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Travel guidance platform TripAdvisor unveiled its Traveler’s Choice Awards: Best Beaches of 2026.
The list includes Top Beaches in the World, Top Beaches in the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and more, along with a new One-of-a-Kind category. Selections were chosen from beaches scoring the highest ratings and most authentic reviews from travelers over the past year.
Isla Pasion in Mexico claims the world’s top spot, while California’s La Jolla Cove rises to number one in the United States, while Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, South Africa came first in the One-of-a-Kind category.
“For many travelers, the beach is the main event,” said Laurel Greatrix, chief communications officer at Tripadvisor in a statement. “Based on millions of trips, reviews, and opinions, these awards highlight the very best beaches in the world — making it easier to decide where to go and how to spend your time once you’re there.”
2026 Best of the Beaches Awards: Top 10 Beaches in the World
- Isla Pasion– Cozumel, Mexico- a private island oasis, crystal-clear waters, marine life encounters, protected coral reefs, sea turtle nesting sites and snorkeling.
- Elafonissi Beach – Crete, Greece- rare pink sand phenomenon, shallow lagoons, protected nature reserve.
- Balos Lagoon – Kissamos, Greece- turquoise lagoon waters, dramatic landscapes, Instagram-worthy vistas, former pirate hideout, protected Natura 2000 site.
- Eagle Beach – Eagle Beach, Aruba- pristine white sand, watersports paradise, sea turtle nesting ground, iconic Fofoti trees.
- Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal- dramatic red cliff formations with spectacular views
- Banana Beach – Ko He, Thailand- crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs with amazing snorkeling, premier diving.
- La Jolla Cove – California, USA-protected marine reserve, sea lion colonies, underwater park, kayaking adventures to sea caves.
- La Pelosa Beach – Sardinia, Italy- Caribbean-like waters, ancient watchtower views, 16th century Torre della Pelosa.
- Manly Beach – Sydney, Australia- historic surf culture, beachside promenade, and a scenic Sydney Harbour Ferry Ride.
- Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – Simon’s Town, South Africa- African penguin sanctuary, granite boulders.
Top 10 Beaches in the U.S.
- La Jolla Cove, California–marine sanctuary excellence
- Clearwater Beach, Florida –Gulf Coast perfection
- Poipu Beach Park, Hawaii– family-friendly paradise
- Waikiki Beach, Hawaii –iconic surf culture
- Lanikai Beach, Hawaii – powdery sand, offshore islands
- Siesta Beach, Florida– quartz sand phenomenon
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii– volcanic wonder
- St. Andrews State Park, Florida– pristine dune)
- Santa Monica State Beach, California – urban beach icon
- Honeymoon Island State Park, Florida– natural Florida beauty
Top 10 “One-of-a-Kind” Beaches
- Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, South Africa –wild penguins
- Isola Bella – Sicily, Italy – ancient Greek theater views
- Bamburgh Beach, United Kingdom (medieval castle backdrop)
- Sleeping Bear Dunes – Michigan, USA – 450-foot sand dunes
- Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses – Barreirinhas, Brazil – lagoons
- Anakena Beach – Easter Island, Chile– Moai statues
- Wai’anapanapa State Park – Hawaii, USA –black sand, lava tubes
- Hopewell Rocks, Canada – world’s highest tides
- Bahía Bioluminiscente, Puerto Rico– glowing waters
- Hot Water Beach – New Zealand – volcanic hot springs
This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.
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