A new global ranking of the world’s most breathtaking beaches has placed a hidden Greek gem among the very best on the planet. The latest list of the World’s 50 Best Beaches highlights extraordinary coastal locations known for crystal-clear waters, dramatic landscapes and unspoilt natural beauty.
At the very top of the list sits Entalula Beach in the Philippines. Located on Palawan Island, the beach can only be reached by boat, helping it remain relatively untouched. Visitors are drawn to its limestone cliffs and pristine turquoise waters.
However, the beach that came closest to claiming the top spot lies in Europe.
A Greek beach claims second place
The runner-up this year is Fteri Beach on Kefalonia, the largest of Greece’s Ionian islands. Hidden within a secluded cove, the beach is accessible only by boat or via a steep hike. According to the organisers of the ranking, the beach stands out because of its serenity and natural beauty. “The untouched beauty and tranquil environment of Fteri Beach make it a haven for those in search of peace and a deep connection with nature,” the team behind the ranking noted.
Other European beaches on the list
In total, 11 European beaches made the global top 50 this year, with destinations across Greece, Spain, Italy, France, Portugal and even Ireland represented. Among the most highly ranked was Cala Macarella on Menorca in Spain, which finished 12th overall. Its horseshoe-shaped cove keeps the waters calm throughout the year, making it particularly popular with swimmers. Italy also featured prominently with Cala Dei Gabbiani in Sardinia, ranked 18th. Its white pebble shorelines create exceptionally clear waters framed by striking limestone cliffs.
Further down the ranking is Kaputaş Beach on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, placed 29th overall. Nestled at the base of a canyon between Kaş and Kalkan, the beach is known for its vivid blue waters and dramatic scenery. Completing the top five European entries is Porto Katsiki on Lefkada, another iconic Greek destination famous for its towering cliffs and brilliant turquoise sea.
Europe’s best beaches in the global top 50
The full list of European beaches included in the ranking:
- Fteri Beach, Kefalonia, Greece (2nd)
- Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain (12th)
- Cala Dei Gabbiani, Sardinia, Italy (18th)
- Kaputaş Beach, Turquoise Coast, Turkey (29th)
- Porto Katsiki, Lefkada, Greece (34th)
- Santa Giulia, Corsica, France (35th)
- Playa Cofete, Fuerteventura, Spain (39th)
- Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal (43rd)
- Porto Timoni, Corfu, Greece (46th)
- La Pelosa, Sardinia, Italy (48th)
- Keem Beach, County Mayo, Ireland (50th)
How the ranking is decided
The World’s 50 Best Beaches list is compiled from nominations and votes by more than 1,000 travel professionals, including writers, travel agents and industry influencers. Each beach is evaluated based on factors such as the uniqueness of its landscape, the likelihood of wildlife encounters, the quality of the water for swimming and relaxation, and the overall chance of enjoying a perfect beach day. Judges also place strong emphasis on how unspoilt and uncrowded a location remains, rewarding destinations that maintain their natural character.
