- Cala Goloritze (Italy), Entalula Beach (Philippines), and Bang Bao Beach (Thailand) are among the top beaches for 2025, based on expert votes.
- These beaches excel due to their natural beauty, seclusion, and unique features, though rankings vary across sources like Tripadvisor.
- The evidence leans toward Cala Goloritze as the top pick for its dramatic cliffs, but preferences depend on desired activities and accessibility.
Why Visit These Beaches?
Beaches offer relaxation, adventure, and stunning views, making them ideal for 2025 vacations. The top three, selected by over 1,000 travel experts, promise unforgettable experiences with clear waters, unique landscapes, and peaceful settings. Whether you’re a snorkeler, hiker, or simply seeking tranquility, these destinations cater to diverse tastes.
Cala Goloritze: A Secluded Paradise
Cala Goloritze in Sardinia, Italy, is praised for its limestone cliffs and clear waters. Accessible only by hiking or boat, it’s perfect for those who love nature and solitude.
Entalula Beach: Snorkeler’s Haven
Entalula Beach in Palawan, Philippines, features vibrant coral reefs and is reachable only by boat, offering a private escape for water enthusiasts.
Bang Bao Beach: Laid-Back Retreat
Bang Bao Beach on Koh Kood, Thailand, combines lush jungles with a fishing village charm, ideal for families and food lovers seeking calm waters.
Exploring the Top 3 Best Beaches in the World for 2025
As of Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 7:51 PM EDT, beach vacations are a top choice for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. With countless shorelines worldwide, pinpointing the best can be daunting. This comprehensive guide highlights the top 3 best beaches in the world for 2025, based on votes from over 1,000 travel experts at The World’s 50 Best Beaches. These beaches—Cala Goloritze in Italy, Entalula Beach in the Philippines, and Bang Bao Beach in Thailand—stand out for their unique features, pristine environments, and unforgettable experiences. Below, we explore their attributes, access details, and ideal visitor profiles, helping you plan your next beach getaway.
Background and Context
In 2025, travel trends emphasize sustainable, community-focused tourism, with beaches offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. The World’s 50 Best Beaches list, determined by travel influencers and professionals, evaluates beaches on eight criteria: unique characteristics, wildlife, untouched nature, natural soundtrack, ease of water entry, calm conditions, lack of overcrowding, and idyllic settings. These factors ensure a holistic assessment beyond mere aesthetics. While other sources like Tripadvisor and Lonely Planet offer alternative rankings, the expert-driven approach of World’s 50 Best Beaches provides a reliable guide for discerning travelers.
1. Cala Goloritze, Italy: Best Overall
Location: Baunei Coast, Sardinia, Italy
Why It’s Top-Ranked: Voted the #1 beach globally for 2025, Cala Goloritze is a mystical cove framed by a 143-meter limestone pinnacle and crystal-clear waters. Declared a natural monument in 1995, it benefits from strict conservation, limiting access to preserve its pristine state. Its dramatic cliffs and serene ambiance make it a standout (Cala Goloritze).
Key Features:
- Towering limestone cliffs and a rock arch
- Clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming
- Secluded setting with minimal crowds due to restricted access
Best Time to Visit: June to October offers warm weather (26°C–29°C highs) and calm seas, with June and September less crowded than July and August. Early morning visits in summer avoid peak foot traffic.
How to Get There:
- Hiking: A 4 km trail from Baunei takes 1.5–2 hours, requiring a daily ticket (limited to 200 visitors). Book in advance via local authorities.
- Boat: Rent from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese ports. Boats anchor 200 meters offshore, requiring a swim to reach the beach.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Secure hiking tickets early due to limited availability.
- Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, as no facilities exist on-site.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the hike and prepare for a swim if arriving by boat.
Ideal For:
- Adventure seekers who enjoy hiking or boating
- Nature lovers seeking untouched landscapes
- Couples desiring a romantic, secluded escape
Drawbacks:
- Limited access may deter those preferring easy entry.
- No amenities require self-sufficiency.
2. Entalula Beach, Philippines: Best for Snorkeling
Location: Palawan, Philippines
Why It’s Top-Ranked: Ranked #2 globally, Entalula Beach is a secluded paradise with white sands, limestone cliffs, and vibrant coral reefs accessible by a short swim. Its boat-only access enhances exclusivity, making it a haven for water enthusiasts (Entalula Beach).
Key Features:
- Pristine white sand and turquoise waters
- Vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and diving
- Remote location ensuring minimal crowds
Best Time to Visit: December to April provides sunny days (28°C–30°C highs) and calm seas, with March ideal for minimal wind and rain. Avoid June to October due to typhoon risks.
