La Jolla Cove Named to TripAdvisor's Best Beaches List

La Jolla Cove has been named one of the best beaches in the U.S. by users of the travel website tripadvisor.com.

The stretch of shoreline was ranked eighth by readers, who gave it high marks for views, snorkeling and the presence of marine mammals. One reviewer, however, noted the stench that has plagued the area recently, which is the result of years of accumulated bird excrement.

Laguna Beach, in Orange County, was the only other California pick, coming in at number nine.

The top-ranked beach was Kaanapali Beach on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Four of the top 10 U.S. beaches were on the islands.

Rabbit Beach, in Lampedusa, Italy, was named the best beach in the world. No U.S. beaches made the top 10.

"For those planning their summer vacations, spring break trips or just looking for a weekend escape from the winter doldrums, take inspiration from TripAdvisor travelers that have visited these beaches and given them the highest levels of praise," said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for the Newton, Mass.-based website. "These beaches provide some of the finest spots around the globe to enjoy water activities, sun and sand." 

Tripadvisor.com said the rankings were based on feedback from millions of viewers, but did not specify an exact total.

—City News Service