Brits can enjoy a beach named the best in the world that boasts golden sand, stunning cliff-top views and surfers' waves - and it's just two hours from the UK. Many people are still in summer holiday mood and for anyone dreaming of an idyllic location then they should try Praia da Falesia in Portugal’s Algarve . Two hours away by plane, it has been named Tripadvisor’s best beach of the year.
It has been selected due to the quality and quantity of its reviews which have seen it knock Baia do Sancho, in Brazil , off top spot. And while many might be imagining the best beaches are all in the Caribbean or maybe the Seychelles - all top three beaches in the list are in Europe. Behind Praia da Falesia comes the amazing Spiaggia dei Conigli in Sicily, Italy, and then La Concha beach in Spain.
For those looking further afield then Grace Bay beach in Turks and Caicos was the highest ranking Caribbean spot at number five. There was no British beach unfortunately in the top 10 although Sandbanks in Poole did grab the gong for being the most sustainable in the world based on its waste disposal, water quality and eco-friendly transportation. “Golden sands, rugged coastlines, clear blue waters - this year’s winning beaches are traveller faves for everything from lazy beach days to underwater adventures,” stated Tripadvisor.
“The Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.
” And on this year’s winner it states: “Praia da Falésia is known for its dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and sparkling blue waters. 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. 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.
” It has a 4.5 rating out of 5 from 5,963 reviews on the site and the categories it stands out for include a coffee shop, free parking, wellness and sports. Many have written reviews about how much they enjoyed the visit.
One said: “One of the nicest beaches in the world. The landscape with its “sandmountains” is spectacular. The beach is wide and I have never seen it crowded, you can walk for miles.
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” While another wrote: “Nicest beach in the world? I think so. Beautiful turquoise waters remaining shallow for a considerable distance, overlooked by gorgeous red cliffs and usually bright blue skies. Definitely worth a visit!” And a further gave useful advice: "Best beach of our holiday so far.
Wanted to try somewhere new but not a long drive away from Albufeira. There are a number of sunbeds and parasols for hire but not huge numbers. With most families bringing their own we didn't have an issue.
The sea is beautiful with the red cliff backdrop and you can walk out quite a way before having to swim. There are a lot of steps down to the beach so I’d recommend you buy drinks etc at the snack bar at the top when you arrive. They do takeaway and eat in pizza, baguettes, salads for lunch but prepare to queue! Definitely worth a visit.
" Best beaches in world Praia da Falesia- 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, New South Wales, Australia Eagle Beach- Aruba, Caribbean Siesta Beach, Florida, US Varadero Beach – Cuba, Caribbean.
