Wales is home to some of Europe's finest beaches, with three of its coastal gems securing spots in the top 25 for 2026, yet the popular Rhossili Bay did not make the list.
Welsh Beaches Shine in European Rankings
Holiday lettings specialist Holidu analysed thousands of Google Maps reviews to compile the 25 best beaches across Europe for 2026. The UK performed strongly, with nine beaches included, and Wales dominated with three entries.
Barafundle Bay: Second Best in Europe
Barafundle Bay Beach in Pembrokeshire claimed an impressive second place. Known as the 'Welsh Caribbean' for its crystalline turquoise waters and pristine golden sands, it offers a spectacular backdrop of dunes and pine woodland. Its remote location enhances its charm, providing visitors with nothing but the soothing rhythm of waves, fresh sea breezes, and magnificent coastal panoramas.
Traeth Mwnt: A Wildlife Haven
Traeth Mwnt beach in Ceredigion secured fourth place. This hidden sandy cove nestled among the mountains offers a peaceful escape. It has emerged as an exceptional wildlife haven, considered one of the finest locations in the county for dolphin spotting, while also attracting families seeking a traditional beach day.
Dunraven Bay: Dramatic Cliffs and Doctor Who Fame
Dunraven Bay in Glamorgan also made the top 25, thanks to its dramatic cliffs, secluded cove, and rock pools. Often referred to as Southerndown after the neighbouring village, it features a walled garden and castle ruins nearby, famously used as a filming location for Doctor Who.
Other UK Beaches in the Top 25
Other UK beaches making the list include:
- Woolacombe Beach and Bigbury Beach in Devon
- Trebarwith Beach in Cornwall
- Cuckmere Haven in East Sussex
- Man O'War Beach in Dorset
- Benone Beach in County Londonderry
This demonstrates that Britain truly boasts some of the most magnificent coastlines, well worth exploring throughout the summer season.
Top 25 Beaches in Europe
- Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa, Italy
- Barafundle Bay Beach, Pembrokeshire, UK
- Traeth Mwnt, Ceredigion, UK
- Platja de Muro, Islas Baleares, Spain
- Cala Mariolu, Sardegna, Italy
- Playa de Cofete, Canarias, Spain
- Simos beach, Attica region, Greece
- Woolacombe Beach, Devon, UK
- Playa de Sotavento de Jandía, Canarias, Spain
- Praia da Adraga, Lisbon Region, Portugal
- Kedrodasos Beach, Crete, Greece
- Playa de Mataleñas, Cantabria, Spain
- Praia de Cacela Velha, Algarve, Portugal
- Praia da Ursa, Lisbon Region, Portugal
- Dunraven Bay, Glamorgan, UK
- Praia da Bordeira, Algarve, Portugal
- Trebarwith Beach, Cornwall, UK
- Cuckmere Haven, East Sussex, UK
- Odeceixe Mar Beach, Algarve, Portugal
- Praia da Prainha, Algarve, Portugal
- Man O'War Beach, Dorset, UK
- Praia da Cordoama, Algarve, Portugal
- Bigbury Beach, Devon, UK
- Castelejo Beach, Algarve, Portugal
- Benone Beach, County Londonderry, UK
