Discovering the Top 5 Beaches in the World for 2026: Surprising Finds

Overview of the 50 Best Beaches List

Today, the most beautiful beaches around the globe are no longer just about long stretches of white sand and swaying palm trees. The recently released list of the 50 best beaches in the world offers a fresh perspective on what makes a beach perfect, evaluated not only on scenic beauty but also on real experiences from over 1,000 travel experts, including journalists, influencers, and industry specialists.

These beaches were selected through a nomination process, where they were assessed based on various factors such as natural landscapes, uniqueness, wildlife, tranquility, and water quality. In 2026, these beaches not only reside within national parks but also provide a sense of untouched wilderness, away from the hustle and bustle of crowds.

1. Entalula Beach, Philippines (#1)

Located in the Palawan region, Entalula Beach is famous for being one of the most beautiful in the Philippines. This beach feels significantly quieter compared to others. Visitors typically access it through island-hopping tours from El Nido, and since most tourists don't stay long, those who spend the entire day at Entalula can enjoy an almost private experience.

Surrounded by limestone cliffs, the beach offers a fantastic retreat. The fine white sand, turquoise waters, and lack of nearby development make it an ideal spot for anyone looking to escape the chaos of daily life.

To reach Entalula, you'll need to book a private boat from El Nido, with costs around 1,500,000 VND for a round trip.

2. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar (#4)

Nosy Iranja is one of the most unique and stunning beaches. At first glance, you might think it consists of two separate islands, but during low tide, a narrow strip of white sand appears between them. This sandbar is easy to walk on, allowing you to traverse between the two sides in shallow waters.

To get there, you'll need a boat trip from Nosy Be—an exciting experience that gives you the feeling of exploring a pristine and magical place. Tours usually include lunch and drinks, with prices ranging from 900,000 to 1,200,000 VND.

3. Boulders Beach, South Africa (#45)

Boulders Beach is not the ideal spot for sunbathing; in fact, you might be reminded not to try. This beach is home to a large colony of African penguins that often wander across the sand. The massive granite boulders create safe little bays where visitors can observe the birds without disturbing them.

One unique aspect is that there is a small entrance fee to visit the beach, and there are pathways for visitors to help keep the penguins undisturbed. If you're looking to sunbathe, you can head to nearby beaches like Water’s Edge Beach or Seaforth Beach.

4. Pink Beach, Indonesia (#22)

While pink sand beaches are not rare, Pink Beach in Komodo National Park is considered one of the most beautiful. The pink hue of the sand comes from a mix of white sand and crushed red coral. To reach this beach, visitors need to take a boat from Labuan Bajo, the main city on Flores Island, for about 1,000,000 VND each way.

This park has recently tightened travel regulations to protect the Komodo dragon, an endangered species. Therefore, it's advisable to plan your visit early to ensure you don't miss out on this incredible experience.

5. The Baths, British Virgin Islands (#31)

The Baths are not only known for their beach but also for the impressive massive granite boulders that create stunning caves and pools. Exploring this area feels more like an adventure than just lounging on the beach. Visitors can enjoy climbing and discovering unique terrains.

To get to The Baths, you'll first need to reach Virgin Gorda, then take a taxi for about 10-15 minutes to the beach. Tours can also be arranged from Tortola, the main tourist hub of the British Virgin Islands.

Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

When planning your trip to these incredible beaches, remember that visa procedures for some countries may require early preparation. For instance, to enter Madagascar, you will need a visa, which can be obtained from the nearest embassy or consulate. Flights from Vietnam to Madagascar typically require a layover in a third country, taking about 15-20 hours and costing around 20 million VND.

For the Philippines, Vietnamese tourists do not need a visa for stays under 30 days, but it's advisable to book flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, usually priced between 4-6 million VND for a round trip.

Make sure to plan carefully and enjoy the beautiful beaches along with the unique experiences each destination offers!

Article adapted from: Matador Network