Best of Beaches

BRITAIN’S answer to the Mediterranean with sandy beaches and palm-tree-lined promenades, won’t have a single Blue Flag beach this year.

Devon‘s English Riviera, formed of three towns – Paignton, Brixham and Torquay – will lose all of its Blue Flag beaches this year after the local council agreed to scrap the scheme.

At a recent meeting, Torbay Council agreed to leave the internationally recognised scheme which awards high-quality beaches.

While the English Riviera stretches across the South Devon coast, every single one of its awarded beaches sits under Torbay Council’s control.

There are six beaches in total with the award including Broadsands Beach in Paignton; Oddicombe Beach in Torquay; Preston Beach in Paignton; Torre Abbey Sands in Torquay; Breakwater Beach in Brixham and Meadfoot Beach in Torquay.

One beach – Oddicombe in Torquay – has even held a Blue Flag status since the scheme launched 38 years ago.

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The council has said that the decision has been made as local leaders believe the scheme wasn’t meeting the bay’s needs anymore and that it had become too expensive, reports theBBC.

The scheme has recently updated its criteria to include a requirement for designated zones for swimmers, surfers, boarders and motor boats at each beach.

However, for smaller coves, Torbay Council believes this is unpractical.

Councillor Martin Brook said: “I think the Blue Flag lot have shot themselves in the foot.

“Places all over the country are going to pull out of the scheme.”

The council is now planning to introduce a new scheme that would be run locally called the English Riviera Beach Standards (ERBS) scheme.

ERBS will replace the Blue Flag scheme, managing all of Torbay’s 25 beaches and coves and it would cost £260,000 less to run.

It will also allow the council to test the water standards more frequently.

The beaches will be accessed against three categories.

The first is ‘excellence’, which celebrates the highest-quality beaches in the area – ones that consistently have a great visitor experience.

The second category is ‘quality’, which looks at what unique offerings each beach has.

And the third category is ‘natural’, which highlights unspoilt beaches in the region.

Each beach will be assessed every year under the new scheme.

According to the council, the scheme will also allow water to be monitored more often, there to be a stronger focus on environmental protection and sustainability, visitor experience to be improved, be better value for money and more accurately present Torbay’s coastline.

Councillor Adam Billings, Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, said: “Torbay’s coastline is central to our identity, and these new beach awards will highlight just how deeply we value and protect it.

“By creating a locally designed system, we can focus on what truly matters to our communities, our visitors and our environment.”

Under the new ratings current Blue Flag beaches Oddicombe, Meadfoot, Torre Abbey, Broadsands and Breakwater would all move into the ‘excellence’ category.

Then in the ‘quality’ category, Maidencombe, Anstey’s Cove, Goodrington North and Goodrington South beaches would feature.

And finally, Watcombe, Petitor, Babbacombe, Peaked Tor, Corbyn Head, Livermead, Fairy Cove, Oyster Cove, Saltern Cove, Armchair Cove, Elberry Cove, Churston, Fishcombe, St Mary’s Bay, Beacon Cove and Hollicombe beaches would be in the ‘natural’ category.

The council added how Paignton and Preston Beaches will currently not be categorised due to a multi-million waterfront upgrade project taking place.

Locals are skeptical about the idea of a new scheme though, with one person commenting on social media: “Is the blue flag recognised across the globe?

“Why replace (your words) something that has been around for over 40 years. Unless you look to make cut backs on facilities.”

Another added: “Why have a local system that means nothing to our visitors…. Stick to the Blue Flag system that is known throughout the UK.”

The new scheme is set to come into force on March 2, with the former £11,000 Blue Flag budget being used to set up the scheme.

In other beach news, world famous UK beach closed to the public after storm damage.

Plus, our 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

DREAMING of a winter sun getaway? You could be relaxing on white sandy beaches and chilling poolside under swaying palms for less than you’d think.

We’ve rounded up some of the top destinations for cheap winter sun – with highs of 33°C and even zero jet lag.

Cape Verde

If you want stunning sandy beaches and a subtropical climate, consider jetting off to Cape Verde.

