A beach remains the quintessential holiday destination. To lie on warm sand, or even better, on a comfortable sun lounger, cooling off with a dip in clear seawater, is a perfect way to spend any day in one of the best beach destinations in Europe.
Every continent has its beaches, but Europe has the oldest beach resorts. The very idea of going into the ocean for health was pioneered in the chilly waters of England.
From there, the concept spread to France and the Mediterranean, and then on across the world. Along the way, sunshine and (Italian) ice cream were added as essential ingredients.
Discover some of the best beach destinations in Europe, the continent that gave us the seaside holidays we enjoy today.
Sicily, Italy
Cefalù in Sicily, Italy
With some of the best food and drink in the world, it seems unfair that Sicily also has some of the best beaches in Europe as well. Still, where else are you going to sleep off those leisurely lunches?
With more than 900 miles of coastline, the island has hundreds of beaches. Most of Sicily’s beaches are small and pebbly, but there are also long expanses of golden Mediterranean sand.
Sunbathers will enjoy resort beaches, with their loungers for hire and wonderful restaurants. The more adventurous will head off for a rocky cove, where snorkeling in clear water is a delight.
Isola Bella in Sicily, Italy
The season is from June to October, when the sea becomes warm enough to swim in. However, scenic beaches such as Isola Bella or Cefalù are still amazing places to walk at any time of the year.
In August, temperatures peak but, fortunately, Italy has perfected the art of ice cream. Make sure you’re never too far from a granita, the Sicilian concoction of crushed ice with lemon, served with a brioche.
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife, Canary Islands
The volcanic island of Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands is famed for its black sand beaches and year-round good climate. Annual temperatures average about 70ºF, rising to 90ºF in summer.
From mile-long stretches of sand, full of sunbathers, to hidden wild coves or rock pools you might have to yourself, there is an experience for everyone. Efficient bus and boat tour networks also make it easy to get around.
Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife, Canary Islands
The native volcanic black sand has been supplemented in places with imported Saharan sand to create some golden stretches. The most famous Tenerife beach may be Playa de las Teresitas, partly because it’s so close to the island’s capital, Santa Cruz.
Las Teresitas beach has calm, clear water protected by a breakwater. Hire a deckchair and enjoy the sunshine and palm trees, taking a break in one of its many cafés.
El Bollullo in Tenerife, Canary Islands
To experience the volcanic black sand, visit beaches such as El Bollullo, just east of Puerto de la Cruz. Towering cliffs, a “secret” cove and hammocks for rent make it a perfect piece of paradise.
For something a bit wilder, there’s the biosphere reserve of Anaga Park. As well as the native flora and fauna, you’ll discover some wonderful natural beaches.
Santorini, Greece
Oia in Santorini, Greece
Santorini is not known for its beaches, partly because they are overshadowed by its other attractions. Being mostly of coarse black, and even red, volcanic sand doesn’t help either, given Greece’s reputation for gorgeous white sands.
Those black sand beaches soak up the heat, making them difficult to walk on in the middle of the day, so bring your beach shoes.
However, the coarse sand does leave the water amazingly clear, and the turquoise Mediterranean water seems even deeper blue in contrast to the black. Swimming in the sea off Santorini is a very special experience.
Perivolos Beach in Santorini, Greece
The best beach is Perivolos, which has finer sand than most others and fine dining as well. Santorini also has one of the world’s best hot springs to enjoy amid the islands in the middle of the caldera.
Most of the best beaches in Santorini for wining and dining are on the east of the island, where the caldera slopes into the sea, as opposed to the sheer cliffs of the west.
Read: 7-Day Greece Itinerary
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is so famous for its walled old city that’s easy to forget it also has some of the best beaches in Croatia. That’s no mean feat either, given how good the country’s Adriatic beaches are.
The beaches are not the white sand beaches of the Mediterranean, however. Most tend to be pebbly, if not downright rocky, so beach shoes are worth packing.
In compensation, the waters are calm and beautifully clear as there is no sandy sediment to hang in the water.
Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia
There are two lovely beaches within walking distance of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Banje Beach is only ten minutes from the Ploce Gate and you can lie in the water and admire the view of the walls.
Sveti Jakov in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Another 20 minutes away is Sveti Jakov but that does involve a long climb down (and back up) a set of stairs. That effort makes it a bit more exclusive than Banje, however.
To go further afield, one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik is to take the ten-minute ferry ride to Lokrum Island. Here you’ll find walking paths and historic sites as well as secluded swimming spots.
