World’s 50 Best Beaches 2024 List Includes 2 from the Philippines

World’s 50 Best Beaches 2024 List Includes 2 from the Philippines
The beach can be a refreshing place that makes you feel better the longer you’re there. Some studies show short walks along the beach can boost your mood and affect your mental health. This is because the beach is considered a blue space -- a water source such as an ocean, lake, pond, or swimming pool. Exposure to blue spaces has been linked to overall improved health.
The beach is a good place to head to when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed. ‌
Two fairly under-the-radar beaches in the Philippines have made it to this year’s World’s 50 Best Beaches, a list voted on by beach enthusiasts all over the world.
Entalula Beach, which is south of Miniloc Island in El Nido, Palawan is at number four, while Bon Bon Beach, a natural sand bar off Bangug Island in Romblon province made it to number 45.
Also in the list is Hidden Beach in El Nido, which is part of the Best of the Best or “hall of fame” list. These are beaches that topped the World’s 50 Best Beaches in previous years, and a few others that listmakers thought to be deserving.
In the write-up, Entalula Beach is described as “Palawan’s overlooked slice of heaven.” Visitors prize the beach for its privacy, while they swim in its clear waters against a backdrop of dramatic limestone cliffs.
“This beach is less frequented than others in the area, offering visitors a chance to escape the usual tourist spots and truly immerse themselves in nature,” the write-up says. “The water is remarkably clear, providing excellent conditions for both swimming and snorkeling, where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs just a short swim from the shore. Accessible only by boat, Entalula adds an element of adventure and exclusivity to any visit. Its striking natural features and tranquil atmosphere make it a coveted spot for relaxation and appreciating nature.”
“Visiting Entatula Beach is like stepping into a real-life postcard,” said Madeleine of the Simply Madeleine blog, which entered the beach as a nominee. “Imagine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise water framed by lush palm trees and towering limestone cliffs. It’s a true paradise!"
Meanwhile, Bon Bon Beach is a sand bar visible during low tide, allowing visitors to walk across its shallow, clear waters to the neighboring Bangug Island. “The beach itself is undeveloped, preserving its serene and unspoiled charm,” the write-up in the site reads. “The sand is fine and white, while the water is incredibly clear, providing lovely swimming conditions without big waves. As a lesser-known destination, Bon Bon Beach offers a quiet retreat compared to more tourist-heavy spots, so much so that often you could have this beach all to yourself.”
The write-up for Hidden Beach in El Nido describes it as a cove hidden away behind steep limestone cliffs offering guests visitors pristine white sand and clear shallow waters. “Hidden Beach is accessible only by boat, followed by a quick swim through a small opening, making for an adventurous beach experience,” the site says. “Surrounded by majestic limestone walls adorned with lush greenery and palms, it feels like stepping into a secluded paradise. Undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the world, its one-of-a-kind setting rightly earns it the title of one of The Best of The Best.”
Hidden Beach is “A turquoise-blue lagoon hidden away from most of the world,” says David Ways of the travel site The Longest Way Home. “It’s not the easiest to visit but most things this pristine are worth the adventure in getting there.”
Topping the list this year is Trunk Bay in the Virgin Islands, followed by Cala Mariolu in Italy, and Meads Bay in Anguilla. The rest of the top 10 includes Voutumi Beach in Greece, Turquoise Bay in Australia, Pink Beach in Indonesia, Anse Georgette in Seychelles, green Lagoon in French Polynesia, and Horse Shoe Island in Myanmar.
The list is compiled by soliciting nominations from travel junkies, journalists and the site’s Beach Ambassadors. Then, the list is narrowed down with the final 50 chosen based on each site’s uniqueness, wildlife, untouched state, “soundtrack of nature,” stress-free entrance, calm waters, privacy, and “frequently idyllic.”
“Sun, Beaches, Islands (or Sun, Sand, and Sea)” is among the primary tourism products of the Philippines. The country attracted close to two million inbound tourists from January to April 15 this year.