18 of the Best Beaches in Europe To Add to Your Bucket List!
Who needs a trip to the tropics when you can find pristine beaches and turquoise waters in Europe?
Europe has history, art, and a melting pot of cultures and traditions packed into one easy-to-navigate continent, but if you're going during summer, you can’t miss these stunning beaches.
Whether you’re a sporty or a laid-back beach-goer, these 18 top beaches in Europe have something to offer anyone. Let's go!
18. Navagio, Zakynthos Island, Greece
The main attraction of this famous beach is the massive hull of a freighter that shipwrecked in the early ’80s.
The ship now sits in the middle of a pristine beach with snow-white sand and bright blue Ionian Sea surrounding it on either side.
This cove can only be accessed by boat because of the sheer cliffs surrounding it from all sides, but an abundance of local providers ensure that any tourist can reach this stunning beach any time.
17. Calanque d’en Vau, Cassis, France
This secluded spot in southern France is a must for adventurous travelers.
The only way to access the beach is by boat or hiking, but once you get there, all the effort will be paid off.
Tucked at the end of an isolated cove, this beach has cliffs on one side and blue Mediterranean waters on another.
It feels like something out of your wildest imagination with bright colors contrasting against white limestone rocks.
16. Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy
Rabbit Beach is well known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, its remote location — 100 miles off the Italian coast — tends to dissuade travelers.
For those who make their way here, the reward is priceless!
The shallow waters allow swimmers to waddle far out into a bay without fearing waves or currents.
It also offers crystal clear waters and plenty of marine life; keep your eyes open for the sea turtles that love to swim here!
15. Elafoníssi Beach, Crete, Greece
Elafoníssi is the ultimate beach destination for all types of travelers, with a variety of activities and breathtaking scenery.
If you're looking to lay back on the sand or go in search of adrenaline adventures like kiteboarding and surfing, Elafoníssi has it all!
And if your stomach starts rumbling on this beautiful island getaway, don't worry, because there are plenty of excellent restaurants serving local Greek dishes such as dakos — a local crispbread topped with fresh tomatoes, mitzithra cheese, olive oil, and herbs.
14. Playa de Migjorn, Formentera, Spain
Formentera is known for its incredible scenery and pristine beaches.
In Playa de Migjorn, you'll find something to do no matter what your cravings are.
Whether you’re looking for just a relaxing day by the beach or beach volleyball, you can rest easy here.
13. Scala dei Turchi, Sicily, Italy
From the moment you lay eyes on this incredible beach, you’ll be in awe.
Millions of years of erosion have carved the stark white marlstone into a series of stairs climbing up from the water.
The place is popular with crowds, so if you're hoping for peace, then be an early bird and visit the Turkish Steps before sunrise for a magical experience.
12. Durdle Door Beach, Dorset, England
Although the United Kingdom may not be your typical beach destination, Durdle Door Beach, with its rugged coastline and striking scenery, is a must-see.
In the summertime, you can swim in the shadow of Durdle Door and when temperatures start to dip, take an unforgettable hike along the cliffs with amazing views of the rolling green hills stretching across miles.
11. Zlatni Rat, Brač, Croatia
Zlatni Rat is a unique Croatian beach with plenty of space for sunbathers.
The unique triangle shape of the beach allows beach-goers to enjoy both turquoise waters and dark green forests.
Zlatni Rat is also great for sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to play in the sea: from paddle-boarding to windsurfing lessons.
10. Vik, Iceland
You'll probably want to avoid the frigid waters of this beach, which can make it particularly dangerous, but its one-of-a-kind scenery is a must-see spot on your Icelandic trip.
Basalt formations have eroded over time and formed Vik's eerie black sand beaches.
The dark sand contrasting against extraordinary geologic features - like clusters of hexagonal rock columns or sharp sea stacks - will offer you an unforgettable experience.
