The best beaches in Europe (and where to stay while you’re there)
Six of the best sandy spots spanning Greece, Portugal and Turkey – as well as one closer to home
Beaches are a bit like Marmite: you either love them or you hate them. Those who consider themselves beach bums will often trek far and wide to enjoy languid lounging on sun-drenched sand. But when it comes to what makes the perfect beach, everyone has different preferences: sand or pebble, civilisation or seclusion, amenities or none whatsoever. In a bid to spotlight just six of Europe’s best beaches, we consulted this year’s World’s 50 Best Beaches, a list compiled based on the votes of more than 1,000 travel professionals. From Ibizan enclaves to Croatian havens, here are the European beaches to inspire your next getaway – and the hotels to book while you’re there.
Fteri Beach, Kefalonia
The second best beach in the world, Fteri is nestled within a secluded cove surrounded by the white-washed cliffs synonymous with the Ionian islands of Greece. It’s only accessible via a steep hike down the cliff (make sure you consult a local guide for this trek) or via boat, with docking permitted in the azure bay so you can splash around Fteri. Its beauty lies in its untouched ruralness, so you won’t find any beach bars or toilets nearby, and bear in mind that this is a pebble beach. Situated on the northern coast of Kefalonia, this is definitely worth the effort.
Where to stay: Eliamos Villas Hotel and Spa
Having reopened earlier this month for the summer season, Eliamos is the choice for well-heeled travellers visiting the island, having completely redefined Kefalonia’s luxury offering when it opened in 2023. Located on the southern shore, which boasts beautiful beaches in its own right, 12 exclusive villas – which can be couple- or family-friendly – complete Eliamos’ vision of a modern village, all nestled among wild flowers and herbs. Interiors are soothing, with bohemian furniture and brushed concrete walls complemented by salt water pools or jacuzzis on the terraces. Don’t expect all-you-can-eat buffets; everything that comes out of this Relais & Chateaux property has a health focus. Think nutritional feasts courtesy of chef Sokratis Malinganis, yoga and reformer Pilates classes on a shaded cabana with a gorgeous view of the ocean beyond, and complimentary use of e-bikes to get around the island.
From £560 per night.
Praia Da Marinha, Algarve
Ranked at number 20 on the world’s beach leaderboard, Praia Da Marinha is very stereotypical of beaches in the Algarve: think golden sand, orange limestone cliffs and a balmy Mediterranean climate. Also named by the Michelin Guide as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe, in 1998, it was awarded the prestigious Golden Beach award by the Portuguese Ministry of the Environment. It’s surrounded by clear, calm waters and there’s a small car park at the top of the cliff – but be warned, it does get full rather quickly.
Where to stay: Viceroy at Ombria Algarve
Having opened last autumn, Viceroy at Ombria Algarve is situated in the northern Algarve mountains, offering a serene escape for those looking for some Portuguese R&R. Comprising 76 rooms, 65 residences, a holistic spa, eight restaurants and bars, and a sustainable 18-hole golf course, this hotel can cater to well-heeled families with little ones in tow as well as couples looking for a romantic break. When you’re not on the beach, we recommend whiling away the hours at the sun-drenched pool, where private cabanas are serviced by a delectable food and drink menu, or make the most of the dedicated kid’s club educational experiences, from being a shepherd for a day to horse riding.
From £450 per night.
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Kynance Cove is instantly recognisable for its signature rugged rocks, white sand and azure waters – it’s Cornwall’s busiest beach for good reason. Ranked 10th in the World’s 50 Best Beaches guide, it doubles as one of the UK’s most historic beaches, once a holiday hotspot for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, as well as the poet Alfred Tennyson. It’s a must-see beach that makes for the perfect pit stop along the South West Coast Path before trekking to the UK’s most southerly point. Ice cream, anyone?
