Ten of the world’s most inspiring new coastal escapes have been unveiled in a list curated by travel platform Backstage - and two of the top three are in Greece.
Luxury travel is evolving. As travellers turn away from generic opulence and seek out experiences with personality, space, and calm, a new style of hotel is emerging - understated, design-led, and grounded in its surroundings. Curated travel platform Backstage has released its definitive guide to the Best New Beach Hotels in the World, and Greece claims two of the most coveted spots.
From volcanic clifftops in Folegandros to the secret beaches of Formentera, the ten selected hotels reflect a shared philosophy: authenticity, intimacy, and thoughtful design. And while the list spans Mexico, Turkey, Spain and the Maldives, it’s Greece that opens the list and reappears again at number three reflecting the country’s enduring power to set the tone in global island travel.

1. Gundari Resort – Folegandros, Greece
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Folegandros, Gundari Resort offers a minimalist and dramatic escape with panoramic Aegean views. The resort spans 80 acres of untouched nature, featuring 25 suites and 2 villas designed with bioclimatic principles. Guests can indulge in wellness experiences, including yoga classes and spa treatments, or explore the island's raw beauty through curated adventures.




2. Four Seasons – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Located in the coveted community of Cabo Del Sol, this Four Seasons resort brings laid-back Baja charm with the brand's signature polish. Guests can enjoy spacious villas with private terraces, a swimmable beach, and a variety of dining options that celebrate local flavours.

3. One&Only Kea Island – Greece
A fresh take on Greek island luxury, One&Only Kea Island features modern, understated villas with sweeping views and private infinity pools. Set on a 65-hectare beachfront, the resort offers personalised service, wellness programs, and access to the island's natural and cultural treasures.






4. Six Senses La Sagesse – Grenada, The West Indies
Nestled between two beaches, Six Senses La Sagesse blends eco-luxury with Caribbean soul. The resort offers private pools, sea-to-table dining, and total seclusion. Guests can immerse themselves in wellness experiences and explore the island's rich biodiversity.

5. Maxx Royal – Bodrum, Turkey
A bold new entry on the Bodrum coast, Maxx Royal is an all-suite resort featuring private pools and a full-scale gym. The property offers a variety of dining options, including restaurants helmed by renowned chefs, and a range of wellness facilities to rejuvenate the body and mind.

6. Nujuma, Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Part of the ambitious Red Sea Project, Nujuma is one of the most exclusive openings of the year. The resort features private villas on the Red Sea, offering unparalleled privacy and luxury. Guests can enjoy personalised services, spa treatments, and explore the pristine marine environment.

7. Hotel Le Dune Piscinas – Sardinia, Italy
Remote and cinematic, Hotel Le Dune Piscinas is set on a wild stretch of Sardinian dunes. The property, a restored 19th-century mining warehouse, offers vintage charm and a golden hour that lasts forever. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, a spa, and the serene beauty of the Costa Verde.

8. Soneva Secret – Maldives
Remote even by Maldivian standards, Soneva Secret offers a barefoot fantasy with only 14 villas, some featuring retractable roofs for stargazing. The resort emphasises sustainability and personalised luxury, providing guests with unique experiences in an untouched atoll.

9. Fairmont La Hacienda – Cádiz, Spain
Beachfront elegance on the Costa del Sol, Fairmont La Hacienda combines Andalusian charm with modern lines. The resort features two golf courses, sea views, and a variety of dining options, offering guests a luxurious retreat in southern Spain.

10. Dunas de Formentera – Formentera, Spain
Laid-back, low-rise luxury on one of Spain's most peaceful islands, Dunas de Formentera embraces natural tones and raw textures. The resort offers a 'shoes off' kind of vibe, allowing guests to unwind and connect with the island's serene environment.
These ten beach hotels represent the pinnacle of modern luxury, each offering unique experiences that connect guests with their surroundings. From Greece's dramatic landscapes to the tranquil shores of the Maldives, these properties redefine what it means to escape.
The hotels on Backstage’s list show that there’s a growing appetite for quiet luxury that values privacy, space, natural materials, and thoughtful design over status-driven experiences. Greece’s inclusion in the list is no accident. The country’s unique combination of landscape, history, and contemporary hospitality places it firmly on the map for the next era of global travel.
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