Millions of tourists visit Europe each year to discover its capital cities, like Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Vienna, to mention a few. Europe is home to some of the most stunning cities in the world.

The gorgeous coasts and spectacular beaches stretching thousands of miles across Europe are also well-known.

Some of these beaches cater to families with various activities for energetic kids and parents. In contrast, others have stunning cliffs and isolated bays for people who want to escape the tourist crowds.

There is a beach to fit every preference and need, from the serene beaches in Croatia and Greece with water as blue as the sky to the wild and open surf beaches on Portugal’s Atlantic coast.

A List of 25 Best Beaches Europe

We have compiled a list of the 25 best beaches Europe to assist you in making your next summer travel plans.

1. Saleccia Beach, France

North of the beautiful island is where you’ll find Saleccia Beach. It is one of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches thanks to its excellent white sands and sparkling waves. It is also more preserved and less accessible than other Corsican beaches.

The 15 km drive from Casta village to the beach will require courage and endurance because the roads are in terrible shape. Even though you could feel utterly alone, there is a campsite and a little store 400 meters from the beach, so you are not absolutely alone.

Visit Nonza, one of France’s most picturesque villages, which is located at 1:30. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

Les Jardins de La Madrague, ten minutes away from this best beach, is a great option for outdoor and sports lovers.

2. Navagio Beach, Greece

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is located on the Greek island of Zakynthos and is only reachable by taxi boat from Porto Vromi due to its stunning white cliff surroundings. But do not let this deter you; boats depart every 30 minutes, and tickets are reasonably priced.

When you arrive at the beach, you can anticipate seeing bright blue waters that are excellent for swimming and snorkeling. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

The wind is protected by the cliffs, thus there aren’t many opportunities for water sports in this area. Due to its serene atmosphere, Navagio Beach is popular throughout the year, but it is busiest between May and September.

3. Bolonia beach, Spain

One of the most incredible beaches in Andalusia and among the best in Europe is Bolonia Beach, or “Playa de Bolonia,” which is in Tarifa.

This big beach arrives at the end of a lovely walk in the fine white sand dunes. It reminds me of the Sahara Desert. It is a white sand beach.

An excellent setting for relaxing, Andalusian sunbathing, windsurfing, or discovering the Roman remains on this beach. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

Parking close to the beach and eating on-site are both options. We suggest “Hotel The Tarifa Lances” because of its infinity pools, bobo-chic decor, and close access to Bolonia beach.

4. Cala Sa Boadella Beach, Spain

Cala Sa Boadella is a stunning tiny beach and one of Spain’s most famous beaches. You are welcomed by the beach’s soft sand and crystal clear water.

It is a nudist beach. Come enjoy this small corner of paradise and leave your modesty in the car. You are timid? You should swim in the warm Mediterranean waves.

Treat yourself to a week of pure rest and leisure this summer in Lloret de Mar, one of Spain’s best beach towns. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

5. Ölüdeniz Beach, Turkey

One of Turkey’s most scenic locations is Lüdeniz Beach, commonly known as the Blue Lagoon. It is a stunning wide bay. There is no overdevelopment taking place here because the bay and the surrounding forest are both protected nature reserves.

You will be relieved to learn that the beach offers restrooms, showers, and a number of eateries if you were wondering if it had some basic services.

The lagoon’s great clarity makes Lüdeniz Beach a top spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The pinnacle of Mount Badadag, which picks up ideal wind conditions for a glide of a lifetime, is another reason why paragliders adore this location.

Additionally, there is a nearby local food market where tourists can buy fresh fish for their picnic on the beaches. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

6. Seixal Beach, Portugal

Praia do Porto do Seixal was named one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe for the beauty of its volcanic black sand, its crystal-clear waves, the spectacular cliffs, and the rich flora.

You may get a glance at Madeira’s stunning north coast here, which is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean.

This highly “Instagrammable” beach offers lodging with views of the ocean and cliffs and direct beach access, as well as dining options, restrooms, and showers.

A short distance away from Porto Moniz’s natural pools lies this best beach. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

7. Porthminster beach, England

Ever considered taking a beach holiday in England? Porthminster Beach at Porthminster located in the far South West of England Cornwall is a fantastic county with countless breathtaking sandy beaches.

The English have been won over by St Ives, a former fishing port, that offers genuine charm, pristine waters, and fine sand.

Additionally, St Ives draws artists from all over the world who flock to this secluded sanctuary to find inspiration. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

Book early at the Palma Guest House, which is frequently booked because it is so well-liked by travellers, if you wish to wake up in a room with a sea view.

8. Cavoli Beach, Italy

One of Italy’s best-kept secrets is the Island of Elba, which is home to the Spiaggia di Cavoli beach. There is a public part and a private portion reserved for the nearby hotels on this beautiful beach that is situated in a small cove.

The beach gets popular in the summer since it is one of the most well-known beaches on the island of Elba, with a crystal-clear sea, golden sands, and a special atmosphere. It is a golden sand beach.

It always has a warm climate because it faces south and has Monte Capanne to protect the bay from northern winds. This implies that visitors can swim here year-round.

