# Must-Visit Beaches in Europe for Your Bucket List
Discover the most stunning beaches in Europe, from Greece’s pink sands to Portugal’s golden cliffs. This guide showcases 10 European beaches that offer unforgettable coastal experiences. I’ve explored countless beaches in Europe over the years, and these ten stand out from all the rest.
There’s just something magical about European beaches. It’s not just the water or the views—it’s the vibe. The smell of sunscreen and sea salt, a cold drink in hand, and a soundtrack of seagulls mixed with laughter. After hopping from coast to coast, here are my top 10 Beaches in Europe that left sandy footprints on my heart.
1. Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos, Greece
Let’s start with the drama. This beach is wild. Picture this: towering limestone cliffs, a rusty shipwreck right on the sand, and that crazy electric blue water. You can only get there by boat, which makes it feel like you’re entering a secret hideaway. Pro tip: go early to beat the Instagram crowd.
2. Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal
This beach is straight-up postcard perfection. Golden cliffs, natural arches, and those orange hues that glow like fire at sunset. It’s peaceful, but it also makes you want to explore every cave and cranny. I even found a tiny hidden cove and just sat there with a beer and my thoughts.
3. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Iceland
Okay, not your typical tanning spot—but hear me out. This black sand beach near Vik is hauntingly beautiful. The basalt columns look like something out of Game of Thrones (because… they are), and the crashing waves are insane. Bring a coat, not a bikini. But trust me—it’s worth it.
4. Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia, Italy
Hiking to this one was a workout, but my god, the payoff. The water is that unreal turquoise, the sand is soft as flour, and there’s this towering limestone pinnacle that makes the whole place feel surreal. No beach bars, no noise—just pure nature. Bliss.
5. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
Ever seen pink sand? Like, actually pink? Elafonissi is where you go for that. Shallow, calm waters that stretch out forever, soft rosy sand under your feet, and that laid-back Greek island vibe. Perfect for a chill day with zero stress.
6. Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France
This one feels like the Mediterranean’s best-kept secret. Tall pine trees for shade, soft white sand, and crystal-clear water that just begs for snorkeling. It’s elegant without trying too hard—just like France.
7. Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), BraÄŤ, Croatia
You’ve probably seen drone shots of this one—it’s that V-shaped beach that changes shape with the tides. Super cool to see in real life. Great for windsurfing, people-watching, or just grabbing a cocktail and soaking in those Adriatic vibes.
8. Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain
If you’re in Ibiza and want a total change of pace, hop a ferry to Formentera and head here. The beach is long, luxurious, and feels like something out of the Maldives. The water? Unreal. The people? Tanned and chic. It’s a mood.
9. Durdle Door Beach, Dorset, England
Yes, England. Stay with me. This one’s for the cliff lovers—Durdle Door is dramatic AF with that famous limestone arch and rugged coastal views. The water can be a bit “refreshing,” let’s say—but the scenery is unmatched. Great for a picnic and a little wild swimming.
10. Vik Beach, Mykonos, Greece
Not the most famous Mykonos beach, which is exactly why I love it. No wild clubs, just calm vibes, soft sand, and water so clear you could spot your dropped sunglasses at the bottom. Bonus: there’s a cute little taverna nearby with the best grilled octopus.
While there are hundreds of amazing beaches in Europe worth visiting, these ten capture the incredible diversity of coastal experiences the continent offers.
Have you visited any of these stunning beaches in Europe? Which one would you add to your travel bucket list first?
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While Europe offers some of the world’s most stunning beaches, if you’re looking for a completely different travel experience, check out my top 10 places to visit in Dubai for the ultimate desert-meets-luxury adventure.