A beach on Kefalonia has been voted as the second best beach in the world for 2026, according to a panel of experts, per a global survey published this week.

The World’s 50 Beaches is the annual ranking of outstanding destinations for swimmers and nature lovers, that as its hosts say “is a culmination of countless days spent by our judges, Beach Ambassadors and World’s 50 Beaches team exploring beaches all over the world.” That is a total of over 1,000 vetted travel professionals, unlike other votes that are based on users/visitors.

Fteri Beach, as the list’s hosts note, “is tucked away in a secluded cove, surrounded by dramatic white cliffs, and is accessible primarily by boat or via a hike down a steep trail. Its isolation contributes to its pristine and serene atmosphere, setting it apart from more tourist-heavy destinations. Majestic white cliffs frame the beach, curving around a stretch of striking white pebbles mixed with sand, which meets the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The untouched beauty and tranquil environment of Fteri Beach make it a haven for those in search of peace and a deep connection with nature.”

This is actually one of the three Greek beaches included in this top-50. The other two are also in the Ionian Sea, namely on Lefkada and Corfu. They are Porto Katsiki, the famous Lefkada beach ranking 34 in the list, and Porto Timoni on Corfu, taking number 46. 

Only Greece, Thailand and Australia do have three entries in the global top-50. Explore the full 2026 list here.

The website notes that “to maintain a continually evolving global guide, The World’s 50 Best Beaches employs a “Best of the Best” Hall of Fame. Former #1 beaches are permanently retired from the annual voting pool. Rather than competing year after year, these unparalleled destinations graduate to the “Best of the Best” archive.” That might mean next year Fteri Beach could climb to the top spot.

Obviously Fteri tops the European top-50 of the World’s 50 Beaches, followed by Spain’s Cala Macarella. Porto Katsiki ranks fifth and Porto Timoni ninth.