Beaches in Europe – Stunning Coastal Destinations to Visit

Tucked away on Zakynthos Island, Navagio Beach is one of the top beaches in Europe and is famous for the shipwreck resting on its white sands. It is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. There are no direct facilities here, as it is only accessible by boat, but the nearby viewpoints provide breathtaking panoramas. Tours depart from Zakynthos Town and Porto Vromi, making it a stunning but secluded escape.

Located in Galicia, this stunning beach is renowned for its natural rock formations that resemble cathedral arches, especially at low tide. As one of the best beaches in Europe, it offers scenic walks, mesmerizing coastal views, and a peaceful atmosphere. Facilities include parking, restrooms, and nearby cafés. Accessible from Ribadeo by car, visitors should check tide schedules to witness its full beauty.

Praia da Marinha, often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve and even the world, is a coastal gem known for its striking golden cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and natural rock formations. Located in Lagoa, one of its most iconic features is a rock formation shaped like the letter “M,” visible from the cliffs above. Several operators offer tours from Faro that include stops at Praia da Marinha, Benagil Cave, and other attractions.

Elafonissi Beach, nestled on Crete's southwestern coast, is approximately 75 kilometers from Chania. Famous for its unique pink sand, a result of crushed seashells blending with white sand, Elafonissi creates a mesmerizing and distinctive shoreline. This pristine beach is accessible by a shallow lagoon. A protected nature reserve, the beach offers sunbeds, a few snack bars, and restrooms.

Tucked away on Sardinia’s eastern coast, this secluded cove is a UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Known for its striking limestone formations and azure waters, it’s a haven for snorkeling and hiking. There are no facilities, as it remains an untouched paradise. Visitors can reach it by boat from Cala Gonone or via a 1.5-hour scenic hike from Baunei.

One of the top beaches in Europe, Durdle Door Beach in Dorset features a stunning limestone arch, part of England’s UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast. Visitors come here for coastal walks, photography, and fossil hunting. Facilities include parking, restrooms, and a café nearby. It’s accessible via a short walk from the Lulworth Cove car park.

Also known as the "Golden Horn," Zlatni Rat on Brač Island is among the clearest beaches in Europe, famous for its shape-shifting shoreline. A hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, it offers sunbeds, cafés, and showers. Easily reached by ferry from Split to Supetar, followed by a short drive to Bol.

Balos is an exotic beach and lagoon situated about 56 km from Chania, near the town of Kissamos. It can be opted as a day trip from Chania or Kissamos and can be reached by boat from Kissamos or via a rugged hike. The beach at the lagoon comprises pinkish-white sand and thousands of broken and intact seashells, with shallow water. It is one of the most photographed spots on Crete.

Often ranked among the best beaches in Europe, Plage de Palombaggia in Corsica is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters framed by lush pine trees. It’s perfect for families, offering sunbeds, restaurants, and water sports rentals. Located near Porto-Vecchio, it’s easily accessible by car.

One of the most famous beaches of Europe, La Concha Beach is a city beach with a scenic promenade and calm waters, ideal for swimming and kayaking. With plenty of facilities, including restaurants, showers, and sunbeds, it’s perfect for all travelers. Easily accessible on foot from San Sebastián’s city center.

Located on Formentera, Ses Illetes is one of the clearest beaches in Europe, offering powdery white sand and shallow, azure waters. Beach bars, sunbeds, and snorkeling spots make it a favorite among visitors. Accessible via ferry from Ibiza, followed by a short drive or bike ride.

Regularly ranked among the best beaches in Europe, Rabbit Beach is a pristine haven with golden sands and translucent waters, perfect for snorkeling. As part of a protected reserve, facilities are minimal. Located on Lampedusa Island, it’s accessible by boat or a short hike from the main town. The beach is named after the local loggerhead sea turtles, caretta caretta, who nest in the area. 

Famous for its lively atmosphere, Nissi Beach is a hotspot for beach parties and water sports. With golden sand and shallow waters, it’s one of the most amazing beaches in Europe for young travelers. Facilities include beach bars, sunbeds, and jet ski rentals. Easily reached from Ayia Napa by car or public transport.

Myrtos Beach is a mesmerising 2 km long beach located in the Pylaros region on the island's Northwest coast. It is known for its white pebbled shoreline with electric blue waters, which give a glowing appearance. Myrtos beach is also one of the most beautiful sunset points on the island.

Located near the village of Vík on Iceland’s south coast, Reynisfjara Beach is one of the most unique beaches in Europe. Famous for its jet-black volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and dramatic sea stacks, it attracts nature lovers and photographers alike. Though swimming is not advised due to powerful waves, visitors can explore the nearby Reynisdrangar cliffs and the Hálsanefshellir cave. It is located on Ring Road route.