From penguins to protected coves, Boulders Beach has officially earned its place among the world’s most admired beaches, topping multiple categories in the Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best.
Global (22 February 2026) – It’s official. One of South Africa’s most iconic beaches has been recognised as one of the best in the world. Boulders Beach has claimed top positions across three categories in the Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best, driven by millions of traveller reviews from around the globe.
These awards represent the highest level of excellence in travel, celebrating destinations that consistently receive outstanding reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. The World’s best penguin beach has 8,637 reviews but according to the platform, fewer than one percent reach this level.
“Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.”
This year, the beaches category was split into two global groupings, ‘World’ and ‘One of a Kind’, and then further broken down by continent. Across those lists, Boulders emerged as a clear favourite, with Camps Bay also earning recognition, reinforcing the global appeal of Cape Town’s coastline.
Here’s what the Travelers’ Choice Awards had to say about Boulders:
“Boulders has all the beachy hallmarks: clean sand for lounging, chilly pools for swimming, and boardwalks made for strolling. And then there are the African penguins (yes, penguins) that call it home. Catch them on quiet mornings before crowds roll in, and don’t miss the gift shop for kitschy souvenirs.”
In the ‘One of a Kind’ Beaches category, Boulders claimed the number one spot in the world. It topped Pig Beach in the Bahamas, famous for its swimming pigs and social-media fame, Wai’anapanapa State Park in Hawaii, celebrated for its dramatic black sand and volcanic setting, and Isoa Bella in Italy, known for its classic Mediterranean beauty. Each of these beaches offers something memorable, but Boulders’ blend of protected wildlife, sheltered coves and unmistakable character sets it apart.
Boulders also secured the top position in the ‘Best African’ Beaches category. In doing so, it beat destinations that regularly feature on global bucket lists, including Anse Source D’Argent in Seychelles with its granite formations and turquoise waters, Diani Beach in Kenya with its palm-lined stretches, and even Cape Town’s own Camps Bay (at number 12), loved for its sunsets and city backdrop.
In the ‘World’s Best’ Beaches category, Boulders placed at number 10 globally, earning its spot among the very best beaches on Earth. It found itself alongside Isla Pasion in Mexico, which took the top position, Banana Beach at number 6, and Paleokastritsa Beach in Greece at number 14. To be listed among destinations of that calibre speaks volumes about how Boulders is experienced by travellers from every corner of the world.
What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it is shaped entirely by people. These awards are built on real visits, shared memories and genuine experiences, all pointing to the same conclusion: Boulders leaves a lasting impression.
Photos Credit: SAAMBR
*The Travelers’ Choice Awards is an American platform. The name is spelt the American way.
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