Temperatures here average 23°C in the winter months, reaching highs of 27°C. Plus, Cape Verde is only an hour ahead of the UK, so no jet lag that usually comes with a winter sun break.

Cape Verde is made up of ten volcanic islands, which are split into the northern side, Barlavento, and the southern side, Sotavento.

Down in the southern island of Santiago there are vibrant markets, lush landscapes and hiking trails.

But the northern islands tend to draw more tourists, thanks to their gorgeous beaches.

Some of the top islands to visit on the northern side include Boa Vista and the major holiday spot, Sal.

In Boa Vista, head to the renowned Chaves Beach, where soft sand stretches over three miles.

This island is also home to the miniature Viana Desert, where you can go sand-boarding or roam over the rolling dunes in a 4×4 or quad bike.

Over in Sal, the Buracona Lagoon is well worth a visit with its near-neon blue waters known as the “blue eye“.

You’ve got your pick of sandy beaches and sunset catamaran trips, plus the picturesque towns of Espargos and Palmeira bring a lively buzz to the area.

Cape Verde is easy to reach, with new flights available this year with easyJet.

The airline flies to Sal from London Gatwick and Manchester from £92.49 each way. Plus, starting from May 1, the airline is adding a new route from Bristol, which will operate three times a week.

The Sun’s Head Of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, went on a family holiday to the island of Sal in late February.

She said: “Reliable mid-haul sunshine in February is scarce, but Cape Verde gave us seven full days of blue skies.

“The strong breeze kept us cool in the intense sun, but it was also deceptive – there were plenty of tourists with lobster-pink skin who’d clearly been caught out by the super-strength rays, just 1,100 miles from the equator.

“Skin-scorching sun isn’t the only reason to pay a visit to the ­Portuguese-speaking country, though.

“For those who like a bit of adrenaline, there’s kite-surfing along the aptly named Kite Beach, plus quad-biking on the inner-island desert landscape.

“But for us, our break was all about relaxing — and we did just that on a four-hour catamaran cruise along the coast of Sal, where, away from the shore, the waters were calm enough for a dip.

“These beautiful beaches, as well as adventure activities and watersports, were all within a short drive of our hotel, the Riu Palace Santa Maria, south of the island of Sal and near the idyllic beach town of Santa Maria.

“With six pools, including a waterpark with several impressive slides, five restaurants, two cocktail bars, a sports bar, a cafe, spa, gym and kids’ club — there was enough to keep any fly-and-flop holidaymaker supremely happy.”

Senegal

Senegal is another top pick for winter sun, with temperatures averaging a scorching 33°C in February.

And with no time difference between Senegal and the UK, you won’t lose out on any sleep on your travels.

Dakar is the country’s capital, where you’ll find markets, monuments and marbled mosques.

There is some beautiful nature to be discovered here, too. The Saloum Delta National Park is a nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful mangroves and flamingos.

The Lagune de la Somone is a great spot for soaking up the sights via paddleboard or kayak through unspoilt nature.

Plus, to tick off that bucket list experience, TUI offer safari excursions from just £41.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey took a trip to Senegal and stayed at TUI’S Riu Baobab hotel.

She said: “Senegal is often overlooked as a winter sun destination by Brits, but it’s slowly becoming one of the ‘hot’ new places to go.

“It was put back on the map for UK holidaymakers after TUI launched direct flights back in 2022.

“It makes the perfect affordable fly and flop, with hot winters and a shorter flight time than Dubai or Thailand. 

“I stayed at the RIU Baobab, so most of my time was spent on the sun lounger or pool bar.

“But day trips out are a must – I recommend exploring Goree Island. A former slave trading port, it’s harrowing but informative. 

“Otherwise, stop at the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa, for a quick Instagram stop”.

TUI offer package holidays to Senegal, with some great all-inclusive options.

The Riu Baobab hotel in Pointe Sarene boasts four pools, a waterpark, and is only steps away from a sandy beach dotted with coconuts and palm trees.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive stay for two adults at the Riu Baobab hotel, including flights, costs just £958pp.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a classic choice when it comes to a winter sun escape – and it’s clear to see why.

