International ranking for 2026 recognises Baía do Sancho, in Fernando de Noronha, and Pontal do Atalaia, in Arraial do Cabo, for their preserved nature, crystal-clear waters and unforgettable experiences
Brazil has once again taken centre stage among the most desired beach destinations on the planet with the release of The World’s 50 Best Beaches 2026 list. One of the main international references for travellers seeking paradisiacal scenery, the ranking includes two Brazilian representatives: Baía do Sancho, in Fernando de Noronha, and Pontal do Atalaia, in Arraial do Cabo. The choice reinforces the relevance of places that combine scenic beauty, environmental preservation and a deep connection with nature.
With more than 9,000 kilometres of coastline and a rare diversity of landscapes, Brazil offers different ways to experience the relationship with the sea. There are beaches for diving in crystal-clear waters, paddling at sunrise, hiking along trails through the vegetation, observing marine life, learning about the way of life of coastal communities, or simply letting time pass to the sound of the waves.
In this mosaic, Baía do Sancho represents one of the most preserved expressions of the Fernando de Noronha archipelago. Access to the beach can be by boat or by a staircase through narrow cracks in the rock, a journey that increases the anticipation with each step. At the end of the path, the visitor finds cliffs covered in greenery, golden sand, a sea of rare transparency, and an atmosphere of refuge.
Pontal do Atalaia reveals another type of enchantment and confirms Arraial do Cabo’s reputation as one of the most impressive seaside destinations in the world. Arrival at the beach can be by boat or via the famous staircases. Regardless of the choice, the landscape impresses with its combination of intensely blue waters, fine white sand, cliffs, and breathtaking panoramic views. The calm sea invites you to dive, contemplate, and take that kind of pause that transforms a day at the beach into an unforgettable memory.
Compiled with the contribution of more than 1,000 travel professionals, industry experts, and beach ambassadors, The World’s 50 Best Beaches list considers attributes such as uniqueness, wildlife, tranquillity, calm waters, low visitor concentration, and the likelihood of perfect days by the sea. More than just beautiful scenery, the selection values destinations capable of providing a genuine connection with the natural environment.
FERNANDO DE NORONHA: A NATURAL SANCTUARY IN THE ATLANTIC
Located in the state of Pernambuco, in the heart of Northeast Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is consists of 21 islands and boasts some of the most preserved landscapes in Brazil. A large part of its territory is within the Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park, which helps to conserve beaches, transparent waters, and a biodiversity that transforms each trip into a discovery.
In the sea, turtles, rays, dolphins, schools of fish, and coastal birds are part of the experience. Scuba diving, even for beginners, allows you to discover underwater scenery with great visibility, while a Hawaiian canoe at sunrise offers a delicate way to contemplate the silhouette of the islands. On land, the island tour showcases everything from famous beaches to secluded spots where time seems to slow down. For those seeking adventure, the destination also stands out as one of the most desirable places in Brazil for surfing, especially during the wave season.
Noronha also reveals itself in the stories, flavours, encounters, and ways of life of those who care for this paradise every day. It is this mix of conservation, natural beauty, and human presence that transforms the trip into a complete experience.
How to get there: The main way is to fly to Recife (Pernambuco), from where there are regular flights to Noronha.
Tips: Plan your trip in advance, book tours with authorised operators, and observe the visitation rules for protected areas. Since many attractions have access control, careful planning helps to better enjoy the destination and contributes to the preservation of this natural sanctuary.
ARRAIAL DO CABO: BLUE THAT TRANSFORMS
In the Lakes Region, about 140 km from the city of Rio de Janeiro, Arraial do Cabo is known for its sea of intense tones, alternating between turquoise blue, light green, and almost unbelievable transparencies. On sunny days, the white sand, boats, cliffs, and viewpoints form some of the most striking landscapes on the Brazilian coast.
Considered the diving capital of Brazil, the city boasts rich marine life, caves, shipwrecks, and good visibility for underwater experiences, including introductory scuba diving. For those who prefer to stay on the surface, boat trips reveal hidden beaches, rock walls, calm waters, and encounters with turtles and other Marine animals.
Besides Pontal do Atalaia, Arraial do Cabo offers visitors other unforgettable beaches, such as Praia do Farol, with access controlled by boat; Praia do Forno, accessible by trail or by sea; Praia Grande, known for its infrastructure, water sports and memorable sunsets; and Praia dos Anjos, the starting point for many coastal excursions. Between diving, boat trips, viewpoints and sunsets by the sea, the destination transforms beach days into contemplation and enchantment.
How to get there: The main gateway is RIOgaleão Airport, in the city of Rio de Janeiro. From there, the journey by land is approximately 160 km.
Tips: Combine boat trips, light walks and stops at viewpoints to enjoy different angles of the landscape. On holidays and peak season, it is worth organising travel and reservations in advance.
AWARD-WINNING BEACHES AND RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
The presence of Baía do Sancho and Pontal do Atalaia among the 50 best beaches in the world increases the international visibility of the Brazilian coast and reinforces an increasingly valued position in sun and sea tourism: the ability to combine paradisiacal landscapes with well-maintained, safe experiences connected to environmental preservation.
This view of the coastline as a natural and tourist heritage is also reflected in Brazil’s progress in the Blue Flag Programme, one of the world’s most recognised environmental certifications for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism vessels. In the 2025/2026 season, the country achieved 60 awards, maintaining its leadership in South America. The seal is granted to locations that meet international criteria for water quality, environmental management, safety, services, accessibility, and environmental education.
More than just highlighting landscapes, these results show a coastline that stands out for its care for its territories, its appreciation of local communities, and the offering of experiences aligned with the expectations of tourists who are increasingly attentive to the impact of their travels.