If you are looking for a summer getaway with a top-rated beach, you may not have to leave the UK to find one.
Two UK beaches have been named among the top 50 in the world, ranking alongside shorelines in exotic places in the Maldives and Seychelles.
The top beach list was compiled by Big 7 Travel using scores from previous media results, official Blue Flag locations and contributions from their editorial team.
The top-ranking British beach on the list was Pedn Vounder in Penzance, Cornwall, one of the UK’s best-loved beaches, which was rated higher than shores in Jamaica, Mauritius and Thailand.
Ranking it 25th in the world, Big 7 said: “Cornwall has long been a summer getaway destination for local families, but its gorgeous coastline has caught the eye of international travellers.
“Despite the crowds, Pedn Vounder is still one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.
“Combining crystal clear blue water and white sand, it’s proof that you don’t need to hotfoot to the Caribbean for a tropical island-inspired getaway.”
Joining Pedn Vounder on the list, in 42nd place, was Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula in Wales.
Big 7 described it as “pristine”, saying: “Three miles of golden sands await you in the Gower Peninsula of Wales.”
Rhossili Bay’s natural beauty has also been known to trick people into thinking it’s abroad when they first see images of it. Nearly three-quarters thought it was not in the UK, according to a survey carried out by Gordon’s Gin in 2021.
Also making the list from the British Isles was Keem Bay, found on Ireland’s Achill Island. Big 7 Travel said: “Its gleaming white sand rivals tropical islands and the water is superbly clear. The sun might not always be shining, but when it does it’s world-class.”
Top 10 Beaches in the World
- White Beach (Philippines)
- Cabo San Jaun Beach (Columbia)
- Jalousie Beach (St Lucia)
- Kenwa Beach (Zanzibar)
- Whitehave Beach (Australia)
- Source d’Argent (Seychelles)
- Navagio Beach (Greece)
- Grace Bay (Turks & Caicos)
- Lang Co Beach (Vietnam)
- Hyams Beach (Australia)
