A Croatian Triumph in Global Rankings

Zlatni Rat, the iconic golden spike of sand on the island of Brač, has claimed the top spot in the 2026 "World’s 100 Best Beaches" list. This prestigious global ranking, often associated with the "Corona Beach 100" guide, places the Croatian beach ahead of world-renowned tropical paradises and classic Mediterranean hotspots. Notably, Zlatni Rat is the only beach from Croatia to make the cut in this year’s edition, highlighting its unique status among international travel destinations.

The guide was released ahead of World Oceans Day on June 8, offering a curated selection of the planet’s most stunning coastal locations. From the turquoise waters of the Seychelles and the Philippines to the dramatic coastlines of Brazil and New Zealand, the list celebrates diverse natural beauty. Zlatni Rat shares the top 10 with Agia Anna in Greece, Aiguablava in Spain, and Anse Source d’Argent in the Seychelles. In total, the list features 100 beaches, with 27 newcomers appearing on the roster for the first time.

The Mediterranean Dominates

The ranking underscores the enduring appeal of the Mediterranean coast. While Zlatni Rat leads the pack, other regions in the basin are heavily represented. Alongside Croatia and Greece, beaches on Mallorca, Ibiza, Formentera, and the Canary Islands secured spots. Coastal gems in France, Portugal, Italy, and Sardinia also made the list, proving that the Mediterranean remains a powerhouse for beach tourism. Even the UK managed two entries: Barafundle Bay in Wales and Fistral Beach in Cornwall, recognized for their dramatic landscapes and vibrant surf culture.

Criteria Beyond Sand and Sea

The selection process looks beyond mere aesthetics. Judges evaluate the overall experience, including water cleanliness, landscape diversity, and available activities such as surfing, diving, and kayaking. Local gastronomy and atmosphere play key roles as well. The list juxtaposes iconic urban beaches like Copacabana in Brazil with remote coves accessible only by narrow forest trails or boat. Sustainability is also a major focus, with the guide supporting local associations dedicated to coastal restoration, ocean protection, and climate adaptation. This shift encourages travelers to seek authentic outdoor experiences rather than just traditional resort stays.

Top 10 Beaches of 2026:

  • Zlatni Rat, Croatia
  • Agia Anna, Greece
  • Aiguablava Beach, Spain
  • Alegria Beach, Philippines
  • Anakena Beach, Chile
  • Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
  • Praia de Atins/Lençois Maranhenses, Brazil
  • Bahía Bustamante, Argentina
  • Bahía de las Águilas, Dominican Republic
  • Baia do Sancho (Fernando de Noronha), Brazil