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Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Gorgeous 'Caribbean of Wales' beach named as UK's most-loved spot
This secluded Welsh beach has been lauded for its "views reminiscent of the Caribbean" - earning the top spot on Holidu's Top 25 ranking of the most-loved beaches in the UK If you want a Caribbean holiday at staycation prices, then a trip to Wales might be the answer. There are plenty of spectacular seaside destinations in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland - but one beach in Wales has been dubbed a "Jewel in the Crown". The holiday rental portal, Holidu, analysed thousands of coastal destinations in the country and earmarked the top 25, based on user review data on Google Maps. According to the results, the most-loved beach is Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Barafundle Bay is defined by lush green surroundings, turquoise waters and a stretch of golden sand. That said, it's no great wonder by the bay is described as having 'views reminiscent of the Caribbean'. According to Holidu's research, Barafundle Bay earned an impressive average rating of 4.9/5 on Google Maps based on 1668 reviews. Visitors described the Caribbean dupe as a 'breath-taking gem' and described it as a destination 'straight out of a fairy-tale'. Despite its undeniable popularity, users clarified that it maintains a 'calm' atmosphere and is 'not overcrowded. Part of the reason for this might be the somewhat daunting climb down to reach Barafundle Bay. Getting to the beach is a bit of a trek and includes a number of steps down the nearby cliff top. It's an approximately 20-minute walk, according to one Google reviewer, but offers 'stunning views'. The reviewer continued: 'The beach is hidden in a bay, lovely. Beautiful forest walk on the other side of the beach to more cliffs with magnificent views. There is also a small harbour to explore.' They also noted the presence of some 'interesting rock formations'. It should be noted that the beach's untouched appeal also means that there are no facilities on hand. However, it is only a short walk away from Stackpole Quay which houses toilets and a café. But Barafundle Bay wasn't the only Welsh beach to claim a top spot on Holidu's ranking. Mwnt in Ceredigion came in second place on the list of the most-beloved UK beaches. The sheltered bay earned an average Google Maps rating of 4.9, though with notably fewer reviews than Barafundle Bay - only 722. Woolacombe Beach in North Devon secured the third place ranking - a destination beloved by both young families and avid surfers - with an average rating of 4.8 based on 32,006 reviews. You can find a full list of Holidu's top-rated beaches across the UK below. Top 25 most-loved beaches in the UK Barafundle Bay Beach Traeth Mwnt Woolacombe Beach Dunraven Bay Trebarwith Beach Cuckmere Haven Man O'War Beach Bigbury Beach Gullane Beach Benone Beach Newburgh Seal Beach Freshwater West Horsey Beach Mudeford Sandbank Yellowcraig Beach Traeth Llanddwyn Porth Dafarch Tenby North Beach Hengistbury Head Beach Traeth Porthor Traeth Abermaw Beach Weymouth Beach Summerleaze Beach Brancaster Beach Old Hunstanton Beach
Time Out
6 hours ago
- Time Out
This beautiful South Carolina beach was just named the most underrated in the U.S.