How to Get There:
- Boat: Arrange tours from El Nido, Palawan, a 30–45-minute ride. Book through local operators for combined snorkeling trips.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Choose tours including snorkeling gear to explore coral reefs.
- Check weather forecasts, as winds can affect boat trips.
- Pack essentials, as the beach lacks facilities.
Ideal For:
- Snorkelers and divers eager to explore marine life
- Couples seeking a private, romantic getaway
- Adventurers who enjoy boat-based travel
Drawbacks:
- Boat-only access may be challenging for families with young children.
- Weather dependency can disrupt plans.
3. Bang Bao Beach, Thailand: Best for Relaxation
Location: Koh Kood Island, Thailand
Why It’s Top-Ranked: Ranked #3, Bang Bao Beach is a laid-back paradise with clear, shallow waters, lush jungle backdrops, and a charming fishing village. Its tranquility and lack of tourist development make it a hidden gem (Bang Bao Beach).
Key Features:
- Shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming
- Fishing village with wooden pier and seafood restaurants
- Untouched setting with minimal crowds
Best Time to Visit: December to March offers sunny, dry conditions (30°C–31°C highs) and calm seas. Avoid April to November due to rainy seasons.
How to Get There:
- Ferry and Transport: Fly to Bangkok, then travel to Trat by bus or taxi. Take a 1.5–2-hour ferry to Koh Kood, followed by a taxi or tuk-tuk to Bang Bao Beach.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Enjoy fresh seafood at village restaurants nearby.
- Budget and mid-range accommodations are available on Koh Kood.
- Visit early for a quieter beach experience.
Ideal For:
- Families seeking safe, shallow waters for kids
- Food lovers who enjoy fresh seafood
- Travelers craving a peaceful, authentic retreat
Drawbacks:
- Multi-step travel may be time-consuming.
- Limited amenities compared to larger resorts.
Comparative Analysis
|
Beach |
Location |
Key Features |
Best Time |
Access |
Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Cala Goloritze |
Sardinia, Italy |
Limestone cliffs, clear waters |
June–October |
Hike or boat |
Adventure seekers, couples |
|
Entalula Beach |
Palawan, Philippines |
Coral reefs, white sand |
December–April |
Boat only |
Snorkelers, divers, couples |
|
Bang Bao Beach |
Koh Kood, Thailand |
Shallow waters, fishing village |
December–March |
Ferry and taxi/tuk-tuk |
Families, food lovers, relaxers |
Choosing the Best Beach
- Adventure and Seclusion: Cala Goloritze suits hikers and those seeking solitude.
- Water Activities: Entalula Beach is ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
- Relaxation and Culture: Bang Bao Beach offers a laid-back vibe with local charm.
- Accessibility: Bang Bao is the most accessible, while Cala Goloritze and Entalula require more effort.
- Family-Friendly: Bang Bao’s shallow waters are best for kids.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Plan Ahead: Book transport and tickets early, especially for Cala Goloritze.
- Pack Smart: Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks for beaches without facilities.
- Check Weather: Ensure calm seas and sunny days for the best experience.
- Respect Nature: Follow conservation rules to preserve these pristine sites.
- Explore Nearby: Combine visits with local attractions, like El Nido tours or Koh Kood waterfalls.
Addressing Common Concerns
- Are these beaches crowded? All three are designed for low crowds due to restricted access or remote locations.
- Are they family-friendly? Bang Bao is most suitable for families; Cala Goloritze and Entalula may challenge young children.
- How’s the water quality? All offer clear, clean waters ideal for swimming or snorkeling.
- Are they accessible? Vary from moderate (Bang Bao) to challenging (Cala Goloritze, Entalula).
- Alternative Rankings? Tripadvisor lists Elafonissi Beach (Greece) as #1, while Lonely Planet favors Australian beaches, reflecting diverse criteria.
Conclusion
Cala Goloritze, Entalula Beach, and Bang Bao Beach are the top 3 best beaches in the world for 2025, offering unique experiences from dramatic cliffs to vibrant reefs and tranquil shores. Whether you seek adventure, underwater exploration, or relaxation, these destinations promise unforgettable moments. Plan your 2025 beach getaway today and discover why these beaches are celebrated globally.
Don’t forget to check out our article on how to save the most on airfare!
Key Citations:
- World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025 Rankings
- Cala Goloritze Beach Details
- Entalula Beach Information
- Bang Bao Beach Guide
- Tripadvisor’s Best Beaches 2025
- Lonely Planet’s World’s Best Beaches
- Forbes World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025
- CNN Tripadvisor Best Beaches 2025
- PR Newswire World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025