Nice, France
Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France
Sheltered by the Alps, on the shore of the Mediterranean, the Côte d’Azur enjoys a year-round mild climate. From St. Tropez to Nice, its reputation among the ultimate beach destinations in Europe is assured.
That reputation peaks around Nice itself, with resorts such as Villefranche sur Mer and Antibes within easy distance. Nice itself has its famed Promenade des Anglais, backing miles of beach—albeit a pebbly one.
Villefranche sur Mer
Indeed, many of the French Riviera beaches on this coast are pebbly, but you can find plenty of sand at Villefranche sur Mer. It’s a classic resort, with all the sunbathing, warm water, cafés and ice cream you could wish for.
The continued pull of the pebbles elsewhere, however, reminds you that most visitors are not here for the sunbathing. These are the best beaches in Europe on which to see and be seen, enjoy a massage, eat in gourmet restaurants, and drink in stylish lounge bars.
How many other beach destinations can also offer historic sites and spectacular European museums dedicated to artists such as Picasso, Matisse and Chagall? All wrapped up in the chicest of French chic?
Read: Best Beaches in Nice
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s magnificent coastlines. Add in exquisite Italian cuisine, beautiful weather, and stylish shopping, and you have a destination every visitor recognizes as special.
The Italian beaches along the Amalfi coast tend to be small and rocky, although the sandy beaches of Capri are a notable exception. Every inch of beach, whether sand or pebble, seems covered in colorful sun umbrellas and beach chairs to rent.
Positano
The adventurous can still find relatively hidden coves, but the true experience is found on beaches near or in the heart of every small town. Positano and Amalfi, for example, have warm turquoise water only a pebble’s throw from their centers, and visiting them is one of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
Rhodes, Greece
Faliraki Beach in Rhodes, Greece
The island of Rhodes has some 40 beaches awarded a Blue Flag rating for their cleanliness. One suspects there are dozens more equally as good that the inspectors just couldn’t make it to—beach inspection must be a tiring job.
With its unspoiled nature, crystal-clear water and variety of terrain, Rhodes is home to some of the best beaches in Greece. You can relax in an exclusive resort on the eastern coastline, or windsurf on the wilder west side of the island.
Faliraki Beach in Rhodes, Greece
The medieval European city of Rhodes is on the extreme northwestern tip of the island, with beaches such as Faliraki within easy reach, with sheltered warm water, cafés and restaurants, and watersports.
Only a few miles further south is another tiny delight, notable for its calm water and scenic beauty. The so-called “Anthony Quinn” beach of Vagies was named for the actor who fell in love with Rhodes while filming here.
Kallithea Beach in Rhodes, Greece
At Kallithea Beach, you can find hot springs, famous in the 1960s and now recently restored. Only five miles from Rhodes, it feels much further with its palm trees and Moorish architecture.
Malta
Golden Bay, Malta
The Grand Harbor, fortifications, cathedral and other attractions of Valletta, Malta are enough to keep anyone enthralled. However, the island’s beaches are among the very best in the Mediterranean and allow it to also hold its own among the best beach destinations in Europe.
A key attraction is the remarkably clear water, perfect for snorkeling. Strong currents in some places are a downside, but there are lifeguards and warning signs.
Blue Lagoon, Malta
Most of the best beaches in Malta are on the north of the island, partly sheltered by the sister island of Comino. Comino itself has the famous Blue Lagoon, with the clearest water you will find anywhere in the Med and far beyond.
More typical of the main island of Malta itself are wonderful beaches such as Għajn Tuffieħa. A deep cove, nearly surrounded by rolling natural hillsides, it has warm, clear water and just enough facilities to remain enjoyable but unspoiled.
You’ll need a rental car to find some of the equally beautiful but more remote beaches. It’s a small European adventure that will amply repay the effort—and Malta is a small island.
Read: Best Islands in Europe
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain
Many great cities are built on the ocean but few are famous for their beaches, with the obvious exception of cities such as Rio, Sydney, and Miami. To that short list, you have to add Barcelona, with its three miles of golden sand within a few minutes of the city center.
Having all the attractions of a city, from historic buildings to distinctive culture, as well as a sunny beach life, is a heady combination. Barcelona also adds Spain’s amazing cuisine and its unique architecture to effortlessly become one of the best beach destinations in Europe.
La Barceloneta in Barcelona, Spain
Marking one end of Barceloneta, the closest beach to the city, is the sail-like W Hotel Barcelona, designed by Ricardo Bofill. Stroll further along and you’ll find sights such as Frank Gehry’s “Peix”, a massive abstract fish.
