Best Beaches in Europe: 27 Beautiful Beaches

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Are you dreaming of the best beaches in Europe? Well, I can’t say I blame you! Everybody needs an occasional beach break. Regardless of whether you’re CEO of a huge corporate firm, a waitress at a pub, or you run your own business, all work and no play can lead to serious burnout.  

I bet when you’re at work sometimes your mind wanders to bright white beaches and sipping cocktails on the sand. Judging by the fact that the majority of travel-related searches online happen between the hours of 9am and 5pm, I think it’s more than sometimes.  

The 27 Best European Beaches

Now, when it comes to beautiful beaches, where is it that you’d wish to go? Whilst jetting off to Thailand, lounging on a Caribbean island, or perhaps the famous Miami beach might seem fun, it can be expensive and, there’s plenty of sun, sea and sand in Europe as well.

In fact, travelling in Europe can save you serious money and be even more fun. Plus, it has no shortage of breathtaking beaches in Europe.

So, let’s dive in (literally and metaphorically!) and explore the nicest beaches in Europe.

1. Iztuzu, Dalyan, Muğla, Turkey 

When it comes to unusual and beautiful beaches in Europe, Iztuzu Beach definitely comes near the top. This narrow strip of sand forms a barrier between the freshwater delta of the Dalyan River in Tukey and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

It’s also one of the main breeding grounds for loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean, so it’s also nicknamed Turtle Beach.

The beach is a protected nature reserve and therefore almost completely undisturbed by tourism – only qualified tour guides are allowed there. This natural haven is definitely one of the best beaches in Europe.

✅ Discover the best hotels in Mugla

2. Zlatni Rat Beach, Croatia 

Croatia is another of the best beach destinations known for its magnificent stretches of sand but none is quite as impressive as Zlatni Rat Beach.

It almost resembles a tongue of pebbles and sand protruding into the ocean and the waves that strong waves that lap around it are great for surfers and kite surfers.

The actual shape of the beaches keeps changing shape due to the currents and winds. No two photographs of the beach will be quite the same. It’s also a protected area and the surrounding trees are also full of wildlife. 

It’s located on the Croatian island of Brač and the easiest way to get there is to take a ferry from Split. This costs around 5 and the journey takes about 50 minutes. You can book your ferry here.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Split

3. Navagio Beach, Zante, Greece 

One of the more famous beaches in Greece but by no means less beautiful, Navagio Beach is stunning, as is the Greek island it is located on. Also known as ‘Shipwreck Beach’ or ‘Smuggler’s Cove’ due to the abandoned skeleton of a ship washed up on its shore.

The beach can only be accessed by boat. However, multiple tour companies take tourists to the beach daily as the ship’s graveyard is such a popular spot.

Surrounded by tall white cliffs, the beach is also a popular spot for bungee jumping and other extreme sports and is certainly a beautiful spot for it.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Zante

4. Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz, Turkey 

Possibly one of my favourite beautiful European beaches, the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz, Turkey is nothing short of breathtaking. The circular bay is surrounded by the Babadağ mountains where a lot of paragliders take to the skies for the most incredible views.

The sandy beach is one of the most photographed in the country. We visited on a day trip from Fethiye, and the bright turquoise and the deep blue of the water almost beckons you in.

The main lagoon is separated from the Aegean Sea by a strip of sand. It’s perfect for swimming or snorkelling as no boats are allowed inside the bay to preserve the peace.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Oludeniz

5. Praia de Marinha, Portugal 

Portugal’s rocky coastline is said to be one of the most beautiful in the world so it’s only fitting that it also has one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe too.

You’ll most likely have seen this beach before if you’ve ever planned a trip to Portugal. It’s frequently used to advertise the area. Nevertheless, a photo really can’t compare to seeing this perfect beach in real life.

On the Atlantic coast near Carvoeiro and Portimao, the iconic rock formations, paired with bright turquoise water and soft sand, will take your breath away. It does lack the ease of access that some of the other beaches in Portugal have.

But climbing down a few steps is a small price to pay for the coves, wonderful snorkelling opportunities and caves that are just waiting for you to explore at the bottom.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Algarve Region

6. Cape Greco, Cyprus 

A popular beach with cliff divers, Cape Greco is the most photographed and best place to visit in Cyprus. On the southeastern point of the island, Cape Greco is a stark contrast from the bustle of the city.