Temperatures average a comfortable 20°C here in winter, letting you enjoy exploring the island with the warmth of the sun on your back.

And with no time difference between Gran Canaria and the UK, you’ll miss out on jet lag completely.

There’s no shortage of things to do on this paradisaical Canary Island.

There are whales and dolphins to spot by boat in the resort town of Puerto Rico, as well as volcanic hiking paths to explore in the Nublo Rural Park.

When it comes to beaches, Playa del Inglés is a top choice with a bustling promenade and various water sports on offer.

And for something different, the dunes of Maspalomas contain their own ecosystems, including pretty lagoons and palm groves.

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski took a trip to Gran Canaria and saw the best of what the island’s landscapes have to offer.

She said: “I visited Gran Canaria for one reason only. It was chucking it down at home, and my beachfront hotel on the volcanic island was speckled with plush cabanas perfectly poised for basking in the sunshine.

“I can’t say I left the resort much on my one and only visit – simply because pina coladas and strolls along the black sand beach were the order of the day every day.

“If you do want to indulge in more than just sunbathing, Gran Canaria is home to some gorgeous hiking trails along craggy orange rocks.

“It’s also got some of the best dark skies in the world, meaning long evenings can be spent soaking up those twinkling stars and the brightest moon I’ve ever seen.

“There’s a rather large banana plantation at the northern side of the island, and visitors can learn all about the fruits’ production and the best time for picking”.

The best part is that Gran Canaria can be super cheap to visit.

A week away at the Servatur Riosol hotel in the resort of Puerto Rico costs as little as £249pp with Loveholidays.

Or go all-in and upgrade to all-inclusive from only £459pp.

Cape Town

The first few months of the year are some of Cape Town‘s hottest, sitting at a sizzling average of 27°C.

Not only is the South African coastal city a stylish spot, but it can be great value too – and comes with some stunning beaches.

And with the city being only two hours behind UK time, there’s no significant time zone change to adjust to.

This is a great city for the adventurous type who likes to explore unique landscapes by day and sip on world-class wines by night.

Take a cable car up to Table Mountain for rotating 360° views over dramatic rock formations and the Atlantic’s sapphire waters.

Or laze on the white sands of Camps Bay and Llandudno Beach to soak up those Southern Hemisphere summer rays.

Boulders Beach is always a favourite, too. Here you can observe herds of Humboldt penguins waddle between rocks and slip into the bright blue sea.

Food and drink are second-to-none in this culinary capital. Head to Kalk Bay for some budget-friendly seafood, or head to the colourful bar Cape to Cuba for an ice-cold Mojito.

It goes without saying that the wine here is worth sampling – you can sample some local tipples on a hop-on hop-off winery tram tour for £36 on GetYourGuide.

The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, visited Cape Town for a family holiday.

She said: “Cape Town is officially the world’s cheapest long-haul holiday, according to the Post Office Money Report, and it’s perfect for families with just two hours’ time difference, jaw-dropping animals and perfect beaches.

“Everything in Cape Town is so accessible that we landed at 8.30am, got our hire car, checked into the hotel and were on the glorious Camps Bay beach in swimsuits by 11.30am. 

“On our two-week trip to the South African capital and the surrounding area, we saw everything from zebras and giraffes to penguins and lions.

“This is a country so packed with wildlife that it is not uncommon to see exotic creatures such as baboons and ostriches feeding at the side of the road, or taking an evening stroll in front of your hotel room. 

“Recently, South Africa’s tourism minister touted the region as such great value that ‘British visitors can afford our 5* hotels’, and the price comparisons are stark when looking at the cost of things like food and drink.

“At the 5-star Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town – I drank posh wine at just £4 a glass, while my son played with the other kids in the infinity pool, as dolphins played in the ocean just feet away. 

“The trip was a dream from start to finish, with so many memories made that it felt like five holidays wrapped into one. “

Lastminute.com offer a week-long self-catering apartment stay in Cape Town, including flights from £780pp.

