Named among the world’s 50 best beaches for 2026 – number 2 is just 3 hours away from the UK world | news

The world’s most breathtaking beaches have been officially revealed in 2026 and UK travelers don’t have to go far to see one of the best. As per latest ranking 50 best beaches in the worldMore than 1,000 travel experts have crowned this year’s most delightful coastlines, with a stunning European destination coming in second place, and it’s just a short drive away.

With rigorous, year-round scouting by industry experts and the organization’s internal team, the beaches were evaluated based on eight criteria: unique features, wildlife, untouched nature, natural soundtrack, ease of entry into the water, frequency of calm conditions, lack of overcrowding and idyll-free lifestyle.

Topping the list for 2026 is Antalula Beach in Palawan, a collection of islands west of the Philippines. The beach has been described as “Palawan’s undiscovered slice of paradise” and is praised for its dramatic limestone cliffs, “exceptionally clear” waters, soft white sand and peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.

Feteri Beach, located on Greece’s largest Ionian island, came in second place and is the only beach in Europe to make the top 10. Experts described the stunning beach as “isolate and majestic Greek perfection”.

The description reads: “Fateri Beach, on Kefalonia, Greece, is nestled in a secluded bay, surrounded by dramatic white cliffs, and is primarily accessible by boat or via a steep trail. Its isolation contributes to its pristine and tranquil atmosphere, setting it apart from more tourist-heavy destinations.

“Majestic white cliffs surround the beach, which wraps around a stretch of striking white pebbles mixed with sand, which meets the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Fateri Beach makes it a haven for those seeking peace and a deep connection with nature.”

A direct flight from the UK to Kefalonia takes about three and a half hours. At the time of writing, a direct flight from London Stansted to the beautiful Greek island with Ryanair on June 22 costs just £28. EasyJet also operates a direct flight from London Gatwick to Kefalonia, currently priced from just £33 as of 6 October.

Tine Holst, co-founder of The World’s 50 Best Beaches, told Express: “This year is one of the strongest lists we have ever seen, with a remarkable diversity of countries and beaches around the world.

“It’s clear that our voters and judges are gravitating toward more peaceful, less-crowded destinations. With global travel at such a high level, there is a growing appreciation for beaches where conservation and crowd management are prioritized.

“What makes our list unique is the depth of insight behind it, our judges have undertaken large-scale, multiple full-time trips, and are comparing beaches based on real, on-the-ground experience.

“It’s not about popularity or local familiarity, but about real global comparison and how the beach really feels when you’re there.”

The World’s 50 Best Beaches list states that it is now widely recognized as the ultimate and leading global authority on beach destinations around the world.

1. Antalula Beach – Philippines
2. Fateri Beach – Greece
3. Wharton Beach – Australia
4. Nosy Eranja – Madagascar
5. East Beach (Vomo Island) – Fiji
6. Shoal Bay East – Anguilla
7. Dhigurah – Maldives
8. Playa Balandra – Mexico
9. Koh Rong – Cambodia
10. Donald Duck Bay – Thailand
11. Cayo de Agua – Venezuela
12. Cala Macarella – Spain
13. One Foot Island – Cook Islands
14. Princess Diana Beach – Barbuda
15. Turquoise Bay – Australia
16. PK9 Beach – French Polynesia
17. Grace Bay – Turks and Caicos
18. Cala dei Gabbiani – Italy
19. Saadiyat Beach – United Arab Emirates
20. Canto de la Playa – Dominican Republic
21. Wineglass Bay – Australia
22. Pink Beach – Indonesia
23. Paradise Beach – Thailand
24. Anse Source d’Argent – Seychelles
25. Kalanggaman – Philippines
26. Seven Mile Beach – Cayman Islands
27. Freedom Beach – Thailand
28. Siesta Beach – USA
29. Kaputas Beach – Türkiye
30. Cayo Zapatilla – Panama
31. Bathroom – British Virgin Islands
32. Cabo San Juan del Gua – Colombia
33. Baia do Sancho – Brazil
34. Porto Katsiki – Greece
35. Santa Giulia – France
36. Blue Lagoon – Fiji
37. Playa Xpu-ha – Mexico
38. Ofu Beach – American Samoa
39. Playa Cofete – Spain
40. Le Morne Beach – Mauritius
41. Flamenco Beach – Puerto Rico
42. Grand Anse – Grenada
43. Praia da Falésia – Portugal
44. Pontal do Atalaia – Brazil
45. Boulder Beach – South Africa
46. Porto Timoni – Greece
47. Paje Beach – Zanzibar
48. La Pelosa – Italy
49. Cais Abao – Curacao
50. Keam Beach – Ireland