A tropical paradise with clear turquoise waters and sugar-white sand has been ranked as the ‘world’s best beach’ for 2026, and it’s absolutely picture-perfect.

The stunning shores of Isla Pasion, in Cozumel, Mexico, have won the Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Beaches for 2026, after a three-year hiatus. The island is a secluded haven, accessible only by boat, and is nothing short of perfection, as revealed by TripAdvisor review data.

The oasis features pristine sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical palm trees, adding to its spectacular scenery. TripAdvisor noted its fantastic marine life, including stingrays, in the pristine azure waters, perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts and those looking to explore the serene waters by boat or kayak.

Isla Pasion, also known as Passion Island, in the Caribbean, also has protected coral reefs and sea turtle nesting sites, and is an “exclusive day-trip destination”. It’s just a 10-minute boat ride from the stunning island of Cozumel and has become a popular day trip among travellers visiting from Playa del Carmen.

The best time to visit the picturesque island is from November to April, when it offers warm, pleasant weather. Due to its remote location, travellers must purchase an all-inclusive day pass or a package tour to visit the island, but it’s well worth it for a touch of tranquil paradise.

One visitor embarked on a day trip to Isla Pasion and shared on TripAdvisor: “This excursion is perfect for families or couples. Everything is very prompt and well run. The trip to the island is about an hour, but the views are incredible. Once on the island, there was plenty of food and drink, and you’re left to relax and enjoy the beach. There are also shops for souvenirs, places for awesome photos and group games, and clean facilities. We did this with two kids, ages 10 and 13, and they loved it.”

A second added:” My excursion to Passion Island was nothing but the best. I now have my Mexican family who made us feel safe at home, a beautiful beach, they stay with you the whole time, and get you anything you need.”

A third wrote: “This island is all-inclusive and not crazy packed! We had a great boat ride and Antonio as our tour guide! We got about 4 hours total on this beautiful island and wish it were longer!”

One more shared: “We’re here on the island, it is beautiful with very crystal clear water, with a shallow area for swimming, all-inclusive food and drink, and while we are here, wifi as well! Not to mention the boat ride here was thrilling, we got to ride to the island on a jet boat that did 360s in the middle of the ocean, very pleased with this excursion!”

Top 10 beaches in the world 2026

1. Isla Pasion – Cozumel, Mexico
2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete, Greece
3. Balos Lagoon – Kissamos, Greece
4. Eagle Beach – Eagle Beach, Aruba
5. Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal
6. Banana Beach – Ko He, Thailand
7. La Jolla Cove – California, USA
8. La Pelosa Beach – Sardinia, Italy
9. Manly Beach – Sydney, Australia
10. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – Simon’s Town, South Africa

Laurel Greatrix, chief communications officer at Tripadvisor, said: “For many travellers, the beach is the main event. Based on millions of trips, reviews, and opinions, these awards highlight the very best beaches in the world – making it easier to decide where to go and how to spend your time once you’re there.”

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