15 Best Holiday Regions in Europe Where You Can Enjoy Sea, Sand and Sun

Europe is known for its spectacular summer weather and many people from all over the world venture to the shores of this region to enjoy some time in the sea, sand and sun! When it comes to a holiday in Europe, there are tons of different options to consider, whether you are after an oasis paradise secluded from the world or are hoping for white sandy beaches not too far from one of Europe’s biggest cities. No matter what you are after, one of the following 15 destinations is sure to make your heart race in anticipation! Read on to find out where the 15 best holiday regions in Europe are located.  

Cala Goloritze, Sardinia

For a visit to one of the most memorable and spectacular beaches in all of Italy, be sure that you visit Cala Goloritze. White sandy beaches and crystal clear water make any holiday maker’s dream come true so be sure to bring along your goggles and snorkel to experience the wonders below the surface. The small 200-metre long beach is secluded and includes an hour-long hike to reach if you are hoping to get to it on foot, however, there are boats that can easily reach this spot of paradise without having to hike. This beach is extremely remote and there are therefore no amenities offered so be sure to bring along all that you would need to enjoy a day relaxing on this spectacular beachfront! As far as a holiday in Europe goes, this has to be one of our top picks! 

Zlatni Rat, BraÄ, Croatia

Known to be one of the most uniquely shaped beaches in the world, it is no wonder why the Zlatni Rat, BraÄ in Croatia appears on this list of best places to enjoy some fun in the sun! The white pebbly strip of beach is known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, and the vibrant blue of the ocean water alongside the view of the forest like canopy of trees that sit behind the beach make for a wondrous and spectacular sight! The beach is generally shaped like a horn, but this does change as the tides recede and come in and the wind picks up or dies down, so be sure to secure a spot on a perfect day to ensure you can make the most out of your time on Zlatni Rat, BraÄ, Croatia.

Navagio, Zakynthos Island, Greece

More commonly known as shipwreck beach, Navagio, Zakynthos Island, Greece is a very popular destination for travellers who are hoping to enjoy one of the most unique and visited beaches in the world! From the spectacular views as you make your way down the steep embankment to the crystal clear water, it is no wonder why this beautiful beach is on so many people’s bucket lists! The island can be reached by foot or by boat, but if you are not up for a hike down and up the steep embankment it is recommended that you rather secure a boat to the beautiful spot! Whether you are hoping to enjoy exploring the shipwreck on the island or layout along the beautiful beach and get some sun, this beach is a must-see when on holiday in Europe! 

Nerja Beaches, Spain

When it comes to a holiday in Europe, Spain is one of the most desirable and visited spots! With breathtaking cultural and historical sights and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it’s no wonder why this is such a desirable destination to visit on holiday! An area with some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain is Nerja, which is located in the southern province of Málaga. With tons of small beaches located within this region, travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to the different beach options to consider! Whether you are looking for something off the beaten track or are looking to find a beach with all of the best amenities on offer, Nerja is a very popular destination in Spain to enjoy some fun in the sun! If you are looking for one of the top destinations for a holiday in Europe, be sure to look at Nerja for some spectacular options! 

Porto Limnionas Beach, Ionian Islands, Greece

If adventure is what you are after when it comes to a holiday in Europe, Porto Limnionas Beach, Ionian Islands in Greece is a great location to enjoy! With amazing snorkelling and diving opportunities and some of the most breathtaking cave experiences in the world, an adventure in the clear blue waters along this stretch of coast is exactly what you are after! For those who are with a few adrenaline junkies but would much rather spend some time relaxing with a good book, there are cabanas and relaxing opportunities for you along the pebbly coves, with spectacular sights of the water and the surrounding rocky alcoves! For an adventure holiday in Europe that will have you reminiscing for years, consider Porto Limnionas Beach, Ionian Islands, Greece for your next vacation destination! 

Praia De Marinha, Portugal

For those looking for a holiday in Europe and some of the best sights around, Portugal is a beautiful spot to visit! Praia De Marinha, Portugal is one of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the country, with spectacular limestone cliffs that highlight the clear blue water of the Atlantic Ocean! If you are not one for enjoying a sandy beach, there are tons of swimming spots where you can adventure within the cave and rock formations surrounding this hidden gem, and if you bring your goggles and snorkel along, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the beauty beneath the surface! For a holiday in Europe as you have never experienced before, consider adding in a stop at Praia De Marinha, Portugal! 

Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara), Vik, Iceland

For those who are looking for a unique holiday in Europe, you cannot go wrong with a visit to Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara), Vik in Iceland. This majestic coast is home to some of the most spectacular sights, and the backdrop of the blue sea mixed in with the beautiful black sandy beaches is a sight that will surely stay with you for years to come. While this may not be the ideal spot to venture to if you are looking for a swim in the frigid sea, the sights offer travellers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most famous beaches in the world! 