From March to November, people come to this beach. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

9. Nugal Beach, Croatia

Travelers this year are experiencing a wave of liberation as they choose the beach at Nugal, which is mostly nudist, as one of their top beaches in Europe.

This stunning beach on the Makarska Riviera might be considered one of Europe’s best secret beaches. To protect this tiny slice of paradise, use biodegradable and environmentally friendly sunscreen.

It’s similar to diving into the sea; at first, you might feel a little hesitant, but once you do it, you won’t regret it. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

This beach is a little family-friendly oasis of tranquility. You can choose to wear a swimsuit or not, however, if you are extremely bashful, the Makarska Riviera has many more gorgeous beaches.

10. Cala Cipolla Beach, Italy

Sardinia has some of the most gorgeous beaches in all of Italy with its crystal-clear water, pine trees, pine forest, coves, and secret beaches.

Cala Cipolla has nestled away in a little bay and only spans 150 metres, but it is regarded as one of the pearls of Chia Bay in the south of the island. This beach is ideal for families due to the calm sea and shallow waters.

It has pine and juniper trees by the beach, where sunbathers can find shade during the hottest parts of the day, and is surrounded by thick Mediterranean Maquis.

There aren’t any pubs or restaurants there, but during the summer, sellers set up shop near the beach’s entrance. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

11. Mamaia Beach, Romania

The Black Sea Coast’s Mamaia Beach is home to Romania’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the city of Constanta, which inspires many travellers to daydream.

Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, sunglasses, and swimwear, and get ready to laze on Mamaia’s extraordinarily long golden sandy beach.

This peninsula’s lengthy beach has a similar aesthetic to Miami Beach but is more reasonably priced. It is one of the best beaches in Europe.

Not a fan of cocktail lounges, decent eateries at reasonable costs, or hotel suites with ocean views? You might not want to travel to this location.

12. Bestouan Beach, France: One of the Best Beaches in Europe

Travellers seeking gorgeous beaches, coves, nature, and sun should visit Cassis. This location is protected from mass tourism and is in the “Provence-Alpes Côte d’Azur Region” in southern France. One of the gems of the French Riviera and a location of exceptional beauty is Cassis.

You will appreciate Cassis’ numerous beaches and creeks, including the “Beach of the Grande Mer,” the Creek of En Vau, the Calanque of Port-Miou, the Beach of the Corton, and the Beach of the Arena. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

Come and relax on Bestouan Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in France and among the best beaches in Europe, with a view of the port of Cassis, calmed by the aroma of umbrella pines, and just a short walk from your hotel.

13. Cape Drastis, Greece

Greece is the ideal location for family vacations and sunny beach days. The variety of Greek islands that are uninhabited and close to nature is endless.

For those who enjoy nature, gorgeous wild beaches, and trekking, Corfu is a great option. “Akra Drastis,” also known as “Cape Drastis,” is a spot of rare beauty and can be found in the north of the island of Corfu, a few kilometers from the lovely city of Sidari.

Except for young children or elderly persons with limited mobility, the gravel road that provides access to a little cove is not easily accessible, but the hike is well worth it.

For those looking for offbeat, authentic locations away from the crowds, this beach comes highly recommended. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

14. Numana Alta Beach,Italy

You don’t want to compromise; you want sunshine, top-notch dining, mouthwatering ice cream, a sea that is clear as glass, and a pristine beach with the sweet aroma of pine trees in the air. The beach in Numana Alta is for you! In Numana, there are numerous beaches of that nature.

Children will love Numana Bassa because it has so many playgrounds, beach facilities, and dining establishments. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

The tranquil Numana Alta beach is ideal for reading a nice book or taking a quick plunge in the water. The reefs provide wind protection for it.

15. Santa Giulia Beach, France

One of the most stunning beaches in France and usually referred to as “the Best Beach in Corsica” is the Santa Giulia beach, which is located in Porto Vecchio in southern Corsica.

It is a swimming lagoon at the base of a mountain that stretches for miles. It is situated in a horseshoe harbour with flawless white sand, turquoise waters, and pine trees.

Young youngsters will enjoy the beach’s gently sloping terrain. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

Additionally, sailing and other water sports are also popular in Santa Giulia. A wealth of Corsican fauna and plants can be found in the lake on the opposite side of the lagoon.

16. St Nicholas Island, Montenegro

It is one of Europe’s smallest and most beautiful islands. One of Europe’s most magnificent beaches may be found on the island of St. Nicholas, also known as Sveti Nikola.

This island is located across from the lovely city of Budva, 50 minutes from the airport in Tivat, Montenegro, and two hours from the airport in Dubrovnik (Croatia).

This tiny island includes three sizable beaches and a number of lovely little ones. If you’re lucky, the wild side of this tiny island might be home to some deer.

We suggest the “Hotel Kadmo,” which has a restaurant and an outdoor pool if you want to stay in Budva. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

17. Baia delle Zagare, Italy

Italy is one of the most travelled nations in Europe, and its many beaches are among the most sought-after for summer holidays that combine leisure, gastronomy, nature, sports, and culture.