La Barceloneta in Barcelona, Spain
Once a fishing village, La Barceloneta is actually now an area combining four main beaches in Barcelona. Much of the sand was imported for the 1992 Olympic Games, when two miles of coast were cleaned up to showcase the city.
An easy walk from the city center, this is where Barcelona comes to play. It’s also where it carries on the normal activities of eating delicious Barcelona food and drinking the Spanish fine wines late into the night.
Read: Best Beaches in Spain
Corsica, France
Ajaccio in Corsica, France
It’s hard to go wrong with a Mediterranean island for a beach holiday and Corsica is no exception to that rule. With almost 200 beaches, the only difficulty is picking the perfect one.
The choice runs from pure white sand to colorful pebbles, and from long sandy bays to rocky inlets. Winds will delight windsurfers, while the clearest of water will beguile snorkelers and divers.
Much of the coastline is preserved, so you will find plenty of bays and coves to discover, particularly on the western coast. Watch out for currents, however, and keep to Corsican beaches with lifeguards to be safe.
Ajaccio in Corsica, France
However, you don’t have to go that far from the island’s capital, Ajaccio, to discover a lovely beach. This birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte mixes French and Italian influences as another taster of the variety the island has to offer.
One of the best things to do in Corsica is to stroll Ajaccio’s seafront promenade, Route des Sanguinaires, which takes you on a pretty beach. The further you go, the better the find.
Parata Point in Corsica, France
Slightly further afield are gems such as Marinella and Isolella, both rightly notable for their beauty. Parata Point, facing the Sanguinaires Islands, is recognized as a “Grand Site de France” for its natural beauty.
Crete, Greece
Balos Beach in Crete, Greece
Crete is home to some of the best beaches in Europe and the wider Mediterranean, drawing travelers from around the world to enjoy their pristine beauty and crystal-clear waters.
Among these coastal riches, you’ll find Balos Beach and Elafonissi Beach, each coming with its distinctive appeal.
Located on the northwestern coast of the island, Balos Beach is one of the best beaches in Crete. The beach is a sunny utopia with white sands, shallow turquoise lagoons, and rugged cliffs jutting out of the sea.
Accessible by boat or along a weathered dirt road, Balos is celebrated for its dramatic landscape and panoramic views, often depicted in postcards. You’ll have to wade through the water to get to the sandbar on the other side, but it will be worth it.
Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece
On the southwestern tip of Crete lies Elafonissi Beach, with lovely pink-hued sands fashioned out of millions of crushed seashells. This idyllic stretch of coast is perfect for chilling out, with warm waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Due to the shallow sea here, you can even stroll across the sandbar to reach the isle of Elafonisi on the other side of the water.
Although Elafonissi can get crowded during peak season, its expansive shoreline ensures plenty of space for solitude, especially toward its quieter corners, offering you natural splendor and serenity during your time on Crete.
Mallorca, Spain
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, which is a key part of the Balearic Islands archipelago, features a diverse collection of beaches, all of which will offer you something unique as you explore the shorelines here.
From secluded coves burrowed away among rocky cliffs to expansive stretches of golden sand lining vibrant resort towns, Mallorca will thrill the sun-seeking beach enthusiast inside of you.
Among the island’s notable beaches, you’ll find Platja de Soller, situated in the picturesque bay of Soller, along the northwest coast. This charming little beach in Mallorca features soft sands touched by azure waters, outlined by the backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains.
Platja de Soller in Mallorca, Spain
Accessible by an authentic vintage red tram or a pretty coastal promenade located next to the tram line, Platja de Soller is superb for laidback walks, or a quick dip in the sea.
Moving southwest to the lively resort area of Palma Nova, you’ll have no trouble finding Palma Nova Beach, a sparkling coastline dotted with palm trees and lined with bars and cafés.
Despite the big hotels in the vicinity, Palma Nova Beach will provide plenty of room for sunbathing and water sports, which should appeal to families and anybody who prefers a livelier beach scene.
La Seu in Mallorca, Spain
Finally, in the heart of Palma, the island’s capital, lies La Seu Cathedral, an architectural wonder overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Though not a conventional beach by any means, visiting here is one of the best things to do in Mallorca.
The Cathedral’s esplanade offers a peaceful respite from urban life. Boasting wonderful sea views, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a few waterside moments after visiting this impressive cathedral.
