17 Best beaches in Europe 2021

When we think about great beaches what comes to mind is places like Bora Bora, French Polynesia, or maybe the Caribbean islands. Europe isn’t a first choice but what most people don’t know is that Europe has many great beaches and some of them are among the best beaches in the world!

Europe is usually a destination for those seeking freedom, culture and romance but beach lovers can also have a great time.

Here’s our choice of places in Europe with awesome beaches.

Croatia

Pasjaca beach, Cavtat

european best beaches

The most beautiful beach in Europe is located in the heart of the sublime region of Konavle, 10 min from Cavtat and 30 minutes’ drive from the pearl of the Adriatic, the city of Dubrovnik.

Nugal Beach, Tucepi

A wind of freedom is sweeping among travellers this year: they have voted for the beach of Nugal (a partly nudist beach), as one of their favourite beach in Europe.

This beautiful beach located on the Makarska Riviera could also be ranked among the best secret beaches in Europe (it will take you more than 30 minutes to walk in the rocks before you get to the place). Be sure to put an eco-friendly and biodegradable sunscreen to preserve this little corner of paradise.

Portugal

Portugal is surrounded by the ocean and has lots of great beaches. Specially in the south. It’s hard to choose the best beaches in Portugal and if you travel to Algarve you won’t be disappointed.

Porto Côvo, Costa Vicentina, Alentejo

Algarve

We didn’t choose any specific beach in algarve because if you visit this region you can’t go wrong no matter which city you pick.

best beaches in Portugal, Europe

Algarve sits in the south of Portugal, it’s warm all year round and a popular and cheap location for beach lovers.

Praia dos Galapinhos, Setúbal

England

Porthminster beach, St Ives, Cornwall

Never thought of going to England for a beach holiday? Never heard of Cornwall then? Located in the extreme South West of England Cornwall is an incredible county with hundreds of beautiful sandy beaches.

best beaches in europe - England

Spain

Playa de Poo, Llanes, Asturias

Ibiza

This region needs no introductions. It’s full of great beaches and awesome nightlife. If you are a young person who can spare the cash got to Ibiza, if you’re on a budget choose Algarve, Portugal.

Playa de los Muertos, Almería

Nerja beach, Andalucía

Andalusia is certainly one of the most beautiful regions in Europe. Imagine a region that includes destinations such as Seville, Malaga, Ronda, Marbella, Granada, Mijas, Huelva… castles, extraordinary gardens like the Alcazar de Sevilla, the Alcazaba of Malaga, romantic places like the Plaza de Espanha in Seville or the flowery alleys of Mijas.

El Rompido, Huelva, Andalucía

Italy

Great food, lots of culture, awesome beaches everyone. It’s super hard to choose the best beaches in Italy but here’s a frew great examples.

Cala Violina, Maremma, Tuscany

Numana Alta Beach, Ancona

You do not want to make any concessions, you want sun, good restaurants, delicious ice cream, a crystal clear sea, an unspoilt beach with a delicate scent of pine trees in the air? Numana Alta beach is for you! There are several beaches of that kind in Numana.

France

Saleccia Beach, Casta – Corsica

Bestouan Beach, Cassis

Cassis is a perfect destination for travellers looking for beautiful beaches, coves, nature and sun. Located in the South of France, in the “Provence-Alpes Côte d’Azur Region” this destination is preserved from mass tourism. Cassis is one of the pearls of the French Riviera, a destination of rare beauty.

Greece

Greece is the perfect destination for sunny beach and family holidays. You are spoiled for choice among the many Greek islands away from the crowds and close to nature.

Cape Drastis, Corfu Island

Vlychos Beach, Hydra Island

Also read: Places to visit in Europe