Looking for the best beaches in Europe to visit in 2024? Buckle up, because Europe is flaunting its finest sands and secret shores! This year, the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization has crowned a mix of golden havens, wild retreats, and even therapeutic getaways. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, an adventurer, or a family with a penchant for pristine coastlines, the list of the best beaches in Europe has you covered.
Malta’s golden gem near Mellieha steals the spotlight, proving that sustainability and stunning sand can indeed shake hands. Greece isn’t playing second fiddle, with five of its beaches making waves on the list—Canal d’Amour, Porto Timoni, St Paul Bay, Porto Katsiki, and Vai Beach—making Greece the beach-bum royalty of 2024.
Spain makes a splash with three hot picks: the ever-popular Las Teresitas in Tenerife, the hidden gem As Catedrais in Galicia, and the Costa Blanca’s own Miami wannabe, Calpe Beach. And let’s not forget Portugal’s Algarve, where Monte Clerigo and Odeceixe bask in their natural, protected glory.
So grab your sunscreen and your sense of humor—these are the best beaches in Europe that you’ll want to experience in 2024!
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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Europe for 2024: Sun, Sand, and Sassy Shores!
Malta’s Ghajn Tuffieha Bay: A Beach So Good, Even the Romans Couldn’t Resist!
When it comes to the best beaches in Europe, Malta’s Ghajn Tuffieha Bay near Mellieha is a sun-soaked superstar. Nestled beneath glorious cliffs and dotted with the ruins of Roman baths (because who doesn’t love a bit of ancient history with their sunbathing?), this sandy gem is the perfect spot for your next Mediterranean escape.
Awarded by the European Commission for its stellar commitment to sustainable tourism, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay isn’t just pretty—it’s practically perfect! Think spotless sands, a selection of tasty eateries, and more sunbeds than you can shake a beach towel at. Water sports lovers, rejoice—you can paddle, snorkel, or dive to your heart’s content here.
Fancy a little island hopping? The nearby islands of Gozo and Comino, home to the Insta-famous Blue Lagoon, are just a ferry ride away. Oh, and did we mention that Malta is also ranked among the best LGBTQ+ destinations, best family holiday spots, and—you guessed it—home to some of the best beaches in Europe? Pack your bags, because Malta’s calling!
Monte Clerigo Beach: Where Unspoiled Beauty Meets the Best Grilled Fish in Europe!
Looking for one of the best beaches in Europe that’s as charming as it is unspoiled? Monte Clerigo Beach in Aljezur, Algarve, is your next sun-soaked stop! Nestled just 30 kilometers north of Lagos, this slice of sandy heaven is where pristine nature meets the cozy vibes of a fishing village. Think colorful houses, dunes perfect for a sun-escape, and restaurants grilling up the freshest catch of the day.
Monte Clerigo Beach isn’t just another pretty face; it’s also surrounded by the famous Alentejo region, known for its vineyards and sandy stretches that lure in celebs, and the Algarve, where long Atlantic beaches and golf resorts reign supreme. It’s no wonder this spot is hailed as one of the best beaches in Europe!
And let’s not forget Aljezur—a picture-perfect market town with whitewashed houses, authentic Portuguese gastronomy, and wines that’ll make your taste buds dance. Nearby, you’ll find even more stunning beaches like Arrifana, Carrapateira, and Amoreira, all within the protected Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.
So, grab your sunscreen and appetite—Monte Clerigo Beach is calling!
Ölüdeniz Beach: Turkey’s Not-So-Hidden Gem That’s Worth the Crowds
When it comes to the best beaches in Europe, Turkey’s Ölüdeniz Beach, also known as the Blue Lagoon, is a shimmering star. Picture a tranquil lagoon, surrounded by majestic coves, with a curved beach that seems straight out of a postcard. It’s no wonder this spot is one of Turkey’s top treasures!
Sure, Ölüdeniz might be a ‘hidden’ gem, but with views this good, it’s more of an open secret. Unless you’re an early bird or a night owl, expect to share the sand with fellow sun-seekers. But don’t worry, renting a lounge chair to soak up the sun while watching yachts drift by makes it all worthwhile.
Feeling adventurous? Dive into water sports galore—paddleboarding, paragliding, or scuba diving are all on the menu. Just a heads-up: the single road to this beauty can get busy, so renting a bike might be your best bet.
Ready to explore one of the best beaches in Europe? Ölüdeniz awaits!
Canal d’Amour: Corfu’s Love Potion in Beach Form
When it comes to the best beaches in Europe, Canal d’Amour on Corfu Island is like a love letter from the gods themselves. Tucked away in Sidari, this ‘secret’ beach is famous for its stunning sandstone formations that create a long, narrow channel—hence the romantic moniker, Canal d’Amour. Legend has it, a French navigator thought the beach resembled a certain feminine shape, and voilà, the name stuck.
