This dreamy destination has been named the best beach in the world 2025

If you are dreaming of soft golden sand, clear blue water, and a pastel pink shoreline, then this place is for you. Throw in the sun beaming down, and it is easy to see why this beach has been named the perfect location.

TripAdvisor’s annual Traveller’s Choice Awards has named Elafonissi Beach in Crete as the number one beach in the world. The beach, which is located on the sunny Greek island, has been dubbed the 'Maldives of Crete.'

The fan-favourite travel website's ranking of beaches is based on a comprehensive analysis of reviews and ratings from millions of travellers over the past year.

Elafonissi Beach is unique because of its pink shoreline, which is caused by microscopic organisms called Foraminifera. These marine creatures produce red-pigmented shells, which are broken down and mixed in with the sand.

The Crete location beat out 23 other beaches to secure a top spot on this year's list, despite not earning a spot on it over the last few years.

The picturesque beach holds a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, based on 16,000 reviews. It is described as 'one of those places you have to see to believe.'

'The shallow lagoons are perfect for those with curious kids, while the deeper waters invite all sorts of adventure for adults: swimming, snorkelling, you name it. Just make sure to stick around until sunset – you won’t regret it,' its description reads.

Any tourists hoping to visit the award-winning beach can easily get there from Chania, which is the closest city at just an hour's drive from the location. If you are on the hunt for a dreamy location to sun yourself in this summer, keep Elafonissi Beach in mind!

The Greek island isn't the only place that earned a spot on the top beaches list. If watersports are your thing, the second and third-place locations may be more up your street.

Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand, comes in at number two. The tropical beach is ideal for visiting between November and March and is the perfect spot if you are looking for a sea swim.

Meanwhile, it comes as no surprise that a beach in the Caribbean has made it onto the list of winners. If you happen to find yourself in Aruba, make sure to check out Eagle Beach in Oranjestad.

Other beaches on the list include Siesta Beach in Siesta Key, Florida; Praia da Falésia in the Algarve, Portugal; Playa Varadero in Varadero, Cuba; and Playa de Muro Beach in Mallorca, Spain.

Someone book us a ticket quick.

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