A new global ranking has revealed the 50 best beaches in the world for 2025, with the number one destination located just a short flight from the UK.
Released ahead of the busy summer travel season, The World’s 50 Best Beaches annual list highlights shoreline destinations praised for their natural beauty, atmosphere, accessibility and environmental protection.
This year’s top spot was awarded to Cala Goloritze in Sardinia, Italy, a secluded beach overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea that judges described as one of the most visually dramatic coastal locations in Europe.
Italian Beach Takes Global Crown
Cala Goloritze impressed judges with its towering 143-metre limestone pinnacle, crystal-clear waters and carefully protected environment.
Located on Sardinia’s eastern coast, the beach is only accessible by foot or boat, helping preserve its untouched appearance and limit overcrowding. Visitor numbers are controlled through a restricted ticket system, adding to its appeal for travellers seeking a quieter coastal experience.
The ranking also praised the beach’s strong conservation efforts, which have helped maintain the area’s raw natural beauty despite growing global tourism interest.
Flights from the UK to Olbia in Sardinia take around two and a half hours, making the destination an accessible Mediterranean escape for European travellers this summer.
Asian Beaches Dominate Top Three
Second place went to Entalula Beach in Palawan, Philippines, recognised for its peaceful setting, white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs.
The beach remains relatively untouched because of its remote location and can only be reached by boat. Judges highlighted its calm atmosphere and exceptionally clear waters, which make it ideal for snorkelling and swimming.
Thailand claimed third place with Bang Bao Beach on the island of Koh Kood. The destination stood out for its shallow turquoise waters, lush jungle surroundings and low visitor numbers.
Unlike many heavily developed resort beaches, Bang Bao Beach also retains a working fishing village atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh seafood and local culture alongside its natural scenery.
Greece And Australia Earn Multiple Spots
Several countries secured multiple entries on the 2025 list, with Greece emerging as one of the strongest performers.
Fteri Beach ranked fourth overall, while Voutoumi Beach placed 16th and Porto Katsiki secured the 36th position.
Australia also featured prominently with Turquoise Bay at number 11, Wharton Beach at 21 and Nudey Beach at 37.
Italy managed a second appearance on the list as La Pelosa in Sardinia claimed the 50th spot.
North America Dominates Overall Rankings
Although Europe and Asia produced several of the highest-ranked beaches, the overall list was heavily dominated by destinations across North America and the Caribbean.
Countries including the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Costa Rica and the United States all secured places in the global ranking.
Among the standout entries were Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands and Siesta Beach in Florida.
Ireland Makes The List While UK Misses Out
No beaches from the UK appeared in the top 50 this year, though Ireland secured a place near the bottom of the ranking.
Keem Beach, located on Achill Island, placed 48th thanks to its striking natural scenery, clear blue waters and remote coastal setting.
The annual ranking is expected to influence summer travel demand as holidaymakers search for quieter and more scenic beach destinations away from traditional tourist hotspots.
The World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025
1. Cala Goloritze, Italy
2. Entalula Beach, Philippines
3. Bang Bao Beach, Thailand
4. Fteri Beach, Greece
5. PK 9 Beach, French Polynesia
6. Canto De La Playa, Dominican Republic
7. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
8. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar
9. Ofu Beach, American Samoa
10. Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
11. Turquoise Bay, Australia
12. Boulders Beach, South Africa
13. Pink Beach, Indonesia
14. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla
15. Detwah Lagoon, Yemen
16. Voutoumi Beach, Greece
17. One Foot Island, Cook Islands
18. Playa de Rodas, Spain
19. Playa Balandra, Mexico
20. Pontal do Atalaia, Brazil
21. Wharton Beach, Australia
22. Cayo de Agua, Venezuela
23. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
24. Cayo Zapatilla, Panama
25. Baia do Sancho, Brazil
26. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda
27. Pulau Palambak, Indonesia
28. Freedom Beach, Thailand
29. The Baths, British Virgin Islands
30. Anse Georgette, Seychelles
31. Ffryes Beach, Antigua and Barbuda
32. Grand Anse, Grenada
33. Le Morne Beach, Mauritius
34. Bahia de Las Aguilas, Dominican Republic
35. Meads Bay, Anguilla
36. Porto Katsiki, Greece
37. Nudey Beach, Australia
38. Bon Bon Beach, Philippines
39. Saadiyat Beach, United Arab Emirates
40. Goyambokka Beach, Sri Lanka
41. Playa Punta Uva, Costa Rica
42. Siesta Beach, Florida, USA
43. Paje Beach, Zanzibar
44. Klein Bonaire Beach, Bonaire
45. Cathedral Cove Beach, New Zealand
46. Santa Giulia, Corsica, France
47. Gardner Bay, Ecuador
48. Keem Beach, Ireland
49. Kuramathi Sand Bank, Maldives
50. La Pelosa, Italy