The unspoilt national park has spectacular sea caves, and the rocky headland is laced with sandy coves that are literally what beach dreams are made of.

You could easily spend a day exploring the beauty of the park, snorkelling in the crystal-clear water and relaxing on one of the best beaches in Europe.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cyprus

7. Sandwood Bay, Scotland 

Scotland probably isn’t your first thought when you’re thinking of the best beach in Europe. However, its gorgeous Sandwood Bay has been frequently voted one of the top beaches in the UK.

The mile of the remote coastline is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, golden dunes and a giant sea stack to complete the scenery. If you’re looking for some superb natural beauty but without the business of tourists, Sandwood is perfect. Despite its popularity, its sands are very rarely crowded.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Scotland

8. Cala Macarella Beach, Menorca, Spain 

Spain is one of the most popular European holiday destinations and the beautiful Balearic islands are no different. Cala Macarella Beach is one of the most photographed bays in Menorca and the most stunning beaches in Spain.

Located on the southern coast, the impeccably clear blue water, white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs that surround the bay, really make it something special.

There are no buses that go directly down to the beach. Taxis won’t take you all the way either, but it’s only about a 10-15-minute walk down. And the stunning sea views are definitely worth it.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Menorca

9. Isola Bella Beach, Sicily, Italy 

Isola Bella literally means “the beautiful island”. This small island in Sicily does a very good job of living up to its name. The beach is on an incredible coastline surrounded by tall cliffs, speckled with sparse foliage, and accessible via a staircase.

One of my favourite parts of the beach is a strip of fine white sand that stretches out into the ocean to a little islet. The underwater rock formations give the water several wonderful shades of blue and this also makes it perfect for snorkelling.

You’re sure to see plenty of multi-coloured fish, crabs and corals as beneath the waves are just as pretty as above them on Isola Bella Beach.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Sicily

10. Kvalvika Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway 

Norway probably isn’t your first choice for a beach break. However, although this might not be the most suitable beach for sunbathing, there’s no denying that it’s one of the most beautiful European beaches.

An isolated bay that can only be reached on foot, Kvalvika Beach is one of Norway’s hidden gems. Snow-topped mountains surround this little spit of land as the turquoise waves crash onto the golden sands.

This stunning destination is one of the most popular hiking trails in Norway and the 2-hour trail will take your breath away.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Lofoten

11. Bolata Beach, Bulgaria 

This remarkable cove in Bulgaria has often been voted one of the best beaches in Europe. I’d have to agree. The stunning circular cove would probably be a lot more touristy if it weren’t for the fact that it backs onto a protected national park.

It was also forbidden to visit in the past because the area was within a military zone. But both of these things have led to a gorgeous secluded beach that’s perfect for exploring and also a wonderful diving spot.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Varna, Bulgaria

12. Spiaggia di Cauco, Amalfi Coast, Italy 

The Amalfi Coast has rapidly grown, with a lot of help from Instagram, into one of the most popular areas of Italy. It’s certainly not short of tourists! In fact, on a lot of its beaches, you’ll likely be fighting for a space to put your towel. But, it has some of Italy’s best beaches.

Take a short trip to Spiaggia di Cauco in the Erchie area. There you’ll be greeted with soft sand and crystal-clear water, shielded by tall cliffs. However, the beach is only accessible by sea, so you’ll have to take a boat to reach it.

✅ Discover the best places to stay on the Amalfi Coast

13. Alum Bay Pebble Beach, Isle of Wight 

You’ll love Alum Bay on the Isle of Wight if you’ve dreamed of rainbow-coloured cliffs cascading down onto the sand and beautiful rock formations. By far the most picturesque bay on the island, Alum Bay is unique.

It’s framed by the famous chalk stalks of The Needles protruding out of the ocean. The crystal-clear waters are a favourite swimming spot for locals and a paddling spot for young children. The cliffs and sands of the beach have a remarkable 21 different shades, which is an incredible sight in itself.

Alum Bay is also within easy reach of The Needles Park, where you’ll find all sorts of attractions. From crazy golf to cable cars that give incredible views of the colourful cliffs below; you’ll also find restaurants and coffee shops. So, this is the perfect spot for a day out.

