Five Greek beaches located in Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes have earned prestigious distinctions at the Tripadvisor 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranking among the best beaches in Europe and the world. Renowned for their crystal-clear waters, unique landscapes, and exceptional natural beauty, these destinations continue to strengthen Greece’s global reputation as a premier seaside escape.
The TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards are based on millions of reviews and ratings submitted by travelers worldwide over 12 months. The awards highlight travelers’ favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, and experiences, offering valuable insights for those planning their next getaway.
Cretan Beaches Dominate Global and European Rankings
Crete emerged as the clear standout in this year’s beach rankings, with three of its shores securing top positions both globally and across Europe.
Elafonissi Beach claimed second place worldwide in the “Best of the Best Beaches” category and ranked first in Europe. Famous for its rare pink-hued sand and shallow turquoise waters, Elafonissi continues to captivate visitors seeking exotic scenery within Europe. Its protected natural environment, calm lagoons, and family-friendly setting make it one of the most photographed and admired beaches in the Mediterranean.
Close behind, Balos Lagoon secured third place globally and second in Europe. Located on the northwestern coast of Crete, Balos is celebrated for its dazzling white sand, vivid blue waters, and semi-secluded atmosphere. Accessible by boat or hiking trail, the lagoon offers panoramic views and an untouched charm that consistently impresses international travelers.
Falassarna Beach, another Cretan gem, ranked 11th worldwide and fifth in Europe. Known for its expansive shoreline and dramatic sunsets, Falassarna attracts visitors looking for both relaxation and water sports. Its wide sandy stretch and open sea views create a tranquil yet dynamic setting ideal for couples, families, and adventure seekers alike.
Elafonisi Beach
Corfu and Rhodes Also Shine
Beyond Crete, other Greek islands secured notable distinctions in the Tripadvisor 2026 rankings.
Paleokastritsa Beach in Corfu placed 14th globally and seventh in Europe. Surrounded by lush green hills and dramatic rock formations, Paleokastritsa is especially popular for swimming, snorkeling, and boat excursions to nearby sea caves. Its emerald waters and serene environment make it one of the Ionian Sea’s most treasured coastal destinations.
Meanwhile, Tsampika Beach in Rhodes was ranked 16th best in Europe. Known for its fine golden sand, shallow waters, and well-organized facilities, Tsampika offers easy access and a welcoming atmosphere for families. Its proximity to traditional tavernas and local amenities further enhances its appeal.
Global Standouts and Greece’s Strong Tourism Performance
At the top of the global list, Mexico’s Isla Pasion Beach earned first place worldwide, praised for its pristine waters, abundant marine life, and wide variety of water activities. Other beaches featured in the international top 10 include Eagle Beach (Aruba), Praia da Falésia (Portugal), Banana Beach (Thailand), La Jolla Cove (USA), Manly Beach (Australia), La Pelosa Beach (Italy), and Boulders Beach Penguin Colony (South Africa).
Greece’s success at the 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards extended well beyond the beach category. Crete ranked ninth worldwide and fourth in Europe among top overall destinations, confirming its broad appeal beyond sun-and-sea tourism.
Athens also gained recognition in cultural and gastronomy categories, reinforcing its status as a leading year-round city break destination. In addition, Santorini and Rhodes earned distinctions in honeymoon and island travel lists, highlighting Greece’s diverse tourism offerings.
Greece’s Enduring Appeal
The strong presence of Greek beaches and destinations in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards underscores the country’s continued competitiveness in the global tourism market. From pink-sand lagoons and turquoise bays to vibrant cultural hubs and romantic island escapes, Greece offers a wide variety of travel experiences that consistently resonate with international visitors.
As millions of travelers rely on peer reviews to shape their travel decisions, these distinctions further solidify Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes as must-visit destinations for beach lovers worldwide.
