1. Elafonissi Beach
Location:
Crete, Greece
Crowning as the top beach globally, Elafonisi stands out not only because of its inviting, clear waters or the stunning hiking paths and sand dunes surrounding it. The true highlight of this Crete destination is its extensive one-mile stretch.
pink sand beach,
which makes it an even more exceptional stretch of paradise.
What to do:
Clearly, sunbathing and swimming stand out as popular activities. However, make sure not to skip a nature walk or hike. Encircled by Elafonisi are 110 distinct plant varieties, tiny coves, remarkable seashells, and stunning rock structures worth exploring.
Pro tip:
To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the
shoulder season
months of May and September, when you’ll still get warm, sunny weather but with significantly fewer visitors than in the high season of June, July and August.
Where to stay:
Not only is
Elafonisi Resort by the Kalomirakis Family
nestled within a picturesque olive orchard, just a short five-minute stroll from the shore, these studio apartments feature kitchenettes and have rates starting at an economical $69 per night, offering one of the most budget-friendly options for lodging in this idyllic location.
2. Banana Beach
Location:
Koh Hey Island, located in Phuket, Thailand
While Thailand is renowned for its stunning tropical beaches, Banana Beach on Koh Hey Island stands out remarkably. Accessible via a boat ride during a day trip from Phuket, the vivid emerald-green jungle surrounding this beach enhances the azure hue of the water. However, the pristine clarity of these waters alone would be enough to impress visitors. As an added bonus, you might find yourself living out some of your
White Lotus
Dreams of Season Three filming locations, one of my aspirations.
favorite 2025 travel trends
.
What to do:
The moniker originates from the popular banana boat rides offered here, making it a must-try addition to your activity checklist. Additionally, this shore provides excellent opportunities for swimming or partaking in activities like parasailing, snorkeling, or sea kayaking.
Where to stay:
There are no accommodations available on Koh Hey Island, so you will have to stay in Phuket and travel via a brief boat trip to get to Banana Beach. The nearest beach choices include one highly recommended by TripAdvisor reviewers.
Senior Panwa Phuket Luxury Pool Villa Hotel
Because it sits at the southernmost point of the Phuket peninsula, this place offers proximity to Banana Beach. Additionally, it features multi-bedroom suites, an infinity pool, and a dining area.
3. Eagle Beach
Location:
Oranjestad, Aruba
Eagle Beach is renowned for its consistently warm temperatures averaging about 82 degrees throughout the year, clear blue skies, and pristine sands with excellent waves—these attributes collectively secure Eagle Beach the third position among top locations. Additionally, this beautiful stretch of coastline is celebrated for its distinctive divi-divi trees. These trees feature contorted trunks that lean at angles, forming an arching foliage cover ideal for providing shade along the shore.
What to do:
There are numerous water activities you can attempt here, such as kayaking, stand-up paddling, snorkeling, and windsurfing.
Where to stay:
Featuring only 72 rooms and suites, all with views of either the ocean or vibrant gardens,
Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa
It ranks as one of the most secluded all-inclusive resorts in Aruba. Right beyond your door, you’ll find a peaceful section of Eagle Beach, and the property provides an optional full-package deal that encompasses all meals along with an unrestricted bar service.
4. Siesta Beach
Location:
Siesta Key, Florida
Siesta Beach claimed the top spot among American beaches, being the sole U.S. location within the top ten—a fact that underscores its remarkable nature. Situated on a barrier island along southwestern Florida’s coast on the Gulf side, this extensive stretch of sand stands out as particularly exceptional.
Florida beaches
That locals prefer to keep private. Featuring silky, white sand as fine as talcum powder, it’s a beloved spot for family vacations. The sand isn’t like typical varieties; it consists of 99% pure quartz, originating from the Appalachian Mountains and remains refreshingly cool at all times.
A section of a county park features a beach that provides ample space for constructing sandcastles or relaxing comfortably.
a good beach read
Without colliding with your neighbor. Stay alert for dolphins frolicking near the shoreline.
What to do:
Although the daylight hours are charming, make sure to explore the shore once the sun sets as well. You could reserve a sunset cruise led by a nearby captain or stop by on a Sunday when the Siesta Key Drum Circle begins its session an hour prior to nightfall.
Where to stay:
The
Siesta Key Palms Resort
offers all you desire for a Florida beach getaway: lush tropical gardens, separate swimming areas for kids and adults, tiki torches, campfires, and relaxing hammocks—everything just a short half-mile stroll from the shore.
5. Praia da Falesia
Location:
Olhos de Agua, Portugal
“Amazing” is the term repeatedly used by TripAdvisor reviewers to depict the ochre cliffs cascading down to the sandy shores in the Algarve’s most scenic coastal zone—one of the top beaches globally. Visitors often rent lounge chairs for a leisurely day soaking up the sun on the sand prior to taking a dip in the tranquil and tepid turquoise sea.
What to do:
Hiking lovers
One can stroll alongside the coastline to discover the charming grottos and tangerine-colored escarpments, shaped into lofty pillars over eons by the persistent action of the winds and waves.
