7 Favorite Beaches In Europe That Aren’t Full Of Tourists
Tired of crowded beaches and packed shorelines? Europe has plenty of postcard-worthy stretches of sand that don’t require battling for a spot. While the masses head to hotspots like Santorini or Majorca, seasoned travelers know there are quieter, more breathtaking escapes waiting to be discovered.
These hidden European beaches offer crystal-clear waters, stunning views, and the kind of peace that lets you actually hear the waves — not the crowds.
1. Praia Da Adraga, Portugal
Nestled between dramatic cliffs just an hour from Lisbon lies a golden treasure. The rugged Atlantic coastline here creates a postcard-perfect setting with towering rock formations and tidal pools.
Praia da Adraga remains wonderfully uncrowded even in summer months. After swimming, visit the single beachside restaurant for the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste!
2. Plage De Saleccia, Corsica
White powder sand stretches for over a kilometer along crystal-clear turquoise waters. Getting here requires effort – either a bumpy dirt road drive or a boat ride – which keeps the crowds at bay.
This Corsican paradise feels like the Caribbean with its shallow, warm waters. Pack supplies though, as Saleccia offers no facilities, preserving its pristine natural beauty.
3. Cala Mitjana, Menorca
Hidden at the end of a pine forest trail waits a turquoise cove that seems almost unreal. Unlike its bustling Balearic neighbors, this gem remains peaceful even during peak season.
The limestone cliffs surrounding Cala Mitjana create perfect jumping spots for adventurous swimmers. The transparent waters reveal colorful fish darting between your legs without needing snorkeling gear!
4. Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos
Imagine swimming in water so blue it looks Photoshopped. A tiny Greek island with fewer than 100 residents guards this secret spot where the Ionian Sea displays its most dazzling colors.
The smooth white pebbles of Voutoumi give way to electric blue depths. Day-trippers from nearby Paxos visit briefly, but stay until sunset and you’ll have paradise practically to yourself.
5. Playa De Torimbia, Spain
A perfect half-moon of golden sand welcomes barefoot wanderers on Spain’s northern coast. The green hills surrounding this hidden spot make it feel worlds away from the Costa del Sol madness.
This Asturian beauty sometimes attracts naturists enjoying the liberating environment. The powerful Cantabrian Sea creates impressive waves, making Torimbia a favorite among surfers seeking uncrowded breaks.
6. Calanque d’En-Vau, France
Carved between towering limestone cliffs hides a sliver of paradise that requires real effort to reach. The reward? Perhaps the most dramatic beach setting in all of Europe.
This French marvel sits between 300-foot white cliffs that plunge directly into impossibly clear azure waters. The challenging hike to reach this Calanque keeps casual tourists away, preserving its raw, untouched beauty.
7. Ksamil Islands, Albania
Four tiny islands floating in water so clear you can count pebbles twenty feet down. Albania’s emerging coastline remains Europe’s best-kept secret, with beaches rivaling more famous Mediterranean destinations.
The Ksamil archipelago sits just offshore from the mainland beach. Strong swimmers can reach these pristine islets for private sunbathing spots. Nearby ancient ruins of Butrint add cultural intrigue to this affordable paradise.