Cala Goloritze in Italy Tops the World’s 50 Best Beaches for 2025

The crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs of Cala Goloritze in Italy have earned it the coveted title of World’s Best Beach for 2025, according to the just-released annual ranking by The World’s 50 Best Beaches. The list, curated through votes from over 1,000 travel professionals and influencers, aims to spotlight exceptional coastal destinations around the world—many far from the usual tourist paths.

Joining Cala Goloritze at the top are Entalula Beach in the Philippines and Bang Bao Beach in Thailand, rounding out the top three spots for this year. The 2025 edition showcases a particularly strong showing for Greece and Australia, each with three beaches featured on the list.

Notably, the ranking includes first-time appearances from countries like Madagascar, Yemen, Antigua & Barbuda, UAE, Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, Tanzania, France, Ireland, and the Maldives, as well as overseas territories including American Samoa, the British Virgin Islands, and Bonaire.

“Our 2025 list is the result of countless days spent by our judges, Beach Ambassadors, and the World's 50 Best team exploring coastlines across the globe,” said Tine Holst, Co-Founder of The World’s 50 Best Beaches. “We want travelers to go beyond the usual and discover places that are truly breathtaking, peaceful, and unforgettable.”

Unlike generic popularity polls, this list is built on expertise and real experience, with contributors evaluating beaches on eight specific criteria:

• Unique characteristics

• Wildlife presence

• Untouched natural beauty

• Natural soundtrack

• Ease of water entry

• Calm water conditions

• Lack of overcrowding

• Consistency of idyllic settings

The final selection reflects not just beauty, but also serenity, ecological value, and immersive experiences—offering a reliable guide for beach lovers seeking hidden gems and iconic escapes alike.