ByWALLA! TOURISM

Summer may still be far away but things are already heating up – and this is the time for the ranking of the best beaches in the world for 2026. The Tripadvisor website presents the beaches that received the highest ratings from site users over the past year.

Among the beaches on the list you can find those suitable for an intimate and relaxed vacation, but also those that suit anyone looking for a lively and colorful experience. The final calculation in the survey included the users’ numerical ratings and the reviews they wrote about the beaches. From the dreamlike isolated island in Mexico to the penguin colony in South Africa – these are the top ten.

1. Isla Pasion
In first place is Isla Pasion, “The Island of Passion”, in Cozumel, Mexico. The relatively small and isolated island is located off the coast of Cozumel and can be reached by a boat ride of about ten minutes. It is considered an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed vacation, and offers hammocks on the beach, bars, and an open buffet throughout the day. The beach receives a rating of 4.6 stars and especially enthusiastic reviews from users.

Isla Pasion‬, Mexico
Isla Pasion‬, Mexico (credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)

2. Elafonissi Beach

In second place is Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, famous for its pink sand and clear waters. Many visitors even described it as “The Maldives of Europe”. Users praised the place as one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world and as the highlight of Crete.

3. Balos Lagoon
Third place also remains in Crete: Balos Lagoon, considered one of the most sought-after beach sites on the island. The warm and calm waters are especially suitable for families, and the white and pink sand creates a perfect look for photos. Visitors defined the site as magical and unique.

Eagle Beach, Aruba
Eagle Beach, Aruba (credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)

5. Praia da Falésia

Closing the top five is Praia da Falésia in Olhos de Água, Portugal. The beach, which stretches over more than six kilometers, is characterized by red cliffs and golden sand and receives a rating of 4.6 stars. It is considered especially suitable for walking enthusiasts thanks to its impressive scenery. One visitor wrote that this is a unique beach that must be visited and noted that it is one of their favorite places in the area.


7. La Jolla Cove
In seventh place is La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California, known for its calm waters and rich marine life. Sea lions and seals are common in the area and attract many visitors, alongside surfers and fans of kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

8. Spiaggia La Pelosa
In eighth place is Spiaggia La Pelosa in Sardinia, Italy, which is considered a paradise for families. The water remains shallow for a long distance, allowing families with small children to stay at the beach safely. One review noted that this is a corner of paradise, but emphasized that an entrance ticket must be booked well in advance in order to access the beach.

Spiaggia La Pelosa in Sardinia, Italy

9. Manly Beach
In ninth place is Manly Beach in Sydney, Australia, which ranked ahead of the famous Bondi Beach. The beach offers plenty of shops, cafés, and walking trails, and is located near the city’s business center.

10. Boulders Beach
Closing the top ten is the penguin colony at Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town, South Africa. The main attraction is a large colony of African penguins that live at the site and attract tourists and nature lovers from around the world. They can be observed in their natural environment via elevated wooden walkways, and those interested in swimming can do so at a nearby beach. One visitor wrote that the drive from Cape Town is definitely worth the experience, especially for those used to seeing penguins only in zoos or nature programs.