These 14 beaches you must see with your own eyes
With the first ‘warm’ days behind us, it immediately starts to itch: sea, sun, and that endless vacation feeling. Fortunately, there is no need to book an intercontinental flight for that. Europe is full of beaches that are just as impressive as the distant tropics. Here are the fourteen most impressive beaches in Europe.
1. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
Hidden behind steep white cliffs lies one of the most beautiful beaches of Kefalonia. Fteri Beach is not a place you accidentally end up at: the beach is only accessible by boat or via a long walk. But isn't it the effort that makes it so special? Especially when you see the intensely snorkelable water before you. And those who arrive early have the beach all to themselves. No matter what time you go, don't forget your water shoes. Such a pebble beach is better for your eyes than your feet.
2. Seralia Beach, Sifnos, Greece
Beneath the charming village of Kastro lies the small pebble beach Seralia Beach. The setting is as Greek as it gets: a sheltered bay with incredibly clear water. Just a quiet beach where the day passes by very slowly. Swimming, sunbathing, and especially enjoying the view of the rugged Cycladic coast.
3. Praia da Comporta, Portugal
With more than nineteen kilometers of sand, Praia da Comporta is one of the most extensive beaches in Portugal. This vast area means that, despite the popularity of the region, it never really feels crowded. The wide dunes, soft sand, and Atlantic waves make it an ideal place for a long beach walk. Especially if you can stop at one of the handful of restaurants along the way.
4. Pappa Beach, Samos, Greece
Pappa Beach in Samos is one of those beaches where a summer day effortlessly glides by. Terraces full of sun loungers almost blend into the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. The sound of the waves mixed with the chatter of other vacationers is a dream. Here too, the rule applies: swim, dry off in the sun, and occasionally head up for an ice-cold cocktail.
5. Mala Beach, France
On the Côte d'Azur, near Monaco, lies the quiet Mala Beach. Two staircases lead down to a crescent-shaped bay with clear water and steep rock walls. The water is calm: perfect for a long dive. Due to its hidden location, the beach often remains quieter than other spots on the French Riviera.
6. Corniglia, Cinque Terre, Italy
A beach day doesn't have to be accompanied by extravagant beach clubs. Sometimes you don't even need sand for a beach day. Beneath the village of Corniglia lies a hidden swimming spot that resembles a natural bay. Via a number of winding stairs, you reach a place without sunbeds: just sea, rocks, and a view of rows of colorful houses.
7. Akyarlar, Bodrum, Turkey
This beach is far from a secret; it is rather a popular phenomenon among the locals. Akyarlar is known for its calm and shallow waters. This makes it very popular with families with young children. Add in ice cream stands, bars, and spa hotels, and you're all set.
8. Vitali Beach, Andros, Greece
The route to Vitali Beach is long and winding, but the reward is great: a secluded bay with deep blue water, rugged rocks, and hardly any tourists. The perfect place to try cliff jumping. Or, if you're not such a daredevil, just float around in the blue sea.
9. Cala de Deià, Mallorca, Spain
On the west coast of Mallorca lies Cala de Deià. The beach mainly consists of rocks and pebbles, but that makes it spectacular. The small bay, surrounded by rugged hills, almost resembles a movie set. From the cozy restaurants, you look out over the water that starts green at the shore and becomes bluer after a meter or two.
10. Île Vierge Beach, Brittany, France
On the Crozon Peninsula lies the wild bay Île Vierge Beach. The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs and pine trees, making it feel like a secret hideaway. The descent is steep, but once down, one of the most beautiful coastlines in France awaits you. Of course, you have to earn it.
11. Cala Gracioneta, Ibiza, Spain
The small Cala Gracioneta shows a different side of Ibiza that we know. Not far from the clubs of Sant Antoni lies a bay complete with golden sand. During the day it is relaxing, while the atmosphere slowly transforms into a cozy Mediterranean evening at sunset. Not complete without a jug of sangria, a plate of calamari, and a huge pan of paella.
12. Lungomare di Cefalù, Sicily, Italy
The beach of Cefalù combines nature and city. From the sand, you look directly at the historic buildings and the imposing rock La Rocca. The beach is an arc along the coast and perfect for a morning dip before the city comes to life. Another plus of this place is that it remains shallow for a long time. Wonderful to just stand in the water, as the Italians love to do. And very nice if you're out with small children.
13. Plage Notre-Dame, Porquerolles, France
On the island of Porquerolles lies the idyllic Plage Notre-Dame. The beach is only accessible via a dusty path between eucalyptus and pine trees. The reward: a perfectly curved strip of white sand and clear water, far away from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera.
14. Diamond Beach, Iceland
The most unusual beach in Europe may well be in Iceland. Diamond Beach has no white sand, but the opposite: black volcanic sand. Everywhere you look, you see large chunks of ice washing ashore. It almost looks extraterrestrial. An ideal view, but swimming among the seals is not recommended.
