Where to Find the Best Beaches in Europe and How to Explore Them
Who doesn’t love a beach vacation? The feel of the sun on your face, the breeze in your hair, and the sound of the ocean as it gently laps the shore. The only problem is picking which beaches to go to.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe and you want to make sure you get to experience the best beaches that this continent has to offer, the expert travel guide below is just what you need.
Read on to discover where to find all the best beaches in Europe, as well as some top tips on how to explore them.
Zlatni Rat, Croatia
Croatia is famous for its beautiful beaches but this one really stands out from the crowd. Zlatni Rat on the island of Brač has a striking and unusual shape that changes depending on the current. A great beach for sitting back and relaxing, there’s also a wide variety of water sports for you to try, including windsurfing, jet-skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
One of the best ways to explore Croatia and get to this must-visit beach is by boat. For those wanting a more luxurious vacation experience, why not book a Croatia yacht charter vacation?
Praia da Falésia, Portugal
Praia da Falésia is located in Albufeira and features some of the softest golden sand you’ve ever seen. With warm waters that are perfect for swimming, this beach’s main attraction is the miles of striking red-orange cliffs that surround it.
A truly one-of-a-kind beach, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the stunning scenery on offer but, if you can, make sure you take the time to go for a stroll to one of the beach cafes or restaurants to sample some local cuisine.
Navagio Beach, Greece
Also known as Shipwreck Beach due to the ancient freighter that’s buried in its center, Navagio Beach is easily the most beautiful beach in the whole of Greece. Sheltered by sheer limestone cliffs, you can enjoy the stunning Greek weather without having to worry about a strong ocean breeze.
To make the most out of visiting this beach, make sure you pull yourself away from your sun lounger to take a walk to the cliffs above where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most breath-taking views.
Cala Macarella, Spain
Cala Macarella can be found on the sunny coast of Menorca, and is the perfect escape from the busy beaches of nearby Ibiza and Mallorca. Although reaching this beach can be a bit of a trek, with you either needing to hike for two miles along the cliffs or drive on a long and winding road and then hike for 20 minutes through a forest, but it’s more than worth the effort when you finally get there.
Offering a combination of ultra-fine sand and calm turquoise waters, you can’t help but feel at peace when you lie back and relax on this remote beach.
Butterfly Valley Beach, Turkey
Butterfly Valley Beach is located in Turkey’s Butterfly Valley and is the perfect spot for anyone who loves to hike. Surrounded by lush vegetation and awe-inspiring views, you can also marvel at the endless variety of butterfly species that can be found here.
The only downside is that this beach can get busy, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit first thing in the morning or later on in the day.