Madeira, Portugal
Funchal in Madeira, Portugal
Some of the best beach destinations in Europe aren’t on the mainland, or anywhere close and that includes the island of Madeira, situated off the coast of West Africa.
Madeira comes with craggy cliffs, intense landscapes, and volcanic black sand beaches. Unlike traditional sandy locales, the beaches on this Portuguese island will grab your attention with their wild splendor.
Praia Formosa in Madeira, Portugal
Praia (which means “beach”) Formosa, located on the southern coast of the island, stands out as one of Madeira’s most visited shores, with dark volcanic sands and refreshing Atlantic waves.
Located in a fashionable neighborhood of the capital, Funchal, this pebbly beach, framed by green hills, will offer you a sense of peace, along with the opportunity to enjoy the ocean here for a swim.
Ribeira Brava in Madeira, Portugal
Moving westward along the southern coast, Ribeira Brava Beach will provide you with a cozier setting, snuggled away within a sheltered bay and breakwater. Surrounded by abrupt cliffs covered with vegetation, the secluded Ribeira Brava makes for a lovely seaside retreat, ideal for leisurely swims and picnics.
Heading eastward, Praia de Garajau beckons with its striking coastal allure and cliffs. The serene, unspoiled surroundings here, coupled with the nearby Garajau Nature Reserve, offer coastal hikes and birdwatching opportunities galore, making it an essential stop.
Teleférico do Garajau in Madeira, Portugal
The beach is accessible via the “Teleférico do Garajau”, a cable car that will take you down the steep, scenic incline to this small stretch of shoreline.
Upon arrival, you’ll find all of the essential amenities, including changing facilities and restrooms, ensuring your comfort when you visit this out-of-the-way Madeiran beach.
Sardinia, Italy
Spiaggia di Sa Colonia in Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is notable for its magnificent coastline, with some of the Mediterranean’s most exquisite beaches on offer here and water that shimmers a vibrant turquoise that is reminiscent of the Bahamas. With its crystalline waters, immaculate sands, and rugged cliffs, Sardinia will provide you with a variety of delightful coastal havens filled with natural beauty.
Among Sardinia’s beaches, Spiaggia di Sa Colonia shines with its secluded, unspoiled allure. Situated near Cagliari in the south, this sandy refuge boasts lovely golden sands, gentle sloping dunes, juniper trees, and a wide shore fronted by shallow water, perfect for a swim.
Poetto Beach in Sardinia, Italy
Transitioning to the capital, Cagliari, you’ll come across the lengthy Poetto Beach, a dynamic expanse arching along the Gulf of Angels.
Poetto Beach, graced with white sands and shallow blue waters, lies adjacent to the Molentargius-Saline Regional Park, known for its pink flamingos. It’s also a prime destination for water sports like kitesurfing, and dining and drinking at beachside restaurants and bars.
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, you’ll be delighted by Cala Fighera, a small pebble cove framed by the towering sandstone cliff of Sella del Diavolo, or the “Devil’s Saddle,” a limestone promontory near Cagliari.
Calamosca Beach in Sardinia, Italy
While you’re in the “Devil’s” vicinity, you can also visit the stunningly beautiful Calamosca beach, offering you soft white sand, hikes up to the Devil’s Saddle, plus an attractive old lighthouse visible in the distance.
San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian, in northern Spain, is home to one of the best city beaches in Europe, which forms an integral part of the city’s enduring appeal.
Nestled between lush green hills and the sparkling waters of the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian is ideal for beachgoers and sun-seekers who are happy to embrace the brisk Atlantic temperatures.
Among the city’s coastal landscapes, La Concha Beach reigns supreme as one of Europe’s most iconic urban beaches. With its crescent-shaped stretch of sand and calm, sapphire-colored waters, La Concha exudes an air of elegance and sophistication.
La Concha in San Sebastian, Spain
Located in the heart of this Spanish beach town, La Concha will afford you fabulous views of the surrounding coastline and the historic cityscape. And despite its popularity, La Concha still manages to maintain a sense of calm, offering abundant space for relaxation and recreation.
You’ll find a few smaller beaches in the city as well, such as Ondarreta, great for surfing and beach games, and the diminutive beach on Santa Clara Island, located in the Bay of Donostia, to which, if you’re up for an adventure, you can swim from Ondarreta.
Corfu, Greece
Paleokastritsa Bay in Corfu, Greece
The enthralling blend of history, culture, and gorgeous coastline of Corfu draws beach enthusiasts from far and wide, with the beaches here appealing to a variety of tastes.
