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It’s official: Canada is home to the world’s 8th best beach—and it’s not where you think.
Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” distinction honours the pinnacle of travel excellence.
It’s reserved for destinations and experiences that consistently earn exceptional reviews from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period.
Read more: Best weekend getaways from Montreal
With over 8 million listings worldwide, fewer than 1% reach this elite status.
Whether you’re seeking to lounge on sun-kissed sands or dive headfirst into new adventures, this year’s top-ranked beaches promise an unforgettable getaway.
What is the best beach in the world?
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in South Africa came in at number one.
Boulders ticks all the classic beach boxes: soft, clean sand perfect for lounging, crisp waters for a refreshing swim, and boardwalks made for leisurely strolls.
But the real showstoppers are the African penguins (yes, actual penguins) that call this beach home.
What’s the best beach in Canada?
Coming in at number 8 on the list is Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick.
The Hopewell Rocks are perched on the Bay of Fundy, famous for the world’s highest—and lowest—tides.
When the tide recedes, the ocean floor is exposed, letting you stroll among towering sea stacks that soar up to 70 feet high.
Time Out Tip: the ocean floor is accessible for only 3 hours before until 3 hours after low tide, so plan accordingly.
What are the top 10 best beaches in the world?
According to Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” 2026 ranking, these are the top 10 best beaches in the world:
1. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – South Africa
2. Isola Bella – Sicily, Italy
3. Bamburgh Beach – United Kingdom
4. Sleeping Bear Dunes – Michigan, USA
5. Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses – Barreirinhas, Brazil
6. Anakena Beach – Easter Island, Chile
7. Wai'anapanapa State Park – Hawaii, USA
8. Hopewell Rocks – Canada
9. Bahía Bioluminiscente – Puerto Rico
10. Hot Water Beach – New Zealand
For a complete list of Tripadvisor's Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Beaches, click here.
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