Spoiled for choice Down Under, we tend to feel like we have some of the best beaches in the world.
However a new ranking says those who love a lounge on the sand and an ocean dip should also look further afield, as some of the world’s most spectacular spots are revealed.
In particular, we should be booking flights to Europe, as the top three listings in the Best of the Best Beaches in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards are to be found there.
Aussies should note with pride however, that Sydney’s Manly Beach came in at number 7.
The top spot was taken out by Praia da Falésia in Portugal’s Algarve, known for its long stretch of golden sand and distinctive orange cliffs stretching into the cloudless blue sky.
“Sunbathe on the huge shore, go swimming or body surfing in the waves, or stroll along the scenic footpath on top of the cliffs and check out the incredible views,” shares TripAdvisor.
“The beach has been awarded Blue Flag recognition for its cleanliness, plus there are restrooms, a snack bar, and it’s easy to get to via public transportation.”
The listing site says spring is a great time to visit Praia da Falésia, for more affordable prices and fewer crowds.
Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards select destinations that receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.
The top spot was followed by Sicily’s Spiaggia dei Conigli, recommended for its unbelievably blue waters, white sand and peaceful location, perfect for relaxing, soaking up the sun, and swimming.
Spain’s Basque Country beach La Concha came in third as an iconic spot right in the city, with a huge sandy shore and clear, blue waters. “The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great place for families,” shares Tripadvisor.
Caribbean beaches topped the chart in previous years, a shift that could be down to inflation-weary Europeans looking for shorter, less expensive flights to destinations nearer to home.
Fourth-best was Ka’anapali in Hawai’i, followed by Grace Bay Beach on the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“Last year, Tripadvisor received millions of reviews for beaches — it’s clear that our community absolutely loves them,” said Sarah Firshein of Tripadvisor.
Europe’s top 10 included two Icelandic beaches, as well as some of the usual suspects on Gran Canaria, Ayia Napa and Crete.
The most “sustainable” beach holiday can be had at Sandsbank in Britain, according to Tripadvisor, which said the awards were based on “the quality and quantity of global reviews and ratings on Tripadvisor for beaches, gathered over the 12-month period from October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023.”
Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Beaches in the World
- Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal
- Spiaggia dei Conigli – Sicily, Italy
- La Concha Beach – Basque Country, Spain
- Ka’anapali Beach – Maui, Hawaii
- Grace Bay Beach – Turks and Caicos, Caribbean
- Anse Lazio – Seychelles
- Manly Beach – NSW, Australia
- Eagle Beach – Aruba, Caribbean
- Siesta Beach – Florida, US
- Varadero Beach – Cuba, Caribbean
