The Ultimate Guide to the World's Most Glamorous Beach Clubs for Summer 2026

There was a time when the world's most glamorous beach clubs belonged almost exclusively to the Mediterranean. Capri had its dramatic views, Saint-Tropez its high-energy day parties and Mykonos its endless soundtrack of house music. This summer, however, the map has shifted. From Egypt's North Coast to the shores of Lebanon, a new generation of beach destinations is proving that the art of seaside living is no longer confined to Europe's traditional playgrounds. The season's most interesting openings blur the lines between resort, restaurant and fashion destination. A day by the sea is now as likely to involve designer cabanas, Michelin-level dining and internationally renowned DJs as it is a swim in crystalline waters.

Egypt's North Coast has entered a new chapter, with international hospitality brands and luxury developers investing in destinations that rival the Cote d'Azur. At SouthMED, Kyma Beach has quickly become the address of the summer, developed by Talaat Moustafa Group in partnership with Dubai's Rikas Hospitality Group. Further along the coast, La Plage by La Maison Ani has brought chef Izu Ani's Riviera-inspired dining philosophy from Dubai to Hacienda White. Fashion has also found its place on the shoreline, where Villa Coconut Hotel at Zoya Ghazala Bay hosts the Missoni Resort Club, marking the Italian house's first hospitality collaboration in Africa. Sa'ada Sahel Beach in Ras El Hekma features a collaboration with Italian outdoor furniture specialist Paola Lenti and a culinary offering overseen by chef Omar Dhiab. Meanwhile, Esca Playa in Sidi Abdel Rahman continues to attract a devoted following with organic forms designed by architect Mohamed Badie.

Lebanon's coastline continues to exude effortless glamour, with a fresh generation of beach clubs redefining its summer scene. In Beirut, entrepreneur Karen Wazen has launched an eponymous beach club on the Aishti Rooftop. North of the capital, Isar Beach Club offers a softer rhythm along Ula Beach in Zouk Mosbeh, while Calico Beach Club in Anfeh and Ile Beach Bar in Batroun provide stunning views. In historic Byblos, Se by Oceanblue completes the picture with an energetic beach lounge beside one of the world's oldest ports.

Luxury fashion brands continue to treat beach clubs as immersive summer showcases. In Bodrum, Turkey, Jacquemus has taken over Blue Beach Club at Mandarin Oriental, and has also returned to Monte-Carlo Beach. In Cannes, Emporio Armani has taken over Vega La Plage, while Burberry has reworked its house check for One&Only Aesthesis in Glyfada, Greece. Dior continues to expand its Dioriviera universe at Il Riccio in Capri and D Maris Bay in Turkey. In Marbella, Spain, Omani perfume house Amouage teamed up with Nobu Hotel to celebrate its Love Hibiscus scent.

Alongside seasonal collaborations, several permanent destinations have debuted this year. On Capri, Mare by Casa Tua has opened inside Hotel La Palma. In Sardinia, Langosteria Porto Cervo has introduced its celebrated seafood restaurant to the Costa Smeralda, and Le Sirenuse Mare has expanded to Nerano with a new waterfront restaurant, cocktail bars and boutique.