The European Beach Towns Coastal Experts Say You Shouldn’t Miss This Summer

As a frequent traveler to Europe, I’ve explored many beach towns across the continent’s coastlines, from the Atlantic to the west, the Arctic to the north, the Mediterranean to the south, and well beyond. There’s an impressive variety of beach towns to discover, each with its own character and scenery, although all have a few things in common: scenic stretches of sand, fresh seafood, and rich culture.

From a colorful seaside village on Ireland’s stunning west coast to the United Kingdom’s windswept shores, classic Mediterranean destinations, and lesser-known spots along the North Sea, on this list of some of my favorites, there’s a charming beach town in Europe that will inspire your next idyllic summer escape. To complement my own travels, I also gathered insights from local experts and insiders who know these coastlines best.

Tucked along the Dingle Peninsula, called “The Most Beautiful Place on Earth” by National Geographic Traveler, I’ve been visiting Dingle since the early 2000s and never tire of it. This picturesque fishing village is filled with colorful homes and buildings, many of which host pubs offering live music every night of the week. 

“Dingle earns what most European beach towns only borrow — a working relationship with the sea,” says Heather Richie, Founder of Fisher & Farmer. “The fishing fleet still comes in to the pier, the pubs still fill with people who were on the water that morning, and Inch Beach opens onto the Atlantic with the kind of emptiness that makes you realize how crowded you’ve been.” 

A roughly 10-minute drive will bring you to Ventry Beach, a 5-mile-long stretch of sand perfect for strolling and swimming on a warm summer day. Throughout the peninsula, you’ll see those quintessential lush Irish hills crossed by stone fences that plunge down to rugged cliffs with hidden sandy coves.

The historic beach town of Tenby was established as a Viking fishing village before being fortified in the late 11th century as a Norman stronghold. Surrounded by 13th-century walls, the ancient borough ultimately became a major medieval port, but it’s been a top spot for beach getaways for more than 200 years. 

“The best thing about Tenby is that it has four gorgeous beaches to choose from, each with their own unique character, three of which have the prestigious Blue Flag award, and all either in the town center or a very short walk away,” says Steve Hull, Founder of South Wales Guide. 

It boasts a picturesque harbor with access to the Irish Sea and the Atlantic, along with some of the United Kingdom’s most idyllic beaches, including the Blue Flag-certified Castle Beach. Nestled between Castle Hill and East Cliff, it’s a family-friendly sandy stretch popular for swimming, while overlooked by the ancient ruins of Tenby Castle. When the tide is out, it’s separated by St. Catherine’s Island, which is topped by an old fort. 

When not enjoying the sand and the surf, there’s plenty to explore, including the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery with displays on local maritime, geology, and archaeological artifacts. An array of shopping and dining venues also awaits, from gift shops and fashion boutiques to ice cream parlors, fish ‘n’ chips eateries, and upscale restaurants.

Naxos Town is the capital and largest settlement on Naxos, which is why it’s also referred to as Chora. Unlike most beach towns, not only will you find some of the most beautiful sandy beaches just a short distance away, but also a magnificent historic center. It’s a labyrinth of narrow, marble-paved streets lined with whitewashed homes and buildings splashed with color, from magenta bougainvillea to blue painted doors and shutters, while a Venetian castle overlooks it all. 

A promenade runs along the harborfront, hosting independent shops, bars, tavernas, and cafes serving local island dishes that can be enjoyed while watching the boats come and go. Agios Georgios, or St. George Beach, is the closest to town, providing soft sands and calm, clear, turquoise water for swimming. 

Continue traveling south to find the 2.5-mile-long Plaka Beach, with sections that include umbrellas and loungers at the north end, while the south end is undeveloped, providing a perfect spot to toss down your beach towels.

While Taormina is perched on a hillside providing spectacular views of Mount Etna, it’s also close to many picturesque beaches, including Mazzarò, which is connected to the historic center by cable car. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, flowing to and from historic sites and the rocky bay directly below. It features clear turquoise water for swimming and snorkeling, along with high-end beach clubs for stress-melting relaxation. 

When it comes to history, the top attraction is the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina. Originally built in the 3rd century BC, it overlooks the Ionian Sea and still hosts concerts today. “If you only do one thing, go to the Greek Theatre at sunset,” says Erin Alexander, Founder of The Getawayz. “You get the sea in front of you and the volcano behind you and it’s one of those moments where you stop taking photos because no photo does it justice.” 

The nightlife is hopping here too, from casual pubs to exclusive lounge bars and late-night dance clubs.

While the French Riviera is renowned for its beaches, if you prefer a more tranquil setting for enjoying powdery, pale golden sands lapped by brilliant blue-green water without the crowds, consider Deauville, the so-called “glamorous Cannes of the North.” It’s popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and sunbathing. If you want to relax in the shade, there are colorful umbrellas and deckchairs available for rent. 

A stroll along the pretty promenade reveals the names of the many celebrities on Art Deco-style beach huts who’ve visited over the years, often during September’s Deauville American Film Festival. Look for everyone from George Clooney and Johnny Depp to Clint Eastwood as you enjoy the impressive views. Deauville also hosts an Olympic saltwater pool along with numerous beachfront shops, bars, and restaurants.

