The world's top 50 best beaches have been revealed, with three UK destinations making the cut and beating picturesque spots in Greece, Mauritius, Thailand and Australia.
Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall
Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall was the top UK coastal spot in the rankings unveiled by Big 7 Travel this week, placed ninth overall. The team behind the research described it as "easily one of England's most beautiful".
They added: "The entire Cornish coast is known for its rugged coastline and significantly better weather than the rest of the UK, and with the clear waters and bright sands of Porthcurno Beach, it’s easy to imagine that you’re in the tropics."
Porthcurno is an immensely popular destination for tourists, particularly during the summer months. The beach is famed for its soft sands and swim-friendly waters for families, while in winter it's popular with surfers and bodyboarders.
Luskentyre Beach, Scotland
Also making the cut is Luskentyre Beach in Scotland, which is regularly compared to the Caribbean and Maldives thanks to its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
The team explained: "Found on the Isle of Harris off the northwest coast of Scotland, Luskentyre Beach looks like it has been plucked right out of the Caribbean and placed on the Scottish coastline," highlighting its "white sands and turquoise waters".
The beach's remote location on the Isle of Harris in Scotland's Outer Hebrides means it's not full of tourists. The area is also popular with birdwatchers as the sandy dunes and rocky cliffs are a haven for a variety of species. The water can be quite cold, so it's advised to pack a wetsuit.
Whitesands Beach, Wales
Whitesands Beach in Wales was 32nd in the list, impressing with its "golden sands" and "rugged cliffs which provide the backdrop". This Blue Flag beach in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is popular with families thanks to its wide expanse of golden sands, with conditions that can be ideal for paddling, swimming and, during the right seasons, surfing or diving.
According to researchers, "Whitesands Beach proves that you don't need tropical weather to enjoy a stunning beach". They added: "Rolling surf foams onto the golden sands, while the rugged cliffs which provide the backdrop to the beach make Whitesands a favoured spot for families, hikers, and surfers alike."
The beach boasts a cafe and shop nearby, and it's just a couple of miles to St Davids where you'll find plenty more shops, restaurants and facilities.
