A SCOTTISH beach has been crowned as one of the best in the world, new research reveals.
West Beach, in the Outer Hebrides, makes the top 25, alongside breathtaking locations including Australia’s The Pass and Ao Maya in Thailand.
Situated off the northwest coast of Scotland, the seaside spot sits on the longest archipelago in the British Isles.
Award-winning travel publisher Lonely Planet, which compiled the league table, hailed West Beach as an “untouched paradise”;.
The stunning shoreline stretches for three miles and is a hit with locals and tourists alike.
One visitor gushed: “It feels like a tropical paradise and shows that there are gorgeous getaways right on your doorstep.
“The sand is white and the waters are blue, it’s the perfect spot to catch a tan on a sunny day.”;
And to cool off from the rays, brave swimmers can take a dip in the chilly waters, which rarely get above 13C.
For visitors who don’t like sand between their toes, the seaside spot boasts grassy dunes perfect for bird-watchers or hikers who are keen to take in the jaw-dropping views.
The beach is stunning all year round, however, it’s been suggested that spring is the best time to visit due to the “burst of colour”; from the abundance of wildflowers.
The beauty spot has good transport links to the mainland with a regular ferry service running from Oban.
There are also flights from Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and Southampton to Stornoway Airport in Lewis.
It’s advisable to rent a car to fully explore the island and the ferry should be booked in advance.
West Beach bagged 12th place on the Lonely Planet chart, The Pass, Australia, Ipanema Beach, Brazil and Ao Maya, Thailand, respectively scooped first, second and third spots.