Where to stay: A Book of Love
Set in a secluded spot within 20 acres of Cornish countryside, this upside-down home is close to the hustle and bustle of Porthleven as well as being a short drive to the Lizard Peninsula: home to Kynance Cove and other beautiful sandy spots such as Kennack Sands, Poldhu Cove and Mullion Cove. A Book of Love houses three bedrooms and two bathrooms featuring antique furnishings, an Aga in the kitchen (a complimentary fish pie will await you on arrival) and plenty of outdoor space.
From £299 per night.
Akyarlar Bodrum, Turkey
Images: Shutterstock
Bodrum, aka the Turkish Riviera, has enjoyed plenty of press lately. Having been dubbed the new must-visit coastal destination in Europe, we can see why tourists are flocking in their droves when its beaches are as beautiful as Akyarlar. Unlike others on this list, Akyarlar is serviced by a number of beach bars, eateries, toilets and showers, and spots for those all-important sundowners. Thanks to its shallow, crystal-clear waters, it's popular with families, with plenty of sunbeds lining its shore for ample amounts of shade – needed when Bodrum often experiences temperatures up to 40°C in the summer months.
Where to stay: The Bodrum Edition
The Bodrum Edition opened less than a decade ago – and is part of a flock of five-star hotels that made this riviera destination what it is today. Located a stone's throw from Yalikavak Marina, the boutique 110-key hotel features views of the Aegean Sea at every turn, especially from the infinity pool and exclusive beach club that fringes the sandy shore. Unwind at the state-of-the-art spa, which includes a salon, Turkish hammam, and fitness centre, before dining on Aegean octopus with fava bean dip and slow-cooked beef rib with truffle mushrooms at Michelin-starred Kitchen by Turkish chef Osman Sezener or Japanese-inspired delicacies at Inari.
From £580 per night.
Zlatni Rat, Croatia
Sitting at number 32 on the World’s Best Beaches list, you’d be forgiven for thinking, when looking at Zlatni Rat beach from the air, that you were in the Maldives or Seychelles. Nicknamed ‘Golden Horn beach’, it doubles as one of Croatia’s top windsurfing destinations and is a mere spit of sand just one mile from the small harbour town of Bol. Its unique shape has drawn visitors from all over the world and has become a symbol of Croatian tourism, with the sandy beach surrounded by pine-clad forests and turquoise waters. However, given its distinctive shape, it is affected by high winds and strong currents so always take precautions before getting in the water.
Where to stay: Tender Luxuries
Tender Luxuries is a 12-person, six-bed villa complete with its own private pool, hot tub and sauna. Those who want to venture into the sparkling waters lapping at Supetar’s shore, however, can go for a spin on the villa’s speedboat, which is at your disposal for the duration of your stay. Relax on the sun loungers, enjoy an al fresco dinner on the terrace – prepared in the fully-equipped kitchen, barbecue, or even by a private chef – and dine in the romantic covered courtyard.
From £2,100 per night.
Cala Gracioneta, Ibiza
The beaches of the White Isle are how it earned its moniker, home to bright blue bays and white-sand beaches – and Cala Gracioneta is no exception. Tucked away on the western side of the island, follow the trail of straw-topped parasols and sunloungers to discover bohemian bliss. Boasting a calm atmosphere, away from the gritty party vibes of San Antonio, Cala Gracioneta is also home to modern amenities such as a restaurant and toilets but, given the beach’s small size, can get quite busy. Get here early to enjoy the calm waters all to yourself.
Where to stay: Oku Ibiza
Despite fringing the vibrant town of San Antonio, Oku Ibiza’s USP is that it doesn’t feel even remotely hectic. Comprising an ideal location – which means you can easily get out and explore all of the island’s treasures, before enjoying the vibey locale in the evening – and 189 modern but pared-back rooms, Oku feels like its own sanctuary. Expect two design-led restaurants – one specialising in Mediterranean fare, the other in Japanese nikkei plates – as well as two bars (one for booze; one for juice), two pools and a rooftop yoga studio for early morning flows and meditations. This is Ibiza reimagined.
From £390 per night.
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