✅ Discover the best places to stay on the Isle of Wight

14. Plage de Notre Dame, Porquerolles, France 

The French Riviera is undoubtedly one of France’s prettiest spots, yet this secret beach may just have slipped your notice. Located on the Ile de Porquerolles, between Marseille and Cannes, this stunning crescent moon of sand is definitely one of the best white sandy beaches in Europe.

The Plage de Notre Dame is surrounded by greenery and the bluest water in Europe stands out even more. The beach is perfect for swimming, paddling or generally relaxing. To get to the island, you’ll need to take a 20-minute boat trip from Hyères.

This will cost you about €20 for a return ticket. Despite the cost, the beach is worth a trip and, when you’re on the sand, you’ll feel like a castaway on a tropical island.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the south of France

15. Voidokilia Beach, Peloponnese, Greece 

You may have seen a photograph of the stunning Voidokilia Beach. After all, it’s one of the most beautiful parts of Greece. The beautiful sand beach divides the sea. On one side you’ll find the picturesque crescent of the bay, and on the other the open ocean.

The golden crescent of sand is lapped by peacock blue waters and the beach’s famous castle can be reached by a path cut through the dunes. It’s one of the clearest seas in Europe.

The beach can get incredibly busy in the summer, however! But, if you visit during the spring or autumn, you might just have the gorgeous bay to yourself.

✅ Discover the best hotels in the Peloponnese

16. Sveti Stefan Beach, Montenegro 

One of Montenegro’s most pictured destinations, Sveti Stefan is a small islet connected to the mainland by a sliver of sand that snakes out to sea. The beach sits in the wake of this beautiful island and is without a doubt one of the nicest beaches in Europe.

The pink sand beach is backed by rich, green pine trees, mountains and the classic russet-coloured buildings of Montenegro. The beach is the perfect place for swimming, sunbathing or paddling in the turquoise waters.

When we visited in May, it wasn’t too busy either which made it perfect for relaxing and exploring the area.

✅ Discover the best hotels on the Montenegrin Coast

17. Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece 

White sands with a pinkish hue, impeccably clear azure waters, rare plants and wildlife. Elafonisi Beach in Crete is a small islet connected by sand and another stunning Greek beach. When you arrive at this beach, you might think you’ve been transported to a Caribbean island.

On the southwesternmost tip of Crete, the bay is actually a protected area. You may even find loggerhead turtles nesting on its sands. Easily accessible by car, the beach is suitable for children and the elderly so is perfect for a family day out.

There are also a few trees acting as nature’s sunshades on the beach, so you’ll also have a little bit of protection from the sun.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Crete

18. Durdle Door Beach, Dorset, England 

One of Dorset’s most famous landmarks the Durdle Door is a stunning natural archway carved into the cliffside of the Jurassic Coast. The historic miles of coastline was actually England’s first UNESCO Heritage Site. Due to its significance, it has joined other natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon and Barrier Reef.

The beach is surrounded by tall chalk cliffs riddled with caves and the limestone archway stretches proudly out to sea. The clear water is great for swimming but I recommend visiting in May to June or September as the beach can get very busy during the peak summer months.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Dorset

19. Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece 

For a beach that feels as though you’re walking on the moon, travel to Sarakiniko Beach on the Greek island of Milos. The lunar wonder is surrounded by bright white volcanic rocks. They show no signs of vegetation which gives the beach its almost eerie effect.

Nevertheless, it’s one of the most picturesque beaches in Europe. The waves have carved the volcanic rocks into beautiful shapes and arches that are perfect for diving. This stunning beach will blow you away and it’s one of the most stunning beaches on this list.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Milos

20. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Vik, Iceland 

Not as well-known as some of Europe’s stunning beaches, but no less beautiful Iceland’s black sand beaches are eerily gorgeous. With dramatic cliffs, roaring waves and incredible views, Reynisfjara is located south of Iceland’s capital.

It is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Europe. Nat Geo voted it as one of the top 10 non-tropical beaches on the planet. The perfect road trip from Reykjavik, but not necessarily the best place to catch a sun-tan!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Iceland

21. Aigua Blava, Begur, Girona, Spain 

Off the coast of Costa Brava on mainland Spain, Aigua Blava Beach is one of the gems of Girona. The most southern beach of Begur, it has everything you’ll need for a proper day at the beach: showers, toilets, restaurants, and of course, ice cream.

