Explore the best beaches in the Mediterranean for a memorable trip. If you are headed to the Mediterranean then don’t miss our favorite beaches.
The Mediterranean is full of lovely beaches, each one different and special in its own way. Some beaches are alluring and popular with celebrities, while others are quiet and surrounded by wild dunes, rocky cliffs, and clear blue water. Famous Greek islands, the beautiful coastlines of Italy, and the amazing beaches of Egypt are all places where you can always find a place to rest and enjoy the sun.
So why not start planning your next trip to Europe? Here’s a list of the best beaches in the Mediterranean to help you get started.
Santorini’s beaches are a bit different from most. The sand here is usually a sparkling jet black, and the sea glows a beautiful sapphire blue. One of the most special spots is Kokkini Beach, also known as Red Beach, down near Akrotiri. It’s a stretch of dark sand guarded by striking red rock walls that give it its name.
On Red Beach, you’ll find umbrellas for shade since trees are rare on this volcanic island. Snorkeling here is great, especially around the red rocks at one end of the beach. There aren’t any cafés right on the beach, but you can grab picnic supplies in Fira or head to Akrotiri afterward for lunch and a tour of its famous archaeological site.
Right at the edge of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Banje Beach opens up a whole world of Croatian coastal beauty and culture. Ancient stone buildings and cobbled streets wrap around this lively beach, where people come to soak up the sun and unwind after wandering through the historic heart of Dubrovnik.
You can lay out a towel on the sand, dip into the clear Adriatic Sea, or follow the scent of Croatian seafood dishes coming from nearby terraces. White umbrellas dot the beach, adding charm to the golden sand against the deep blues and greens of the water. It’s a perfect spot for a fun day with family and friends, just steps from the Old Town.
Bogatell Beach in Barcelona is a lively spot where visitors enjoy the best of a Mediterranean summer. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a break on soft sands between city tours. This beach is a favorite for travelers looking to unwind and soak up some sun, all while enjoying Barcelona’s coastal charm.
Stretching for miles, the promenade along Bogatell invites you to explore local restaurants and landmarks. Try some watersports on the main strip or find a quiet place to lay out your towel and dive into some tasty Spanish tapas. It’s a great spot to blend a beach day with a taste of Barcelona’s history and culture.
Pampelonne Beach stretches for three miles along the French Riviera, with white sand and bright blue water framed by low, scrub-covered dunes. Just 15 minutes from St. Tropez, it’s a favorite spot for A-listers looking to enjoy the sun in style. This beach has a special blend of glamor and relaxed charm.
There’s plenty of space for everyone at Pampelonne, and it’s kept spotless thanks to nearby bars and restaurants. One of the best spots to eat is Plage L’orangerie, a casual, family-friendly place right on the sand. It’s a welcoming place where you can enjoy great food without any fuss.
One of the most famous views in Zakynthos, and maybe all of Greece, is the sight from high above a small cove with a rusted shipwreck lying in the sand below. The ship, called MV Panayiotis, washed up in 1980 and has stayed ever since. The bright aquamarine sea surrounding it adds to the pretty scene.
This cove, with its clear blue water and steep white cliffs, draws crowds, especially in the summer. You can only reach it by boat, and to capture that perfect view from above, you’ll need to join an island tour. There aren’t any facilities here, so pack water and essentials if you plan to visit.
Positano, an adorable town on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, is famous for Spiaggia Grande, the main beach where visitors gather. Sunbeds line the shore, surrounded by colorful buildings, climbing the hills on both sides. This beach is a lively spot, perfect for relaxing and taking in the incredible views of Positano’s unique setting.
Luxury yachts glide near the pier while beachgoers cool off under umbrellas or swim in the clear blue water. You can lease a kayak to paddle out and get a view of the town from the sea, with the village framed by green hills and rugged mountain peaks. Spiaggia Grande is the heart of Positano, with seaside cafes and seafood restaurants nearby for a quick bite or an afternoon drink.
The Costa del Sol, stretching 83 miles west of Malaga to Gibraltar, is known for its golden beaches and beautiful views. Behind the coastline, ochre mountains dotted with charming white towns rise up, and on clear days, you might spot the hazy outline of Morocco’s mountains across the Straits of Gibraltar.