Peak summer is here and if you're looking to hit the beach to cool off, you're not alone (by a lot). But if you look beyond the most popular beaches, you can avoid the crowds and bad beach etiquette that comes along with them. Hidden gems and underrated beaches offer an experience that's a bit closer to paradise, and a new report by BoatBooker reveals just that: lesser-known beaches around the country that you'll want to check out for your next beach getaway. The boat tour company analyzed data from Google Maps, searching for terms like "secluded beaches," "hidden beaches" and "quiet beaches" with fewer than 100 reviews. The result is a list of America's best under-the-radar coastal gems. South Carolina shines as a hidden beach capital, with five beaches in the top 10, and the number one underrated beach in the country. Topping the list is Vereen Memorial Park in Little River, SC. Just north of Myrtle Beach, this 115-acre spot isn't your typical sun-and-sand destination. With wooden boardwalks that wind through salt marshes, peaceful trails shaded by oaks and calm views of the Intracoastal Waterway, it's perfect for anyone craving peace and quiet. Second place goes to Driftwood Beach at Edisto Island, also in SC. It's a surreal stretch where fallen trees bleach in the sun, tide pools fill with seashells and the crowds remain small. In third place is Gunnison Beach in Sandy Hook, NJ, a (quietly) clothing-optional favorite for those looking to get some sun without the tan lines. South Carolina landed three more spots in BoatBooker's top 10, including Morris Island at number four, Station 22 at number nine and Edisto Beach State Park Campground at number 10. Many of these beaches are tucked inside protected parks, keeping them wild, quiet and refreshingly undeveloped. California also holds its own with nine hidden gems on the list. Top among them are Torrey Pines City Beach in San Diego at number five, Dana Strands Beach at number seven, and Pirates Cove Beach at number eight. These local favorites offer gorgeous views without the tourist crowds. This list proves that America's best beach days aren't always where the hotels and high-rises are. Sometimes they're tucked away off of the tourist radar. Check these out next time you're looking for a quiet day at the beach. Most underrated beaches in the U.S. Vereen Memorial Park: South Carolina Driftwood Beach: South Carolina Gunnison Beach: New Jersey Morris Island: South Carolina Torrey Pines City Beach: California Caswell Beach: North Carolina Dana Strands Beach: California Pirates Cove Beach: California Station 22 - Public Beach Access: South Carolina Edisto Beach State Park Campground: South Carolina Ocean Isle Beach: North Carolina Salt Creek Beach: California Gulf Shores Beach: Alabama Beach Access #4 - Beach Circle: Texas Cape Hatteras National Seashore: North Carolina Kirby Beach: California Funston Beach: California Carolina Beach: North Carolina Santa Ana River County Beach River Jetties: California Coquina Beach: North Carolina Little Corona Beach: California Crissy Field South Beach: California
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Chandigarh launches electric vehicle portal, reviews solar initiatives
Chandigarh: The Electric Vehicle (EV) Portal – – was launched on Tuesday. "The portal aims at improving accessibility and transparency for EV beneficiaries in the Union Territory by providing a user-friendly digital platform. It enables eligible citizens to apply online for subsidies under the Chandigarh EV Policy, track application status in real-time, and access a location-based map of all public EV charging stations across UT Chandigarh, integrated with Google Maps for easy navigation," said a UT spokesman. The official launch took place during the governing body meeting of CREST (Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society) held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of UT chief secretary Rajeev Verma. The chief secretary acknowledged that Chandigarh had achieved saturation in the installation of solar photovoltaic (SPV) plants across all government buildings – a significant milestone reflecting the city's commitment to sustainable energy and a low-carbon future. To ensure the continued efficiency and performance of the existing solar infrastructure, the chief secretary directed CREST to initiate third-party audits of all SPV projects that have been operational for five years or more. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Birla Evara 3 and 4 BHK from ₹ 1.75 Crore* Birla Estates Learn More These audits will promote accountability and long-term sustainability of solar assets. He also emphasised that technically innovative projects – such as SPV plants proposed over cycle tracks – must be thoroughly evaluated for feasibility, performance, and aesthetics, with close coordination involving the UT chief architect. "The Chandigarh administration remains steadfast in its vision to transform the city into a model of clean energy by integrating smart technology, promoting renewable energy adoption, and advancing sustainable mobility," said the spokesman. MSID:: 122980826 413 |
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Travel + Leisure
9 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
This New Jersey Beach Was Just Named One of the Most Underrated Beaches in the U.S.
