Do you have plans to escape to the coast soon? Among the many charming seaside locales on the continent, here are some of the best beaches in Europe. Here are 12 of the most impressive waterfront stretches on the continent, from white sand beaches in Spain to an under-the-radar jewel above the Arctic Circle. Already, most famous places in Europe can sense a tan forming. Europe's top 12 beaches are listed below.
Oludeniz Beach, Turkey
It has pebble shores and aquamarine waters, making it one of Turkey's most beautiful beaches (also called the Blue Lagoon). Paragliding is also very popular on the beach due to its perfect weather conditions and beautiful panoramic views. In most cases, companies start their operations from the Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.
Bay of Biscay, Biarritz, France
The beaches of Biarritz, in Basque country along the Bay of Biscay, are not only breathtaking (you may remember it from Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises), but they're also a big hit with surfers because of their mellow waves, which are safe for beginners.
Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal
Marinha beach in Portugal has picturesque rocks outcroppings and calm, clean waters, so it is considered one of the premier beaches in the world. In the famed Algarve region of Portugal, Praia da Marinha is known as an ideal snorkeling spot with steep cliffs and soft sand.
San Fruttuoso, Liguria, Italy
One of the most famous places in Europe is the idyllic beach of San Fruttuoso, situated about halfway between Portofino and Camogli. In addition to its hidden location, the small cove is surrounded by mountains and is surrounded by stunning blue water.
Reynisfjara, Vik, Iceland
The rugged coastline of Iceland is one of the most dramatic and beautiful in the world. Our recommendation: Vik isn't a place with palm trees and white sand. Instead, the sand is as black as caviar, and the beach is dotted with soaring basalt columns, which makes it even more stunning.
Zlatni Rat, Brač, Croatia
It is one of Croatia's most scenic beaches, but its distinctive shape (which changes depending on the current) makes it stand out. On either side of the tip of the peninsula, its shoreline stretches for half a mile, and it looks like golden sand. Windsurfing, jet-skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular activities in Zlatni Rat.
Haukland Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway
The most famous place in Europe is the Lofoten Islands. They have clear, blue water that is as warm as the Caribbean or Mediterranean (but not as warm as the Caribbean). A kayaking or swimming excursion at Haukland Beach during the summer months is an inviting prospect. It may be possible to see the Northern Lights over the water even if you decide to visit in the winter and forgo swimming.
Praia da Falésia, Albufeira, Portugal
One of Portugal's most unique beaches is Praia da Falésia in the Algarve. With miles of red-orange cliffs and pine trees lining the bottom, the sandy shores of this beach are surrounded by warm, swimmable waters. Its main attraction lies just inland: miles of striking red-orange cliffs. A truly endless view awaits you here.
Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
Guests of the Aman Sveti Stefan resort are the only ones who can visit Sveti Stefan today. During the 1960s, it was toured by celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, and Kirk Douglas. A causeway connects Montenegro's island to the township onshore, making the beach a popular photo spot.
Sarakiniko, Milos, Greece
This Greek island has a mythological landscape and the deepest blue water in the Cyclades, making it the perfect destination for those searching for pristine Greek islands. Sarakiniko Beach is a good example. Standing in the sea, you feel as though you are standing on the moon, with its large, sun-bleached rocks eroded by saltwater.
Île de Porquerolles, France
Porquerolles remains an unspoiled, quiet paradise on the French Riviera. It is car-free throughout the island—there are only flawless, empty beaches, dense forests, and a tiny, charming town. A picnic basket and a day on the beach wouldn't be complete without a picnic basket.
Diamond Beach, Jökulsárlón, Iceland
The most famous places in Europe is Diamond Beach, a frozen beach fringed by chunks of dazzling ice, is a natural wonder of Iceland, surrounded by black volcanic sands contrasting with the ice and glaciers of Jökulsárlón. A Northern Lights reflection enhances the spot's visual appeal even further.