Best Beaches In Europe

Dreaming of a beach getaway in Europe this summer? Europe is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches — from the pink sands of Elafonisi in Crete to the turquoise coves of Cala Macarella in Menorca.

Whether you're after lively beach parties, hidden gems, or a relaxing sunbathing spot, this guide covers how to get there, when to go, and what to do at each destination. Plus, with flexible payment options at Alternative Airlines, booking your beach break has never been easier.

Listed in no particular order, here are some highlights of the best beaches in Europe to help you find your ideal beach getaway.⛱️ 🌊🐚

📍Elafonisi, Greece

How to get there

Elafonisi is a small island just off the southwest coast of Crete in Greece, and it's officially part of the Chania region, in the Kissamos municipality. To get to Elafonisi Beach, the nearest airport is Chania International Airport (CHQ).

Airlines you can fly with include Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, Sky Express, Brussels Airlines and easyJet. There are no direct flights from the United States to Chania International Airport (CHQ) in Crete, Greece. However, U.S. travellers can reach Chania by connecting through major European hubs.

It's easy to reach and technically still considered part of Crete, even though it feels like a little paradise. There are four easy ways to get there: by car, bus, taxi or boat. No car? No stress. You can get from Chania to Elafonisi by bus in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. It runs once a day and tickets cost between €6 and €9.

Popular flight routes

There are several airports to fly out from to get to Chania International Airport:

✈️ From the United Kingdom: London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) offer direct flights to Chania International Airport (CHQ) with an adverage flight time of 4 hours.

✈️ From the United States: There are no direct flights to Chania International Airport. However, airports such as New York (JFK) and Boston (BOS) offer connecting flights to Chania.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. To avoid large crowds, visit early in the morning, late in the afternoon, or during the shoulder months of May and October. Peak season is from June to August, when the weather is hot and the beach is busy. Elafonisi beach has sunbeds and umbrellas on the mainland part. However, if you're visiting during the high summer season, the area will be rather crowded, so it's always a good idea to have your umbrella or towel with you, too.

Things to do

Activities at Elafonisi include swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking along nearby trails. Nature lovers can explore the lagoon's ecosystem, while others can capture stunning shots of the pink sands and turquoise waters. Facilities at Elafonisi Beach include parking, toilets (requiring cash), snack bars, and stalls selling beach toys.

This beach has popular food spots nearby by such as Glykeria restaurant, which has outdoor seating, great cocktails and is open 8:30 am until 9:00 pm. Taverna Stomio is another option if you are looking for a place to eat; it offers a kids' menu, outdoor seating and cheap food.

📍La Pelosa, Italy

How to get there

La Pelosa Beach in Italy, where the sea looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. Located on the northwestern tip of Sardinia, this is one of the island’s most famous spots, thanks to its clear waters and soft sand. The nearest airport to La Pelosa, Sardinia, Italy is Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). It's located approximately 45 kilometres (28 miles) away from Stintino, where La Pelosa beach is located.

Airlines that fly into this airport are ITA Airways, Aeroitalia, KLM, airBaltic, and Volotea. If you are flying from the US, since there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Alghero, be prepared for at least one layover in a European city.

If you are staying in the village, you can easily get to the beach by public bus. Alternatively, the easiest way to get there is by car. Keep in mind that the La Pelosa parking fee is quite expensive (€2 per hour and up to €20 for the whole day), and depending on what time you arrive, you will struggle to get a good parking spot.

Popular flight routes

Here are the popular airports to fly out from to get to Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: From London Stansted (STN), Ryanair operates seasonal direct flights from May to October with an adverage flight time of 2 hours and 30 minutes.

✈️ From the United States: There are currently no direct flights to Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). However, travellers can connect via major European hubs such as Rome, Milan, or Frankfurt.

Best time to visit

La Pelosa might be small (just 300 metres long), but it’s seriously popular. Only 1,500 people are allowed on the beach each day — and in July and August, those spots go fast. Planning a summer visit? You’ll need to book ahead. May or June is a great time to go. The sun’s out, the sea’s warm, and you’ll dodge the school holiday crowds.

Things to do

At La Pelosa, everything you need for a relaxing day is right at your fingertips. A few kiosks offer quick meals, snacks, gelato, and a variety of drinks, and you can also rent beach essentials like umbrellas, sunbeds, kayaks, and pedal boats. As it is quite exposed to the wind, La Pelosa beach is a perfect place to practice water sports such as windsurfing, kite surfing and sailing.

