Dreaming of golden sand or a refreshing ocean swim? The best beaches in Europe are calling your name. Based on my own experiences and the area's natural beauty and amenities, these are the best beach vacations in Europe and the UK. Let's dive in.
Best beaches in Europe: France
France is a great choice for a beach vacation in Europe. Its coastline stretches out over 3000 miles, meaning there's plenty of choice whether you stick to the mainland or idyllic Corsica.
1. Ploumanac'h, Brittany
- Beach hotel tip: For breathtaking views and easy beach access stay at Hôtel Saint Guirec Et De La Plage.
Brittany is home to a stunning selection of vast sandy beaches where you can soak up some sun. Nestled in the middle of the coast of Brittany lies the village of Plouchmanac’h. This quaint seaside resort town has lots of secret enclaves and coves dotting its seafront. The coast is commonly known as Côte de Granit Rose, or “Pink Granite Coast” for its distinctive pink color, it’s the perfect escape for the discerning traveler.
2. Palombaggia, Corsica
- Beach hotel tip: Treat yourself with some massages or body treatments at Les Bergeries de Palombaggia - a 5-star dream just a few minutes from the beach.
Considered one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in Corsica, you certainly won’t be alone at Palombaggia. Nevertheless, this European beach destination in the island's south is more than big enough, so you'll be able to find a patch of sand to make your own for the day.
The balmy Mediterranean Sea surrounding Corsica is also wonderfully clear. Fancy trying your hand at snorkelling? You’ll find plenty of facilities offering equipment to rent.
Best beaches in Europe: Portugal
One of the hottest places in Europe, it's easy to see why Portugal is a top beach vacation. The Algarve is a personal favorite for endless sunshine and blue skies. After something a little different? Visit the country's dramatic northern shores.
3. Praia dos Caneiros, Algarve
- Beach Hotel Tip: Hotel Casabela is a 10-minute walk to Caneiros Beach. Portimao Harbor is also within walking distance.
A short trip from Portugal’s main airport Faro, Praia dos Caneiros is a hidden gem. The beach is surrounded by rocks and cliffs giving it a cove-like appearance and hiding it from those who aren't in the know.
It's the perfect place for a more relaxed vacation by the sea. You'll find yourself in relative peace as you take a quiet dip in the cool waters. There are also sun chairs to rent if you'd rather stay off the sand, plus a chic beach cafe ideal for refreshments or a lunch break.
4. Praia da Adraga, Sintra
- Beach hotel tip: Arribas Sintra Hotel is at the center of everything, close to the beach and you’re only a 15-minute drive to the beautiful castle Quinta da Regaleira.
You'll find Praia da Adraga a 35-minute drive from Lisbon on the outskirts of stunning Sintra. The town is best known for its spectacular palaces, making it a more unusual option for beach-goers.
While Praia da Adraga is only accessible by road, the journey is worth it for its vast swathes of fine sand. You'll also be greeted with dramatic views from its towering volcanic rocks, plus great waves if you're a keen surfer. Once you've built up an appetite, there's also a lovely fish restaurant built into the cliff face called Azenhas Do Mar.
Best beaches in Europe: The Mediterranean
If you've got your eye on a European beach vacation in the Med, prepare to be spoilt for choice. From Italy's idyllic sandy shores to pebble coves bursting crystal clear water in Croatia, here are a few of my favorites.
5. Spiaggia Sa Colonia, Sardinia, Italy
- Beach hotel tip: The luxurious 4-star Hotel Aquadulci is close to the beach and has wonderful amenities including an outdoor pool and solarium.
Craving an beach vacation in Italy? Sardinia's beaches are jaw-dropping, with divine options scattered all over the island. Spiaggia Sa Colonia along the Costa Del Sud is a long, wide beach with plenty of room for beachgoers - even in the peak of summer.
The enticing peach-coloured sand is lined by juniper trees and there's a kiosk where you can pick up drinks and snacks. A nature lover? if you’re lucky, you might spot some of the native flamingos sleeping in the warm sand.
6. Podrace Beach, Brela, Croatia
- Beach hotel tip: Stay at the Bluesun Hotel Soline for easy beach access.
Located to the south of Split, on the seashore that hugs the Dalmatian Coast, you’ll find Podrace Beach. It's a short walk from the pretty town of Brela which is the perfect place to base yourself throughout your beach vacation. Podrace Beach is unlikely to be empty, no matter what time of year you visit. However, with its crystal clear water, excellent facilities and a restaurant located right on the sand, it’s a great place to visit.
