From the rugged cliffs of Portugal to the idyllic islands of Greece, Europe is stocked with pristine stretches of sand, crystal-clear waters and coastal wonders that have earned their place among the world’s best beaches.
Bask in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun or surrender your soul to the Atlantic waves—whatever your agenda this Euro summer, we’ve found a beach worthy of your time.
Slap on some sunscreen and read on for the best beaches in Europe.
Cefalù Beach
Italy
If you’ve been to Italy enough, you’ll know most beaches are pummelled with pebbles so if you’ve got an affliction for sand in your toes, Spiaggia Di Cefalu is the coastal spot for you. Spiaggia Di Cefalù (or Cefalù Beach), stocks a whole lot of historic charm thanks to its prime position in the medieval town of Cefalù. Not to mention, there’s an impressive Norman-style cathedral (also known as The Duomo), which dates back to the 12th Century and clocks in as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that overlooks the beach too.
Masua Beach
Italy
Nestled into the southwestern coast of Sardinia, Masua Beach is a magical little nook that rarely sees a crowd. Sitting directly across from the famed rock formation known as Pan di Zucchero (which translates to ‘sugarloaf’), a day spent cooling your toes in the crystal waters here means you’ll be privy to some pretty stunning views of the aforementioned limestone sea stack which rises some 430 feet above sea level.
Purity Beach
Italy
Locals refer to her as ‘Spiaggia della Purità’ and damn, does she deliver. While the coast of Gallipoli in Italy’s Puglia region is known for washing up some of the best beaches in Europe (you’ll also want to add Baia Verde, Punta della Suina, Rivabella and Lido San Giovanni to your bucket list), Purity Beach is a shallow haven boasting a whole lot of ancient scenes you’ll definitely want to snap on your trusty 35mm. During the summer, Purity hauls a horde of travellers from all over the world who flood the narrow streets and local gelaterias so if it’s a bustling vibe you’re after, she does not disappoint.
Balos Beach
Greece
Technically a lagoon, Balos Beach on the northwestern coast of Crete, is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and highly worth the trip. Super remote and untouched, the stretch of shoreline has a distinctive milky-white colour down to its white sand and limestone sediments. On top of this, you’ll also find that the sand reflects a pink hue thanks to crushed shells and coral fragments that have mixed with the sand over time. For those that like to keep moving, Balos Beach offers boat trips to Gramvousa Island where you can explore Venetian fortresses, hike nature trails and soak up even more pristine beaches.
Egremni Beach
Greece
Having been affected by a major earthquake back in 2015 which caused substantial damage to the area including the beach and nearby cliffs, Egremni Beach is back in business with a reconstructed staircase and stunning restoration work to the surrounding area. Now, this secluded beach continues to be a coastal oasis for anyone who loves to lap up clear waters, watch spectacular sunsets, dive into sea caves and jump off rocky enclaves.
Porto Katsiki
Greece
We all know Euro summers are synonymous with colourful beach umbrellas and towels so if this is the kind of beachscape you’ve been picturing yourself in, Porto Katsiki is calling your name. Understandably, Porto Katsiki (or ‘Goat Port’ for anyone who speaks an ounce of Greek), is widely recognised as a bonafide core swimming memory for anyone who commits to the trek. Just note, if you do undertake this journey to Mordor, there’s limited amenities so don’t pack lightly.
Cala Des Moro
Spain
We’re not saying Cala Des Moro is a local’s secret by any means however, it does stand as one of the relatively hidden and off the beaten path hangs if you are wanting a more quiet beach day. Make sure to bring your own set of snorkelling gear—this sheltered cove is paradise for spotting coral, sea turtles and other-worldly rock formations.
Rondinara Beach
France
Renowned for its Mediterranean beaches and charming coastal villages, it’s no wonder the South of France is a hotspot when it comes to cooling off in summer. If you’re around these parts (and no doubt loading up on bouillabaisse and socca), Rondinara Beach should be added to your hit list. Unspoiled and bearing all the natural beauty, this crescent-shaped marine reserve is pure sheltered bliss for all beachgoers.
Marinha Beach
Portugal
Praia Da Marinha is a famous beach located in Portugal’s Algarve region so if you have an appreciation for dramatic cliffs, golden caves and panoramic views of Europe’s prettiest coastlines—you’ll want to slap on your Birkenstocks and pack your tote for the day to soak up this beautiful natural strand.
Piscina Das Marés
Portugal
Found in the north of Portugal, Piscina das Marés sports a vista like nowhere else in the world. If you’re searching on Google Maps, this pristine spot also goes by the name of Leça da Palmeira Swimming Pools, on account of its architectural masterpiece, swimming pools that are seamlessly integrated into the rocky landscape, forged by the likes of Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, who’s known for his minimalist and modernist style.
Buarcos Beach
Portugal
As one of the most popular breaks near Figueria da Foz, back in the day, Buarcos once hailed as a bustling fishing village. Today, you’ll find travellers from near and far hauling their wax logs to make the most of this beach’s high quality right point breaks which is known for being Europe’s longest right point break.
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Image credit: Erika M, Ummano Dias, Massimo Virgilio, Edoardo Galati, Marina T, Daniel J. Schwarz, Mikuláš Prokop, Reiseuhu, Cyril Caiazzo, Julia Solonina, Rui Alves, Sacha Verheij