📍Ölüdeniz Beach, Turkey

How to get there

Ölüdeniz Beach, located near Fethiye in Turkey's Muğla Province. The closest airport to Oludeniz is Dalaman Airport (DLM), at around 22.5 miles away. Airlines you can fly with include Turkish Airlines, Air Lingus, SunExpress, Aeroflot and Wizz Air. Currently, no US carrier offers flights to this airport; however, United offers flights to other airports in Turkey.

Taxis are readily available and a quick way to travel, especially if you're short on time. Otherwise, the most popular and cost-effective method is the bus. Buses run frequently between Fethiye and Ölüdeniz, stopping near the beach centre and the seafront. 

Popular flight routes

Dalaman is a favoured destination for UK travellers, with numerous direct flights available. Here are the airports to fly out from to get to Dalaman Airport (DLM):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN), Manchester (MAN) and Newcastle (NCL) all offer direct flights to Dalaman Airport (DLM). The average flight time from the UK to Dalaman is 4 hours.

✈️ From the United States: There are no direct flights to Dalaman. However, travellers can connect via major European hubs such as London, Frankfurt, or Istanbul.

Best time to visit

Olu Deniz is at its best from May to October, when the sun’s out and the sea’s warm. It’s prime time for swimming, sunbathing and lazy beach days. The hottest month of the year is July, with an average daily maximum of 35°c and an average low of 23°c.

Things to do

This spot’s popular for good reason — think long stretches of coastline, clear water, and loads to do. You’ve got swimming, snorkelling, and even paragliding if you’re up for a bit of a thrill. Its coastline is very long and is scattered with numerous sandy beaches and tiny coves. The sea here is wavy sometimes, but always clear. You can watch the paragliders land on the beach, or hire canoes in the sea. This is also the beach where the boat trips start.

There are also lots of restaurants near the beach where you can stop for some food and drink in the hot weather. Popular restaurants in the area include Blue Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Mimoza Cafe, Bella Gusto and many more.

📍Nissi Bay, Cyprus

How to get there

Nissi Bay is known as the most famous beach in Cyprus! It's located on the southeast coast of Cyprus, specifically within the Ayia Napa area. The nearest and most commonly used airport for travelling to Nissi Beach is Larnaca International Airport (LCA). It is located approximately 41.5 km (26 miles) from the Beach. The journey in a taxi is around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

If you are looking for airlines that fly into this airport, the list includes Cyprus Airways, TUI Airways, easyJet, Aegean Airlines and British Airways.

Popular flight routes

Here are popular airports to fly out from to get to Larnaca International Airport (LCA):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: London Heathrow (LHR), London Luton (LTN), and London Gatwick (LGW) all offer direct flights to Larnaca International Airport (LCA). The average flight time from the UK to Larnaca is 5 hours. Manchester (MAN), Birmingham (BHX), Glasgow (GLA), Edinburgh (EDI) and Bristol (BRS) offer seasonal direct flights.

✈️ From the United States: There are no direct flights to Larnaca. However, travellers can connect via major European hubs. United Airlines offers flights from New York/Newark(EWR) to Larnaca with connections through European cities.

Best time to visit

If you're a sun seeker, the best time to visit Nissi Beach is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July, with an average daily temperature of 32°c and an average low of 24°c. For cheaper flights and cooler weather, you can visit between February and May, which is outside of peak season.

Things to do

The beach has golden sands, and the water is very clean and clear. If you're looking for a more lively beach, then this is the one for you. Nissi Bay Beach Bar hosts lively daytime parties with DJS, music, and a general party atmosphere. Enjoy activities like jet skiing, banana boats, windsurfing and paddle boarding. You can also take part in various diving and snorkelling options. 

Access to the beach itself is free for everyone, but there are fees for renting sunbeds and umbrellas. You can bring your towel and find space on the beach without incurring extra costs. Numerous bars and restaurants offer a variety of dining options, such as authentic Greek tavernas with fresh seafood. 

📍Cala Macarella, Spain

How to get there

Situated in Spain on the southern coast of Menorca is the famous Cala Macarella, often considered one of the most beautiful coves on the island. To get to Cala Macarella in Menorca, Spain, you should fly into Menorca Airport (MAH), also known as Mahon Airport. Airlines that you can use to fly into this airport include Jet2, TUI fly, Air Europa, Volotea, and Eurowings

American Airlines offers flights from various U.S. cities to European hubs such as Madrid (MAD) and Barcelona (BCN). From these cities, travellers can connect to Menorca using partner airlines or regional carriers. However, there are no direct flights from the US.

