Photo credit Sophie Dale and Maxime Bui
Europes best white sand beaches
Have you been dreaming of long, hot days relaxing on powder-white sand with a good book and nothing to think about but when you’ll have your next swim? We’ve put together a list of some of Europe’s best white sand beaches to inspire you to get out the flip-flops and head off on a sunny escape.
Navagio Beach
Zante, Greek Islands - Navagio Beach, or ‘Shipwreck Beach’ is on the coast of Zakynthos (Zante), in the Ionian Islands. It’s an isolated, white sand cove, home to the shipwreck, Panagiotis. With sheer, limestone cliffs surrounding astonishing blue water, it’s also a famous base-jumping spot. You can access the beach by boat from nearby Porto Vromi and you’ll need to take everything with you, as the area is completely secluded.
Pinarello Beach
Corsica, France - The white sands of Pinarello Beach are lined with pine trees in the seaside hamlet of Pinarellu. Dramatic mountains serve as a backdrop to shallow, azure water, perfect for the whole family to swim in safe conditions. You can also enjoy restaurants and beach bars after a fun day of windsurfing, boating or jet skiing.
Cala Luna
Sardinia, Italy - Cala Luna is a crescent-shaped beach in Sardinia, hence its name, which means ‘half-moon’ in Italian. With abundant marine life, warm sea temperatures and crystal clear visibility, it’s a fantastic spot for divers and snorkellers. To reach this sandy paradise, hike from Cala Fuili or catch a boat from the port at Cala Gonone.
Porto Katsiki
Lefkada, Greek Islands - This stunning strip of sand and sea is located on Lefkada Island, 40 kilometres from the island’s capital city. It’s worth the climb down the cliffs via 80 steep steps, just to dip your toes into the shimmering ocean. There are sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, however, there are no lifeguards, so go early in the morning to avoid the afternoon swell, which is great for surfers.
Macarella Beach
Menorca, Spain - Sheltered by pine tree-covered hills, the fine, white sands of Macarella Beach are warm enough to sunbake on, even in winter. Close to the city of Ciutadella, the beach is also home to a restaurant and you can walk to Macarelleta Cove, which is popular with nudists.
Oludeniz Beach
Turkey - Oludeniz Beach is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. ‘The Blue Lagoon’ is famous for its turquoise and aquamarine water and regularly tops ‘The World’s Best Beaches’ lists. Bordered by a national park and surrounding mountains, this beach blends everything you could possibly need for a fun-filled adventure.
Playa de Ses Illetes
Ibiza, Spain - A quick boat trip from Ibiza brings you to the white sands and Mediterranean blue waters of Playa de Ses Illetes. Stretching to the tip of the Trucador Peninsular, the beach is a favourite with Ibiza clubbers as a chill-out zone, snorkellers and windsurfers. Arrive early to enjoy the exquisite scenery or late in the afternoon to restart the party.
Rabbit Beach
Sicily - Rabbit Beach, on the island of Lampedusa, is one of the few places loggerhead sea turtles still go to lay their eggs. You can access the picturesque bay by ferry or boat and you may just find yourself swimming with dolphins in the crystalline water.
Sopot Beach
Poland - You’ll need to go in late August and early September for warm weather, but Sopot’s pristine, vast white sands won’t disappoint. Bordered by cycle paths and forest trails, the beach is a playground for adventure seekers and packed with spa-goers, athletes and party seekers.
Falsterbo Beach
Sweden - Sunglasses are required to step onto the glaring white sands of Falsterbo Beach, at the south-western tip of Sweden. You won’t find jet skis or motorboats here, just quaint beach huts painted in purple, blue and yellow and decadent ice-cream shops, perfect for a serene day at the beach.
Similar blog posts
From the UK's most popular travel bloggers
Visiting Lyon in Winter: Weather & Things To Do
6th February 2024 by The World in My Pocket
If you're after a snug and charming holiday atmosphere, visiting Lyon in winter is a splendid idea (pun not intended). This French city offers a delightful blend of cozy vibes and a welcoming local crowd. Lyon is renowned for its Festival of Lights during the winter season, as well as its exceptional culinary scene. Picture yourself indulging in hearty French dishes, exploring quaint cafes, and sipping on plenty of Beaujolais wine. And that's just the beginning......
Disneyland Paris Planning Guide for 2024
3rd January 2024 by Big Family Little Adventures
Disneyland Paris Planning for a trip can be a lot of fun! There is so much to celebrate and look forward to as you will soon find out. If you’re planning a Disneyland Paris 2024 holiday, here’s what to expect in the foreseeable future at Disneyland Paris....
Hotels with Swimming Pools near Disneyland Paris
2nd January 2024 by Big Family Little Adventures
Choosing a hotel with a swimming pool at Disneyland Paris is a guarantee of relaxing moments with your family! However, it’s not just the Disney Hotels that offer a swimming pool, some of the partner hotels also offer a pool, so if you are considering a hotel located slightly further away from the Disney Parks, there are some great alternative Swimming Pools Disneyland Paris Partner Hotels have to offer....
The Best Christmas Markets in Alsace, France
28th December 2023 by The World in My Pocket
The Alsace region of France is known for charming villages that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. Those half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets will give that impression. Once the winter holidays come around, things get even more whimsical. ...
3 days in Paris with kids: A family-friendly itinerary
19th December 2023 by Travel with the OHallorans
Planning a break in any city with children can be a task in itself. If you’re visiting Paris soon and not sure where to start, this 3 days in Paris with kids itinerary is full of ideas, including some lesser known attractions to visit. ...
Top tips for visiting the Eiffel Tower with kids
7th December 2023 by Travel with the OHallorans
If you’re planning a trip to Paris as a family then you’ll probably want to see the biggest tourist attraction. Here are some top tips for visiting the Eiffel Tower with kids....
3 things to do in France this winter
24th November 2023 by Midlands Traveller
If you’re thinking of embarking on a winter getaway, France is the perfect location. From bustling Christmas markets to adrenaline-inducing snow sports and a rich culture that is just waiting to be explored, there is something for everybody....