Located along the north coast of West Cornwall, St. Ives is an ideal base for enjoying the region’s stunning sandy beaches and thriving art scene. Along the winding, cobbled streets, you’ll find many art galleries and a world-class museum. 

“St. Ives is a genuinely historic fishing town where you can explore the narrow, cobbled streets, barely changed in centuries,” says Matt George of Kernow Coasteering. “After you’ve explored the town, don’t miss heading west along the southwest coast path — just five minutes from Porthmeor Beach will get you to Clodgy Point, where you can explore rock formations and escape the crowds.” 

There are four beaches within walking distance of the center, including a long stretch of golden sands at Porthmeor. Surfing, paddleboarding, and beachcombing for everything from seashells and sea glass to driftwood are just a few of the popular activities. At the picturesque fishing harbor, you can watch the day’s fresh catch as it’s hauled in before enjoying it in one of the award-winning eateries.

Budva, the party capital of Montenegro, sits at the center of the Budva Riviera, a long strip of coastline along the Adriatic Sea. Its charming 2,500-year-old Old Town is a narrow maze of streets leading down to idyllic bays with crystal-clear cobalt water. Visitors enjoy easy access to popular beaches like Bečići and Mogren, while nearby Sveti Stefan boasts more tranquil, upscale spans, and Ulcinj to the south is known for its long, sandy stretches. 

Budva is also the heart of the region’s nightlife, making it especially ideal for those who want lots to do after dark, from casual beach bars and open-air discos to exclusive clubs for dancing ’til dawn.

The resort town of Lagos is an ideal base for enjoying the Algarve Coast and its many sandy beaches. No matter where you go, you’re likely to be just steps from shopping, dining, and nightlife. The ancient maritime city offers something for everyone, with multiple beaches that can be reached within a short walk from the center, including Praia dos Estudantes and Praia da Batata. 

“The stretch around Ponta da Piedade in Lagos is one of the most incredible I’ve seen — it’s a non-stop run of caves, arches, and hidden beaches,” says George. “The best way to experience it is on a SUP, either renting one or joining a local tour.” SUP tours can also bring you through the iconic Lagos Grottoes or to discover unique rock formations and “secret” beaches. There are also catamaran and speedboat cruises to the Benagil Caves.

The town of Bol on the island of Brac may best be known for Zlatni Rat Beach, one of the most photographed in Europe. Simply follow the seaside promenade for about 20 minutes from the harbor to enjoy this white pebbly stretch that glistens under the sun. Jutting out about a third of a mile into the surreal, electric blue waters, it’s shaded by pines that are ideal for relaxing with a view and enjoying unforgettable swims from late spring through early fall. 

Just a few of the popular water sports include sea kayaking and paddleboating (rentals available), while windsurfing can be enjoyed when the maestral winds blow in during the early afternoon. Bol town offers many local bars and eateries serving cold brews and crisp wines that can be enjoyed with traditional Croatian fare, including the region’s signature black risotto, featuring fresh seafood.

Another ideal town for avoiding beaches that are jam-packed with people, Llanes offers an entirely different experience than what you’d find along the popular Costa del Sol. Located along the northern coast in Asturias, it boasts stunning stretches of pristine golden sands, with few other beachgoers around. And they’re backed by the dramatic Picos de Europa mountain peaks. 

While there are practically countless beaches to choose from, the main beach in town is Playa del Sablón. Photogenic Playa San Antolin, located where the Cabras and Bedon estuary meet, is known for its unique rock formations and spectacular cliffs, just 15 minutes west. It’s the perfect spot for capturing Insta-worthy photos, sunbathing, or surfing. 

Right in Llanes, you’ll find the remains of a 13th-century wall, a 13th-century defensive tower, and the Paseo de San Pedro, a walkway along the seaside cliffs providing jaw-dropping views. Asturian cuisine also makes it a foodie paradise, renowned for barbecues and seafood like crab, lobster, and a variety of fish, from sea bass to monkfish and seabream.

An award-winning Highlands beach town along the northeast coast of Scotland, Nairn is renowned for its vast sandy beaches that face the Moray Firth inlet in the North Sea. Less than a 30-minute drive from Inverness, it offers scenic dunes, pristine water for swimming, and frequent dolphin sightings. In fact, there are two outstanding seaside golf courses here, but the dolphins tend to be distracting when playing the holes that are right along the water. 

You’ll find plenty of other attractions here too, including the Nairn Museum focusing on Nairn’s Victorian history, a community theater, and plenty of eateries serving local seafood. Less than seven miles southwest is stunning Cawdor Castle and Gardens, while 18th-century Fort George is about a 20-minute drive west along the coast.

When you think of Germany, you probably picture a Bavarian town or perhaps Berlin with its iconic wall. Few think of it as a beach destination, but the small town of Sylt in Westerland, the northernmost island in the country, offers just that, complete with towering dunes and nearly endless sands. Take a stroll through the center with its enticing cafes and quirky shops to find the sandy beach that stretches for miles along the Wadden Sea. 

On the west side of the island, strong winds make for excellent windsurfing and traditional surfing. But along the east coast facing the Wadden Sea, the water is calmer, ideal for swimming, SUP, and kayaking. Plus, seal watching boat tours are available from Hörnum and List. Visit Hörnum to climb the landmark lighthouse for a beautiful view. Gourmet dining is popular throughout Westerland, with a focus on regional specialties and fresh seafood.