This beach can be accessed by car, bus, or a foot from Cala Galdana. In high season, bus travel is often recommended to avoid overcrowding. Did you know that Cala Macarella is one of Menorca's most popular and photographed beaches? 

Popular flight routes

Here are popular airports to fly out from to get to Menorca Airport (MAH):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: East Midlands (EMA), London Luton (LTN), and London Gatwick (LGW) all offer direct flights to Menorca Airport (MAH). The average flight time from the UK to Menorca is 2 hours and 30 minutes.

✈️ From the United States: There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Menorca. However, travellers can connect via major European hubs such as Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN) or Paris Orly (ORY).

Best time to visit

Cala Macarella is best between May and October, when the weather’s warm and the vibe’s more chilled. July and August are great for swimming, but they do get busy. Arriving early in the morning before the crowds arrive or visiting in the late afternoon when many people have left can provide a more peaceful beach experience. 

Things to do

Cala Macarella is probably one of the most spectacular corners of Menorca. This small beach, hidden between rocks, offers some of the most picture-perfect waters of the Mediterranean and fine white sand that is perfect for sunbathing for hours. Several boat tours visit Cala Macarella, offering a chance to see the cove from the sea and potentially stop for snorkelling. 

If you are planning a trip to visit this beach, then it's the perfect location to relax all day. It offers a beach bar/cafe that has drinks and snacks, and there are also toilets and showers available. The clear waters are a great place to explore the underwater world. You can also hike from Cala Galdana or other areas, enjoying the scenic coastal trails. 

📍Ksamil Beach, Albania

How to get there

Ksamil Beach in Albania is often described as a hidden gem, loved for its waters and ideal conditions for sunbathing and swimming. Although Ksamil is a popular destination among travellers, there are, unfortunately, no direct flights to Ksamil. Nevertheless, you can easily take flights to Tirana Airport (TIA) and travel to Ksamil from there. From Tirana airport, it takes 5.5 hours to travel by bus, taxi or car to Ksamil. Airlines you can fly with if you are visiting this beach include Wizz Air, Pegasus, Austrian and SWISS.

Popular flight routes

Here are popular airports to fly out from to get to Tirana Airport (TIA):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: London Heathrow (LHR), London Luton (LTN), London Stansted (STN) and London Gatwick (LGW) all offer direct flights to Tirana Airport (TIA). The average flight time from the UK to Tirana is 3 hours.

✈️ From the United States: While there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Tirana, travellers can connect through major European hubs such as Frankfurt (FRA), Rome (FCO), Amsterdam (AMS), and Vienna (VIE)

Best time to visit

Ksamil’s a great shout if you’re after clear water and full-on beach mode. It’s perfect for relaxing and soaking up the view. Just a heads-up — it gets busy and prices can jump during peak season, so it’s worth planning if you’re visiting in the summer. The best time to visit Ksamil Beach in Albania is during the shoulder seasons, late spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October). These months offer pleasant weather for beach activities and sightseeing, avoiding the peak summer crowds and scorching temperatures. 

Things to do

It's a popular beach for various water sports, including swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. You can also visit beach bars and clubs due to it being a lively destination during the evening. For a day trip, you can explore the Ksamil Islands and the surrounding waters by kayak or boat tour. 

There are a few rooftop bars and restaurants near the beach where you can order food such as pizza, burgers and salad. This way you can enjoy the sunset over the beach and order some cocktails. Here are a few suggestions: Rooftop Saranda, Hojza Lounge Terrace, Hou Nalu and Jericho Cocktail Bar.

📍Banje Beach, Croatia

How to get there

Banje Beach is the best-known of Dubrovnik’s public beaches, and it is located just a few minutes’ walk from the historical centre of the city! It takes approximately 23 minutes to drive from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) to Banje Beach, Dubrovnik. Some budget airlines that fly to Dubrovnik include Lufthansa, Vueling, Ryanair, United Airlines and easyJet.

Popular flight routes

Here are popular airports to fly out from to get to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: Manchester (MAN) and London Gatwick (LGW) offer direct flights to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV). The average flight time from the UK to Dubrovnik is 3 hours.

✈️ From the United States: Newark (EWR) offers seasonal non-stop flights operated by United Airlines, typically from late May to early October. The average flight time is 9 hours.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia, is during the summer months, specifically from June to August. This period offers guaranteed sunshine, ideal for swimming and enjoying the beach. The rainy season in Croatia is typically from November to March, making these months less ideal for beach activities but a cheaper time to fly out.

