UK has 'world's most sustainable beach' with golden sands and sparkling waters

21 February 2024 , 12:48

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Sandbanks was judged to be the most sustainable beach in the world (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The most sustainable beach in the world has "soft, golden sand" and is in the UK.

Each year Tripadvisor lists the best beaches in the world, based on factors including beauty, things to do on them and the general feel of the place. The review website also highlights the most sustainable beaches, where eco-conscious travellers can kick back on the sand in the knowledge that they've done their bit.

Based on a number of factors including beaches where Tripadvisor users were most likely to be found discussing sustainability in positive reviews, Sandbanks Beach in Poole topped the list.

"Sandbanks Beach is a family-friendly spot with soft, golden sand, clear water, and incredible views. It's a popular beach, but even during peak season there's plenty of space. Try some water sports, go horseback riding, or bring your dog (it's pet-friendly with some seasonal restrictions) and take a walk on the shore. There are plenty of food options, from beachside cafes to nearby restaurants, plus parking's a breeze," Tripadvisor writes of the sandy stretch.

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Sandbanks Beach is a particularly lovely sandy stretch (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Undeniably Sandbanks is a beautiful beach. Few other places in the UK are blessed with soft, golden sands that run into the sea at such a perfect angle to make both larking around and swimming so easy. Sandbanks sits at the end of a long peninsula which runs into the sea at the mouth of Poole Harbour. The location means visitors can hop over the headland to another beach.

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Nearly everyone who has made it down there has enjoyed the experience, at least according to Tripadvisor.

"The beach is stunning! Clean and uncrowned-plenty of space for kids to play. The sea was beautiful and the amenities were clean too (which is rare). It’s also great to look in awe at the stunning beach front properties that line the sand," one happy person wrote on the review website.

"We got there by bus and it was very easily accessible. The car parks were full very early on and there is no street parking so I’d advise getting the bus."

While its beauty has never been in doubt, the fact it has remained so perfect is impressive. The European Commission recognised the beach as one of the few areas in the United Kingdom which has achieved the highest standard of cleanliness, while it has held the highly coveted international Blue Flag for the past 30 years.

Despite the fact that it's regularly voted the best beach in the country, Sandbanks does not feel overcrowded come the hot summery days - in part due to its location next to such a glut of other beautiful coastal spots.

The Sandbanks Pavilion has been the historic centre-piece and is now nearing its 100th birthday. It contains 40 beach huts and two small kiosks which provide hungry beach goers with refreshments without overwhelming the natural splendour of the place.

UK has 'world's most sustainable beach' with golden sands and sparkling waters

The beach is not regularly crowded despite its excellent reputation (Getty Images/Flickr RF)

Getting there is fairly easy. The number 50 Wilts and Dorset bus departs from Bournemouth Station (which links up with London via a two hour train) in the direction of Swanage and stops near to the beach, generally every half hour in the summer. There is a car park next to the beach that holds 550 cars, with five for disabled use.