Europe's Top 14 Beaches Revealed: Two UK Spots Make the List
From the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera to the vibrant coastlines of Barcelona, a European beach holiday remains a perennial favourite. However, with an abundance of breathtaking options available, selecting the perfect destination can be daunting. Do you prefer the secluded tranquillity of an untouched Greek island, or are you drawn to a lively hotspot brimming with beach bars and restaurants? Whatever your inclination, there is undoubtedly a fabulous choice awaiting you. TimeOut has recently disclosed its ranking of the best beaches in Europe, providing an invaluable guide to the continent's premier coastal gems. The list highlights the top 14 beaches, including two notable UK locations, offering a comprehensive overview for your next getaway.
1. Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal
Topping the list is Praia da Falésia in Portugal, acclaimed as the best beach in Europe. This immense stretch of golden sand is flanked by striking red limestone cliffs, often likened to a Martian landscape. Extending over six kilometres, it is ideal for hikers and walkers, offering magnificent views. One enthusiastic visitor on Tripadvisor praised it as 'a unique beach that deserves a visit', noting the mesmerising cliffs and clean ocean.
2. Isola Bella, Taormina, Sicily
Nicknamed the 'Pearl of the Ionian Sea', Isola Bella in Taormina secures second place. Renowned for its beauty and pebble beach, this unique tidal island is accessible by cable car or steps, though it can be challenging during high tide. Its popularity has surged recently due to widespread sharing on social media.
3. St Paul’s Bay, Rhodes, Greece
St Paul’s Bay in Rhodes, Greece, takes the third spot. Situated at the foot of the Acropolis with views of the rock face, it is near the old town and hailed as a 'dream beach', particularly in the low season, and is excellent for snorkelling.
4. Sant Sebastià, near Barcelona, Spain
In fourth place is Sant Sebastià, near Barcelona, one of the area's longest sandy beaches. Known for its lively ambience and water sports, it also features a nudist area, so visitors should be mindful if that is not to their taste.
5. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Rounding out the top five is Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales, the first UK entry. Often compared to the Caribbean, it boasts a green backdrop, turquoise waters, and golden sand, making it a sheltered favourite among Brits.
6. Arco Magno, Calabria, Italy
Arco Magno in Calabria, Italy, ranks sixth. This beach in San Nicola Arcella features a limestone arch and a hidden pebble beach on the Tyrrhenian Sea. With a 4.5 Tripadvisor rating, visitors commend its beauty despite a somewhat tortuous path.
7. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, comes in seventh. Famous for its pink sand and crystal-clear water, dubbed 'the Maldives of Europe', it is easily accessible from Chania Airport. Reviewers describe it as 'one of the most beautiful natural paradises in the world'.
8. Zlatni Rat, Brač, Croatia
The stunning Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach in Croatia is eighth. Its unusual shape attracts windsurfing, kitesurfing, and beach volleyball enthusiasts, with restaurants along the shore enhancing the experience.
9. Stokksnes Beach, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland
Stokksnes Beach in Iceland's Vatnajokull National Park takes ninth place. This black sand beach offers a dramatic atmosphere with mirror reflections of Vestrahorn mountain and is a prime spot for photographing the Northern Lights.
10. Voidokilia Beach, Messinia, Greece
Voidokilia Beach in Messinia, Greece, rounds out the top ten. Located along the Navarino coast, it features an unspoiled landscape and clear waters, praised on Tripadvisor as 'pure, untouched seaside tourism'.
11. Plage Notre Dame, Porquerolles, France
Plage Notre Dame on Porquerolles Island in France ranks eleventh. Hailed as one of Europe's most beautiful beaches, it offers fine sand, turquoise waters, and a tranquil, uncrowded paradise.
12. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain
Cala Macarella on Menorca's southern coast is twelfth. This cove surrounded by a pine forest is considered one of the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches, though its turquoise waters and cliffs draw large crowds.
13. Haukland Beach, Lofoten, Norway
Haukland Beach in Lofoten, Norway, is thirteenth. So special it made Lonely Planet's global list, it is described as 'a blinding stretch of luscious sand' with a spectacular natural setting despite cooler waters.
14. Kynance Cove, Cornwall, England
The final entry is Kynance Cove in Cornwall, England, the second UK beach. Regularly dubbed Cornwall's most beautiful beach, it is a favourite among Brits, with coastal walks from Lizard Point perfect for hikers.
This TimeOut ranking serves as an essential resource for travellers seeking Europe's finest coastal experiences, blending iconic destinations with hidden treasures across the continent.
