From calm, family-friendly waters to party spots, travelers recommend these beaches for their sustainability efforts.
AdvertisingMore than half of Tripadvisor users say helping the environment is important to them, and sustainability is increasingly important to travelers' choices.
When it comes to beaches, it's clear water, clean sand and eco-friendly efforts.
Every year, Tripadvisor publishes a ranking World's best beaches, European destinations top list in 2024 For the first time, this year's ranking also includes a category for the most sustainable beaches.
The Travel Sustainability Institute provided data on beaches awarded the prestigious Blue Flag between May 2023 and April 2024 – this data was linked to positive reviews indicating terms such as “eco-friendly”, “environmental” and the like. “Clean water” for a period of 12 months.
With European beaches occupying seven of the top 10 spots, here are some of the places that made the list.
Sandbanks Beach, UK: Plan a family day out
This British spot topped TripAdvisor's list of most sustainable beaches. It has maintained its Blue Flag award for over 30 years – longer than any other The coast of the country.
Before Brexit, it was one of the few areas in the UK to be praised by the European Commission for its high standards of cleanliness. Reviews from visitors describe it as “clean and tidy” and “sandy, clean and beautiful”. It's no wonder it's often mentioned, as a group of volunteers pick up litter and keep this beach litter-free.
Golden sand, soft and clean, is perfect for small children to build sandcastles without worrying about digging up trash. There's even a children's play area behind the beach, so the little ones can let off some energy before heading home.
The sandbanks also offer stunning views of Studland and Old Harry Rocks – on a clear day you can even see the Isle of Wight.
How to get to Sandbanks Beach
Sandbanks Beach is a small peninsula Mouth of Poole Harbour. Traveling from London, it takes around four hours by train to reach the south coast of England.
If you prefer a more sustainable route to the coast, there are several bus routes with local centers in Poole and Bournemouth. In summer, a ferry service crossing Poole harbor from Studland and Swanage provides a scenic route to the coast.
When is the best time to visit Sandbanks Beach?
Beautiful scenery makes Sandbanks a good choice all year round. It's especially popular in the summer, so expect crowds, but there's still plenty of room to spread out your blanket and enjoy the sun. TripAdvisor highlights that visitors visit this beach on a cool day to enjoy the best views of the British south coast or to admire the incredible properties along the coastline.
Kalisas Beach, Greece: Snorkeling in warm, shallow waters
This sheltered bay on the west coast The island of Syros in Greece5th place on the Tripadvisor list.
Located in a cave between towering cliffs, it is a great place for snorkeling with calm, shallow waters.
Visitors note its clean, clear water, as well as good accessibility for people with disabilities.
After swimming and relaxing on the beach, head to the village to discover unique flavors at local restaurants. Enjoy the magnificent view from the church of Agia Pakou or visit the ancient ruins of the city of Kalisas.
How to get to Calisas Beach
A direct bus connects Kalisas Beach with Ermopoli, the capital of Syros, which also has an airport if you're coming from abroad. The journey takes about 20 to 30 minutes and the bus stops a few minutes' walk from the beach.
Nissi Beach, Cyprus: parties, music and white sand
Nissi Beach is a popular stretch of sand in the resort of Ayia Napa Cyprus. It is 500 meters long and has been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness. Its name derives from the small island of Nissi, which lies nearby and is easily accessible by foot through the shallow waters.
AdvertisingThis beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. In contrast to the west end known for its nightlife, its east end is quiet and relaxed. Nissi Bay Beach Bar is a hub for music and parties, creating a buzz of activity in high season.
How to get to Nissi Beach
Larnaca Airport is about 35 kilometers from Nissi Beach and takes about an hour to get there by bus.
If you visit Sir NapaYou can catch a bus every 20 minutes directly to its golden sands.
Which other European beaches made the top 10 list?
Seven of the 10 most sustainable beaches are located in Europe, the United Kingdom, Greece, Cyprus, Malta and Spain.
Completing the list is Saundersfoot Beach in Wales in third place, Mellieha in Malta in seventh place, followed by Myrtos Beach and Playa Blanca in Greece. Lanzarote, Spain.
AdvertisingOutside of Europe, Radhanagar Beach in India, Corniche Beach in the United Arab Emirates and Camps Bay Beach in South Africa are among the top 10 most sustainable beaches on TripAdvisor.
