If you are looking for some sun and sand this summer…..head straight to Europe, a quintessential beach destination for every type of traveler. Since much of Europe is on some kind of sea, this continent is blessed with some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the world. From the Arctic Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, from Mediterranean Sea to the Black Sea, Europe’s coastline touches them all. Join us as we discover some of the best beach destinations in Europe for that perfect sun-soaked escape.
Table of Contents
Top Beach Destinations In Europe For That Perfect Coastal Escape
1. Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands just off Norway’s northwest coast has some of the most spectacular beaches in Europe. If you like cold waters, this is the place to be as the sea water never hits more than 15°C. Cinematic landscape with spiky granite peaks can be seen in most of the beaches. Though it will be tempting to jump into most of the beaches in Lofoten Islands, make sure not to miss Haukland Beach as this beach truly stands out from the rest.
Best Beaches: Haukland Beach, Uttakleiv Beach, Ramberg Beach, Kvalvika Beach, Unstad Beach
Highlights: chilly water, dramatic landscapes, sugar white beaches, azure-blue waters
When To Visit: late June to early August
2. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve region in Portugal’s southern coast has some of the best beaches in Europe for a vacation. Most of the beaches here are known for their iconic rock formations, clear waters and hidden caves. Take a boat or a kayak to explore the hidden sea caves for they are truly beautiful. With excellent holiday resorts and cliff top adventures, Algarve’s beaches make for a great destination to get away with family or friends.
Best Beaches: Praia Da Batata, Praia Do Pinhao, Praia Da Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo
Highlights: iconic arches, turquoise water, striking cliffs, golden sands, sandstone cliffs
When To Visit: between June and September
Also Read: 15 Fantastic Beach Outfit Ideas For Girls To Up Your Beach Game
3. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is beloved to all because of its magnificent coastlines. There are many small beaches in the heart of every small town. Every beach on the Amalfi Coast is covered with colorful umbrellas and beach chairs for people to chill and unwind. The warm turquoise water, its charming towns and world-class Italian food makes the beach vacation even more fulfilling.
Best Beaches: Spiaggia Grande, Marina di Vietri, Fornillo, Fiordo di Furore, Atrani Beach
Highlights: small beaches, dramatic cliffs, sandy and pebbly, beach clubs
When To Visit: May or September
4. Santorini, Greece
Santorin’s unique volcanic coast boasts a variety of unique beaches, each different from the other. There are beaches with black sand and red cliffs that add more magic to the landscape. Most of the best beaches in Santorini are on the east of the island. Some of the beaches on the island have a caldera creating a sloping effect of the beach descending into the sea. It’s a great destination for the adventurous souls and for those looking to spend quality time with family and friends.
Best Beaches: For black sand Perissa, Perivolos, and Kamari, Red Beach for red cliffs
Highlights: Black sand, red cliffs, crystal bay, volcanic hues, white sands
When To Visit: April to November
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
The island of Dubrovnik is a beautiful blend of stunning beaches and rugged landscape. For most of the days throughout the year, the skies are bright and sunny and nights are starry. Unlike the Mediterranean beaches, here in Dubrovnik, the beaches do not have sand. Most of them are pebbly and downright rocky. Night cruises under the silver moonlight sets up for the most romantic experience that one can ever have. Dubrovnik is definitely one of the best beach destinations in Europe for a romantic getaway.
Best Beaches: Banje Beach, Sveti Jakov, Šunj Beach, Copacabana Beach
Highlights: night-time cruises, secluded swimming spots, calm and clear water
When To Visit: April to November
6. Nice, France
Beaches in Nice has a reputation of giving happiness and contentment to its visitors. Most of the French Riviera beaches on the shore of the Mediterranean are pebbly than sandy, same goes with this place too. Its year-round mild climate, blue waters, great resorts, restaurants and stylish lounge bars has contributed a great deal in making Nice one of the great beach destinations in Europe. The constantly growing and evolving seaside city of Nice is definitely a good option to enjoy the Mediterranean views.
Best Beaches: La Réserve, Coco Beach, Le Voilier, Villefranche-sur-Mer
Highlights: iconic views, family-friendly beaches, private beaches
When To Visit: March to October
7. Barcelona, Spain
Almost three miles of Barcelona is covered with many popular beaches of which five beaches literally stand out. Its golden sands, easy accessibility, amenities, and various activities has made Barcelona one of the top beach destinations in Europe. Spain’s unmatched art scenes, shopping, nightlife, amazing cuisine and fine wine are like the icing on the cake. So, if you are looking for a great beach vacation in this part of the world, make sure to add Barcelona to the list.
Best Beaches: Barceloneta Beach, Bogatell, Nova Icària, Mar Bella Beach, and Nova Mar Bella
Highlights: lively atmosphere, watersports activities, proximity to the city center
When To Visit: April to October
8. Sylt, Germany
Sylt is considered as one of the great beach destinations in Europe because of its idyllic backdrop and for its range of water activities. The 40-kilometer long coastline along the North Sea coast has plenty of beaches that are great for both relaxation and recreation. The quaint seaside cafes, small villages with thatched roofs, diverse marine life and unique flora and fauna are not to be missed along the way.
Best Beaches: Ellenbogen, Brandenburgerstrand, Wenningstedt Beach, Hörnum-Odde, Rantum Beach
Highlights: unique dune landscapes, vibrant nightlife, thrilling water sports, upscale amenities
When To Visit: June to August
Suggested Reads: Top 12 Eco-Friendly Beaches From Around the World
Conclusion
Pack your bags and get ready as some of the top beach destinations in Europe are waiting for you. Be it for the young or the old, Europe’s beaches are about to make your sun-kissed dreams come true. Make sure to share your experience with us in the comment section below.
FAQs
Portugal’s Algarve region has some of the best beaches in Europe. It offers a wide range of beaches with bustling shores, natural beauty, dramatic cliffs, water activities and hidden coves. Most of them are family-friendly too.
Some of the top beaches that offer vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere are Ibiza, Mykonos, Albufeira, Ayia Napa and Barcelona.
Yes, there are plenty of affordable beaches in Europe for vacation. Budget friendly beaches can be generally found on lesser-known Greek islands and in less-touristy areas of Spain.
Most of the beaches in Europe give a lot of importance to water sports and other beach activities. Here’s a list of beaches and what activities they are popular for:
Zlatni Rat, Croatia: kitesurfing, windsurfing
Praia da Falesia, Portugal: swimming, body surfing
Fig Tree Bay, Cyprus: swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding
Algarve Region, Portugal: exploring coastal caves, boat tours, swimming
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