A Southwest Florida Beach Was Voted One Of The Top 10 Best Beaches In The World
Tripadvisor has released the winners of its 2024 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for Beaches across the world. And featured on that list is a beach that many of us here in Southwest Florida are very familiar with. This white sand paradise was voted the second best beach in the United States, and ranked number 9 in the best beaches in the world!
The quantity and quality of Tripadvisor reviews are tabulated each year to form the rankings. Topping the list this year is the Praia da Falésia in Portugal. The golden sand beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and beautiful blue waters. There’s a path to walk the cliffs to take in the breathtaking views and plenty of amenities such as restrooms, snack bar, and public transportation. It’s easy to see how this beach ranks so high.
Set in the heart of the Algarve, the tiny fishing town of Olhos de Agua surrounds a sandy cove lapped by the Atlantic Ocean. This gorgeous stretch of white sand and colored cliffs is up from No. 6 in 2023. Aside from just sunbathing, you can also explore the Benagil tour. Or perhaps a tour along the coast to see the dolphins. If you’re up for some world travel, this is the one that’s been voted the best. But how about something closer?
The first U.S. entry on the best beaches list is at number 4.
Ka’anapali Beach on Maui, Hawaii. This Hawaiian getaway has crystal clear waters perfect for snorkeling and surfing, against a backdrop of lush mountains. Visitors recommend the daily cliff diving ceremony at Pu’u Keka’a (Black Rock), held on the northern end of the beach at sunset. It’s no wonder this beach is so popular. I don’t even need to explain it. Just watch this video.
How about an amazing beach even closer?
Ranking as the second best beach in the United States, and 9th in the world is our very own Southwest Florida entry. Siesta Beach, at Siesta Key, Florida. Siesta Key is the barrier island to Sarasota and is famous for it’s white sand beaches, shallow waters, and plenty of family friendly activities. And I’m sure you’ve heard the term “white sand beach” before, but maybe you didn’t know the importance. The primary ingredient in the sand in Siesta Key is quartz, which is a crystal. Crystals disperse heat, which is why our beaches never feel as hot as say, an Atlantic beach. Cooler sands and amazing sunsets, that’s what you get on Southwest Florida beaches.
The Best Beaches in the U.S. are in Florida.
Here’s the other Florida entries on the best beaches in the United States list, along with their ranking.
4. Hollywood Beach, Florida | |||
12. Clearwater Beach, Florida | |||
13. Panama City Beach, Florida | |||
15. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida | |||
17. St. Augustine Beach, Florida | |||
19. Henderson Beach State Park, Florida | |||
23. Bahia Honda State Park, Florida |
Lastly, Fort Myers Beach and Naples are still recovering from the damage of Hurricane Ian back in 2022 and did not make this list. But the communities are rebuilding and in time, it’s likely they will once again be highlighted on a national level.