Things to do

This place offers a variety of activities and attractions. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, you can explore nearby attractions like the Dubrovnik Old Town, walk the City Walls, ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car, and even experience water sports like kayaking and parasailing. On the beach, you can enjoy the selection of food at the restaurant, the lounge bar with its wonderful view and the comfortable sunbeds and canopies. At night, it turns into a great place for a good time.

📍Plage de Notre Dame, France

How to get there

Plage de Notre-Dame is located on the island of Porquerolles, one of the Iles d'Hyères in the French Riviera. The closest airport to Plage de Notre-Dame is Paris-Orly Airport (ORY), 14.3 km away. The fastest way to get from Notre-Dame to Paris-Orly Airport (ORY) is by taking Metro line 14 and then the Orlyval shuttle. This journey takes about 25-30 minutes and costs around €23.

Planning a trip to this beach? The nearest airport is Paris-Orly (ORY), served by major airlines including Air France, British Airways, ITA Airways, Delta Airlines and Iberia.

Popular flight routes

Here are popular airports to fly out from to get to Paris-Orly Airport (ORY):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: London Heathrow (LHR) and Southampton (SOU) offer direct flights to Paris-Orly Airport (ORY). The average flight time from the UK to Hyeres is 2 hours.

✈️ From the United States: Newark (EWR) offers non-stop flights to ORY with airlines such as French Bee and La Compagnie. The average flight time from the UK to Hyeres is 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Plage Notre-Dame, a beach on the French island of Porquerolles, is either May to June or September to October. These months offer high temperatures and fewer tourists. In July and August, the beach becomes very busy, especially with day-trippers. During May to June, there are highs of around 26°C and lows of 20°C. From September to October, there are highs near 25°C and lows of around 15°C.

Things to do

It's a sandy beach bordered by a pine forest and is known for its turquoise waters and sheltered location, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing. It's praised for its beauty, especially the views from the coastline, and is known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

If you are looking for a peaceful beach, then this one is for you. Its location, about 3 km from the village centre, makes it less crowded than other beaches on the island. The shallow, clear waters are ideal for swimming, making it suitable for families and visitors of all ages.

📍Praia da Marinha, Portugal

How to get there

Marinha Beach is located in Caramujeira, near the city of Lagoa, in the Algarve region, Portugal. The closest airport to Praia da Marinha in Portugal is Faro Airport (FAO), located in the Algarve region. It's the primary airport for the Algarve and is about 58 kilometres (36 miles) from Praia da Marinha. You can easily reach Praia da Marinha from Faro Airport by car, train, or bus.

Airlines that you can book with to fly here include TAP Air Portugal, Jet2, easyJet, United Airlines and British Airways.

Popular flight routes

Here are popular airports to fly out from to get to Faro Airport (FAO):

✈️ From the United Kingdom: London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN) and Dublin (DUB) offer direct flights to Faro Airport (FAO). The average flight time from the UK to Caramujeira is 2 hours and 30 minutes.

✈️ From the United States: Travellers from the United States have several options for reaching Faro Airport (FAO) in Portugal's Algarve region, including both direct and connecting flights. United Airlines operates a seasonal nonstop service from New York/Newark(EWR) to Faro. The average flight time is 7 hours and 15 minutes.

For travellers departing from other U.S. cities, several airlines offer one-stop flights to Faro with layovers in European hubs such as TAP Air Portugal and American Airlines.

Best time to visit

The warmest water temperatures are in summer (June to August); however, flights can be expensive at this time due to it being peak season. We recommend going from May to June as the weather is still warm and flights will be a lot cheaper. Alternatively, you can use our Best Fare Finder tool to find suitable flights for you. September is another popular month as it's outside of school holidays, but temperatures still reach 18°C to 22°C.

Things to do

Praia da Marinha offers a variety of activities, including hiking, beach time, and exploring nearby attractions. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling at the beach itself, or take a boat trip to see the coastline's impressive caves and cliffs.

You’ll find plenty of great dining spots just a short drive from Praia da Marinha. Top recommendations include Restaurante O Algar, known for its fresh seafood and ocean views; O Pescador Benagil, a family-run spot serving traditional Portuguese dishes; and Casa Lamy, located around 1.5 km away, offering Mediterranean flavours and a relaxed setting.

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