Get your swimming costume out, summers finally here. Here are the most beautiful white sandy beaches to visit in Europe in 2023
If you dream about spending your summer vacation in the Caribbean, the Bahamas, the Seychelles or some of the other top destinations and do not have enough money, then you should definitely check several destinations in Europe that are worthy rivals to the famous insular resorts.
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Here are the most beautiful beaches in Europe for swimming.
Navagio beach, Greece
Navagio beach is with no doubts one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Crystal clear turquoise water and smooth white sand bears the uncanny resemblance to the Caribbean.
Located on Zakynthos and also known by the name of Shipwreck Gulf due to the numerous wrecks that can be found here. The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs and it can be reached only by ship which departs from the port of Vromi.
Cala Luna, Italy
Cala Luna is situated on Sardinia, an Island famous for its nice beaches. The beach is located on the northwestern coast of the island near the place called Dorgali.
Warm sea and wonderful sand attract large number of tourist who enjoy in 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 it is one of the most famous beaches in all of the Greece.
The beach is composed of fine sand and the water is clean, calm and warm ideal for diving and swimming. To reach the beach you will have to descend down the 347 stairs or to get a taxi boat that departs from Nydri or Vasiliki.
Caló Des Moro, Spain
On the Spanish island of Mallorca you can find a large number of hidden beaches. One of the most beautiful is Caló des Moro, located around six kilometers from the Santanyi town.
During the summer season the beach is filled with tourists and for the rest of the year it reminds of the quiet peace of the Caribbean.
Golden Horn, Croatia
Long coastline of Croatia and its numerous islands are filled with wonderful beaches. Golden Horn is located on Brac Island and it is known for changing its shape and position depending on the direction of winds and sea currents.
There is no sand, like in many beaches in this area, but its small pebbles and V-shape represents 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 the northern and rainy Britain is doing on this list but this beach is considered as one of the most beautiful in Europe.
It located in Cornwall surrounded by cliffs which makes this beach wind protected. This is an excellent spot for swimming because of the shallow turquoise waters. This is one of the few sandy beaches in Great Britain.
Cala Mariolu, Italy
This is another beautiful beach of Sardinia which stands equally with the best beaches of the world. It is located near Baunei and overlooks the Orosei Bay.
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 on 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 turns 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 most beautiful beaches people differ a lot and it is all the matter of personal taste. Probably a lot of you will not agree with my choice but all I know is that these beaches must find its place on your what to visit list.
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 operated 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 must 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 reevaluated annually, ensuring that beaches and marinas continue to meet the high standards set by the program.
What are the top 10 blue flag beaches in Europe?
- Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain – frequently 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 – frequently 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 frequently 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 frequently 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 frequently 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 – frequently 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 frequently listed as one of the best beaches in France.
About the author
Aleksandar Mijailovic, part blogger part marketing manager. He loves to travel, loves sunny days and beautiful summer and beach destinations. Aleksadar tries really hard to visit as many beautiful destinations as he can whether they are famous or relatively unknown.
