Sandy Shores and Azure Waters:

Top European Beaches to Explore in 2023

Why European Beach destinations?

Europe is renowned for its stunning beaches, with crystal clear waters and white sand that stretches along the coast. From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, Europe offers some of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just want to soak up some sun, there are plenty of incredible golden sand beaches to explore in Europe. From hidden coves in Greece to bustling resorts on Spain’s Costa Brava, there is something for everyone when it comes to European beach vacations. With so many breathtaking spots to choose from, it can be hard to decide where your next holiday should take you!

Which country in Europe has the best beaches

Determining which country in Europe has the absolute best beaches can be subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, some European countries are well-known for their stunning beaches:

• Greece: Greece boasts numerous beautiful beaches, each with its unique charm. Islands like, Santorini, and Crete offer picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands.

• Spain: Spain, particularly along the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava, is famous for its lovely beaches. You can find both bustling, vibrant beaches and more secluded, serene options.

• Portugal: Portugal's Algarve region is renowned for its stunning coastline with a mix of rugged cliffs, caves, and pristine beaches like Praia da Marinha.

• Italy: The Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, and Sicily offer breathtaking beaches, often surrounded by dramatic coastal landscapes.

• Croatia: Croatia's Dalmatian Coast is known for its crystal-clear waters and charming pebble beaches.

• Turkey: Turkey's southwestern coast along the Mediterranean, often referred to as the "Turkish Riviera," offers beautiful beaches and historic sites.

Which is the best sea in Europe?

Identifying the most exquisite sea in Europe is a subjective endeavour, heavily influenced by the specific experiences you desire. Europe boasts an array of mesmerising seas, each possessing its own distinct charm and allure. Let's delve into a concise exploration of some of the most renowned European seas:

• Mediterranean Sea: The Mediterranean is famous for its warm climate, clear blue waters, and picturesque coastal towns. It's a top choice for those seeking a combination of culture, history, and beach relaxation. Countries bordering the Mediterranean, such as Greece, Italy, Spain, and Turkey, offer diverse coastal experiences.

• Adriatic Sea: The Adriatic Sea, along the eastern coast of Italy and the western coast of the Balkan Peninsula, is known for its beautiful beaches and historic cities. Croatia's Adriatic Coast and Dalmatia Coast is particularly popular for its stunning coastline.

• Aegean Sea: The Aegean Sea, located between Greece and Turkey, is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful islands, and ancient ruins. It's a great choice for those interested in exploring both natural beauty and history.

• Atlantic Ocean: The Atlantic Ocean offers diverse experiences along the coastlines of countries like Portugal, Spain, France, and the UK. You can find rugged, dramatic cliffs, as well as long sandy beaches.

• Baltic Sea: The Baltic Sea is unique for its cooler waters and is surrounded by countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Germany, and the Baltic states. It's a great option for those who enjoy a different type of coastal experience.

Golden Sand Beach destination

Golden Sand Beaches with calm blue sea waters and white sand stretching along the coastline of Europe are waiting for you. From a quiet retreat in Greece to a bustling resort on Spain's Costa Brava, there is something for everyone when it comes to European beach destinations. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or simply want to soak up some sun, you can find an array of beautiful beaches in Europe.

Are there any white sandy beaches in Europe?

Yes, Europe is home to several pristine white sandy beaches that can rival those in tropical destinations. One notable example is Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) in Zakynthos, Greece. This iconic beach features fine white sand and is known for the famous shipwreck that lies on its shore, making it a picturesque and unique destination. Additionally, you can find white sandy beaches in places like the Canary Islands, the Algarve region in Portugal, and certain areas along the Spanish and Italian coastlines. These European gems offer a perfect setting for a sun-soaked beach getaway.

5 of the Best Europe Beaches to Visit in 2023

In the summer of 2023, why not take a trip to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe? From golden sands to stunning views, these five beaches are sure to make your vacation one you’ll never forget. Keep reading for an overview of the best beaches in Europe and what makes them so special.

1. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain: Nestled on the island of Menorca in Spain is Cala Macarella. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand that stretches for miles. Cala Macarella is also home to many small coves and islands that can be reached by kayak or boat. Whether you want to relax on a quiet beach or take part in some more adventurous activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, this beach has something for everyone.

2. Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece: Elafonisi Beach is located on the southwest coast of Crete and is known for its unique pink sand made up of fine coral particles. The shallow waters make it perfect for swimming or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. While you’re there, don’t forget to explore the nearby island which can be reached by walking across a shallow lagoon at low tide!

3. Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain: If you’re looking for some peace and quiet during your vacation, look no further than Playa de Ses Illetes on Formentera Island off the coast of Spain. This beach is known for its stunning views and crystal-clear waters that stretch out as far as the eye can see. What’s more, due to its remote location it remains relatively untouched by tourists so you can enjoy some true relaxation while there!