Glyfada Beach, for instance, located on the island’s western coast, stretches beneath leafy bluffs. The beach, defined by its soft sands and turquoise waters, is a superb relaxation and sunbathing spot.
Old Town Corfu, Greece
Corfu’s Old Town offers some unique coastal charm as well, notably with its mostly pebble beaches, such as Faliraki Beach, adorning the historic waterfront. Here, you can soak in views of the Ionian Sea and the island’s eclectic architectural styles (Venetian, French, and British) simultaneously.
And then there’s Paleokastritsa Bay, located along the northwest coast, renowned for its rugged cliffs and aquamarine waters. Paleokastritsa is made up of six smaller coves, with sand and pebbles, backed by olive groves and tall, bottle-green cypress trees. There’s plenty to do here, with excellent snorkeling and hidden caves to explore.
Cyprus
Petra tou Romiou, Cyprus
Cyprus, in the Eastern Mediterranean, boasts abundant coastal beauty. One renowned spot, on the island’s southern flank, is Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite’s Rock.
Petra tou Romiou, according to legend, is the birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, who emerged from the sea foam here. While mythological gods may not grace this site today, you’ll be enchanted by its rugged cliffs, clear waters, and captivating rock stacks emerging from the sea.
Pissouri Beach, Cyprus
Another one of the best beaches in Cyprus located along the southern coast is Pissouri Beach. With its crescent-shaped bay and shallow turquoise waters, Pissouri is a wonderful locale for swimming and sunbathing.
Nestled beneath the scenic village of Pissouri, this beach greets you with its laid-back atmosphere, while tavernas both on the beach and in Pissouri itself will tempt you with fresh seafood and traditional Cypriot cuisine.
Athens, Greece
Yabanaki Beach in Athens, Greece
Athens, renowned for its ancient history and cultural landmarks, offers some of Europe’s finest beach destinations for when you need a break from sightseeing in the summer heat.
The city’s nearby beaches provide a refreshing escape, with limpid waters and some swish beach clubs offering umbrellas, loungers, and freshly caught seafood. Take Yabanaki Beach, for instance, located about 30 minutes from the city center in the upscale Varkiza suburb. It features beach clubs and water sports facilities along the Saronic Gulf.
Glyfada Beach in Athens, Greece
A little closer to Athens, along the Athenian Riviera, you’ll find Glyfada Beach, with its tranquil atmosphere, palm-fringed promenade, and complimentary sun umbrellas.
One of the best neighborhoods in Athens, Glyfada is a favored spot for city dwellers seeking a serene seaside escape, where you can take a refreshing dip or savor cocktails by the shore. You’ll see a lot of locals enjoying the sea air and restaurants here on summer weekends.
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
Maspalomas Beach in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Gran Canaria, within Spain’s Canary Islands archipelago, boasts breathtaking beaches catering to a variety of preferences. Its coastline features a mosaic of sandy expanses, from lively urban beaches to secluded coves embraced by rugged cliffs.
Visiting Maspalomas Beach is one of the best things to do in Gran Canaria. This protected nature reserve features an expansive shore and waves of rolling dunes. Here, you can discover a fusion of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for sunbathing, water sports, and even camel rides among the dunes.
Playa de Las Canteras in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Playa de Las Canteras also stands out as one of the archipelago’s best urban beaches, located in the capital city of Las Palmas. Stretching along the city’s waterfront, it’s the spot for fun in the waves of the Atlantic.
Because of its proximity to the city, the beach is perfectly located for anybody wanting to combine sightseeing with some lounging time. A vibrant promenade runs along the beach, dotted with cafés and restaurants.
Mykonos, Greece
Elia Beach in Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos hosts some of the best beaches in Europe. Most are located away from Mykonos Town, also called Chora, although there is a pretty little urban beach here overlooking the fishing harbor, with assorted bars and tavernas nearby.
Water taxis run from Mykonos Town, dropping off at all the beaches along the south coast, which include popular Platis Gialos, Paradise Beach, and Super Paradise Beach, both attracting a lively and glamorous LGBTQ+ crowd.
Further along lies Elia Beach, among Mykonos’ most beloved beaches, renowned for its soft sands and crystal-clear waters. There’s a clothing-optional section here. All of these beaches have sun umbrellas to rent (which you will need, as there is no natural shade) and chic beach bars and tavernas.
Rhodes, Greece
Are you yearning for a European beach holiday? Dip your toes in the water by browsing our European cruise itineraries to find your perfect combination of sea, sun, and sand.
