Latest news with #bestbeaches
The Sun
07-07-2025
- The Sun
Stunning Scottish beach that's like a ‘tropical untouched paradise' named among best in the world
A SCOTTISH beach has been crowned as one of the best in the world, new research reveals. West Beach, in the Outer Hebrides, makes the top 25, alongside breathtaking locations including Australia's The Pass and Ao Maya in Thailand. 7 7 7 Situated off the northwest coast of Scotland, the seaside spot sits on the longest archipelago in the British Isles. Award-winning travel publisher Lonely Planet, which compiled the league table, hailed West Beach as an "untouched paradise". The stunning shoreline stretches for three miles and is a hit with locals and tourists alike. One visitor gushed: "It feels like a tropical paradise and shows that there are gorgeous getaways right on your doorstep. "The sand is white and the waters are blue, it's the perfect spot to catch a tan on a sunny day." And to cool off from the rays, brave swimmers can take a dip in the chilly waters, which rarely get above 13C. For visitors who don't like sand between their toes, the seaside spot boasts grassy dunes perfect for bird-watchers or hikers who are keen to take in the jaw-dropping views. The beach is stunning all year round, however, it's been suggested that spring is the best time to visit due to the "burst of colour" from the abundance of wildflowers. The beauty spot has good transport links to the mainland with a regular ferry service running from Oban. There are also flights from Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and Southampton to Stornoway Airport in Lewis. WORLD'S BEST BEACHES Source: Lonely Planet The Pass, Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia Ipanema Beach, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Ao Maya, Ko Phi-Phi, Krabi, Thailand Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania Sarakiniko, Milos, Greece Chesterman Beach, Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada Cabo San Juan del Guía, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Colombia Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue, Seychelles Playa Balandra, La Paz BCS, Mexico Punta Paloma, Tarifa, Cádiz, Spain Punta Rata Beach, Brela, Makarska Riviera, Croatia West Beach, Berneray, Outer Hebrides, Scotland Rauðasandur, Westfjords, Iceland Pink Beach, Padar Island, Komodo National Park, Indonesia Dueodde, Nexø, Bornholm, Denmark Keem Bay Beach, Keel, County Mayo, Ireland Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington, USA Stanhope Beach, Prince Edward Island National Park, PEI, Canada Radhanagar, Swaraj Dweep, Andaman Islands, India Pacifico Beach, Siargao, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines Plage de Ta'ahiamanu, Mo'orea, French Polynesia Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France Gardner Bay, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador Playa Manuel Antonio, Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Playa Bahía de las Águilas, Parque Nacional Jaragua, Dominican Republic It's advisable to rent a car to fully explore the island and the ferry should be booked in advance. West Beach bagged 12th place on the Lonely Planet chart, The Pass, Australia, Ipanema Beach, Brazil and Ao Maya, Thailand, respectively scooped first, second and third spots. 7 7 7
Daily Mail
14-05-2025
- Daily Mail
Europe's best beaches revealed - as breathtaking lagoon spot takes the crown
A brand new ranking has revealed Europe's best beaches and a breathtaking lagoon has taken the crown. The list, put together by European Best Destinations, looked at travellers' reviews to find the world's most beautiful beaches. The travel guide says: 'Embark on a journey to these pristine natural havens, where you can disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with yourself amidst stunning landscapes.' While the UK sadly fails to get a beach into the top 10, many of the best-rated spots are just a short flight away. Which would you most like to travel to? 10. Gulpiyuri Beach, Spain Playa de Gulpiyuri is located in Asturias in northern Spain and is renowned as the smallest beach in the world at just 40m long. It's especially unusual as it's an inland beach and sits around 100m back from the Cantabrian coastline. Seawater reaches the tiny beach via underground tunnels. And while it might be small in stature, it's not short on beauty. Backed by cliffs with golden sand, the beach is a popular spot with locals. The judges describe the beach as 'natural and undeveloped' making it the ideal spot for holidaymakers seeking a 'tranquil environment'. 