4. Praia da Marinha Beach, Algarve Coast Portugal: Praia da Marinha Beach near Portugal's Algarve Coast offers breathtaking views and golden sands that stretch out into the horizon. The surrounding cliffs create an impressive backdrop while providing plenty of opportunities to explore hidden coves and caves along the coastline. Whether you want to take a dip in the warm waters or spend your days relaxing on this picturesque beach – Praia da Marinha has something for everyone!

5. Kefalonia Island Beaches (Greece): Last but not least we have Kefalonia Island Beaches located off mainland Greece – home to some of Europe’s most famous beaches! Whether you choose Myrtos Beach with its famous cliffside staircase leading down into azure blue waters or tranquil Antisamos Beach with its crystal clear waters stretching out towards horizons – Kefalonia has something for every taste!

Best Time to Book a European Vacation

The best time to book a European beach vacation is during the spring or fall months. This is because the weather is milder and temperatures remain just right for all-day beach trips without getting too hot. Additionally, the crowds are generally smaller than during peak summer months, so you can enjoy the beaches with fewer people around.

In April or May, you can soak up some sun on Mediterranean shores of Spain, Italy or Greece. Or, if you opt for cooler weather at the beach, September or October might be your ideal time to visit Northern Europe where you can find a great combination of beaches and city destinations like Amsterdam and Copenhagen in Denmark. During this time, there won't be as many tourists around but still plenty of options for sightseeing and exploring beaches. If budgeting is an issue, consider looking into Booking.com apartment rentals as they tend to cost less than booking hotels directly. Alternatively, there are plenty of budget-friendly hostels scattered throughout Europe that provide private rooms at a fraction of the cost compared to other lodging choices. Plus, in most cases hostels come complete with free WiFi which makes it easy to stay connected while traveling abroad.

September is my favourite time for a Beach Vacation

For my partner and I, we love to plan our white sand beach vacation in September. This time of year the season is starting to die down. Children are back in school and there are fewer tourists so it's much easier to find less crowded spots and have the sandy beach to ourselves. As far as the warmest places in Europe during September, consider looking into southern regions such as Portugal, Greece, and Italy. These areas tend to experience plenty of sunshine with temperatures that can reach up to 30°C (86°F) or higher depending on the weather. Also consider visiting the Canary Islands in Spain which are known for their warm climate year-round. If you're looking for a truly unique experience with private beach, try hostels and camping sites. These options provide an affordable way to stay in Europe with the added bonus of experiencing the outdoors and locations tend to be closer to the beautiful beaches. With a mix of amazing views and mild temperatures, September is definitely one of the best times to visit Europe!

Optimize Your Seaside Experience: Engaging Beach Activities

My partner and I both enjoy the beautiful sun, but we also enjoy some beach activities. His interests are wide-ranging. From lounging in the fine sand to swimming, surfing, and wakeboarding. You can definitely find me sipping a drink or dancing till your feet bleed at a beach party when he is doing his water activities. Since these are activities we enjoy, a city beach is very meaningful to us. With that said, I have compiled a list of my favourite city beaches. Because Spain is one of our favourite counties to visit you can find a few options below.

1. Sitges, Spain: Sitges is a small city in the Barcelona province of Spain, with beaches on both sides. The beach here is really great and it offers plenty of activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding and windsurfing. You’ll also find several restaurants offering delicious seafood right by the beach.

2. Benidorm, Spain: In my opinion, Benidorm offers a fabulous beach, with great restaurants and bars along the boardwalk, as well as a lot of water activities. One of my partners' favorites is the Benidorm Cable-Ski park. When you go, just bear in mind that the city gets busy with tourists, but if you go in September, the season is starting to die down and the tourist crowds are less intense.

3. Bodrum, Turkey: Also known as the Turkish Riviera. Nestled on the coast of the Aegean Sea, Bodrum is a great destination for those seeking out a beach getaway. Not only can you enjoy sunny days by the sea, but there are also plenty of activities such as scuba diving and kite surfing to keep you busy. The restaurants in the area serve delicious Turkish food, with some of the best seafood around. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, Bodrum is the perfect place to go!

4. Nice, France: Nice is one of the most popular cities in France, and for good reason. Not only does it have an array of amazing shops, restaurants and attractions, but it also boasts some incredible natural scenery. Take a walk along the Promenade des Anglais, with its stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea. There’s no better way to experience a heavenly beach that overlooks the French Riviera.

5. Split, Croatia: Talking about some of the most beautiful beaches in europe, Split is a must-visit destination. Located on the Adriatic coast, it offers some of the best sailing and snorkeling activities in Europe. For those looking for more excitement, there are plenty of water sports from kayaking and paddle boarding to kitesurfing and windsurfing.

I hope this article has helped you narrow down where to go for your next beach vacation in 2023. September is my favourite time to hit the beaches, but depending on what type of activities you want to do, different times of year may be better. If you're looking for a bargain, booking early is key - especially if you want to visit one of Europe's more popular beach destinations. And finally, don't forget that there are plenty of great beaches closer to home - sometimes the best vacations are the ones we can drive to! So get planning and enjoy making some amazing memories at one (or more!) of these incredible spots.