Get out your bathing suit, summers are finally here. Here are the most beautiful white sand beaches to visit Europe in 2023
If you dream of spending your summer vacation in the Caribbean, the Bahamas, the Seychelles or some of the other major destinations and you don’t have enough money, then you should definitely check out several destinations in Europe that they are worthy rivals to the famous insular resorts.
Here are the most beautiful beaches in Europe for swimming.
Navagio beach, Greece
Navagio beach is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Crystal clear water and smooth white sand bear an uncanny resemblance to the Caribbean.
Located on Zakynthos and also known as Shipwreck Gulf because of the many ruins that can be found here. The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs and can only be reached by boat leaving from the port of Vromi.
Cala Luna, Italy
Cala Luna is located on Sardinia, an Island famous for its beautiful beaches. The beach is located on the northwest coast of the island near the place called Dorgali.
Warm sea and wonderful sand attract a large number of tourists who enjoy diving. To reach this beautiful beach you will have to walk from Cala Gonone or Cala Fuili.
Porto Katsiki, Greece
Porto Katsiki beach is located on the southwest coast of the Greek island called Lefkada and is one of the most famous beaches in all of Greece.
The beach is made of fine sand and the water is clean, calm and warm ideal for diving and swimming. To reach the beach you have to go down the 347 stairs or take a taxi boat that leaves from Nydri or Vasiliki.
Caló Des Moro, Spain
In the Spanish island of Mallorca you can find a large number of hidden beaches. One of the most beautiful is Caló des Moro, located about six kilometers from the Santanyi city
During the summer season the beach is full of tourists and for the rest of the year it reminds of the quiet peace of the Caribbean.
Golden Horn, Croatia
Croatia’s long coastline and its numerous islands are full of beautiful beaches. Golden Horn is located on the Island of Brac and is known for changing its shape and position depending on the direction of the winds and sea currents.
There is no sand, as in many beaches in this area, but its small pebbles and V shape represent a great attraction. The western part of the beach is reserved for nudists. Because of the winds the beach is suitable for water sports.
Porthcurno Beach, Great Britain
Many of you will wonder what this beach from northern and rainy Britain is doing on this list but this beach is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
It is located in Cornwall surrounded by cliffs that make this beach protected from the wind. This is an excellent place for swimming because of the shallow turquoise waters. This is one of the few sandy beaches in Britain.
Cala Mariolu, Italy
This is another beautiful Sardinian beach that ranks equally with the best beaches in the world. It is located near Baunei and overlooks the Bay of Orosei.
It is covered with tiny pink gravel and the sea is pristine with amazing shades of blue color. Due to the calm and shallow water it is ideal for families with small children.
Myrtos beach, Greece
Myrtos beach is located in one of the Ionian Islands called Cephalonia between steep rocks of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros. As you approach the turquoise waters large rocks gradually turn into gravel until fine white sand.
The beach is not suitable for small children because the currents can be really strong. The beach is reached via the steep winding road from the village of Divarata. You can also use public transport which is available during the summer months.
When it comes to the most beautiful beaches people are very different and it’s all a matter of personal taste. Probably many of you will not agree with my choice but all I know is that these beaches must find their place on the list of what to visit.
What is the Blue Flag Award for beaches?
The Blue Flag is an international eco-label awarded to beaches and marinas that meet strict standards for water quality, environmental management, safety and services. The program is run by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-profit organization based in Denmark.
In order to receive the Blue Flag, a beach or marina must meet a number of criteria, including high standards for water quality, effective waste management, and environmental education and information. The beach or marina should also provide a safe and accessible environment for visitors, with well-maintained facilities and lifeguards on duty.
The Blue Flag is considered a highly regarded award and is recognized as a symbol of environmental quality and sustainability. It is used by tourists and local communities as an indicator of a beach or marina’s commitment to high standards and is intended to encourage ongoing efforts to improve the quality of coastal and freshwater environments. The Blue Flag awards are re-evaluated every year, to ensure that beaches and marinas continue to meet the high standards set by the programme.
What are the top 10 blue flag beaches in Europe?
- Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain – often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
- Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal – recipient of the Blue Flag award for its clean water and facilities.
- St. Brelade’s Bay, Jersey, Channel Islands – awarded the Blue Flag for its clean water and amenities.
- Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula, Wales – often listed as one of the best beaches in the UK and recipient of several awards for its natural beauty.
- Playa de Cofete, Fuerteventura, Spain – known for its stunning scenery and often listed as one of the best beaches in Spain.
- Punta Rata, Brač Island, Croatia – awarded the Blue Flag for its clean water and facilities and often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
- Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece – known for its crystal clear waters and pink sand beaches and often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
- Weststrand Beach, Rügen, Germany – recipient of the Blue Flag award for its clean water and facilities.
- La Concha Beach, San Sebastian, Spain – often listed as one of the best beaches in Spain and known for its wide, sandy beach and clear water.
- Calanque d’En Vau, Marseille, France – known for its stunning scenery and turquoise waters and often listed as one of the best beaches in France.
About the author
Aleksandar Mijailovic, part blogger part marketing manager. Loves to travel, loves sunny days and beautiful summer and beach destinations. Aleksadar tries really hard to visit as many beautiful destinations as possible whether they are famous or relatively unknown.