze in Sardinia, Italy, has been moved to the Best of the Best list.
"Being recognised by millions of travellers and global media as the definitive authority on beaches is a responsibility we take incredibly seriously," said Tine Holst, co-founder of the awards.
“To uphold that uncompromising standard, we've elevated our methodology for 2026. For the first time, our core team is personally visiting and evaluating hundreds of beaches year-round.
“By combining this new level of on-the-ground verification with the insights of our 1,000 industry experts, we take tremendous pride in sharing this list of the world’s most incredible beaches."