The beaches near Malaga are lively, with lots of loungers, watersports, and warm water that stays comfortable late into the season. Playa Bajondillo in Torremolinos is especially popular, perfect for a relaxed day of sunbathing and snacking. The promenade is lined with chiringuitos (beach taverns) where you can try espeto de sardinas, fresh sardines grilled on skewers, a local favorite.
Praia da Marinha in Portugal is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with golden sand, turquoise water, and impressive rock formations that create a perfect summer setting. It’s a place where visitors can spend hours relaxing in the sun and taking in the stunning views that make the Algarve coastline so special.
The beach has hidden coves to explore, and the snorkeling here is amazing, especially with all the vibrant marine life. You can also hike over the rugged rocks for an adventure. Just around the corner, a short boat trip will take you to the renowned Benagil Cave, where a hidden beach and a natural skylight make for a magical experience.
Myrtos Beach is one of the most beautiful spots in the world, and it's easy to see why it's constantly voted among the best. Located on Kefalonia's northwest coast, it has white pebbles and clear, turquoise water that looks like something from a postcard. The air smells of wild herbs, adding to its charm.
To get there, you'll need to take a winding road down from the village of Divarata. Once you reach the shore, you can rent an umbrella and lounge, but remember, food is only available in the village or from a packed picnic. Be sure to check out the sea caves at the beach's end!
Super Paradise Beach in Mykonos is one of Europe's best beaches. It's a lively place with soft sand, clear water, and a fun, buzzing vibe. People come from all over to enjoy the mix of stylish bars and restaurants and the busy beach atmosphere that makes Mykonos so special.
At Super Paradise Beach, you can do all kinds of exciting things. Try flyboarding or tubing on the water, then relax with oysters as you watch a stunning sunset. Whether you're here for the beach or the nightlife, it's the perfect spot to experience the true energy of Mykonos.
Super Paradise Beach in Mykonos is one of Europe's best beaches. It's a lively place with soft sand, clear water, and a fun, buzzing vibe. People come from all over to enjoy the mix of stylish bars and restaurants and the busy beach atmosphere that makes Mykonos so special.
At Super Paradise Beach, you can do all kinds of exciting things. Try flyboarding or tubing on the water, then relax with oysters as you watch a stunning sunset. Whether you're here for the beach or the nightlife, it's the perfect spot to experience the true energy of Mykonos.
Pissouri Beach in Cyprus is a beautiful stretch of sand and pebbles, with crystal-clear water and hills dotted with olive trees. If you head to the western end, you might even spot sea turtles while snorkeling. Falcons fly above the white cliffs, adding to the beach’s peaceful vibe.
The beach has everything you need, like sunbeds, umbrellas, and tavernas. For something special, try a meal in Pissouri village. Two Friends Taverna is excellent, and Bunch of Grapes is a local favorite for a hearty lunch. If you have a car, drive west to see Petra tou Romiou, where Aphrodite was born.
En Vau Beach, near Cassis in France, is a truly unique spot. Towering limestone cliffs surround this hidden cove, and it has a peaceful, remote feel. The beach is made of pebbles, and the water is a beautiful shade of emerald, perfect for swimming or simply enjoying the view.
A short hike through the cove brings you to the water’s edge, where you can dive in and explore the underwater life. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are popular here, too, letting you glide through secluded spots and enjoy the stunning landscape. It’s the perfect place for breathtaking views and quiet adventures.
Ibiza is one of the most stunning islands in the Mediterranean, with crystal-clear aquamarine waters and rocky coves that look like something from a dream. Ses Salines, just a short drive from Ibiza Town, is one of the island’s longest beaches. It’s a mile of golden sand, lined with pine trees, and called after the nearby salt pans.
Salines are both beautiful and lively. By midday, superyachts anchor off the beach, and their owners head to cool beach bars. By the afternoon, chill-out music fills the air. The Jockey Club is great for people-watching, while Sa Trinxa offers a relaxed, hippie atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach, is a peaceful getaway on Lampedusa Island, near Sicily. It's one of Italy's most famous beaches, known for its soft golden sandbars and shallow, warm waters. People come here to relax, swim, and soak up the sun in a beautiful setting.
