Tip of the day – Plan your summer 2025 in Crete & Kefalonia | According to TripAdvisor

• February 26, 2025

According to TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, there are two Greek beaches between the top 10 beaches in the world for 2025: Elafonissi beach in Crete island and Myrtos beach in Kefalonia island.

To reach Elafonissi you should take the ferry or plane from Athens to Chania and then  rent a car exploring the south part of the island. Totally, it’s a 1h30 drive from the Chania City. But we highly recommend not only to have a stay in Chania too, but to take it easy and have many stops at your roadtrip. It is sure that  during this roadtrip you will find much more beautiful, hidden and non hidden gems of Crete.

On the other hand, to reach Kefallonia island and Myrtos beach that are located in Ionian Sea, you should go to Patras, the third biggest city of Greece, a 3h-drive from Athens, on the west part of the country and take the ferry from there to Sami port in Kefalonia island and then drive  for 18km (a 30-min drive). If you love hiking too, don’t miss to explore the mountain of the island, Enos mountain, as it is  one of the most impressive from those that are located in Greek islands. And of course don’t leave from the island without visiting the Melissani cave for the most instagrammable photos you could take on this island.

Paradise Found: Tripadvisor Names World’s Best Beaches in Travelers’ Choice Awards

Rejoining the list for the first time since 2021 and climbing 23 places to take the No. 1 spot in the world for 2025 is Elafonissi Beach in Greece. Located on the southwest coast of Crete, this remote beach is known for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters. A popular summer getaway spot, drawing both sunbathers and water sports lovers, visitors will find a mix of relaxation and activity. This stunning family-friendly beach promises clear shallow waters, a scenic drive down and plenty of photo opportunities too.

Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2025

1. Elafonissi Beach – Crete, Greece
2. Banana Beach – Phuket, Thailand
3. Eagle Beach – Oranjestad, Aruba
4. Siesta Beach – Siesta Key, Florida
5. Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal
6. Playa Varadero – Varadero, Cuba
7. Bavaro Beach – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
8. Playa de Muro Beach – Mallorca, Spain
9. Kelingking Beach – Nusa Penida, Indonesia
10. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia Island, Greece

Check here if you are interested in a Day Trip from Chania  to Elafonissi island Pink Sand Beach, and here if you are interested in a private tour of Myrtos Beach and Melissani cave.