Best beaches in Europe: Greece
With its heavenly islands, many associated with legendary myths, it's no surprise that Greece has some of the best beaches in Europe. Among them are popular suntraps with great amenities, plus secluded coves only accessible on foot.
7. Petani Beach, Kefalonia
- Beach hotel tip: For a hillside view over the curved beach try Petani Bay Adults Only Hotel.
Kefalonia is one of Greece's dreamiest islands and its beaches regularly top the lists of the best in Europe. Instead of visiting the pretty yet popular Myrtos Beach, check out Petani Beach instead.
The curved cove has the same stunning white pebbles and wonderfully clear sea as Myrtos but tends to be far quieter. Why not do as the locals do and go for a swim at dusk? As the sun sets in the west, you can watch the sea change color from bright turquoise to deep navy.
8. Vai Beach, Crete
- Beach hotel tip: While you'll need a car or boat to access Vai Beach, you'll find plenty of hotel options nearby. This includes Castri Village Hotel in Vigla which offers rooms with views across the ocean.
Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands, is worth the journey. Its huge coastline is awash with brilliant beaches, from the pink-hued sand of Elafonisi to the remote Balos lagoon.
For something a little easier to access and not too overrun with tourists, check out Vai Beach. It's found right on Crete's northeast tip and is a calm spot for families and couples. Its huge natural palm forest makes it one of Crete's most unmissable sights and gives it a tropical vibe. Hire sunbeds for the day and while away the hours hopping between the sand and the calm, turquoise sea.
Best beaches in Europe: Spain
From the shimmering shores of the Costa del Sol to the paradise coves of the Balearic Islands, there are several beautiful beaches in Spain.
9. Playa de Migjorn, Formentera
- Beach hotel tip: The 4-star Insotel Hotel Formentera Playa has something for everything with access to onsite scuba diving and windsurfing. It’s also only a few minutes from the beach.
Formentera is Ibiza’s sleepier and more chilled brother, with beaches that are more relaxation-focused. Among them is the postcard-perfect Playa de Migjorn on the Spanish island's south side.
It's known for its amazing facilities; you can rent a beach chair for the day and enjoy the oceanfront drinks service while watching fellow visitors play volleyball. Playa de Migjorn is also the longest beach in Formentera with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy its soft white sand.
10. Calo des Moro, Mallorca
- Beach hotel tip: Located in the sleepy village of Cala Llombards and only a 15-minute walk from Calo des Moro is the excellent Case de la Vida.
Another Spanish island that's no stranger to spectacular beaches is Mallorca. Calo des Moro was once well off the beaten track but it's become more popular in recent years. Tucked away on the island's quiet southeastern corner and with zero facilities, it still maintains its peaceful atmosphere.
The cove's sheltered spot makes it a brilliant place for a swim. The water is fairly shallow, too, so kids will have no trouble playing in its gentle waves. Note that the beach is accessed via a steep path, so isn't suitable for those with mobility issues.
Best beach holidays in Europe: UK
The UK is inundated with amazing shorelines where you can enjoy some summer (or off-season, if you're lucky) sunshine.
11. Watergate Bay, Newquay, UK
- Beach hotel tip: Stay in the ‘excellent’ rated Sands Resort Hotel and Spa which sits between Watergate Bay and Newquay.
Newquay is the perfect beach getaway if you find yourself in the UK this summer. Well known (and loved) by surfers, paddle-boarders, and locals alike Watergate Bay is a large open beach in Newquay that meets the swell of the Atlantic Ocean. Its amazing waves, rock pools, clifftops, and remote location make it the perfect UK beach to let off steam or learn how to surf.
12. Traeth Llanddwyn, Anglesey, Wales
- Beach hotel tip: The beach is part of a protected reserve, so you won't find any hotels within walking distance. Instead, check out the charming Nant Yr Odyn Country House Hotel a short drive away in Llangefni.
The Isle of Anglesey is arguably the best destination in Wales for a beach vacation. Accessed via the Menai Bridge, the small islet is blessed with dozens of glorious sandy beaches where you can stroll, sunbathe, and even swim if you can brave the cold Irish Sea.
One of my personal favorites in this corner of the UK is the vast Traeth Llanddwyn. This Blue Flag beach is found on Anglesey's north coast and backs onto the stunning Newborough National Nature Reserve that's perfect for hikes. As well as enjoying soft sand dunes, you can also walk across to Llanddywyn Island at low tide. Once there, there are several historic buildings to explore including a disused lighthouse and the ruins of St Dwynen's Church.
Looking for more summer vacation inspiration? Check out the best places to visit this June, July and August.