The entry to Baia delle Zagare is through a hotel that is upstream from the beach, despite the fact that it is not a private beach.

Don’t be reluctant to hire a boat to explore the undiscovered beaches and hidden caverns in order to fully appreciate this extraordinary location. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

18. Praia de Marinha, Portugal

Praia de Marinha, which is nestled between limestone cliffs in the well-known Algarve region, has frequently been chosen as one of the best beaches in the world by readers of numerous travel publications. Golden sands, pristine lakes, and craggy rock formations can all be found here.

Make sure to carry a pair of good shoes because flip-flops are inappropriate for the minor hiking required to reach the beach, which is located down a steep pathway.

In the off-season, Praia de Marinha can be one of the Algarve’s more serene beaches, but during the height of summer, the beach is overrun with tourists.

This beach is fantastic for snorkeling because of the Atlantic waves, and the area also has a number of interesting caves and grottos. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

19. Vik Beach, Iceland

The most well-known black sand beach in the world is arguably Vik Beach. It is adjacent to the tiny settlement of Vik and encircled by unusual weathered rocks. Due to its choppy waters, Vik beach is not the ideal choice if you want to go swimming.

Vik Beach is better suited for individuals who want to photograph this epic landscape or look for wildlife including birds and marine mammals. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

Due to its bizarre geologic characteristics, such as sharp sea stacks and clusters, and basalt formations, this is one of the must-see locations while visiting Island.

20. Sandwood Bay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Sandwood Bay in Scotland is a 1.5-mile-long beach that is regarded as one of the best beaches in the United Kingdom because of its pink sand and sloping dunes.

The beach is not very accessible, like many of the best beaches in Europe. From the nearby village of Blairmore, you must embark on a strenuous 4.5-mile journey in order to get to Sandwood Bay. Fortunately, there aren’t many hills to climb along the way.

When you arrive at the beach, you must take pictures of the impressive sea stack that protrudes above the water and the rugged cliffs that round the bay.

Six miles from Sandwood Bay’s shore, the Cape Wrath Lighthouse offers breathtaking views to visitors as well. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

21. Cauco Beach, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Explore the Amalfi Coast this summer to see some of Italy’s most stunning beaches.

Among the most stunning undiscovered gems in Italy especially on the Amalfi Coast are Positano, Amalfi, Sorrento, Ravello, Praiano, Maiori, and Minori.

Only reachable by boat, Spiaggia del Cauco is a secluded and tranquil beach that locals refer to as “Lovers’ Beach” and is regarded as one of the most stunning on the Amalfi Coast.

Visit the nearby beach of Erchie, hire a canoe or pedal boat, and then head to this undiscovered area for a special experience on this tiny, virtually private beach. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

22. Rabbit Beach, Italy

Rabbit Beach, which is more than 100 miles off the coast of the Italian mainland, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Many people avoid going there because of its distance, but those who do will be rewarded with a gorgeous bay with calm, clean waters. Swimming and snorkeling are both excellent watersports in this body of water.

Since the region is utilized to protect the endangered species and their nesting grounds, if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to get up close and personal with sea turtles.

The best part about Rabbit Beach is that it is frequently deserted because of its isolated position, especially during the workweek. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

23. Greve Blanche beach, Brittany, France

Grève Blanche in the Finistere region of Brittany resembles the beaches of Seychelles with its white sand beach and turquoise water. It is situated close to Carantec and Roscoff.

Greve Blanche’s a fine sand beach, gentle waves, and summertime supervision make it the perfect destination for families with young children.

This beach, which faces north, provides views of Callot Island and Taureau Castle. It is surrounded by chic villas that evoke the appeal of beaches from the early 20th century.

When the sun shines after a downpour, the beach’s sand might appear whiter and the waters much more turquoise, completely altering its appearance. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

24. Porto Limnionas Beach, The Ionian Islands, Greece

Book a flight to Zakynthos and explore Porto Limnionas Beach, one of the island’s best-kept secrets, if you want to avoid the partygoers who spend their vacations on Greek islands like Mykonos and Kos.

There is only one route to get to the beach, which is by hiking down a rocky path that is marked with clear signs.

The beach is largely occupied by locals who come here to swim and investigate the underwater tunnels because of how difficult it is to get to. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

On the beach, there is a tiny neighbourhood taverna where you can get fresh fish, wines, and refreshing beer.

25. As Catedrais Beach, Spain

One of the most well-known beaches in Galicia is As Catedrais, which the Spanish government has designated as a national monument. It is renowned for having cathedral-like rock formations that the sea has naturally carved out of the rock.

The most striking creation is a stunning, tall archway that is best viewed at low tide. You can still view the beach from the bluff during high tide. It is one of the best beaches Europe.

When visiting this beach while on vacation in Spain, it is preferable to bring just a camera and enjoy the scenery rather than swimming or engaging in other common water sports.

Final Remark

Beaches are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. It might be challenging to decide which options are ideal when there are so many to pick from.

This article provides a list of the best beaches Europe, based on factors such as popularity, amenities, and natural beauty. So if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun, one of these beaches is sure to be perfect for you.

Last Updated on July 15, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty