PHOTO: FILE
Looking for the ultimate beach escape in 2025? Tripadvisor has just dropped its Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Beaches, and the list is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations — but Aussies might be surprised (and a little disappointed) by where our iconic shores ended up.
🌍 The Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2025 — And Who Took the Crown
Topping the global list this year is the stunning Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece — praised for its blush-pink sands, turquoise waters, and untouched beauty. Based on over 16,000 reviews, this Mediterranean paradise took pole position with its dreamy, photogenic coastline.
Rounding out the top 5 were:
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🏝️ Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand
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🏖️ Eagle Beach, Aruba
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🌞 Siesta Beach, Florida, USA
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🏄 Praia da Falésia, Portugal
Bondi Is Booming — If You’re Under 35 and Love Beachfront Buzz
🇦🇺 Where Did Australia Rank?
Sadly, no Aussie beaches cracked the top 10 this year. But two local legends still made a splash on the global list:
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Manly Beach, Sydney — Ranked #15
⭐ 4.5 stars from nearly 8,000 reviews
📍 Praised for its accessibility, beachside eateries, and unbeatable harbour views -
Bondi Beach, Sydney — Ranked #24
⭐ 4.5 stars from nearly 7,000 reviews
📍 Celebrated for its vibe, scenic coastal walk, and lively café scene
Manly remained Australia’s top performer but dropped eight spots from last year. Bondi, after being left off the 2024 list entirely, made a surprise comeback — proving it’s still one of the world’s favourite spots to surf, sunbathe, and people-watch.
“Whether you want to surf, chill out on the golden sand, or have a relaxing day with the fam, Bondi Beach delivers,” said one glowing review.
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🥇 Australia’s Real Beach Winners
Tripadvisor might have snubbed some Aussie favourites in its top 10, but other rankings were kinder.
📌 Lonely Planet named Whitehaven Beach in Queensland and Squeaky Beach in Victoria as the #1 and #2 best beaches globally. So don’t hang up your togs just yet — Australia still holds its own when it comes to coastal beauty.
Bondi Beach squeaked in at 24th place after being excluded from last year’s rankings altogether
🏝️ Beach Goals for 2025: Where Should You Go?
Here’s a quick look at some must-visit beaches from Tripadvisor’s global top 10:
| Rank | Beach | Location | Why It’s Amazing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elafonissi Beach | Crete, Greece | Pink sand, crystal-clear water, surreal beauty |
| 2 | Banana Beach | Phuket, Thailand | Quiet, tropical vibes, perfect for snorkelling |
| 3 | Eagle Beach | Aruba | Wide shores, soft white sand, ideal for sunset lovers |
| 4 | Siesta Beach | Florida, USA | Famous for its powdery white quartz sand |
| 5 | Praia da Falésia | Portugal | Red cliffs, pine trees, and endless views |
🧭 Planning Your Next Beach Holiday?
Whether you’re dreaming of Europe’s hidden coves or Australia’s legendary surf spots, the 2025 best beaches list is your ultimate guide to sun, sand, and serenity.
✈️ Pro tip: Book early, pack your sunscreen, and don’t forget your camera. These beaches are Instagram gold.