Incredible Scots beach with pure white sands, crystal waters and jaw-dropping views named one of best in world
JUST BEACHY Incredible Scots beach with pure white sands, crystal waters and jaw-dropping views named one of best in world
AN idyllic Scottish beach has been named one of the best on the planet.
While proud Scots know that our coastline is stunning, it's now official.
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The Scottish beach was praised for its white sand and blue green water
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Whitesands Bay beach in Wales also made the cut
Experts at Big 7 Travel have released their list of Best Beaches in the World 2025.
Now in its seventh year, the ranking is based on past media results, official Blue Flag beach awards, social media buzz and insights from the Big 7 Travel editorial crew.
The 2025 edition features a mix of beach destinations to suit all kinds of travellers.
From shallow turquoise lagoons in the Maldives to the coral-fringed coastlines of the Caribbean, this year's top 50 features everything from remote island hideaways to classic coastal icons.
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The Big 7 team said: "From the sun-soaked tropics to the icy edges of the poles, our planet is home to some truly spectacular beaches.
"Whether you're dreaming of sipping a cocktail under the warm sun or taking a romantic stroll along a pristine shoreline, we've got you covered.
"From pearly-white sands that stretch unbroken for kilometres to crystal-clear waters that invite you in for a swim or snorkel, these are the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world."
And one Scottish stretch of sand makes the cut - the gorgeous Luskentyre on the Isle of Harris.
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The multi award-winning beach has been described as a 'little slice of the Maldives' in Scotland.
The vast sandy bay boasts miles of white sand and stunning green-blue water.
Luskentyre Beach: Scotland's Gem Among World's Best
Scenery includes wonderful sand dunes and the island of Taransay, famous for being the setting of the BBC's Castaway.
The Big 7 team said: "The Outer Hebrides are probably not the first location you think of when beautiful beaches come to mind, but we're here to prove you wrong!
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"Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris looks like it's been plucked right out of the Caribbean and photoshopped onto Scotland's mountainous coast.
"The beach is stunning to visit at any time of year, and there are even a few days every year when the water is warm enough for a swim.
"The beach also holds a Scottish Beach Award for its natural beauty and environmental efforts."
There are a few more UK beaches that make the top 50 list.
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Alum Chine in Bournemouth, Dorset, makes the rating. The beach is praised for its Blue Flag Certification and watersports activities.
Meanwhile, Porthcurno Beach, in Cornwall, is also in the ranking.
The Big 7 team said: "Sheltered by high granite rocks, the beach essentially possesses its own microclimate, making it a nice place to sunbathe and relax even if it's windy above the clifftops.
"There is also a stream that runs down to the beach, which is excellent for young children to paddle in, and the golden sands and tempting surf make it the perfect place to sunbathe or go swimming."
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Whitesands Beach in Wales is on the list and is described as a popular but quiet beach which is a favourite among both locals and tourists.
And in the Republic of Ireland, Keem Beach, in County Mayo, is praised for its calm waters that are full of rich and diverse marine life.
Coming right at the top if the global list is Whitehaven Beach in Australia.
The Big 7 experts said: "Part of the Whitsunday Islands, just off the coast of Queensland, Whitehaven Beach is arguably the most beautiful beach in the world.
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"Glistening white sands (which are 98 per cent pure silica, giving them their bright white colour) and warm turquoise waters make this a hugely popular place for tourists and locals to visit.
"Part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park, the beach is known for its eco-friendly measures. The beach is 7km long, and the beautiful waters of the Coral Sea are perfect for swimming and snorkelling in.
"This beach really has it all when it comes to the most beautiful beaches in the world."
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Whitehaven Beach on Whitesunday Island was number one
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