It has been a record-breaking summer when it comes to heat for many cities across the United States. And the extreme temperatures have everyone thinking the same thing—it's time to head to the beach. But rather than going to the same stretches of sand as everyone else, consider seeking out a hidden gem. Luckily, the team at BoatBooker know exactly where to go. And after doing some digging, one very special beach made its way toward the top of the rankings: Gunnison Beach in Sandy Hook, New Jersey. Now, you may be thinking how can any beach in New Jersey (one of the most populated states in the country) still be considered a hidden gem? Well, this one comes with a very distinct asterisk: there's a section on the beach that is clothing optional. Specifically, a portion of Area "G," or South Gunnison. "While this area is not designated as clothing optional, there is no prohibition against this activity," according to the National Park Service. "The Park acknowledges the popularity and history of the use and advises unfamiliar visitors of this activity through signs." However, be careful if you decide to visit the beach in your birthday suit because, as the NPS warns, "Nudity, outside the traditional use area, may be considered Disorderly Conduct." The beach first gained popularity with nudists in the 1970s and 1980s who fell in love with its privacy, according to And because the beach is managed by the National Park Service, it is exempt from the state's public nudity laws. It is, however, the only legal nudist beach in the state, which means it can get a little crowded during the summer months. Beyond New Jersey, two beaches in South Carolina came in at No. 1 and No. 2 on the list, respectively: Vereen Memorial Park near the border with North Carolina, and Driftwood Beach on Edisto Island. "America's coast offers unparalleled diversity beyond the tourist beach resorts," Vukan Simic, the founder of BoatBooker, shared. "America's off-the-beaten-path coastline offers the authentic American beach experience, the one that travelers are seeking—unspoiled waters, stunning scenery, and the freedom to truly get close to the natural wonders of our country." The findings, which the company released last month, analyzed Google Maps data to find the "best-kept coastal secret" destinations in the U.S. It searched key words, including "secluded beaches," "hidden beaches," and "quiet beaches" and focused in on locations with fewer than 100 reviews to help identify the nation's "most pristine, uncrowded beach destinations that locals have been keeping to themselves." Check out the full list of winners below. Vereen Memorial Park: South Carolina Driftwood Beach: South Carolina Gunnison Beach: New Jersey Morris Island: South Carolina Torrey Pines City Beach: California Caswell Beach: North Carolina Dana Strands Beach: California (tie for 6th) Pirates Cove Beach: California (tie for 6th) Station 22 - Public Beach Access: South Carolina Edisto Beach State Park Campground: South Carolina Ocean Isle Beach: North Carolina (tie for 10th) Salt Creek Beach: California Gulf Shores Beach: Alabama Beach Access #4 - Beach Circle: Texas Cape Hatteras National Seashore: North Carolina Kirby Beach: California Funston Beach: California Carolina Beach: North Carolina Santa Ana River County Beach River Jetties: California (tie for 18th) Coquina Beach: North Carolina Little Corona Beach: California (tie for 20th) Crissy Field South Beach: California (tie for 20th)
Hindustan Times
10 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Planning a solo trip? 9 expert-backed safety rules you have to follow before packing your bags
Planning a solo trip can be exciting, liberating, and full of unforgettable moments, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. When you're navigating unfamiliar places on your own, staying safe becomes even more important. From dealing with emergencies and trusting your instincts to using tech wisely and blending in with the local crowd, solo travel requires a mix of courage and caution. Check out 9 essential safety tips for solo travellers to ensure a secure adventure. (Pexels) To help you make the most of your adventure without compromising on safety, Sanjay Jadoun, CEO, YoloBus, shared with HT Lifestyle 9 important rules every solo traveller should know before setting off. 1. Keep someone in loop Always inform a trusted friend or family member about your itinerary, accommodations, and check in with them daily. 2. Share your live location Use apps like Google Maps location sharing or Apple's Find My to let someone track your movements in real time. Stay connected with trusted contacts and opt for secure lodgings to enjoy your adventure. (Pexel) 3. Carry physical copies of important documents Keep printed copies of your passport, ID, tickets, and bookings, especially when internet access is limited. 4. Trust your instincts If something doesn't feel right, a person, place, or situation, don't second-guess yourself. Leave immediately. 5. Stay in well-populated areas after dark Avoid deserted streets and don't flaunt expensive gadgets or jewellery. Prioritise safety by booking verified accommodations. (Unsplash) 6. Choose verified stays Book accommodations with strong, verified reviews on travel OTAs. 7. Respect local customs Dress and behave according to local norms to avoid drawing unwanted attention. 8. Be discreet with personal info Don't reveal you're travelling alone or share details like your hotel or next destination with strangers. 9. Prioritise security features Choose places with lockable doors, 24/7 front desk staff, safety lockers, and visible CCTV.
