The World's Best Beaches of 2025 – Tripadvisor's Top Picks

Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and breathtaking coastal scenery? Tripadvisor has unveiled its much-anticipated World’s Best Beaches for 2025, offering travelers the ultimate guide to planning their next sun-soaked getaway.

With over 100 stunning beaches spanning six continents and 50 countries, this list showcases the most picturesque and traveler-approved coastal destinations. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or Instagram-worthy landscapes, these beaches should be on your 2025 bucket list.

Top Beach Destination for 2025: Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

Crowned the No. 1 beach in the world, Elafonissi Beach on Crete’s southwest coast is a dream-like paradise featuring pink sand and turquoise waters. The best times to visit are May and September, when the crowds are smaller but the weather remains perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Crete itself is a top-tier destination known for its Minoan ruins, rugged landscapes, and mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine. Travelers can combine beach relaxation with cultural exploration, making it a well-rounded vacation spot.

2025’s Top 10 Beaches in the World

1. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

Known for its unique pink sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Elafonissi Beach offers a breathtaking coastal experience. It is best visited in May or September, allowing travelers to enjoy the serene atmosphere before or after the peak summer crowds. The shallow waters make it ideal for families, while nature lovers can explore the surrounding protected lagoon, home to rare plants and wildlife.

Why visit? Famous for its pink-hued sand and shallow, warm waters, Elafonissi Beach offers a unique natural setting. The surrounding lagoon and protected area make it a great spot for nature lovers.

Best time to visit: May to September (May and September are ideal for avoiding peak crowds).

Nearby attractions: Visit Chania’s Old Town, explore the Samaria Gorge for a hiking adventure, or take a boat trip to Balos Lagoon, another stunning beach in Crete.

2. Banana Beach, Phuket, Thailand

A secluded paradise away from Phuket’s busier tourist spots, Banana Beach offers powdery white sand and lush green surroundings. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, while adventure seekers can enjoy snorkeling, parasailing, and speedboat tours to nearby islands. The beach remains relatively undiscovered, providing a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.

Why visit? A hidden gem in Phuket, Banana Beach is known for its powdery white sand, lush greenery, and thriving marine life. It’s perfect for snorkeling, parasailing, and boat excursions to nearby islands.

Best time to visit: November to April (dry season, best for water activities).

Nearby attractions: Visit the bustling Patong Beach for nightlife, take a boat tour to the Phi Phi Islands, or explore the Big Buddha temple overlooking Phuket.

India Beach Tours & Itineraries:

3. Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba

Eagle Beach is known for its soft white sand and iconic Divi Divi trees, which lean naturally due to the island’s trade winds. This beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with calm, shallow waters making it a great choice for families. Eagle Beach is also a nesting ground for sea turtles, offering visitors a chance to witness hatchlings making their way to the sea between March and September.

Why visit? Eagle Beach is famous for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and iconic Divi Divi trees. It’s a top destination for sunbathing, swimming, and turtle nesting experiences.
Best time to visit: April to August (fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices).
Nearby attractions: Explore Arikok National Park for caves and desert landscapes, visit Palm Beach for water sports, or take a day trip to the secluded Baby Beach.

4. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida, USA

Famous for having some of the softest sand in the world, Siesta Beach’s fine quartz sand stays cool even on the hottest days. The gentle Gulf waters make it an excellent destination for swimmers and paddleboarders. The beach is known for its vibrant sunsets, and nearby Siesta Village offers charming cafes, shops, and live music venues, making it a well-rounded beach destination.

Why visit? Featuring some of the softest quartz sand in the world, Siesta Beach is perfect for relaxation. The calm Gulf waters make it great for swimming and paddleboarding.
Best time to visit: March to May (pleasant weather and fewer tourists).
Nearby attractions: Stroll through Siesta Key Village for dining and shopping, take a sunset cruise from Sarasota Bay, or visit Myakka River State Park for wildlife spotting.

5. Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal

This beach is renowned for its striking red cliffs that contrast beautifully with the golden sand and deep blue waters. It stretches for over six kilometers, offering plenty of space for travelers to find a quiet spot. Ideal for long scenic walks, Praia da Falésia also offers excellent conditions for water sports like paddleboarding and surfing. The nearby Algarve region is home to charming villages and delicious seafood restaurants.

Why visit? This stunning beach is known for its dramatic red cliffs, golden sand, and clear waters. It’s perfect for scenic walks and water sports.
Best time to visit: May to October (September is ideal for fewer crowds and warm weather).
Nearby attractions: Visit the charming town of Albufeira, explore the Benagil Caves by boat, or take a day trip to Lagos for its stunning rock formations and beaches.

6. Playa Varadero, Varadero, Cuba

One of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean, Playa Varadero combines natural beauty with luxury resorts and a rich Cuban cultural experience. The beach is ideal for snorkeling and diving, with offshore coral reefs teeming with marine life. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Varadero Ecological Reserve and historic mansions turned into museums.

Why visit? Playa Varadero offers a perfect mix of luxury and authentic Cuban culture. The clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, while the resorts provide world-class relaxation.
Best time to visit: November to April (dry season, best beach weather).
Nearby attractions: Discover the historic Mansión Xanadú, take a catamaran trip to Cayo Blanco, or explore Havana for its rich history and lively music scene.

7. Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

This beach is a top pick for travelers seeking a classic Caribbean beach experience with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Bavaro Beach is lined with all-inclusive resorts, beach clubs, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. The area is popular for catamaran cruises, scuba diving excursions, and jet skiing.

