The conflict in the Middle East has upset thousands, maybe even tens of thousands of vacations, if we also think about those already booked and canceled due to the insecurity that the area instills in tourists. Although some have booked their holidays since last autumn, they are now forced to look for safer alternatives closer to home, with Europe being the destination that can offer safe beaches and beautiful weather.
From secluded bays on islands to lively shores near busy cities, the continent is not lacking in beauty and variety, writes one of Europe’s most well-known tourist destination websites in the preamble “Top 10 unmissable beach destinations”, an instructional guide to travel in Europe, from the gentle coasts of Greece and Portugal to the wild and untamed shores of Scotland and Normandy.
1. Elafonisi Beach, Crete
One of the most relaxing beaches in the world, the island of Elafonisi in Crete offers everything you need to relax. Coral pink sand and a crystal clear lagoon? Pure happiness. Take a day trip to paradise, where you can soak up the sun with other beachgoers or cross the water to tranquil coves. Just 200 meters from the mainland, across a sandbar, is the island, a protected nature reserve with 110 plant species.
2. The south coast of England
Come to Cornwall and discover the oasis of Porthcurno Beach. A stunning National Trust haven of fine white sand set between towering cliffs, it is dominated by the renowned Minack Theatre. Spectacular views, aren’t they? With a creek for kids to splash in, this is a great UK family beach and one of Europe’s most popular coastal destinations.
3. Mount Saint-Michel, Normandy
The beaches of northern France are famous throughout the world (and not just for the historic landings of World War II). Stretching for almost 640 kilometers, the Normandy coast is full of stunning shores and spectacular cliffs. However, no tourist attraction is more fascinating than Mount Saint-Michel. An iconic pyramidal island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site rises above the sandbars and water like a fairytale castle.
4. Benagil Beach, Algarve
Head to Praia de Benagil in Portugal for a day on one of the world’s dreamiest beaches. At the far end of the shore you will find a cave of wonders. Leave the carpet enchanted — all you need is a boat to Algar de Benagil. Known as the ‘Cathedral of Benagil’, the spiraling walls guide your gaze to the ‘eye’.
5. Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland
Northumberland boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. Long, fine-sand beaches flanked by whispering dunes; you can walk along the shore for miles without leaving the water. Bamburgh Beach is a place not to be missed. Look back to Holy Island, only accessible at low tide, and to Bamburgh Castle, which dominates the horizon. Perfect for surfers, families, dogs and riders alike.
6. Fornillo Beach, Positano
The charm of the cliffs and the tranquility of the beaches welcome you to the Amalfi Coast. Stop in Positano, Italy, and you’ll discover a truly stunning coastline. This clifftop village offers majestic views of azure water alongside colorful architecture and winding streets. In the height of summer, Positano becomes popular, but the beaches don’t get too crowded. Go to Spiaggia del Fornillo, a large stretch of shore backed by incredible cliffs.
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7. Lake Wannsee, Berlin
Berlin’s favorite lakeside retreat just minutes from the city center.
Berlin, Lake Wannsee is the ideal place for bathing culture. Beach volleyball and boat rentals are just a few of the attractions, and you can also take a tour of the Havel chain of lakes.
8. Burriana Beach, Nerja
Sun, sport and the atmosphere of the sea define this favorite destination on the Costa del Sol.
Nerja is number one. Located on the Costa del Sol, Burriana is the main beach of the region. With sports, water activities and fine sand to lie on, there’s something for everyone here. Or, if you want to reach coves where no one else can, hop in a sea kayak and paddle around for some peace and quiet.
9. Scheveningen Beach, The Hague
Enjoy the surf, sand and quayside walks in this Dutch coastal town.
The Netherlands has plenty of golden sandy beaches along the coast. One of the best is Scheveningen in The Hague. The international blue flag has been flying there for years. Take a stroll on the 400-metre quay or relax on the long sands. The water is great for surfers too, so why not get on board too?
10. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris
White sand and turquoise waters give this Scottish beach a tropical feel.
The Scottish Highlands is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, Luskentyre. With white sand and turquoise water, you might think you’re in the Maldives on a sunny day. Isolated and vast, it is a refuge for those who want to escape from reality.
Where you find the clearest water in Europe
For stunningly clear waters in Europe, consider visiting Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, Greece, or the Blue Lagoon on the island of Gozo, Malta. Other beautiful spots include Marettimo in Sicily, Porquerolles in France and Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece. Menorca in Spain and the island of Capri in Italy also offer stunningly clear waters. Villefranche-sur-Mer in France is another great choice for crystal clear waters.
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Which beaches in Europe have the bluest water
Europe has several beaches known for their stunning blue waters. Pasqyra Beach in Albania and Kaputaş Beach in Turkey offer crystal clear views. Greece has many beaches with azure water, including Paralia Mpouka, Kassiopi, Voulisma and Foki Beach. In France, Vernette Beach is famous for its vibrant hues. For a picturesque setting in Portugal, visit Praia do Carvalho. Each of these destinations highlights the mesmerizing blue waters that make European beaches so captivating.
Which beach is considered the most beautiful in Europe?
Port Glarokavos lagoon beach in northern Greece is often voted the most beautiful beach in Europe. Cala Brandinchi in Sardinia, Italy and Cala Pregonda in Menorca, Spain are also highly rated by travelers.
There are beaches in Europe known for their unique natural features
Several European beaches are famous for their unique natural features. For example, the Pink Sands beach on the island of Elafonisi in Greece is famous for its pink sand made up of crushed shells. Another example is the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, where hexagonal basalt columns form a striking landscape along the coast. These beaches offer not only beautiful views but also fascinating geological formations.
The best European beach for water sports enthusiasts
Tarifa, in Spain, is a top destination for water sports enthusiasts, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. Located at the southernmost point of Europe, Tarifa enjoys strong winds and a lively beach culture. Other popular activities include surfing and paddleboarding. The lively atmosphere and excellent conditions make this beach a favorite destination for those who seek adventure and want to enjoy the thrill of water sports.
