Tourists love Bondi Beach, but does it really deserve a spot among the world’s best? Tripadvisor’s latest rankings have sparked a debate among Australians.
Bondi Named One of the World’s Best Beaches, But Locals Aren’t Convinced
Bondi Beach has been listed among the planet’s best 25 beaches in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards, but not everyone is pleased. While the international listing puts the Sydney icon on the world’s most stunning coastal locations, many locals believe it fails to reflect the best of Australia’s coast.
Two Australian Beaches Make the Cut
Bondi came in at number 24 on Tripadvisor’s annual list, with Manly Beach at 15, eight places down from its seventh place ranking in 2024. The world ranking, based on travellers’ ratings and reviews over the past 12 months, featured just two beaches from Sydney.
Tripadvisor has listed Bondi’s golden beach, renowned surf beaches, and scenic coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee as the top reasons for its ranking. Manly, however, was commended for its convenient ferry ride from Circular Quay, patrolled swimming pools, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Locals Divided Over the Rankings
Even with the global recognition, Sydneysiders were shocked to find Bondi and Manly as Australia’s representatives on the list. Although both beaches are undoubtedly iconic, others feel that other less popular destinations are more representative of the country’s natural beauty.
Bondi, though, is a resort area, with large crowds and expensive restaurants that take away from the beach experience, say some. Most locals prefer to visit less crowded beaches like Palm Beach, Freshwater, or Bronte that offer the same view without the crowds.
Manly’s addition was less argumentative, with its casual charm and appeal, though some still question whether it is better than beaches like Queensland’s Whitehaven Beach or Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay, both longtime favourites on similar lists.
How the World’s Best Beaches Are Chosen
The 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards rely on a mix of millions of traveller reviews over the last year. Tripadvisor takes into account aspects such as water quality, landscape, activities, and overall visitor satisfaction to compile the rankings.
At the helm of this year’s best was Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, because of its pink sand and crystal clear waters. The remaining beaches that joined the top five were Eagle Beach in Aruba, Cable Beach in Broome, and Praia da Falésia in Portugal.
Despite missing out on a top 10 spot, Bondi and Manly’s global recognition reinforces Sydney’s status as a world-class coastal destination—even if not all Australians agree.
Published 12-March-2025
