Florida beach with ‘pristine' setting ranks among world's best. Why it's special
Siesta Beach ranks among the best beaches in the world.
Miami Herald file
A Florida beach boasts a 'pristine' setting — and it's one of the best coastal destinations in the world, a new report finds.
Siesta Beach ranks No. 42 on a list of the top 50 beaches across the globe, according to results published April 29.
To create the list, the website The World's 50 Best Beaches said it contacted thousands of travel experts and asked them to vote on their favorite beaches. A team reviewed the submissions, focusing on how the destinations fared across eight metrics: 'unique' landscape, coastal wildlife, under-the-radar setting, non-natural noise levels, accessibility, calm waters, low crowds and ideal weather.
'Our mission is to inspire travelers to go beyond the typical tourist hotspots and discover the kind of beach experiences they've always dreamed of — places that are truly breathtaking, peaceful, and unforgettable,' Tine Holst, co-founder of the website, wrote in a news release.
What makes the Florida beach special?
Siesta Beach was the only place in the United States to earn a spot on the worldwide list. The destination on Siesta Key — a roughly 65-mile drive south from Tampa — has powdery, white sand that stays cool on hot days, according to The World's 50 Best Beaches.
'The gentle slope of the beach, combined with the shallow, calm waters, makes it ideal for swimming and wading, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families,' the website wrote in its report. 'Siesta Beach is also known for its pristine surroundings, free from large developments, which helps preserve its natural beauty.'
It's not the first time Siesta Beach has received wide recognition. In February, the destination on Florida's Gulf Coast was named the No. 1 beach in the country. In those rankings, the review website Tripadvisor called the beach a fan favorite due to its clear water, seashells and proximity to other attractions, McClatchy News reported.
'The beach has lifeguards on duty, while the relaxing town offers nearby cafes and oyster bars all within walking or biking distance,' Tripadvisor wrote in its report. 'Visitors can spot wildlife like manatees and dolphins while on kayaking tours, and enjoy beautiful sunsets from the soft sand beach.'
On the latest list, the world's top-ranked beach was Cala Goloritze, located on the Italian island of Sardinia.
This story was originally published May 6, 2025 at 3:40 PM.
SJ Simone Jasper
The News & Observer Go to X Email this person 919-836-5768
Simone Jasper is a reporter covering breaking stories for The News & Observer and real-time news in the Carolinas.
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