9. Banje Beach, Croatia This pretty pebble beach is one of Dubrovnik's most popular beaches and it's just a short walk from the city centre. The beach has a range of restaurants, bars and shops while sunbeds are also available for lounging. The judges reveal: 'It's proximity to the Old Town provides a unique backdrop, combining beach relaxation with historic exploration.' Tourists will be able to admire Dubrovnik's iconic fortress as they swim in the beach's waters. 8. Assos Beach, Greece One of the best beaches in Kefalonia, Assos Beach is located on the island's northwest coast. The beach is close to Assos village, making it easy for holidaymakers to access tavernas and cafes. 'Assos Beach is a charming pebble beach nestled in a picturesque bay,' say the judges. They add that the beach's 'calm water' makes it a suitable destination for families. 7. Playa de Los Muertos, Spain Known as the 'Beach of the Dead', Playa de Los Muertos is luckily much prettier than it sounds. Located around 80km outside Almeria, the beach has also previously been named the 'most beautiful beach in Spain'. The judges say: 'The beach features a long stretch of white pebbles and crystal-clear water, making it a favourite among sunbathers and snorkellers.' Holidaymakers will need to tackle a steep cliff walk to reach the beach and they should be aware that there isn't always much shade available. 6. La Pelosa Beach, Italy Located on the island of Sardinia, La Pelosa Beach is so beautiful it's been described as 'Caribbean-like'. And the beach's fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water and sunny weather definitely makes it look like it's in a far more exotic location. 'The iconic 16th century Torre della Pelosa tower adds historic charm to this picturesque setting,' say the judges. But don't just turn up. The beach's popularity means that holidaymakers now need to book a spot to visit with 1,500 spaces available each day. 5. Gale Fontainhas Beach, Portugal Gale Fontainhas Beach sits on Portugal's sunny Alentejo coast and the judges describe it as one of Europe's 'less crowded beaches'. And they're right. Stretching for 2.2km/1.3 miles, it's generally easy for holidaymakers to find a private spot on the golden sand. The beach is even backed by sandstone cliffs, making it a dramatic place to sunbathe. Tourists should be aware that the current is strong at Gale Fontainhas and the water isn't generally suitable for inexperienced swimmers. 4. Cala Luna, Italy A beautiful beach with 'golden sand' and sea caves, Cala Luna is another of Sardinia's prettiest beaches. Cala Luna, which translates as 'Moon Beach, earns its enchanting name from its crescent shape. The judges describe the Sardinian beach as a 'haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers'. Its clear water and sea caves make the beach a popular destination for snorkelling. 3. Cala Pregonda, Spain A gorgeous beach in Menorca, Cala Pregonda is officially the third prettiest in Europe. Described by the judges as a 'tranquil spot' that's 'ideal for seeking solitude', Cala Pregonda is located on the island's north coast. The beach's red sand and bright blue water make it one of Menorca's most attractive spots. It's a wild and secluded beach so tourists will need to bring their own supplies for the day. 2. Cala Brandinchi, Italy Sometimes known as 'Little Tahiti', Cala Brandinchi is the third Sardinian beach to rank among Europe's most beautiful. Surrounded by a pine forest and Mediterranean scrub, the beach 'offers a serene environment', according to the ranking. Cala Brandinchi is 'ideal for families', say the judges, with 'fine white sands' and 'crystal-clear shallow waters'. The beach has parasols and beach chairs for use as well as boat rental, a kiosk and bar. 1. Port Glarokavos Lagoon Beach, Greece Port Glarokavos Lagoon Beach on northern Greece's Kassandra Peninsula takes the crown for the world's most beautiful beach. The judges say: 'This natural gem combines a tranquil lagoon, clear turquoise waters, soft golden sand and lush pine surroundings, creating a breathtaking setting for a relaxing and photogenic beach day.' Known as Greece's own 'Blue Lagoon', the beach is ideal for families who want to unwind with easy access to safe shallow waters. It's also a popular spot for snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and birdwatching.