Morocco

Morocco is the perfect mix of short-haul flights, warm temperatures and cheap luxury-feel hotels.

And as the country is just one hour ahead of the UK, you won’t feel exhausted after landing.

Hop on a three-hour 40-minute flight from London to Marrakesh, and you’ll be in Morocco’s bustling capital that hovers around 20°C in winter.

This must-visit city has endless souks to browse and unique sights to see in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.

The fishing village of Taghazout, on the other hand, has a beachy boho feel and is popular with surfers and sun-worshippers alike.

There’s plenty of surf shacks to rent boards from, a skate park and a shimmering bay.

Over on the west coast, Agadir is home to some of Morocco’s best beaches.

Plage d’Agadir is the most popular, and its seven miles of golden sands and turquoise water are perfect for both sunbathing and snorkelling.

The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, enjoys visiting Morocco’s capital.

She said: “I’ve been to Marrakech many times – drawn by the treasures to be found in the colourful, chaotic souks and the raw beauty of the desert landscapes that surround it.

“Tourism is booming in the city, and with it has come a host of exciting new hotels, restaurants and rooftop bars.

“My most recent trip included a three-hour food tour of the Medina – our guide gave us a brilliant insight into the local cuisine and encouraged me to try dishes I might never have sampled had I been on my own.

“For total escapism, though, our trip into the Afagay Desert revealed a different side to this fascinating country – silent, stunning desert landscapes.

“Worth splashing out on was our trip to The White Camel, a luxury tented camp where we spent an afternoon on dune buggies before watching the sun set with a drink by their infinity pool, before indulging in a fabulous four-course feast”.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, on the other hand, chose to check out the beaches of Agadir.

She said: “While Marrakech is all about the souks and the dunes, Agadir is a more laid-back affair.

“This is where you’ll find the surfers, with surf schools littering the beach.

“My favourite way to spend a day was walking along the golden sand coastline, with just a few locals and stray dogs along the way.

“Otherwise, Agadir is also home to one of Africa’s biggest souks – Souk El Had – although there are lots of other ones to explore in the city”.

Perhaps the best part about Morocco is just how affordable it is to visit.

Five nights at a beachfront all-inclusive in Agadir with flights costs just £239pp with Loveholidays.

Mauritius

Mauritius was recently deemed the safest African country to visit, and it’s one of the most beautiful destinations for winter sun, too.

Not only is it popular for its low crime rate, but our winter is actually their summer season.

Temperatures reach a scorching 30°C, and even the sea temperatures can reach 27°C.

Plus, the country is only four hours ahead of UK time, which is easier to adjust to than countries further abroad.

For the best of beaches, check out Flic en Flac for sugar-white sands facing a glittering lagoon.

Le Morne, on the other hand, has more of a jungle feel, as the beach is backed by thick green leaves and impressive mountains.

For snorkelling in clear waters and spotting colourful fish, head to the Blue Bay Marine Park in the southeast.

And for 66p tasty Creole curries and exotic fresh fruits, head to the markets of the country’s capital, Port Louis.

The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, has explored Mauritius from its beaches to its busy capital.

She said: “This Indian Ocean island paradise was a revelation when I visited. Yes, of course, there are stunning powder white beaches, swaying palms and delightful all-inclusive hotels.

“But the south of the island reveals endlessly changing landscapes, from busy colonial-era towns and centuries-old sugarcane plantations to volcanic mountain ranges and unique geological wonders.

“Go hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park – the views are worth the trek through the indigenous rainforest.

“Or admire the Seven Coloured Earths – waving, solidified sand dunes in a riot of colours that highlight the island’s unique geography.

“In the bustling capital Port Louis, head into the Central Market to browse stalls piled high with fresh fruit and veg, then queue with the locals for a dhal puri at one of the many food stalls – the wafer-thin pastry stuffed with a spicy lentil mix”.

You can fly direct to Mauritius with British Airways from £876 return.

Plus Lastminute.com offer package holiday deals to Mauritius from as little as £755, including flights.