BeachAtlas, a UK-based startup specializing in beach-related information, has announced the results of the 2024 Golden Beach Award, unveiling the top 100 beaches worldwide. Among these prestigious rankings, Thailand’s Maya Bay claimed an impressive fifth place, closely trailing behind renowned beaches like Bora Bora in French Polynesia, Boulders Beach in South Africa, Waikiki Beach in the USA, and Copacabana in Brazil, which secured the top four positions respectively.
Maya Bay is celebrated for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, striking cliffs, and pristine white sands. The bay gained international recognition after featuring in the movie “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, solidifying its status as a coveted destination for travelers globally. This year, the awards incorporated a diverse range of selection criteria, including natural beauty, community contributions, and cultural significance, to assess the beaches comprehensively.
The rankings also spotlighted other Thai beaches, with Pattaya Beach claiming the twelfth spot and Railay West Beach ranking sixty-sixth. By embracing varied criteria this year, the awards recognized and celebrated a wide array of beaches for their distinct qualities and allure, showcasing the diversity and beauty of beach destinations worldwide.