So, we can’t travel overseas right now, and that is hurting, but at least we live in Australia and that means we have access to some of the world’s best beaches.
That isn’t just hyperbole drummed up by Tourism Australia either. It is now a fact.
The results from Tripadvisor’s 2021 Travellers’ Choice Awards are in and Australia has two of the beaches inside the top 10, including No. 1 overall.
Read more: What happens to regional travellers when borders snap shut?
Highlighting travellers’ favourite beaches across the globe, from sweeping white sand and turquoise waters in tropical climates, to dramatic cliffs and pounding surf in some of the most secluded spots on Earth, the awards are based on the quality and quantity of reviews and ratings from Tripadvisor travellers for beaches, gathered over a 12-month period.
New for 2021, the Best of the Best Beaches also takes into account the volume of ‘saves’ for beaches on Tripadvisor, reflecting the position that many travellers were in for much of 2020 – unable to travel, desperate to travel, lusting after the beaches they wished they could visit.
Australia’s Whitehaven Beach took out the top spot among global travellers and was also the No. 1 beach in the South Pacific.
Read more: The world’s most verdant city escapes
The remote Australian paradise, located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, is only accessible by boat, seaplane or helicopter and is lauded by travellers for its gorgeous soft white sand and postcard perfect turquoise water.
Another Australian gem on the top 10 list is Turquoise Bay, rated sixth in the world and second in the South Pacific.
Of the 10 best beaches in the South Pacific, Australia dominates the list, with the top 50 per cent located across Queensland and Western Australia.
Read more: Sailing through retirement
Top 10 Beaches in the South Pacific
1. Whitehaven Beach – Whitsunday Island, Australia
Travellers say: From the crystal-clear turquoise water to the miles of pure white sand, it is truly breathtaking. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Cruises
2. Turquoise Bay – Exmouth, Australia
Travellers say: This pristine beach is amazing. It is a fantastic beach for snorkelling, swimming and walking. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Ningaloo Whale Shark Swim on a Luxury Sailing Catamaran
3. Cape Le Grand National Park – Esperance, Australia
Travellers say: The colours of the ocean, the sand and the sky make this area unmissable. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Explore Highlights Esperance 2 Hour Guided Tour
4. Greens Pool – Denmark, Australia
Travellers say: Beach is amazing! Safe swimming and great for exploring with kids. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Check out the Elephant Rocks along the coastline
5. Cable Beach – Broome, Australia
Travellers say: Searching for marine life in the rock pools at low tide is a highlight. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: 1 Hour Broome Sunset Camel Tour
6. Matira Beach – Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Travellers say: A long sandy beach where you can walk out for ages and still only be up to your waist. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Bora Bora 4WD Tour, Lunch at Bloody Mary’s & Eco Shark & Ray Snorkel Cruise
7. Piscine Naturelle – Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia
Travellers say: Great place for a refreshing swim and a snorkel to check out the fish Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Check out the beautiful Oro Bay
8. Ohope Beach – Whakatane, New Zealand
Travellers say: Ohope Beach is truly a beach where there is space for everyone. We love going to Ohope Beach for family picnics. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Amazing views at Kohi Point Lookout
9. Kaiteriteri Beach – Kaiteriteri, New Zealand
Travellers say: You can hire kayaks to explore the bay or go further to visit the Split Apple Rock. Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise
10. Mt Maunganui Main Beach – Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
Travellers say: Great beach for swimming and body boarding the waves – the sand is so soft.
Top-Rated Thing to Do Nearby: Rotorua Cultural and Geothermal Experience from Tauranga.
See the full list of the world’s top beaches as rated by Tripadvisor.
What is the best beach that you have ever been to?
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