Millions of traveler reviews have identified a new favorite that is only available by boat.
A tropical paradise with crystal clear turquoise waters and snow-white sand topped the “best beaches in the world” rating according to Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Beaches 2026. The winner was the Isla Pasion beach off the coast of Cozumel, Mexico.
After a three-year hiatus, the award has once again identified travel favorites based on millions of TripAdvisor reviews and ratings, according to an article in Express. Isla Pasion, also known as Passion Island, is described as a postcard-worthy destination, with its sugar-white sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear azure waters, creating a perfect image reminiscent of a Windows screensaver.
A secluded paradise
The island is located in the Caribbean Sea and is only accessible by boat. It can be reached in about 10 minutes from Cozumel, and it is a popular day trip for tourists visiting Playa del Carmen.
TripAdvisor highlights the rich marine life – particularly stingrays in the crystal-clear waters – which attracts snorkelers. The island also has protected coral reefs and sea turtle nesting sites. Isla Pasion is marketed as an “exclusive day trip destination”.
The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is warm and comfortable. Due to limited access, tourists must purchase a one-day all-inclusive pass or a tour package.
Visitors in reviews call the trip ideal for families and couples. One of the tourists noted that the excursion is well organized, the boat trip takes about an hour and gives incredible views. On the island, guests are offered food and drinks on the all-inclusive system, there are souvenir shops, photo locations and clean infrastructure.
Other travelers emphasize that the island is not overcrowded with tourists, and the stay lasts about four hours. Some people also mention the exciting ride on a high-speed boat with turns in the middle of the ocean.
Top 10 Beaches in the World in 2026
- Isla Pasion – Cozumel, Mexico
- Elafonissi Beach – Crete, Greece
- Balos Lagoon – Kissamos, Greece
- Eagle Beach-Aruba
- Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal
- Banana Beach-Koh He, Thailand
- La Jolla Cove-California, USA
- La Pelosa Beach – Sardinia, Italy
- Manly Beach – Sydney, Australia
- Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – Simon’s Town, South Africa
According to TripAdvisor’s Director of Communications, Laurel Greitrix, for many travelers, the beach is the main destination. The rating, based on millions of reviews, aims to help tourists choose their destination and plan their vacation more easily.