A stunning Australian beach has been named the second best in the world, although many locals have never heard of it.
Stokes Bay, on the north coast of Kangaroo Island in South Australia, is a hidden gem that can be found at the end of a maze of rocks.
Its crystal clear waters and sheltered rock pools form a tranquil paradise that welcomes adventurous travelers from Australia and around the world.
Enjoy the tripa world authority on travel, awarded the beach second place out of 50 for its perfect water and sand, unique location and abundant wildlife.
Piha Beach in New Zealand, a stunning tourist haven in Auckland known for its black sand and famous Lion Rock, took the top spot.
Stokes Bay has been named the second best beach in the world, although many locals have never heard of it.
Stokes Bay is located on the north coast of Kangaroo Island in South Australia and is a 30-minute flight from Adelaide or a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis.
Upon reaching Stokes Bay, visitors wander through a maze-like rock passage before emerging onto sun-kissed sands and water “as clear as crystal.”
“The short walk to the beach has to be experienced to be believed, and then the beach with its perfect waves and rock pool,” said one recent visitor.
‘Simply divine.’
Stokes Bay’s rock formations provide shelter from the stronger surf surrounding Kangaroo Island and create a safe, shallow pool perfect for snorkelling and swimming.
This also makes it a great place for families to visit with children.
The rock formations of Stokes Bay provide shelter from the stronger surf surrounding Kangaroo Island.
A sunset over Stokes Bay is a sight to behold
The impressive bay was also voted Tourism Australia’s best beach for 2023.
As well as being a beach lover’s dream destination, Stokes Bay is home to white-bellied sea eagles and hooded plovers, as well as dolphins.
More adventurous visitors can also spend hours exploring the rugged coastline and rocks.
The nearby Rockpool Café offers excellent kiosk-style food and fresh fish and is a great place to grab a packed picnic.
Visitors to the bay (left) can also explore the rolling paths of Kangaroo Island (right)
Reviewers also described the beach and surrounding areas of Kangaroo Island as a “perfect” natural environment for photography enthusiasts.
‘A gorgeous beach and a great place to take beautiful photographs even if the water is too cold to swim!’ gushed one reviewer.
Another who spotted a pod of dolphins just 50 meters from shore praised Stokes Bay as an “outstanding beach gem”.
“Straight to my wishlist,” wrote another.
Kangaroo Island is a 30-minute flight from Adelaide.
There is also a 45-minute ferry from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw, where you can drive 80 minutes on sealed roads to Stokes Bay, or take a taxi or shuttle.