BeachAtlas, a UK-based startup renowned for its expertise in evaluating beaches worldwide, has unveiled its prestigious Golden Beach Award 2024. Unlike conventional rankings that focus solely on visual appeal and natural beauty, BeachAtlas takes a holistic approach, considering diverse criteria. This nuanced perspective aims to shed light on hidden beach treasures that often go unnoticed in traditional ‘best beach’ lists and to highlight the global diversity of stunning coastal destinations.
This year’s Golden Beach Award has brought attention to Africa’s remarkable coastal offerings, with two beaches from South Africa and Namibia making it to the top 10. Notably, Boulders Beach in Cape Town, South Africa, secured the second spot, while Namibia’s Skeleton Coast ranked ninth. These accolades not only celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of African beaches but also elevate the continent’s presence on the global beach tourism map.
For the Golden Beach Award 2024, BeachAtlas enlisted the input of selected travel experts and influencers from across the globe to curate a list that transcends the ordinary. From iconic shorelines to lesser-known gems, each beach was meticulously evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Classic Beauty: Beaches that epitomize the traditional postcard-perfect image, boasting fine golden sands, clear blue waters, and picturesque landscapes.
- Party and Lifestyle: Destinations like Ibiza or Dubai offer vibrant nightlife, energetic beach parties, and upscale luxury resorts.
- DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion): Inclusive beaches that ensure every visitor feels represented and comfortable, regardless of background, identity, or abilities.
- Community: Beaches integral to their cities’ identities and social life, where local culture and community flourish, such as Copacabana in Brazil.
- Natural Diversity: Celebrating the diverse natural beachfronts, from lakes and riverbanks to unique formations, and highlighting the abundant flora and fauna.
- Cultural Significance: Recognizing beaches with historical importance or a strong presence in pop culture, immortalized in cinema or with a cultural reputation extending beyond natural beauty.
Now, let’s delve into the top 10 beaches recognized by BeachAtlas’ Golden Beach Award 2024:
Source: Beach Atlas
- Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Dive into crystal-clear waters by day and witness postcard-perfect sunsets by night in this ultimate paradise.
- Boulders Beach, South Africa: Not just a picturesque stretch of sand, Boulders Beach is a bustling metropolis for African Penguins, showcasing beach bods of all shapes and sizes.
- Waikiki Beach, USA: Whispering tales of gender diversity and indigenous heritage, Waikiki Beach stands as a tribute to third-gender individuals who brought healing arts to Hawaii centuries ago.
- Copacabana, Brazil: A vibrant mix of Brazilian life, Copacabana boasts a busy, traditional vibe with a variety of bars, pubs, and street fairs, making it a must-visit destination.
- Maya Bay, Thailand: Featuring clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs, Maya Bay is not just nature’s masterpiece but also a Hollywood star, famous for its role in “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
- Black Sand Beach, Iceland (Reynisfjara): A testament to Iceland’s volcanic heart, Reynisfjara’s iconic black sand and basalt columns have captured the imagination of filmmakers and TV show fans.
- Glass Beach, USA: Nature’s masterpiece, Glass Beach in California showcases the transformation of discarded glass into a sparkling beach of colourful pebbles, highlighting nature’s power to reclaim and beautify.
- JBR Beach, UAE: Blending city vibes with beach relaxation, JBR Beach in Dubai offers golden sands, clear waters, and a lively promenade featuring shops, eateries, and street entertainment.
- Skeleton Coast, Namibia: Known as ‘The Gates of Hell,’ Skeleton Coast is a desolate stretch where the Atlantic meets the desert, dotted with whale skeletons and shipwrecks, offering a hauntingly beautiful landscape.
- Omaha Beach, France: A historic WWII landing site in Normandy, Omaha Beach’s peaceful shores hold remnants of its storied past, serving as a poignant reminder of sacrifice and courage.