Brighton has the fourth best city beach in the world, says American TV network

The beach in Brighton is better than those in Barcelona and Miami, according to the TV news channel CNN.

The broadcaster rated it as the fourth best city beach in the world behind Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Bondi Beach in Sydney and Waikiki Beach in Honolulu.

CNN said: “Brighton’s proximity to the British capital has earned it a reputation as a kind of ‘London on Sea’.

“Yet while some apply the soubriquet derisively, the town’s fusion of hip urban energy and fresh sea air acts as a tonic to any traveller and commuter ills.

“The beach, which is mostly shingle down to the low tide mark, is a far cry from the paradise clichés – this is England after all – but it resonates charm and pulses with energy, especially on rare sunny days.

“Arcane British seaside traditions such as stripy deckchairs, sticks of rock candy and fairground rides abound, but Brighton Lanes – a maze of quaint streets and alleyways crammed with independent shops – are a stone’s throw away.

“Lowdown (5-point system)

“Cleanliness: 3 – Although considered clean by British standards, Brighton doesn’t have a Blue Flag – official recognition by the international Foundation for Environmental Education of ‘super clean’ status.

“Visual stimulus: 4 – Brits aren’t slow to strip off at the first glimpse of sun, so there’s plenty of flesh on parade during summer. Brighton’s (stony) naturist strand was the first official clothes-optional beach in Britain.

“Food/drink: 5 – ‘London on Sea’ is blessed with a superb eating and drinking scene.

“Safe swimming: 3 – The beach slopes sharply into the sea at high tide.

“Party factor: 5 – Great nightclubs and music venues and frequent appearances on the beach by big names make Brighton popular with music fans.”

look we’re in at number 4 ….. 9 of the world’s best city beaches http://t.co/FbsgjDWyVR

— Chris Cooke (@kemptowncookie) August 1, 2014