9. Playa Sa Caleta, Ibiza, Spain
Two red rocks cliffs protect this beach from the elements and make the perfect location for some amazing sunsets — you’ll be able to relax in peace.
This beautiful, secluded beach holds a special kind of magic.
Be sure to visit the nearby Phoenician ruins for an unforgettable archeological trip.
8. Lubenice Beach, Cres Island, Croatia
If you want to experience something beyond the ordinary, take a 45-minute hike on steep terrain to find this secluded beach.
When you're here, enjoy a pure bliss of peace and relax or take some time to explore the exclusive Blue Cave.
You’ll need to swim to get to the Blue Cave, but the sun’s rays lighting the cave and reflecting off of the blue water creates a magical atmosphere.
After a day by the beach, you may head to Lubenice, a charming medieval well known for its fresh seafood dishes.
7. Nissi Bay Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus
For those looking to relax in a beautiful setting with plenty of sun and fun, Nissi Bay Beach is the perfect place.
This soft, white sandy beach is nestled between two sections of calm blue waters that provide picturesque views.
If you're ready to party, you can head to Nissi Bay Beach Bar, which hosts the most glamorous beach parties all summer long with resident DJ sets and summer bacchanals!
6. Palombaggia, Corsica, France
Palombaggia is a peaceful stretch of Corsican coastline, and although it is one of the best beaches in Europe, it’s still crowd-free.
It's perfect for families -- small children can have fun playing in shallow water, while older kids can be entertained for hours snorkeling in this paradise and watching the abundant schools of fish.
5. Ölüdeniz Beach, Turkey
Ölüdeniz Beach literally means “the blue lagoon,” and the name says it all.
The bay is so richly colored it almost looks fake.
The bay and the surrounding forest are nature preserves, so it's free of the tourist crowds of other Turkish resorts.
This beach is also a top spot for para-gliders - thanks to the nearby peak Mount Babadag - and an excellent location for snorkelers and scuba divers.
4. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall, England
This famous Cornwall beach is flanked by rocks cliffs, so it naturally remains calm even during windy seasons.
Bring your mask and snorkel — visibility will guarantee amazing sea life sightings here.
And once the sun sets, climb up the cliffside to catch the most amazing sunsets with an ocean soundtrack and a view of the Atlantic.
3. Praia da Ilha de Tavira, Algarve, Portugal
One of the most-loved coastal regions is The Algarve in Portugal.
While many tourists flock to high-rise hotels in the west, this secluded beach is perfect for calm and peace seekers.
As the name suggests, Praia da Ilha de Tavira is an island - or rather, a sandbar - floating just offshore at pretty Tavira.
The beach has thick and deep cream-colored sand with calm water like a lagoon that stretches as far as the eye can see.
2. San Giovanni di Sinis, Sardinia, Italy
The north coast of Sardinia is famous for its sugar-sanded, Maldives-style beaches.
But all of the coastline in this part of Italy has incredible views and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered by travelers off the beaten path.
The east coast offers one spectacular cove after another, but these can be steep and difficult to reach.
If you want something easier or more accessible, then head over San Giovanni di Sinis, where things are much calmer; there's no better place if you're looking for some natural beauty with its shores overlooking the ruined Roman citadel of Tharros.
1. Argèles-sur-Mer, Languedoc, France
Argèles-Sur-Mer is a gorgeous combination of French and Catalan architecture, complete with an imposing square block castle dating back to the seventh century.
Nestled between the Mediterranean and Pyrenees mountains on the border with Spain, Argèles Sur Mer is most famous for its beach with its four whole miles (6.4 km) of soft sand clear water.
And the icing on the cake, Argèles also produces some of France's best wines!
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They say that the ocean stirs the heart, inspires imagination, and brings joy to the soul.
Lounging on a white sandy beach, snorkeling, or hiking to reach that secluded beach are the perfect ways to experience your European trip to the fullest.
Sky above, sand below, and peace within are waiting for you!
Ready to start planning your next trip?
