World’s 50 best beaches for 2026 named – number 2 is just 3 hours from UK | World

A beautiful lagoon of Fteri, beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Fteri Beach was the only European beach to make the top 10 (Image: Getty)

The world’s most breathtaking beaches have officially been revealed for 2026 and UK travellers don’t have to go far to visit one of the very best. According to the latest ranking from The World’s 50 Best Beaches, more than 1,000 travel experts have crowned this year’s most idyllic shorelines, with a stunning European destination taking the number two spot, and it’s just a short flight away.

With rigorous, year-round scouting by industry experts and the organisation’s internal team, the beaches were evaluated across eight criteria: unique characteristics, wildlife, untouched nature, natural soundtrack, ease of water entry, frequency of calm conditions, lack of overcrowding and consistency of idyllic settings.

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

The Philippines, Morning in Palawan

Entalula Beach in Palawan was crowned number 1 (Image: Getty)

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Fteri Beach, located on the largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece came in second and is the only beach in Europe to make the top 10. The experts described the stunning beach as “isolated and majestic greek perfection.”

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

“Majestic white cliffs frame the beach, curving 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 environment of Fteri Beach make it a haven for those in search of peace and a deep connection with nature.”

Direct flights to Kefalonia take around three and a half hours from the UK. At the time of writing, a direct flight from London Stansted to the beautiful Greek island costs just £28 with Ryanair on June 22. EasyJet also operates direct flights from London Gatwick to Kefalonia with a fight currently priced at only £33 on October 6.

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

“It’s clear that our voters and judges are increasingly drawn to more peaceful, less crowded destinations. With global travel at such a high level, there’s a growing appreciation for beaches where preservation and crowd management are prioritised.

“What makes our list unique is the depth of insight behind it, our judges have travelled extensively, many full time, and are comparing beaches based on real, on-the-ground experience.

“This isn’t about popularity or local familiarity, but about genuine global comparison and how a beach truly feels when you’re there.”

The World’s 50 Best Beaches list said it is now widely recognised as the ultimate and leading global authority on beach destinations worldwide.

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