It’s official—this European beach destination is the world’s best for the fourth time

Portugal’s Algarve clinches World’s Leading Beach Destination 2025 for a record fourth time, beating global favourites like the Maldives with beauty, culture, and sustainability.

Have you ever stood barefoot on a beach and wondered how some places manage to feel timeless, no matter how many awards they win? That’s the Algarve for you—sunlit, soulful, and somehow still surprising.

On Portugal’s southern edge, where golden cliffs meet the Atlantic, the Algarve has once again claimed the title of World’s Leading Beach Destination at the World Travel Awards 2025. It’s a win that feels less like a headline grab and more like a quiet nod of recognition—because this is the fourth time the region has earned the honour, an unprecedented feat that sets it apart from global icons like the Maldives and Turks and Caicos.

Winning once can be luck. Winning four times is a legacy. The Algarve’s repeat victories (2020, 2021, 2024 and now 2025) reflect more than postcard-perfect beaches. They speak to years of careful planning, community-led tourism, and a deep respect for nature. Local authorities, tourism bodies, and residents have worked in sync to ensure that growth never comes at the cost of authenticity—or the environment.

What truly sets the Algarve apart is balance. Yes, the beaches are spectacular, but so is the effort to protect them. Sustainability here isn’t a buzzword; it’s built into everyday tourism, from eco-certified hotels to protected marine zones and cleaner coastal practices.

So what keeps the Algarve at the top of travellers’ wish lists year after year?

For starters, the landscapes are dramatic and diverse. Think honey-coloured cliffs in Lagos, hidden coves along Praia da Marinha, and long, lively stretches of sand in Albufeira where the energy never dips. Then there’s accessibility—many beaches are thoughtfully designed to be enjoyed by everyone, including visitors with disabilities, setting a global benchmark for inclusive travel.

Beyond the coast, the Algarve reveals a rich cultural soul. Historic towns like Faro, Tavira, and Silves invite slow exploration, with Moorish castles, tiled churches, and local markets offering a taste of everyday Portuguese life. Add to that over 300 days of sunshine a year, and it’s easy to see why travellers return—not just once, but again and again.

Of course, the Algarve isn’t just about laying out a towel and chasing sunsets. Adventure seekers ride Atlantic waves at Arrifana, kayakers glide through sea caves carved by centuries of wind and water, and golfers tee off on world-class courses overlooking the ocean.

Food lovers, meanwhile, are in for a treat. Fresh seafood is the region’s pride, whether it’s a steaming cataplana shared at a seaside tavern or perfectly grilled sardines enjoyed with local wine. Every meal feels rooted in place, shaped by the sea and tradition.

Nature lovers will find their escape inland. The Ria Formosa Natural Park offers tranquil lagoons and rich birdlife, while the Monchique Mountains provide cooler air, hiking trails, and panoramic views that show a different, greener side of the Algarve.

One of the strongest reasons behind the Algarve’s continued global recognition is its commitment to sustainable tourism. From beach clean-up initiatives and energy-efficient resorts to education around responsible travel, the region is actively safeguarding what makes it special.

This long-term vision has also earned the Algarve the title of Europe’s Leading Beach Destination ten times in the past decade, reinforcing its reputation as a place that evolves without losing its essence.

André Gomes, President of the Algarve Tourism Bureau, summed it up best, noting that the award reflects “a collective effort to protect our natural resources while continuously improving the visitor experience.” It’s an approach that many destinations aspire to—but few execute as seamlessly.

The Algarve’s World Travel Awards 2025 win isn’t just about being the best beach destination today—it’s about ensuring it remains one tomorrow. By prioritising sustainability, accessibility, culture, and community, the region is quietly shaping the future of beach tourism.

For travellers seeking sun, substance, and a sense of place, the Algarve doesn’t just live up to the hype—it earns it, year after year.