Why visit? A postcard-perfect Caribbean beach, Bavaro Beach boasts soft sand, clear waters, and vibrant beach clubs. It’s perfect for swimming, scuba diving, and catamaran cruises.
Best time to visit: December to April (ideal beach conditions with less rain).
Nearby attractions: Take a trip to Saona Island for unspoiled beaches, explore the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, or visit Hoyo Azul, a natural cenote with crystal-clear water.

8. Playa de Muro Beach, Mallorca, Spain

This long, sandy beach is well-known for its shallow, warm waters, making it a great option for families with young children. The beachfront is lined with cafes, restaurants, and resorts offering stunning sea views. Playa de Muro is also a gateway to the Albufera Natural Park, where visitors can explore wetlands and observe birdlife.

Why visit? A family-friendly beach with shallow waters, Playa de Muro is great for kids. The area is also known for beachfront cafes, water sports, and stunning sunset views.
Best time to visit: May to September (June and September offer great weather with fewer crowds).
Nearby attractions: Explore the historic town of Alcudia, take a boat tour to Formentor Beach, or hike in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.

9. Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Indonesia

Famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliffs, Kelingking Beach is a must-visit for adventurous travelers. The trek down to the secluded beach is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views along the way. The beach itself has powerful waves and dramatic rock formations, making it a photographer’s dream. Due to its remote location, visitors should plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Why visit? Famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliffs, Kelingking Beach is an adventure lover’s paradise. The descent to the beach is challenging, but the views are breathtaking.
Best time to visit: April to October (dry season, best for trekking and photography).
Nearby attractions: Visit the stunning Angel’s Billabong natural pool, explore Broken Beach, or snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point.

10. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Nestled between steep cliffs and surrounded by lush greenery, Myrtos Beach is known for its vibrant blue waters and peaceful setting. The contrast of the bright white pebbles against the turquoise sea creates a stunning visual appeal. The beach has limited amenities, making it a perfect spot for those looking for a more natural and unspoiled beach experience. The nearby village of Assos offers charming Greek tavernas and breathtaking sunset views.

Why visit? Surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery, Myrtos Beach offers deep blue waters and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot for sunbathing and photography.
Best time to visit: June to September (warm waters and less wind).
Nearby attractions: Discover the picturesque Assos Village, explore the Melissani Cave’s underground lake, or take a boat trip to the charming island of Ithaca.

India’s Top Beaches for 2025: Hidden Gems Popular Picks

While India’s beaches might not have made Tripadvisor’s global top 10, they are quickly gaining international recognition for their pristine beauty, adventure opportunities, and cultural richness. If you’re looking for the best beach destinations in India for 2025, here are some must-visit spots:

Radhanagar Beach, Andaman Nicobar Islands

Why visit? Often ranked India’s best beach, Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island boasts powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and a tranquil vibe. Ideal for swimming, photography, and sunset watching.

Om Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka

Why visit? Shaped like the auspicious “Om” symbol, this beach is a spiritual and adventure hotspot, offering surfing, kayaking, and serene sunsets. A great alternative to Goa’s crowded beaches.

Palolem Beach, Goa

Why visit? A perfect mix of relaxation and nightlife, Palolem Beach is famous for its crescent-shaped coastline, beach huts, and full-moon parties. It’s an ideal spot for backpackers and couples.

Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra

Why visit? Known for its scuba diving and dolphin spotting, Tarkarli Beach is an offbeat gem with crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for those seeking a less crowded, nature-rich escape.

Varkala Beach, Kerala

Why visit? Set against a dramatic cliffside, Varkala Beach offers natural mineral springs, yoga retreats, and Ayurvedic wellness centers—making it a top destination for wellness travelers.

Marina Beach, Chennai

Why visit? One of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach is a cultural hub where you can enjoy street food, horse riding, and sunrise walks along the coast.

Agatti Island, Lakshadweep

Why visit? If you’re looking for India’s answer to the Maldives, Agatti Island is the place to go! Expect crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and world-class snorkeling and diving.

Beach Travel Trends for 2025

Eco-Tourism on the Rise: More travelers are choosing sustainable beach destinations, and India’s Andaman Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are leading the way with eco-friendly tourism policies.

Remote Beach Escapes: Lesser-known beaches like Tarkarli in Maharashtra and Agatti Island in Lakshadweep are attracting travelers seeking serenity away from commercial tourism.

Water Adventure Boom: Beaches like Radhanagar (Andaman) and Kelingking (Indonesia) are becoming top spots for adventure sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking.

Culinary Beach Experiences: From Goa’s fresh seafood to Kerala’s beachside Ayurvedic meals, culinary travel is a big draw for beach lovers in 2025.

Social Media Hotspots: Instagram-worthy beaches like Elafonissi (Greece) and Varkala (India) are seeing a surge in travel influencers and photographers looking for the perfect coastal shot.

Where Should You Go in 2025?

With so many breathtaking beaches to choose from, here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you decide:

For Relaxation: Siesta Beach, Florida Radhanagar Beach, India

Adventure: Kelingking Beach, Indonesia Om Beach, India

Luxury: Praia da Falésia, Portugal Agatti Island, India

For Instagram-Worthy Views: Elafonissi Beach, Greece Varkala Beach, India

No matter where you choose to travel in 2025, these top beach destinations promise a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. So, pack your sunscreen, swimsuit, and travel gear, and get ready for an unforgettable beach escape!

Continue Your Journey Here:

The World’s Best Beaches of 2025 – Tripadvisor Top Picks

Top Beach Destination for 2025: Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece