For travelers seeking pristine sands, breathtaking scenery, and crystal-clear waters, Tripadvisor has released its annual list of the world’s best beaches for 2025. This year’s selection spans six continents and 50 countries, celebrating diverse coastal destinations that offer unique experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of pink sands in Greece, snorkeling in Thailand, or lounging on powdery soft beaches in Florida, these globally recognized beaches provide something for every traveler.
Topping the list for 2025 is Elafonissi Beach, located on the Greek island of Crete. This stunning beach is known for its pink sand, caused by crushed coral and shell fragments, and its warm, shallow waters that make it perfect for wading and relaxing. Visitors looking to avoid the peak summer crowds should consider visiting in May or September for a more peaceful experience.
Beyond the beach itself, Crete offers a rich cultural experience as the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization. Visitors can explore historic sites, such as the Palace of Knossos, alongside enjoying the island’s spectacular coastlines.
Located on the popular island of Phuket, Banana Beach is an excellent choice for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you love boating, parasailing, diving, or snorkeling, this beach offers plenty of adventure. Its soft white sands and turquoise waters provide a picturesque setting for relaxation.
For those seeking a Caribbean escape, Eagle Beach in Aruba boasts soft sands, clear blue waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. This beach is also famous for its Fofoti trees, uniquely shaped by the island’s trade winds, making for stunning photographs.
Recognized as the best beach in the United States, Siesta Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast is known for its powdery white sand, made almost entirely of quartz. This makes it cool underfoot, even on the hottest days. Spring and fall are the best times to visit for smaller crowds and comfortable temperatures.
For those who appreciate dramatic landscapes, Praia da Falésia in Portugal’s Algarve region features towering orange-red cliffs that contrast beautifully with the golden sand and blue waters. It’s a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.
Playa Varadero, Cuba – A Caribbean paradise with long stretches of soft sand and clear waters.
Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – A resort-friendly beach with plenty of activities.
Playa de Muro Beach, Mallorca, Spain – A great choice for families, with calm, shallow waters.
Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Indonesia – Known for its dramatic cliffs and incredible views.
Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia Island, Greece – A breathtaking beach with striking blue waters.
Aside from Siesta Beach, several other U.S. beaches made it into the top 10:
Poipu Beach Park, Kauai, Hawaii (#2) – A great snorkeling spot.
Ka’anapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii (#3) – Popular for its soft sands and sunset views.
La Jolla Cove, San Diego, California (#4) – A top choice for marine life spotting.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii (#5) – Famous for its surf-friendly waves.
Clearwater Beach, Florida (#6) – A family-friendly destination with a lively atmosphere.
Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia (#7) – Known for its unique driftwood formations.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii (#8) – A volcanic beach with striking black sand.
Bahia Honda State Park, Florida (#9) – A scenic and less crowded option in the Florida Keys.
Ho’okipa Beach Park, Maui, Hawaii (#10) – A top location for windsurfing.
Whether you prefer sunbathing on pink sands in Greece, snorkeling in the Caribbean, or exploring the rugged coastlines of Portugal, these top-ranked beaches offer unforgettable experiences. As you plan your travels for 2025, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for the best weather and fewer crowds.
