Top award for Cape Town beaches

Cape Town's beaches have been recognised in the annual World Travel Awards.

The city was recognised as a Best Beach destination in the recent awards, while South Africa's tourism brands were also handed a string of accolades.

Cape Town competed alongside Bazaruto in Mozambique; Diani Beach, Kenya; Plettenberg Bay, South Africa; Zanzibar Island, Tanzania and previous winner, Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt.

The destination's award-winning beaches are the result of a sustained, combined effort between the public, city council and private sector, according to CEO of Cape Town Tourism, Mariette du Toit-Helmbold.

Grant Pascoe, mayoral committee member for tourism, events and marketing, said: "Cape Town's beaches are a huge tourism asset, particularly because they are so diverse.

"We have family beaches, tidal pools, clear water, challenging surf, endless beaches, tranquil coves - and more. Our beaches are a place for relaxation, exercise, discovery, and inspiration and so appeal to a wide range of travellers and can offer so much in a single visit."