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A team from Beach.com reviewed hundreds of submissions and analyzed nearly 100,000 reviews to determine the best beaches in the world in 2026.
Wollwerth Imagery - stock.adobe.com
The travel lords have spoken, and this US beach has been crowned the best in the world.
A team from Beach.com reviewed hundreds of submissions and analyzed nearly 100,000 reviews to determine the top ten beaches on Earth.
Trunk Bay, a supreme crescent of clear water and perfect sand on the north shore of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), has bested all others to claim the top spot.
Experts say Trunk Nau “doesn’t feel real.” SCStock – stock.adobe.comIn addition to being stunningly beautiful, the beach is well protected because it lies within the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers nearly 60% of the island, including almost all of the north shore.
“Few beaches came close to Trunk Bay’s final score. It is truly the best beach in the world,” said Beach.com.
“In our analysis, it is among the most widely expert-recommended, holds one of the best average Google ratings and has some of the bluest waters in the world.”
The postcard-perfect locale, which can be accessed via car or private boat, is open daily from sunrise to sunset and requires a $5 entry fee for folks 16 and over.
Trunk Bay offers amenities such as restrooms, rinse-off showers, a snack bar, and a picnic area. Guests can also rent umbrellas, beach chairs, and snorkeling gear.
“It’s tucked inside a national park, with the most stunning mountain backdrop rising behind it,” shared Savanna Crowell, a travel creator and panelist in the ranking.
“And as if that wasn’t enough, you still get the dream combo—soft white sand and those unreal, turquoise-blue waters. It almost doesn’t feel real until you’re standing in it.”
In addition to relying on expert opinions like Crowell’s, Beach.com integrated data from the European Union and NASA.
Key factors in ranking included water quality, public opinion, accessibility, climate, and popularity.
In regard to popularity, peak season at Trunk Bay runs from mid-December through April when weather is optimal, and consequently, hordes are plentiful.
To beat beach crowds and skirt cruise ship traffic, experts advise visitors to arrive before 8 AM or after 3 PM, when cruise ship denizens depart.
Beach.com also recommends visiting the bay in April, May, or June, when crowds are less oppressive.
Savvy travelers note that if you turn left after entering the beach and walk west toward the rocks, you can escape the crowds, as most beachgoers don’t want to walk far with their supplies.
Redditors note that for those really looking to beat the beach crowds, nearby Cinnamon Bay and Maho Bay Beach are worthy alternatives. Wollwerth Imagery – stock.adobe.comPast the rocks, a little hidden beach is accessible.
Redditors note that for those really looking to beat the beach crowds, nearby Cinnamon Bay and Maho Bay Beach are worthy alternatives.
In addition to pristine sand and turquoise waters, Trunk Bay features a 225-yard underwater Snorkeling Trail. A marked route that guides visitors through vibrant coral reefs, punctuated by informative signs, the trail runs between the coastline and the offshore island of Trunk Cay.
In the unspoiled expanse of the trail, it’s possible to see stingrays, sea turtles, and a litany of colorful fish. Those who prefer a bit more structure to their sightseeing can book a guided SNUBA tour.
Guests can also venture out on standup paddleboards outside Trunk Bay’s swimming and snorkeling zones.
Trunk Bay is one of three US locations to make the top-ten list, with Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico falling at number four and Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge in St. Croix taking the number-seven slot.
Second place for best beach on Earth went to Elafonissi Beach in Greece, followed by Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos.
The top 10 beaches in the world, according to Beach.com
- Trunk Bay, USVI
- Elafonissi Beach, Greece
- Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos
- Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico
- Golden Horn Beach, Croatia
- Palolem Beach, India
- Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, USVI
- Playa Balandra, Mexico
- Praia da Falésia, Portugal
- Eagle Beach, Aruba
On the other end of the sand spectrum, Imperial Beach in Southern California was recently deemed one of the most bacteria-ridden beaches in the US.
English (US)