From Cefalù to Caramujeira via the Curonian Spit and Sylt, the editorial staff reveals the ten most paradisiacal beaches in Europe .
There is no shortage of heavenly beaches in Europe. From the white sand beaches of Spain to the rockier beaches of northern France, there is something for everyone. If you want to go and spend your holidays by the sea — without having to travel thousands of kilometers — let yourself be inspired by the favorites of the editorial staff to discover the most beautiful paradisiacal beaches in Europe.
What are the most heavenly beaches in Europe?
Europe is home to many beaches, each one more heavenly than the next. If you don’t have the time or the budget to jump on a plane to Bora Bora, the Old Continent will delight you with its white sand beaches with clear turquoise water.
1. Cefalù, Sicily
Although Italy has countless beaches, each one more magnificent than the next, there was only room for one of them in this ranking. This time, Cefalù is stealing the show.
This small port town on the island paradise of Sicily is truly relaxing. Unfortunately, this is not a well-kept secret. Located very close to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, it is one of the most popular beaches on the island. My advice would be to go in May or September, when the hordes of tourists are less frequent.
2. Island of Brac, Croatia
While most islands in Croatia attract partygoers from all over the world, the island of Brac surprises with its tranquility, nature and the iconic Zlatni Rat. The said beach enjoys untold popularity.
In summer, Croatia is often host to millions of travelers eager for beaches as far as the eye can see. In July, you must therefore arrive early to secure a place on the beach. As in Cefalù, the editorial staff recommends going there in low season, that is to say in May or September.
3. Platja des Coll Baix, Majorca
Majorca is, for many, considered an island where there are only party animals. Although this is not entirely false, the island is also full of many more remote, even hidden places, where there are pristine beaches.
La Platja des Coll Baix is ​​definitely one of the most heavenly beaches in Europe. This wild beach can only be reached after parking in the Merendero d’es Coll Baix park and walking for 45 minutes in the mountains. Many travelers prefer to turn back and head to public beaches, where there are umbrellas and bars. The views of the arid mountains as well as the clarity of the water are worth the effort though, believe me.
4. Caramujeira, Portugal
Emblematic of the landscapes of the Algarve, the Praia da Marinha is distinguished by its high cliffs sculpted by erosion. To reach the beach, you have to descend from the top of the cliff. Long, gently sloping stairs lead to this small cove, where the beach stretches west.
The diversity of marine habitats is breathtaking. The rocky surroundings and seagrass fields are home to colorful sea urchins and anemones, schools of seabream, octopus and seahorses. Very well preserved, this beach will appeal to lovers of wild beaches and more remote corners.
5. Curonian Spit, Lithuania
Separating the Baltic Sea from the Curonian Lagoon, which stretches from Lithuania to Russia, this coastal strip is like a long, endless beach. Stretches of white sand as far as the eye can see await walkers looking for an authentic moment of well-being.
For a breathtaking panoramic view, go to the top of the Parnidis dune, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the perfect place to enjoy the last rays of the sun before it disappears.
6. Sylt, Germany
The district of the municipality of Sylt Westerland, located on the west coast, could be described as the hotspot of the island. The place can get very busy in high season, but you only have to wander a few meters from the city center to find yourself alone in paradise (or something like it). The western part of Sylt is almost exclusively made up of kilometers of sandy beach, bordered only by wild dunes.
Whether you prefer long walks on the mudflats to a picnic on the shore, or just want to enjoy some peace, witness the natural spectacle and see a few kitesurfers, this German island is worth a visit.
7. Ksamil, Albania
Albania is a surprising country. Little known to travelers, Albania, a small country in Europe, is full of heavenly beaches. Ksamil is, among other things, recognized as being one of the best seaside destinations in the country. Also called the pearl of the Ionian Sea due to its beauty, Ksamil is a place that deserves to be discovered. It is located in a spectacular setting, where there is a bay with three small islands accessible by swimming or boat, surrounded by turquoise waters.
Not far from Ksamil are also several other beaches that are worth visiting. Southern Albania has countless beaches, much quieter than those in Greece.
8. Budva, Montenegro
If you prefer busier beaches where many services are offered and where bars are not far away, Budva is the place to go. This town in Montenegro is the place par excellence where many partygoers gather.
But don’t worry: if you prefer peace and quiet, you will also find something to suit you. Budva has several beaches. The further you go from the center, the quieter you will be. If it is only for the traffic, the beaches that border the city all look more or less alike: the water is crystal clear and the view is sublime.
9. Zakynthos, Greece
This Greek beach is one of the most photographed in the country. And for good reason ! Its high cliffs, bright colors and shipwreck make it totally one of a kind.
Located in the west of the island of Zakynthos, it is only accessible by boat, from Porto Vromi, from the port Saint Nikolaos Volimes, or even that of Zakynthos. Since it is not easily accessible, it is generally quiet, unlike other popular Greek beaches, such as those in Mykonos.
10. Calanque de Sormiou, France
A ranking of the most beautiful paradise beaches in Europe could not be complete without a French beach. The Calanques National Park, between Marseille and Cassis, is full of small coves and secret beaches, each more magnificent than the next. The Calanque de Sormiou is one of the most popular places in the park for seasoned hikers. You have to walk a little to reach the beach of the calanque, but each step is worth it.
Of course, France has many other beaches. Further north, on the Normandy side, there are of course the beaches of Étretat. To the south, there are the beaches bordering Biarritz and Bayonne, two towns very popular with surfers. On the Mediterranean side, the beaches of Cannes and Nice are also worth a visit, although they are much more crowded.
The most beautiful paradise beaches in Europe in a nutshell
Europe has countless heavenly beaches. This ranking only mentions ten, but the continent has many more. Whether in Corsica or the Canary Islands, passing through Scotland and northern Denmark, there are plenty of secluded places from which it is possible to jump into the water. And wherever you go, you can stay in one of the many luxury hotels in the suitespot Hotels portfolio.
Frequently asked questions about the most heavenly beaches in Europe
Europe is home to many heavenly beaches. From Sicily to Majorca, via Germany and Albania, the choice of beaches is varied.
European islands are probably the best places to swim in turquoise water in Europe. Sicily, Majorca, Bol Island, Mykonos are some of the islands in Europe where the water is clearest.
Of course, it all depends on the destination. In Spain and Italy, you can swim from April until September or even October. In northern Germany, by comparison, you can only swim from June to August.
