Aruba Joins Mexico, United States, Italy, South Africa, Greece, Thailand and More with Isla Pasion, Eagle Beach, La Pelosa Beach, Elafonissi Beach Crowned the World’s Ultimate Beaches for 2026

Image generated with Ai

Aruba is making waves in the global tourism scene as it joins powerhouse destinations like Mexico, the United States, Italy, South Africa, Greece, and Thailand, with Isla Pasion and Eagle Beach earning prestigious recognition as the world’s ultimate beaches for 2026. These stunning locations, known for their pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking beauty, are now part of an elite list that includes La Pelosa Beach in Italy, Elafonissi Beach in Greece, and the renowned stretches of coastline in Thailand. This recognition highlights Aruba’s growing global appeal and commitment to sustainable tourism, solidifying its place as a must-visit paradise for beach lovers in the years to come.

After a three-year break, the prestigious award has returned, highlighting travelers’ favorite destinations based on millions of reviews and ratings from TripAdvisor users. Among the standout winners is Isla Pasion, also known as Passion Island, which is widely regarded as a picture-perfect tropical escape. With its pristine white sand, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and crystal-clear azure waters, it’s a place that could easily be mistaken for a Windows screensaver come to life.

A Secluded Paradise in the Caribbean

Situated in the Caribbean Sea, Isla Pasion is a truly secluded paradise. The island is accessible only by boat, making it a perfect escape for those looking for some peace and solitude away from the crowds. A short 10-minute boat ride from Cozumel gets visitors to this stunning island, which has become a favorite day-trip destination for those vacationing in Playa del Carmen. The island’s exclusivity adds to its charm, offering visitors a rare chance to enjoy natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of a typical tourist spot.

Isla Pasion’s natural surroundings are nothing short of spectacular. The island’s crystal-clear waters teem with marine life, attracting snorkelers from across the globe. Among the most popular creatures to spot in the water are the graceful stingrays, which glide effortlessly beneath the surface. For those interested in exploring underwater, the island is home to protected coral reefs, adding even more allure to the snorkeling experience. Furthermore, the island serves as a nesting site for sea turtles, which further enhances the island’s eco-tourism appeal.

An Exclusive Day Trip Retreat

Isla Pasion is marketed as an “exclusive day trip destination,” with tourists needing to purchase a day pass or an all-inclusive tour package to visit. Due to the limited access to the island, the experience is highly curated, ensuring visitors enjoy the best of this Caribbean gem without the hassle of overcrowding. This exclusivity has made Isla Pasion a top choice for tourists looking for an intimate and less commercialized experience.

The best time to visit the island is between November and April, when the weather is warm, yet comfortable, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. While the island is open year-round, the peak season sees the most visitors, but thanks to its limited access, it remains far from crowded. Tourists who have visited the island often note how well-organized the excursion is, with a boat ride from Cozumel to the island taking approximately an hour. This short ride offers some incredible views of the surrounding waters, setting the tone for the relaxing day ahead.

Once on the island, visitors are treated to an all-inclusive experience that includes drinks and access to various amenities such as souvenir shops, photo spots, and well-maintained facilities. The island also offers plenty of opportunities for guests to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings, including areas that offer stunning panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding islands. Guests can take leisurely walks along the beach, swim in the clear water, or simply bask in the sun. The island’s quiet atmosphere and pristine environment make it a perfect destination for both families and couples looking for an escape from their daily routines.

Family-Friendly and Couple-Friendly Destination

The island has earned praise from visitors for its ability to cater to both families and couples alike. Families with children enjoy the safe, shallow waters ideal for wading and the opportunity to explore the marine life just beneath the surface. Meanwhile, couples often seek the island’s tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting for a romantic getaway. For those seeking adventure, the boat ride to the island is an exciting experience in itself. The thrilling speedboat ride, which takes visitors through turns in the open ocean, adds an extra element of excitement to the trip. It’s not every day that one gets to experience the exhilarating feeling of speeding across the Caribbean waters before arriving at such a beautiful island retreat.

Visitors often mention the four-hour stay as the perfect amount of time to soak in the island’s beauty and relaxation. Since the island is not overcrowded with tourists, the experience remains peaceful and refreshing, allowing guests to fully embrace the serenity of this tropical haven.

A Top Beach Destination

Isla Pasion’s ranking as one of the best beaches in the world comes as no surprise. In TripAdvisor’s recent ranking of the Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2026, Isla Pasion placed first on the list. This recognition highlights the island’s allure as a hidden gem that continues to capture the hearts of travelers. Here is the full list of the top beaches for 2026:

1. Isla Pasion – Cozumel, Mexico
2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete, Greece
3. Balos Lagoon – Kissamos, Greece
4. Eagle Beach – Aruba
5. Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal
6. Banana Beach – Koh He, Thailand
7. La Jolla Cove – California, USA
8. La Pelosa Beach – Sardinia, Italy
9. Manly Beach – Sydney, Australia
10. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – Simon’s Town, South Africa

The ranking is based on millions of reviews and aims to help travelers in selecting the best beaches for their next vacation. For many, the beach is the ultimate destination, and TripAdvisor’s ranking serves as a helpful guide for planning the perfect getaway. The island’s stunning natural environment, its rich marine life, and its exclusive charm have firmly established Isla Pasion as one of the world’s premier beach destinations.

Aruba has earned its spot alongside top global destinations like Mexico, the United States, and Greece, with Isla Pasion and Eagle Beach being named among the world’s ultimate beaches for 2026 due to their pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and commitment to sustainable tourism.

Isla Pasion is not just a beach destination; it’s an escape into a serene, tropical paradise. Its combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and exclusive accessibility make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the true essence of the Caribbean. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a beautiful spot to unwind, Isla Pasion has something for everyone. With its continued popularity, it’s no wonder it has earned a top spot in the world’s best beaches ranking.