Greece Claims World's Second-Best Beach for 2026

Greece has secured an extraordinary presence in TripAdvisor's 2026 Travelers' Choice Awards, with four beaches ranking in the world's top 20 - more than any other country. Elafonissi Beach in Crete claims the coveted second-place spot globally, celebrated for its distinctive pink sand created by crushed shells and shimmering turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Balos Lagoon, another Cretan gem, ranks third with its dramatic rocky landscape and protected conservation status.