One of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Europe, Navagio Beach (sometimes referred to as Smugglers Cove) is home to a stunning shipwreck which ran aground in the 1980’s. Surrounded by steep cliffs, this beach is only accessible by boat, and the journey there is quite an experience in itself. 

Once there you’ll be rewarded by a pristine beach and calm, clear waters on one of the most secluded coves in Greece.

The Algarve is renowned for having some of the best beaches in Europe, and Praia de Marinha is no exception. Surrounded by golden cliffs, the sandy beaches and calm, clear waters make this a favourite destination among families, with a host of family-friendly villas and resorts a short drive away. 

The quality of the water and rich marine life makes Praia de Marinha a great place for snorkelling, and the nearby caves are perfect for exploring. For the more energetic, there’s also some wonderful hikes around the surrounding cliffs, boasting views of the beach and ocean from above.

Famous for it’s unique pink-hued sands, Elafonissi Beach in Crete is certainly one of the more remarkable beaches in Europe and attracts everyone from families to couples, backpackers and sun-worshippers. 

Elafonissi is a haven for rare species of plants and flowers, and there are several wonderful hiking routes in the area from which you can observe over 100 types of rare plants along with abundant birdlife.

Accessible only by foot or boat, the remoteness of Cala Goloritzé in Sardinia is all part of its appeal. 

Cala Goloritzé is a small but beautiful beach located at the base of a ravine (formed by a landslide in the 1960’s), and the effort in getting there is rewarded by incredible limestone pinnacles, unique rock formations and some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean. It’s little wonder that Cala Goloritzé is considered a National Monument of Italy!

Widely considered to be the best city beach in Europe, La Concha is the jewel in San Sebastian’s crown. Located in the heart of the city, La Concha’s soft white sands stretch for over a kilometre along a scenic coastline with beautiful views out towards Isla Santa Clara.

Relax on the sandy beach, stroll along the promenade, or participate in beach sports such as football, volleyball and watersports. Come nightfall, the old town of San Sebastian awaits, famous for having the highest concentration of bars and Michelin stars in the world. Tapas-style pintxos is king here; delicious small bites ordered alongside drinks.

Voted the best beach in France, Plage de Palombaggia draws visitors from around the world with its stunning stretch of white sand, turquoise waters and unspoilt nature. 

Bask on the beach taking in the idyllic setting, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or relax in one of the rustic restaurants and bars that line the bay with a cool drink in hand.

For something a bit different but equally as beautiful, head to Vik Beach in Iceland, one of the most famous black sand beaches in the world. Framed by dramatic geometric columns and basalt cliffs, Vik Beach is simply stunning. Stretching for several miles along Iceland’s south coast, this volcanic marvel will make you feel like you’re on another planet. It was also used as a shooting location for Game of Thrones! 

Take some time to stroll along this extraordinary stretch of coastline, and explore the nearby ice caves and glaciers as part of a day tour.

Located in the lively coastal area of Ayia Napa in Cyprus, Nissi Beach has earned a reputation as a paradise beach destination that can be enjoyed year-round.

Nissi is comprised of two connecting beaches: one long and lively, the other smaller and quieter. Relax on the golden sands, swim in the clear waters or enjoy the wide variety of watersports on offer. On the livelier side, the Nissi Bay Beach Bar draws crowds from around the world between May and October with top name DJ's, beach parties and other events.

One of the jewels in Turkey’s crown, Oludeniz is one of the best beaches in Europe. Protected by a cove, the sea here is exceptionally calm (Oludeniz translates as ‘dead sea’) and is often referred to as the Blue Lagoon; it’s perfect for swimming and travelling with children. The curved golden beach is over 18km long and backed by pine trees and mountains, making the setting absolutely spectacular. 

Away from the beach, the area is famous for paragliding and it’s regarded as one of the best places in the world to do this. It’s an incredible way to see the cove from above, along with the surrounding mountains, forests and cityscapes.

Zlatni Rat Beach (otherwise known as Golden Horn Beach) is made up of smooth white pebbles that extend into the sea like a small peninsula and is one of Croatia’s most stunning beaches. The shape of the peninsula is constantly changing due to wind and sea conditions, which gives Zlatni Rat a unique quality.

Windsurfing and kitesurfing are very popular here due to the westerly winds that blow from April to October, and the area attracts adrenaline junkies from across the globe. More sedate activities include rentals of paddle boats and kayaks, the perfect way to explore the beautiful surrounding coastline.

For more inspiration take a look at our Europe Beach Holidays pages.