Though this natural wonder is petite, what it lacks in size it makes up for in charm. Sunbathers can sprawl out on the adjacent rocks, soaking in both the sun and the view. Plus, you’re never too far from a cold drink, thanks to the restaurant and hotel perched just above.
And if you’re visiting with your sweetheart, take a dip in the channel—tradition says you’ll be married within a year. Ready to explore one of the best beaches in Europe? Dive in!
Porto Timoni: Corfu’s Double Trouble Beach Adventure
When talking about the best beaches in Europe, Porto Timoni in Corfu has no intention of staying hidden. Making its way back into the spotlight, this stunning spot offers not one, but two beaches—because why settle for just one? Nestled in one of Greece’s lushest islands, thanks to those winter rains, Porto Timoni is a gem among the green.
But don’t let its beauty fool you—getting to this secluded paradise is no walk in the park. It’s a long, rocky hike, so be sure to lace up those sturdy shoes. Pro tip: Park at ‘Afionas Parking’ for a mere €5 and brace yourself for a 20-minute trek. Pack some snacks and drinks because once you’re there, it’s just you, the sea, and some of the best snorkeling in Europe.
Corfu itself is a melting pot of Venetian, French, and British cultures, offering a rich history, picturesque landscapes, and a climate that’s always beach-ready. Ready for a double dose of one of the best beaches in Europe? Porto Timoni awaits!
Las Teresitas: Tenerife’s Golden Gem in the Canaries
When it comes to the best beaches in Europe, Las Teresitas in Tenerife isn’t just showing up—it’s showing off. Often crowned the most beautiful beach in the Canary Islands, this golden wonder is a family-friendly paradise where the sand isn’t just ordinary sand—it’s imported straight from the Sahara! Because when you’re one of the best beaches in Europe, you get the best sand, too.
Tucked into a protected bay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital, Las Teresitas offers everything you need for a lazy beach day. Whether you’re swimming in its warm waters, strolling along the golden shore, or simply lounging on a sunbed for just €4 a day, this beach has you covered.
The surrounding cliffs and nature, along with the nearby authentic village of San Andrés, add to the charm. Plus, the Santa Cruz town hall ensures the experience is accessible with free parking and affordable amenities. Ready to bask in one of Europe’s finest? Las Teresitas awaits!
St. Paul’s Bay: A Hidden Gem in Rhodes
If you’re searching for one of the best beaches in Europe that feels like a well-kept secret, St. Paul’s Bay in Rhodes is calling your name. Nestled in the southeast of this iconic Greek island, St. Paul’s Bay offers crystal-clear waters that are so calm, they might as well come with a “no waves allowed” sign—perfect for families looking to splash around without the drama of big waves.
This little slice of paradise isn’t just about the views (though they are stunning). With sun loungers and parasols available for a steal at €5-10, you can bask in comfort. Plus, when the sun gets too much, the nearby bars and restaurants have you covered.
All of this is wrapped in the charm of Lindos, an ancient town that cascades from the Acropolis of Rhodes down to the sea. For a taste of Grecian paradise, St. Paul’s Bay is one of the best beaches in Europe that you don’t want to miss!
As Catedrais Beach: Spain’s Cathedral of the Sea
Say hello to As Catedrais Beach, a stunning marvel on the northwest coast of Spain. Officially known as Praia de Aguas Santas, this beauty in Ribadeo, Galicia, isn’t just any beach—it’s like stepping into a grand Gothic cathedral, with 30-meter high buttresses, arches within arches, and sea caves that would make any architect green with envy.
Stretching for nearly 1.5 kilometers of fine sand, As Catedrais Beach is the perfect place to walk through sandy corridors flanked by towering slate walls, all while the sea gently laps at your feet. Just make sure you check the tide schedule; this beach reveals its true magic at low tide.
Pro tip: Visiting in high season? You’ll want to book your spot online (it’s free!) to dodge the crowds. With free parking and toilets, this beach is a must-visit on your tour of the best beaches in Europe.
Scialara Beach: Where History Meets One of the Best Beaches in Europe
Dreaming of a beach with a side of history? Scialara Beach, or “Castello Beach,” in Vieste is one of the best beaches in Europe, where you can soak up the sun and centuries of history simultaneously. Nestled in Italy’s stunning Gargano National Park, this 5-kilometer stretch of golden sand is perfect for families looking to dip their toes in calm waters and their minds in local legends.
Overshadowed by the mighty “Pizzomunno”—a towering limestone monolith that locals believe holds the secrets of the world—Scialara Beach is more than just a pretty coastline. Nearby, you’ll find the medieval Castello Svevo and the 11th-century Vieste Cathedral, complete with a baroque bell tower that practically begs for an Instagram post.
With easy parking, sunbeds for rent, and plenty of bars and restaurants to refuel, Scialara Beach is not just a beach day—it’s a beach experience. So why not make your next sandy adventure at one of the best beaches in Europe?
