PHOTO: Manly Beach was named seventh best in the world by TripAdvisor reviewers
One Australian beach has made its mark on TripAdvisor’s prestigious list of the top 25 beaches worldwide, igniting a mixed response, and none have made it from New Zealand. Manly, situated on Sydney‘s northern coast, clinched the seventh position on the list, curated from feedback from millions of beach enthusiasts globally.
While Portugal’s Praia da Falésia in Olhos de Agua secured the coveted top spot, closely followed by Spiaggia dei Congili in Italy and Spain’s La Concha Beach, Manly’s inclusion stirred conversation.
Notably absent were Australia’s iconic Bondi Beach and Broome’s Cable Beach, the latter having ranked third on the same list in the previous year.
Manly Beach was named seventh best in the world by TripAdvisor reviewers
Manly earned acclaim for its accessibility, with wheelchair and stroller-friendly features, pristine waters, and convenient access to amenities such as cafes, shops, and ferry services to Circular Quay.
Described as a hub of activity, Manly Beach impressed visitors with its central location, just a short distance from Sydney’s CBD, offering diverse experiences from swimming and surfing in the inviting waters (with designated swimming areas and vigilant lifeguards) to leisurely walks along the scenic beachfront.
Local federal Warringah MP Zali Steggall expressed little surprise at Manly’s global recognition, affirming its long-held appeal to locals and tourists alike.
Manly (pictured) scored points from beachgoers for its accessibility and clean water
However, the news sparked discord on platforms like Reddit, where opinions diverged on Manly’s ranking. Some argued that other beaches within Manly itself surpassed it, while others advocated for preserving Manly’s charm away from excessive tourist influx.
Critics questioned the validity of the list, particularly citing the inclusion of a beach in Iceland and raising doubts about its criteria.
Portugal’s Praia da Falésia in Olhos de Agua was named the best in the world for 2024
In contrast, defenders of Manly praised its unique character and pristine environment, contrasting it favorably with European beaches and appreciating its accessibility and natural beauty.
Despite Manly’s triumph, Tourism Australia designated Victoria’s Squeaky Beach as the nation’s best, with neither Manly nor any Sydney beaches making it into the top 10.
Manly was the only Australian beach that cracked into the top 25 of the world’s best