Trunk Bay – billed as “the quintessential Caribbean paradise” – has been ranked the best beach in the world for 2024, in the official 2024 edition of The World’s 50 Best Beaches list.
However, while the Caribbean – unsurprisingly – features a lot on this year’s list, more European destinations are appearing to challenge the region’s beach quality dominance.
Tine Holst, co-founder of The World’s 50 Best Beaches said: “The 2024 list is a reflection of the countless days spent by our judges, Beach Ambassadors, and World’s 50 Best team discovering beaches around the world. Our list will help inspire travellers to leave the beaten path behind and enjoy the most stunning and relaxing beaches on earth.”
Trunk Bay – located in the US Virgin Islands, in the Caribbean Sea – topped the list for what the judges referred to as “incredibly soft sand” and “crystal-clear, pool-like waters”. But, it also wowed due to it being set in the Virgin Islands National Park, which is a protected natural area. The bay is named after the resident Leatherback Turtle, locally known as “trunks”.
“It is with great pride that we celebrate this honour! Trunk Bay and the many beaches across the US Virgin Islands hold a special place in the hearts of those who call our beautiful islands home as well as our returning visitors,” said Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of the USVI Department of Tourism. “We have long regarded our beaches as some of the best in the world, and this recognition helps us share that with the world.”
The top 10 of the list is rounded out with the following:
Cala Mariolu – on the eastern coast of Sardinia, Italy – has been described as “the world’s most dramatic setting”. The beach is only accessible by boat, or by hiking trail. None of this “rock up with the kids at midday and crash by the beach bar” malarkey here.
Meads Bay, Anguilla – “the perfect Caribbean without the crowds” – is used by locals and tourists but its pristine white sands are protected by the fact that most people use nearby beaches, meaning this one retains its more private feel all year round.
Entalulu Beach – in Palawan, Philippines, is known as “an overlooked slice of heaven” and is famed for its adventure opportunities as well as its relaxation promise. A must for swimmers, bathers and snorkellers – who visit for its nearby coral reefs. This stunning spot is made even more so, given that it is surrounded by limestone cliffs and is also only accessible by boat.
We’re back in Europe, now. Billed as “one of Greece’s best kept secrets” Voutoumi Beach is a secluded beach on the island of Antipaxos and is mainly accessible by boat. A mix of pebble and sand it is surrounded by a steep green hill and is known for its shallow, warm waters – on the edge of the Ionian Sea – and fine white sand.
Turquoise Bay in Western Australia truly lives up to its name with some of the most radiant turquoise waters you might ever see. The beach is undeveloped, maintaining a sense of untouched natural beauty where the desert meets the sea. This remote location within Cape Range National Park means fewer crowds and more space to explore the sandy shores and surrounding scrubland. Additionally, Turquoise Bay is particularly known for its snorkeling right from the shore.
Pink Beach, in Indonesia, is named after its striking pink-tinged sand, which also makes it one of the world’s most unique beaches. “Pink Beach is not just a beach; it’s a gateway to exploring the broader natural wonders of Komodo National Park,” the judges said.
Anse Georgette on Praslin Island is a spectacular hidden gem among the many beautiful beaches in the Seychelles. This secluded bay, accessible via a short hike through the lush terrain of a nearby golf course or by boat, offers privacy and a serene atmosphere away from the more frequented tourist spots. The clear, turquoise water is often calmer than at other beaches on the island, making it amazing for swimming. The beach is framed by the iconic large granite boulders typical of the Seychelles, enhancing its scenic beauty while also providing sheltered spots for relaxation.
The Green Lagoon in Fakarava, French Polynesia, has been saluted for its “unique remoteness” and “almost surreal beauty”. It is situated in one of the largest atolls in the Tuamotu Archipelago. The lagoon features a stunning array of vibrant aquatic hues—from deep blues to bright turquoises—created by its shallow sandy bottom and rich coral life. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it ensures the protection of its diverse ecosystems and endemic species, making it a prime spot for ecotourism and conservation studies. Access is typically by small boat, enhancing its appeal as a secluded paradise.
Horse Shoe Island in Myanmar, named for its unique crescent-shaped beach that curves around a vibrant, turquoise lagoon, is one of the last undiscovered paradises on earth, according to the judges. Located off the southern coast, this island remains largely untouched by heavy tourism, offering a secluded escape for visitors.
This is just a flavour of what ridiculously amazing beaches are out there. To explore the complete list of the World’s 50 Best Beaches for 2023,visit https://worlds50beaches.com/top-50-worlds-best-beaches. But, just to be bias towards Europe we’re going to include one more – number 11 on the list: Cala des Moro, in Mallorca, Spain.
Cala des Moro lies inconspicuously on Mallorca’s southeastern coast and is undeniably the crown jewel of the Balearics and a Mediterranean dream come true. The beach is renowned for its strikingly clear and almost always calm turquoise waters, as well as the dramatic, rugged cliffs that completely engulf the beach. Accessible only by a steep path or private boat, its secluded nature keeps it relatively pristine and quiet compared to more accessible beaches.
