A beach vacation is usually relaxing in itself, but imagine if it's to one of the best in the world.
For travelers seeking inspiration for their summer trips, the latest ranking of The World's 50 Best Beaches, released on April 28, highlights the top global beaches for 2026, with mentions across Thailand, Australia and the Maldives.
The list was determined through on-the-ground research, with over 1,000 travel professionals nominating their favorite beaches they've visited. These were then vetted by the World's 50 Best Beaches team, who based the final ranking on eight criteria, such as unique characteristics, wildlife, untouched nature and crowds. Each year, the no. 1 beach is retired to an archive for new beaches to be discovered.
He found calm where you’d least expect it: deep underwater
Tine Holst, co-founder of The World's 50 Best Beaches, said this year's list shows a broader shift in what makes a beach desirable: a sense of seclusion. People aren't just drawn to the most popular or iconic beaches, but also value quieter, off-the-beaten-path places.
