The annual ranking of The World’s 50 Best Beaches has been released for 2025. The list, compiled by over 1,000 travel professionals, features a diverse selection of beaches from around the globe. The selection process takes into account various factors beyond aesthetics, including wildlife presence, unique characteristics, natural sounds, unspoiled landscapes, ease of water access, low crowd levels, calm conditions, and consistently beautiful settings.
Four European beaches have made it onto the 2025 list of The World’s 50 Best Beaches. Here’s everything you need to know about them before your next seaside holiday.
Named the number one best beach in the world for 2025, Cala Goloritze is located on the island of Sardinia. It is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, seclusion, and the iconic limestone pinnacle that rises above the turquoise waters. According to the Best Beaches panel, “Its raw beauty has a way of touching you emotionally the moment you lay eyes on it. Whether you're looking down from the viewpoint above or standing at the shore with your feet in the water, the scene is truly breathtaking.”
Fteri Beach, located on the island of Kefalonia in Greece, ranked fourth in the list. The judges' panel described the majestic white cliffs that frame the beach, curving around a stretch of striking white pebbles mixed with sand, which meet the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. “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,“ they said in a statement.
Situated on the northeast side of Antipaxos in Greece, Voutoumi ranked 16th on the list. Nestled in a bay that is sheltered by limestone cliffs and surrounded by cypress trees that reach the shore, Voutomi is among the most beautiful beaches in the Ionian Islands. The beach is renowned for its incredibly clear, turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming. “The surrounding hills offer scenic trails and viewpoints,“ said the panel. “The water here is shallow and warm, ideal for swimming and floating for hours under the sun. With its natural beauty and serene environment, Voutoumi is a clear favorite for a peaceful escape in the Ionian Sea.“
In 18th place is Playa de Rodas, a gently curved beach that stretches about 700 m long. It is located in the Cíes Islands, off the coast of Galicia, Spain. This stunning beach is backed by lush pine forests and sand dunes. As part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Iberian Peninsula.
According to the judges panel, “This stunning beach is often hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful, featuring soft white sand and clear, calm waters. Many refer to Playa de Rodas as a Caribbean-like paradise, but with the cool, refreshing waters of the Atlantic.“
Leading the rankings is Cala Goloritzé, situated on the Italian island of Sardinia. In second place is Entalula Beach in Palawan, Philippines, renowned for its remarkable seclusion and stunning limestone cliffs that provide a breathtaking backdrop for its pristine white sandy shores. Completing the top three is Bang Bao Beach on the Thai island of Koh Kood, which is bordered by lush jungles and features clear, shallow waters, along with a delightful fishing village.
The World's 50 Best Beaches is an organisation that publishes an annual list of the top 50 beaches worldwide, curated by travel experts. These experts assess beaches based on various factors, including their unique characteristics, wildlife, pristine nature, ease of water access, and scenic beauty. The annual beach ranking emphasises both the beauty and the preservation of natural environments. “Amidst the vast array of stunning shorelines, we realised that discovering and experiencing truly exceptional beaches is far more difficult than it seems,” says the organisation.
