For those with a love of beach holidays, Australia is offering even more reason to pack your sunscreen and head to the coast.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 has named Australia’s Whitehaven Beach in Queensland the world’s best beach, while Squeaky Beach in Victoria has claimed second place.
This annual guide, created by Lonely Planet’s travel experts, highlights the best destinations around the globe. Australia’s beaches are now firmly in the spotlight, with two of the country’s most stunning shores taking the top spots. Known for their natural beauty and unique experiences, these beaches have become global icons.
Whitehaven Beach, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dazzling white sand, is one of Australia’s most photographed beaches. Located in the Whitsundays, this pristine stretch of coastline remains a tropical haven, offering the perfect environment for relaxation, swimming, and snorkelling. The waters stay a comfortable 26°C year-round, making it an ideal destination for beachgoers.
On the other side of the country, Squeaky Beach in Victoria’s Wilsons Promontory National Park offers a more tranquil, secluded experience. Famous for its soft quartz sand that literally squeaks as you walk, the beach is surrounded by rugged wilderness, hidden rock pools, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a spot that locals adore, and now, it’s been recognised on the world stage.
Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Trade Sales & Marketing at Lonely Planet, explains that these rankings reflect more than just beauty: “It’s about unique experiences that connect travellers with nature in a meaningful way.” As 2025 sees a rise in sustainable travel, these beaches, like many other Australian destinations, are expected to attract even more visitors eager to enjoy nature responsibly.
Here are the top 10 beaches around the world for 2025:
- Whitehaven Beach, Queensland, Australia
Known for its striking white sands and pristine waters, it’s a beach that offers both beauty and serenity, making it a must-see destination. - Squeaky Beach, Victoria, Australia
A unique coastal gem, famous for its squeaky quartz sand, this beach is a peaceful haven surrounded by nature and wilderness. - Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles
A tropical paradise with granite boulders and turquoise waters, this beach looks like something straight out of a postcard. - Sunset Beach, Trang, Thailand
Offering emerald waters and lush surroundings, Sunset Beach is ideal for those who love beautiful sunsets and stunning landscapes. - Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece
On the island of Milos, this surreal beach features dramatic white cliffs, caves, and arches, making it a must-see for those exploring Greece’s coast. - Haukland Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway
A beautiful beach where the northern lights dance across the sky in winter and the midnight sun lights up the sand in summer. - Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur, Mexico
This calm, shallow beach is perfect for families, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking in a serene environment. - Pfeiffer Beach, California, USA
Known for its stunning Keyhole Arch, this Big Sur beach has unique purple sand and incredible scenery. - Hanalei Bay, Hawai‘i, USA
A beautiful crescent of sand, ideal for both surfers and beachgoers, set against the lush landscapes of Kaua‘i. - Platja Illetes, Formentera, Spain
A Mediterranean gem with crystal-clear waters, this beach offers a relaxing and picturesque escape from the everyday.
With these beaches now on the world’s radar, there’s no better time to experience their magic firsthand.
(Source: Forbes)