Sun, sand and a whole lot of penguin charm… Boulders Beach is flying the South African flag high as one of the world’s top beaches for 2025!
Global (29 April 2025) – We’ve always known South Africa has some of the most breathtaking beaches on the planet but now, it’s official!
The 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches list has just been released and Boulders Beach has claimed a top spot, ranking 12th in the world (moving up from 2023’s 40th spot). Yes, the penguins, the warm waters, the golden sand… the whole experience has captured the hearts of international travellers once again.
Here’s what The World’s 50 Best Beaches had to say about our very own slice of paradise:
“Famous for its resident colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach near Cape Town offers a unique opportunity to observe these charming birds up close in their stunning natural habitat. The beach is set against a backdrop of large granite boulders that create sheltered coves with unusually warm waters, ideal for swimming. This setting makes it distinct from other Atlantic Ocean beaches in the area, which are typically cooler. The presence of the penguins, combined with the safe, warm swimming spots, draws both tourists and locals who are looking for a unique beach experience that combines wildlife observation with leisure activities.”
But those who have visited know that Boulders isn’t just a beach; it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Warm waters, granite coves and penguins waddling past while you sunbathe? It’s unique and pure South African magic.
And we are so proud to have made the list.
The World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2025 is a real celebration of jaw-dropping coastlines across the globe and trust us, it’s a dreamy lineup! Here’s a glimpse at the top 10 that captured the hearts of travellers and experts alike:
1. Cala Goloritzé – Italy
2. Entalula Beach – Philippines
3. Bang Bao Beach – Thailand
4. Fteri Beach – Greece
5. PK 90 Beach – French Polynesia
6. Canto De La Playa – Dominican Republic
7. Anse Source D’Argent – Seychelles
8. Nosy Iranja – Madagascar
9. Ofu Beach – American Samoa
10. Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos
It’s not just South Africa that’s shining, Southern Africa has a serious reason to celebrate. Several of our neighbours made it into the top 50 (listed above were Seychells and Madagascar but there were more):
30 – Anse Georgette, Seychelles
33 – Le Morne Beach, Mauritius
43 – Paje Beach, Zanzibar
So loads to celebrate and be proud of but how exactly were The World’s 50 Best Beaches chosen?
Well, The World’s 50 Best Beaches isn’t just a popularity contest. The team behind it, made up of seasoned travellers, beach lovers and professional wanderers, gather votes from thousands of travel experts across the globe every year. And they’re not just looking for the prettiest view. They focus on beaches that are unique, wild, untouched, teeming with wildlife and that soothe your soul with nothing but the sound of waves.
Every beach that makes the final list has to receive a vote, be verified and tick some seriously special boxes. It’s not just about hype… it’s about heart. And this year, Boulders Beach has flown the South African flag high with pride.
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