When it comes to beach holidays, Australians don’t need much convincing. But Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 just gave us two more reasons to hit the coast, crowning Whitehaven Beach in Queensland the best beach in the world, with Victoria’s Squeaky Beach securing the runner-up spot.
The annual guide, compiled by Lonely Planet’s travel experts, highlights must-visit destinations across countries, cities, regions, and travel trends — and this year, Australia’s beach scene dominates the conversation. From Whitehaven’s iconic aquamarine swirls to Squeaky Beach’s playful, squeaky sand, these stretches of coastline aren’t just popular with locals; they’ve now cemented their place on the world stage.
Chris Zeiher, Snr Director, Trade Sales & Marketing for Lonely Planet says the rankings reflect more than just beauty: “It’s about unique experiences that connect travellers with nature in a meaningful way.”
With travel trends for 2025 shifting toward sustainability and community-focused tourism, these destinations — including Australia’s best beaches — are expected to see a significant uptick in visitors.
Here’s who made the cut and why these beaches deserve a spot on your 2025 bucket list.
The Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2025
- Whitehaven Beach, Queensland, Australia
The swirling aquamarine waters and powder-white sandbars are the stuff of travel dreams. With an average water temperature of 26°C year-round, it’s an ideal spot to dive in and unwind. - Squeaky Beach, Victoria, Australia
Located in Wilsons Promontory, this beach is surrounded by protected wilderness and offers hidden rock pools and clear waters. The signature squeak of the quartz sand is a playful bonus. - Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles
A picture-perfect tropical beach backed by granite boulders and shallow turquoise waters, this beach feels like stepping into a postcard. - Sunset Beach, Trang, Thailand
Tucked in the Trang Islands on Thailand’s southern Andaman Coast, this beach offers emerald waters, jungle-covered hills, and, as the name suggests, spectacular sunsets. - Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece
A surreal volcanic landscape with alabaster cliffs, caves, and stone arches. This beach offers a striking contrast of white rock and endless blue seas. - Haukland Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway
One of Norway’s most beautiful beaches, it’s a place where the northern lights reflect off the white sand in winter, while the midnight sun offers an ethereal glow in summer. - Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur, Mexico
An enclosed cove with shallow, turquoise waters perfect for families, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic hikes. - Pfeiffer Beach, California, USA
Known for the Keyhole Arch, which lights up golden at sunset, this Big Sur beach also transforms to a “purple” beach after rain due to its unique mineral content. - Hanalei Bay, Hawai‘i, USA
A 3.2km crescent of golden sand on Kaua‘i island’s northern coast, Hanalei Bay is equally captivating for beachcombers and surfers. - Platja Illetes, Formentera, Spain
A Mediterranean paradise with crystal-clear waters, this beach evokes all the charm and laid-back vibe of a hidden island retreat.