Oludeniz Beach, Turkey

For a holiday in Europe, one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Turkey is definitely a stop you may want to include! Oludeniz Beach, Turkey is one of the most breathtaking and scenic spots to enjoy in this country and with the vibrant greenery of the surrounding forests as a backdrop to the spectacular clear blue waters of this coast, a day trip to this dreamy beach is on more than a few bucket lists and we can see why! Whether you are hoping to bask in the warm Mediterranean sun and enjoy a good book or are hoping to enjoy one of the many different water sports opportunities offered here on this beach, you are sure to have a magical time exploring this beach and coast! 

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Laying between the Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros mountains is a beautiful and exotic beach and for those after the perfect holiday in Europe, Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece is a spectacular location to visit! The white pebbly beaches beautifully contrast the green mountainous terrain that surrounds this beautiful beach, ensuring that it is a beloved Mediterranean destination! Myrtos beach is incredibly romantic, making it a top spot and holiday destination in Europe for couples! The beautiful stretch of coast is a two and half long stretch of beach, ensuring more than enough space to enjoy this slice of paradise without having to worry about crowds. To enjoy what is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece, make sure that Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia is on your list of spots to visit! 

Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy

Surrounded by rocky cliffs, Rabbit Beach in Lampedusa, Italy offers inspired and spectacular views of one of the most breathtaking regions in Italy. The popular Italian beach is the perfect destination for a holiday in Europe if you are looking to enjoy some fun in the sun! For those who are looking for one of the best holiday destinations in Europe for families, Rabbit Beach is the perfect place to enjoy, with a strip of white sandy beach sitting along an embankment of sand with shallow clear waters, there is tons for the entire family to enjoy! 

Calanque D’en Vau, Cassis, France

Located in the middle of some of the most beautiful cliff faces in the world, a holiday in Europe would not be complete without a trip to see the Calanque D’en Vau, Cassis, France! The small beach offers spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs, and swimming through the warm water while looking up at the towering and majestic rock formations is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for those who venture to this spot! Whether you are hoping to relax along the beautiful white sandy beach or are hoping to get your goggles and snorkel out to explore the world below the surface, this beach is a definite must-see when on holiday in Europe! 

Durdle Door Beach, Dorset, England

Though England may not be the first spot you consider if planning for a sunny holiday in Europe, Durdle Door Beach in Dorset offers spectacular sightseeing opportunities and breathtaking views of the English countryside! Located in the Durdle Door nature reserve, this breathtaking spot is considered to be one of the best beaches in all of England, and if you happen to catch the perfect time of year to visit, it can be a great experience for the entire family! This beach is well-known for the spectacular sunsets that light up the sky in an array of gorgeous colours, so be sure not to miss watching the sunset when visiting this breathtaking spot. 

Nissi Bay Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus

If you are on the lookout for a popular resort-styled beach destination when planning a holiday in Europe, Nissi Bay Beach, Ayia Napa in Cyprus is the perfect spot to enjoy! Located right next to the city and along a boardwalk of stunning shops, restaurants and sightseeing spots, Nissi Bay Beach is a perfect destination to enjoy! The white sandy beaches and tons of cabanas offer the perfect spot for the entire family to enjoy, and for those who are hoping not to venture too far from this beach, there are tons of nearby accommodation options! 

Marina Grande Beach, Positano, Italy

When it comes to the perfect holiday in Europe, Italy is home to some of the most beautiful beaches around, but Marina Grande Beach in Positano has to be one of the best! This popular beach sits in front of the city of Positano with the beautiful city landscape and hillside providing the perfect backdrop to the stunning beach! Equipped with amenities like beach chairs, it offers the perfect spot for all kinds of holidaymakers to enjoy! As one of the most popular cities in all of Italy, Positano and Marina Grande beach can see tons of tourists, making it crowded during the peak summer months! This atmosphere does not take away from the breathtaking beauty and tons of people from all over the world venture to this coastline to enjoy all that this beach has to offer! For a spectacular seaside holiday in Europe, consider Positano, Italy for your next vacation spot! 

Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece

For a chance to enjoy the warm water of the Mediterranean ocean sitting along the spectacular coast of Crete, Greece, consider Elafonisi Beach when planning your next holiday in Europe. As one of the top European holiday destinations, this stunning island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but none like Elafonisi Beach! This slice of paradise is home to spectacular sandy pink beaches (yes, you read that correctly) and offers up some of the most amazing sites that this island has to offer! For a beach day like no other, consider Elafonisi Beach when planning your next holiday in Europe!