9 European Beaches You Need to Visit
Europe’s beaches often get overlooked in favor of the tropical shorelines of the Caribbean and the South Pacific. But where the continent has a decided advantage is the tremendous variety of its shorelines. From the pink sand beaches of Crete to the rugged beauty of the English coast, here are nine European beaches you should not miss.
1. Durdle Door, England
This breathtakingly scenic beach takes its name from the limestone arch that loops out into the blue sea. Take a swim in the exceptionally clean waters while staring up at the rock formation’s imposing massiveness. When you’re ready to dry off, relax on the beach’s soft golden sand.
Durdle Door Beach is part of the Jurassic Coast, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its impressive geology. While you take a hike anywhere along the coast’s nearly 100 miles, see if you can spot one of the many fossils that dot the landscape.
2. Elafonissi, Greece
This pink-sand destination balances the feel of a secluded oasis with modern comforts. Located on the island of Crete, Elafonissi offers no shortage of activities, with ample options for water sports and a number of restaurants nearby.
Because of its isolated location, the beach exudes a tranquility that makes it perfect for those looking to relax. Wade in the shallow waters while admiring the mountains that extend upward behind the beach. When you get back to dry land, snap a photo to ensure you’ll never forget.
3. Navagio, Greece
Tucked away behind towering limestone cliffs, this tiny, crescent-shaped beach is accessible only by boat. One visit to it, and you’ll understand why so many travelers go out of their way to get here.
Between the precipitous cliffs, bone-white sand, and richly blue water, Navagio is a visual wonder—one made more so by the freighter that’s been shipwrecked on its shore since the 1980s. For the best views, make your way to the viewing platform that overlooks the shoreline.
4. Ölüdeniz, Turkey
Renting a bike is the best way to skip the traffic that backs up on the one-lane road heading to this gorgeous beach. Doing so will allow provide you with a view of the sandy isthmus that extends out into the impossibly blue waters even quicker.
A nature preserve, Ölüdeniz is largely (and pleasantly) free of development, but there are key amenities, such as bathrooms and cafes. As you lie on the pebbly shoreline, admire the view of nearby Mount Babadağ. As you do, look for one of the many paragliders who take off from its perilous heights.
5. Porthcurno, England
Granite cliffs flank this golden-sand beach, located a five-hour drive from London. Carved into the cliffs is Minack Theatre, an outdoor venue that resembles something out of Ancient Greece.
Before enjoying one of the theatre’s evening shows, spend your day snorkeling in the protected bay. You’ll be glad you did, as its clear turquoise waters boast excellent visibility.
6. Praia da Marinha, Portugal
A visit to Praia da Marinha is like a tour through a rocky wonderland. Golden limestone cliffs abut the beach, while jagged outcrops jut up from beyond the shoreline.
Located in the picturesque Algarve region, Praia da Marinha is a fairly isolated. There are no equipment rentals here, so bring your own umbrella. Travel experts also advise you to bring snorkeling gear, as the beach’s calm waters are ideal for observing underwater life.
7. Reynisfjara, Iceland
Reynisfjara Beach looks like something out of a nightmare, albeit a nightmare that’s so beautiful you don’t want to wake up. The ash-black sand and disquieting spire-like rock formations are otherworldly, to the point you may have a hard time convincing your friends that your photos are real.
Travelers should be aware that, between Reynisfjara’s strong waves and frigid waters, swimming isn’t advisable. Instead, a visit here should be spent absorbing each unforgettable aspect of the hauntingly eerie landscape.
8. Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
You’ll need to check in to the upscale Aman Sveti Stegam resort to enjoy access to this exclusive shoreline. Once you do, you’ll have the opportunity to dig your toes into the narrow beach’s pink-hued sand knowing Hollywood legends like Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren were once doing the same thing.
Sveti Stefan sits on an islet along the Bay of Kotor. As you relax on one of the lounge chairs provided by the resort, gaze out at Our Lady of the Rocks, a sweeping church built on a human-made island.
9. Zlatni Rat, Croatia
This triangle-shaped beach boasts a mile of shoreline, making it easy to find a place to recline. It’s good thing, because the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea are worth admiring. Out in the sea is also where you’ll see water-sports enthusiasts enjoying their pursuit of choice. Whether it’s snorkeling, windsurfing, or paddle-boarding, rentals and classes here make it easy to try one of the activities yourself.
Nearby, snack kiosks provide much-needed sustenance. Lifeguards are on duty, making Zlatni Rat a good option for families.