Indian popular tourist spot ranked in among World’s top 10 beaches. Check the list

A crescent-shaped picturesque beach from Goa has been declared one of the best in Asia by Global Beach Index 2026. It was ranked 6th in the global list and is the only Asian beach to have made it to the top 25. This places India in among the world's top beach destinations, with Goa's Palolem Beach. The beach is known for its palm-lined bay, calm swimming waters and thatched restaurants. Here's what visitors can check here. Check which other beaches made the global top 10.

Why Palolem Beach in Goa deserves a visit

Located in South Goa, Palolem Beach is a tourist destination featuring a palm-lined bay. During the peak season, the tranquil beach becomes a colourful and vibrant collection of thatched roof restaurants. It is one of the top picks of South Goa for families or long-term visitors as it offers a safe swimming environment. You can also indulge in water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.

How to reach: Dabolim Airport and Manohar International Airport are the nearest airports. Madgaon Junction is the closest major railway station.

Activities to do here

South Goa’s Palolem beach will get your adrenaline pumping with water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. It also offers boat trips for dolphin watching and ferrying to nearby islands. You can also try out speed boat rides, jet skiings, parasailing and scuba diving.

How was Palolem beach selected as best beach?

As per information on the official website of The Global Beach Index 2026, the beaches were selected with a combination of expert nominations, NASA’s data, EU Program data and in-depth analysis of 100,000 reviews. The beaches span 14 countries and four continents.

World's top 10 beaches in the Global Beach Index 2026

Trunk Bay, St John, US Virgin Islands
Taking the top spot, Trunk Bay is known for its striking blue waters and strong recommendations from beach experts.

Elafonissi Beach, Greece:
Famous for its crystal-clear blue waters, Elafonissi is described as one of the world's most beautiful beaches.

Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos:
Its powder-soft sand, warm Caribbean waters and offshore barrier reef make it a popular destination. April to June is considered an ideal time to visit.

Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico:
Located on Culebra Island, this beach is known for white sand, turquoise waters and opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. It is part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.

Golden Horn Beach, Croatia:
Also called Zlatni Rat, this famous Adriatic beach is recognised for its unusual shape and scenic coastline near Bol on Brač Island.

Palolem Beach, India:
It is the only Asian beach that has made an entry in the list.

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, St Croix, US Virgin Islands: This beach provides important nesting grounds for endangered leatherback and hawksbill turtles, as well as threatened green sea turtles. Volunteers support conservation efforts.

Playa Balandra, Mexico:
Located in La Paz, this beach is known for its shallow waters, which allow visitors to walk across the bay.

Praia da Falésia, Portugal:
Its long stretch of golden sand is backed by striking red and orange cliffs.

Eagle Beach, Aruba:
Known for its wide shoreline and soft white sand, Eagle Beach also features the island's famous fofoti trees, often seen in tourism photographs.