Where to stay:
The
3HB Clube Humbria
It ranks among the top all-inclusive resorts in Portugal. The resort features spacious apartments equipped with kitchen facilities, making it particularly favored by family guests. Additional attractions include a small water park, dedicated kids and teens clubs, and an on-site play area. Moreover, just across the road lie extensive sandy beaches, complemented by two sizable swimming pools.
6. Varadero Beach
Location:
Varadero, Cuba
Considered the premier beach in Cuba and among the finest globally, this location is renowned not only for its clear waters and expansive sands but also for the excellent selection of hotels and dining options close by. Additional perk: There’s an abundance of shaded areas available.
palapas
(banana leaf umbrellas) to unwind beneath while sipping a rum-infused drink.
What to do:
Gentle white sands and some of the
clearest water on Earth
transform this into an ideal spot for swimming and drifting in the peaceful, tepid waves.
Where to stay:
Iberostar Selection Varadero
Situated directly on Varadero Beach, this place provides five dining venues and lounges, along with a Cuban cigar bar and evening shows that include performances by a Cuban band. Additionally, there’s a large aquatic area perfect for enjoying more sunshine-filled activities.
7. Bavaro Beach
Location:
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The beaches here will make all your warm-weather wishes come true with their calm turquoise waters, soft sandy shores, and extensive coastlines stretching for miles. Dotting the side of the beach are rows reminiscent of sea stars.
all-inclusive resorts
, with some specifically designed for families and others tailored exclusively for adults and couples. The positive aspect of having numerous accommodations is that this fosters competition among them regarding facilities and costs. However, this also makes selecting one out of such a vast array of choices more challenging. Additional benefit: Punta Cana boasts one of the largest airports in the Caribbean, making it easier to locate inexpensive flights.
Don’t miss:
Feeling adventurous? My son and I tried parasailing on Bavaro Beach and had a great time floating above the turquoise water and getting a birds-eye view of the beach.
Where to stay:
The
Grand Palladium Bavaro Suites
offers luxurious swim-up suites, 30 restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, a kids club, a teen lounge, pools and a Real Madrid soccer clinic just for kids, plus access to Blue Flag–rated Bavaro Beach.
8. Playa de Muro Beach
Location:
Mallorca, Spain
This approximately 4-mile-long beach boasts tranquil, shallow waters, making it an ideal location for family outings. It features a lengthy pier extending into the ocean and is surrounded by cafes, bars, and playgrounds. Visitors can rent sun loungers, parasols, and individual lockers, as well as enjoy complimentary shower facilities. According to TripAdvisor, this beach ranks among the safest globally due to numerous lifeguards and efficient emergency services.
What to do:
The calm waters in this area are favored for activities like parasailing and jet skiing.
Where to stay:
Grupotel Parc Natural & Spa
The hotel boasts an excellent position on Playa de Muro, just steps away from the verdant expanses of S’Albufera Natural Park, featuring shady walking trails. Reviewers on TripAdvisor commend the property’s spacious, well-maintained pool area as well as its contemporary, appealing, and exceptionally tidy accommodations.
9. Kelingking Beach
Location:
Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia
Head south,
far
In the Southern Hemisphere, summertime is in full bloom when North America experiences its cold winter season. If you’re dreaming of balmy winds and swaying palms,
warm turquoise waters
If endless sunshine is on your wish list, then the tropical haven of Bali ought to lead your itinerary. The beach at Kelingking is enclosed by steep cliffs on three sides, offering a sight that will linger in your memory for years. Still, keep in mind that reaching the shore requires descending—and later ascending—a challenging path, so perhaps arrive prepared with sturdy footwear or simply ready to capture the stunning vistas through your lens.
What to do:
This location is ideal for hikers, offering them some of the most breathtaking vistas in Bali as their reward.
Where to stay:
The impressive vistas keep going at
Adiwana Warnakali
, situated 65 feet above the sandy shores of Nusa Penida. It features a well-liked diving center offering scuba lessons as well as underwater expeditions. Alternatively, you might prefer simply lounging in the sea or the swimming pool prior to returning to your expansive room with breathtaking views.
10. Myrtos Beach
Location:
Kefalonia Island, Greece
Imagine the most vivid shade of blue you’ve ever laid eyes on, then amplify it significantly, and you’ll begin to grasp just how spectacular Myrtos Beach managed to clinch the final position on this worldwide top ten ranking. The beach boasts fine white sands and turquoise waters so transparent they seem almost unreal; towering cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop ideal for picture-perfect moments. Still, keep in mind to pack some water footwear as well, because navigating the rocky seabed with bare feet could prove challenging during your dip.
What to do:
It’s an excellent spot for lounging and soaking up the sunshine at this beach. They also offer rentals of both chairs and umbrellas right here.
Where to stay:
Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa
It’s a fairly recent addition to the picturesque landscape of Kefalonia, offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas. Each villa comes equipped with its own private saltwater pool or hot tub, complete with kitchens, outdoor dining areas, and terraces. For those who wish to enjoy swimming without navigating the rocky sea floor, these spacious saltwater pools serve as an excellent option. Additionally, the property features both a restaurant and a spa for guests’ convenience.
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Source:
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Tripadvisor
Best of the Best Beaches Travelers’ Choice Awards
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