Forbes recognized Canto de la Playa, on Saona Island in the Dominican Republic, as one of the 50 best beaches in the world and a Top 5 beach in North America, highlighting its white sand, crystal-clear waters, and protected natural environment.

The magazine included the Dominican Republic in its prestigious list. Located on Saona Island, Canto de la Playa is considered one of the most preserved corners of the Caribbean. Access is only by sea, and the absence of shops or hotels has kept its natural beauty intact, earning it a spot among the 50 best beaches in the world for 2026.

A Dominican natural paradise

The international ranking evaluates factors such as environmental conservation, biodiversity, tranquility, accessibility, and visitor experience. Over a thousand experts, travelers, and specialized influencers took part in selecting the world’s best beaches. The ranking, compiled by these international travel experts, places this beach in the Top 5 in North America, alongside renowned destinations in Mexico, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, and Turks & Caicos.

Forbes highlights Canto de la Playa’s white sand, crystal-clear waters, and protected natural setting, as it forms part of Cotubanamá National Park. Its low visitor density and pristine environment make it a unique attraction for those seeking authentic and sustainable experiences.

The publication emphasizes that this recognition not only reaffirms the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic, but also underscores the importance of preserving its protected areas to ensure responsible tourism.

More beaches awarded

The beaches of the Dominican Republic continue to gain worldwide popularity, receiving numerous accolades that place them among the best on the planet.

Playa Bonita, in the province of Samaná, was included on the list of beaches selected as the “Best in the World” by the renowned tourism magazine National Geographic. Ranking #16 on the list of 40.

Bahía de las Águilas beach, located on the Dominican Republic’s southern coast in the province of Pedernales, was selected among the “25 Best Beaches in the World” on the list compiled by the Australian travel guide, Lonely Planet.

Bávaro Beach in Punta Cana was selected as one It was named one of the “20 Best Beaches in the Caribbean and the Bahamas” by Travel + Leisure. It was also included in TripAdvisor’s “Best of the Best Beaches for 2025” list of the “25 Best Beaches in the World” and “25 Best Beaches in the Caribbean.” The beach ranks #7 among the best in the world and #3 among the best in the Caribbean.

The beaches of Punta Cana—Bávaro Beach, Cabeza de Toro Beach, and Macao Beach—were selected by U.S. News & World Report, ranking #13 on its list of “Best Beaches in the Caribbean 2025.”

U.S. News & World Report also included the beaches of Puerto Plata on the North Coast—Playa Dorada, Key Paradise (Cayo Arena), and Cofresí Beach—in its ranking of “Best Beaches in the Caribbean 2025.”




Source: Ministerio de Turismo