The beach is tucked between cliffs in shades of yellow, brown, and gray, giving it a cozy, cove-like feel. The navy umbrellas line the shore, matching the sparkling turquoise waters. After a swim or stroll along the cliffs, you can explore the nearby shops and restaurants or head to the charming town of Lampedusa.
Mykonos has so many amazing beaches, and they’re some of the most popular in the Greek Islands. The best ones are a bit away from Mykonos Town, so you’ll need to hop on a bus or take a taxi to get there. Each beach has its vibe, from party spots like Super Paradise to more relaxed ones like Kalafatis.
Kalafatis Beach is quieter, with soft golden sand and hills covered in scrub and white villages in the background. It’s perfect for windsurfing or swimming in the clear blue water. You can rent gear for snorkeling or other water sports. And, of course, enjoy a tasty Greek lunch at one of the beaches tavernas.
Kaputas Beach, tucked away along Turkey’s Lycian Coast, is known for its stunning golden sands and bright turquoise waters. To get there, you’ll climb down 187 steps from the road to the cove, where you’ll find white umbrellas providing shade from the sun. It’s a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun.
The clear, refreshing waters make it a great place for watersports, and cruise ships often anchor nearby. These boats can take you on a trip to see the incredible Blue Cave, where the water sparkles in shades of blue. It’s an unforgettable experience that adds even more magic to a day at Kaputas Beach.
After exploring the Greco-Roman theater and shopping in the designer stores, it’s time to unwind in Taormina. Take the rope car from via Pirandello to Mazzarò, then walk to the beautiful pebble beach with views of Isola Bella. This small rocky island is one of Sicily’s best beach spots, known for its clear waters and natural beauty.
At low tide, you can walk across the sandbar to Isola Bella and snorkel around its sea caves. The water is so clear you can easily see the rocks and marine life below. If you prefer to relax, just pull out on the beach and soak up the sun in one of the most scenic places in the Mediterranean.
Ses Illetes in Formentera is a stunning beach surrounded by natural beauty. Located in the Ses Salines d'Eivissa and Formentera Natural Park, the beach is protected, preserving its clear waters and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy the powdery white sands and take in the breathtaking view of the five islets just off the coast.
The long period of sand provides plenty of space to find a peaceful spot away from the crowds. You can rest on the soft sand, swim in the peaceful waters, or try cycling and sailing. After a day of exploring, settle down for a delicious meal by the sea, enjoying the beautiful coastline of Ses Illetes.
Valencia is lucky to have beautiful beaches right in the city, and La Malvarrosa is one of the best. This long stretch of sand is perfect for just about any beach activity, from volleyball to kayaking, snorkeling, and more. You’ll find everything you need to stay active and enjoy the sun.
A lively promenade runs along the beach, full of tapas bars, cafés, and ice cream stalls. People walk, jog, and bike here, and there’s even a special spot for wheelchair users to get into the water. After a day of exploring the city, La Malvarrosa is the perfect place to relax with a swim and enjoy some fresh seafood paella.
Almaza Beach is one of Egypt's most beautiful beaches, quickly becoming known for its luxury and stunning coastline. The beach is lined with glamorous hotels and gourmet restaurants serving fresh seafood. It's a peaceful yet exciting spot for travelers looking for a combination of relaxation and adventure.
There are plenty of watersports to try, like kitesurfing and volleyball, making it a great spot for families. If you're looking for a more peaceful experience, you can unwind in a private pergola with cocktails by the sea. Almaza Bay is perfect for those wanting both adventure and relaxation in a stunning setting.
The Mediterranean is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, from the calm, turquoise waters of Myrtos Beach to the lively atmosphere of La Malvarrosa. If you want to relax on golden sands, explore hidden coves, or enjoy exciting watersports, there’s something for everyone. These top beaches of the Mediterranean are perfect spots to unwind, have fun, and create amazing memories.
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