You’ll also find the facilities you’ll need for water sports, snorkelling or diving which makes it perfect for a family day out. The shallow crystal clear waters are bright blue. You can easily have a wonderful time lounging around on the fine sand or swimming in the ocean.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Girona

22. Blaće, Mljet, Croatia 

From a fairly popular beach to a much more secluded one, Blaće Beach in Mljet is pretty and peaceful. A combination of sand and rocks, the beach is located on the southernmost point of the island about a 20-minute walk from town.

This beautiful cove-like beach is surrounded by lush greenery. The deep green trees are a contrast against the golden sand and clear waters. If you’re looking for a quiet spot away from the crowds, Blaće will be perfect, but bring a picnic as there are no restaurants around the bay.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Dalmatia

23. Mala Plage, Cap d’Ail, France 

Mala Plage is one of the most beautiful and secluded parts of the French Riviera. It’s one of those hidden places that the locals go for peace, clear waters and wonderful scenery. This stretch of fine sand and pebbles in a secluded cove is a wonderful summer hideaway.

Plus, the 100 steps down to the beach is also great at keeping the crowds at bay. With steep cliffs on one side and lush greenery and Cap Mala on the other, this is most certainly the Cote d’Azur at its best.

Pair the gorgeous surroundings with its two delicious beach restaurants and you’ve most definitely got one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Cote D’Azur

24. Porto Giunco, Villasimius, Sardinia 

My favourite beaches are the ones that divide the ocean and Villasimius in Sardinia certainly doesn’t disappoint. A sliver of the Caribbean in Italy, this beautiful stripe of white sand with soft pinkish hues will amaze you.

Encircled by the rich blue of the lagoon, this is easily one of the most beautiful European beaches and arguably the best in Italy. It’s the perfect place for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the golden sand.

You’ll fall in love with Villasimius as soon as you lay your eyes on it and, trust me, you will most definitely be back for more.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Sardinia

25. Spiaggia Baia del Silenzio, Genoa, Italy 

Another of Italy’s absolute gems, Spiaggia Baia del Silenzio literally means the ‘Bay of Silence’. This charming fisherman’s bay is surrounded by cute pastel-coloured buildings that are typical of Italian coastlines.

The crystal-clear water is great for swimming and the golden sand is the perfect place to relax. However, despite its name, the summer months can be far from silent! So try to visit on a weekday or during the shoulder season if you want some real tranquillity.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Genoa

26. St Pauls Bay, Lindos, Rhodes, Greece 

I love Rhodes. The pure beauty of this bay almost needs to be seen to be believed. From the viewpoint above, it looks like a love heart carved into the rocks. The most picturesque beach in Rhodes, St Paul’s Bay is perfect for swimming and exploring alike.

The tall surrounding cliffs are perfect for climbing (if you are the adventurous type!) and jumping off into the turquoise blue waters. Plus, the water is super calm due to the entire bay being encircled by cliffs, so great for families too.

Dive beneath the water and see all the fish and corals that live on the cliff faces and you will without a doubt agree that this is one of the best European beaches.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Rhodes

27. Platja d’es Codolar, Costa Brava, Spain 

Another of Costa Brava’s treasures, Platja d’es Codolar is also known as the ‘beach below the castle’. The sheltered cove is quite literally nestled beneath a castle. A short walk from the centre of the Old Town of Tossa de Mar, the old fishing beach has quite a few surrounding hiking trails.

These provide incredible panoramic views over the bay, the castle and out to the surrounding town. The soft sand beach is flanked by rocky limestone cliffs and the bright blue water is great for snorkelling and swimming. However, it can get pretty busy in summer. But if you catch it at the shoulder season, you might just find that you have the stunning bay all to yourself.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Costa Brava

Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Europe

Overall, Europe is a wonderful destination for a beach break.

There is so much variety in the continent’s shorelines from wide stretches of white sand in Greece to dramatic black sand beaches in Iceland. You’ll find secluded coves, busy tourist hot spots, party beaches, and everything in between.

So, if you’re looking for a seaside holiday, you really couldn’t find a better spot!

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