BOURNEMOUTH beach has been named fifth best-rated beach in Europe and 20 in the world by Tripadvisor awards.

This comes after Bournemouth beach was named the UK's favourite beach.

Bournemouth Echo: Bournemouth beach last summer. Picture: Andrew MatthewsPA WireBournemouth beach last summer. Picture: Andrew MatthewsPA Wire

Tripadvisor's Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for Beaches ranked Bournemouth as the fifth best beach in Europe.

Only Bournemouth beach and Porthminster beach in Cornwall ranked in the top 10 beaches in Europe.

However, Perranporth Beach in Cornwall ranks at 16 while Scarborough’s Filey Beach ranks at 18.

Bournemouth beach is wedged between La Concha beach, Spain which ranks at number four, and Balos Lagoon, Greece, which ranks at number six in the top 10 beaches in Europe.

Spiaggia dei Conigli on the island of Lampedusa in Italy was voted as Europe's number one beach and was followed by Playa de Cofete on the Spanish island of Fuerteventura.

The awards are based on the quality and quantity of reviews and ratings from Tripadvisor travellers for beaches, gathered over a 12 month period.

Bournemouth Echo: People on Bournemouth beach last year. Picture: Andrew Matthews/PA WirePeople on Bournemouth beach last year. Picture: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire

The 'Best of the Best Beaches' also takes into account the volume of “saves” for beaches on Tripadvisor, reflecting travellers' longing to visit new places. 

Vice president and general manager, global media business at Tripadvisor, Christine Maguire said: "Your last trip to the beach probably feels like a lifetime ago, but with vaccine programs rolling out worldwide, safely making that beach getaway a reality just might be in reach.

"Whether your preferred kind of beach is preened and pristine or rugged and rough, this list of travellers’ favourites is just the inspiration you need to get planning your next beach break."

Bournemouth Echo: Thousands of people on Bournemouth beach on June 24, 2020, making the most of the hot weather. Picture by Greg Luckhurst, Bournemouth Daily EchoThousands of people on Bournemouth beach on June 24, 2020, making the most of the hot weather. Picture by Greg Luckhurst, Bournemouth Daily Echo

When it comes to the best in the world, Australia’s Whitehaven Beach takes the top spot.

The remote Australian beach is located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and is only accessible by boat, seaplane or helicopter.

Bournemouth beach was ranked number 20 in the best beaches in the world category.