14 Clearest Beaches in Europe for Swimming & Snorkeling

There’s nothing like transparent waters. Who can resist diving into a crystal-clear sea where it feels like you’re snorkeling without even dipping your head underwater? Luckily, Europe has plenty of beaches just like this. Think pristine stretches in Italy’s national parks, pine-fringed hidden coves in Croatia, impossibly blue waters in Greece, phantasmagoric ocean caves in Cyprus and turquoise calas in Spain. It’s time to add these magical places to your travel list. Here’s where to find the clearest beaches in Europe for swims you won’t forget.

Croatia’s Adriatic coast is blessed with some of the clearest waters in Europe, and Punta Rata in Brela might just be the most breathtaking stretch of mainland shoreline. Here, the transparent blue sea meets the soft green of Aleppo pines, with towering mountains rising behind like a natural shield. A picturesque rock just offshore adds to the drama of the scene. Once you arrive, your body will practically beg to dive into the inviting Adriatic — that’s how strong Punta Rata’s natural pull is. Snorkeling is the best way to soak in the clarity of the sea, but don’t miss the chance to try paddle boarding too (it feels like you’re floating above the seabed).

Calabria is one of Southern Italy’s most underrated regions, home to beaches of almost otherworldly beauty. Among them, Tropea’s Spiaggia della Rotonda stands out as truly awe-inspiring. Nestled beneath the dramatic cliffside Old Town, it’s a sight to behold. A mix of soft sand and smooth pebbles leads into what might be the bluest sea in all of Italy. Overlooking it all is the hilltop Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, adding to the stunning panorama. Bathing in such beauty is a delight. In summer, the waters are warm and welcoming. It’s an urban stretch, so many traditional Calabrian restaurants and atmospheric cafes are just a few steps away. The beach is connected to the Old Town by a scenic staircase. 

Malta is known for its turquoise coast. While most visitors head to the Blue Lagoon (and rightfully so), the spot is a victim of its popularity with far too many boats in high season. A calmer vibe and similar unfiltered Mediterranean beauty await you at Crystal Lagoon, another fantastic bathing site on the island of Comino. If you’re looking for a transparent deep sea with magnificent wild panoramas, this is the place. The picturesque bay is only reached by boats, so arrange a visit by renting a vessel or opting for a tour. You’ll be rewarded with what may be the most scenic dip in your life. There’s also a treat for divers – Crystal Lagoon is famous for its underwater tunnel network and caves. End your day at the pristine Cominotto Beach on the tiny island opposite Comino. 

You know those photos of turquoise shores where boats look like they’re floating in mid-air? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Cala Dogana, the main beach on Levanzo — the smallest of the Aegadian Islands off Sicily’s coast. Set in a tiny fishing village with whitewashed houses, this harbor feels like a Mediterranean postcard come to life. The water is crystal clear, shimmering in every imaginable shade of blue. Levanzo is still very much an open secret among the Italian islands, meaning you will find tranquility and inspiration here. Take a coastal walk to Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola nearby for more unfiltered, clear beaches.

Ibiza is for having fun, Formentera is for enjoying some of Europe’s clearest beaches. Located a short boat trip away from Ibiza’s capital city, Ses Illetes is Mother Nature’s precious work of beauty. Here, the translucent waters hug the golden and pink sands of the coast. Wind and waves constantly change the look of the beach. The shallow access makes it an ideal family stretch. The sheer size means that even during the high season, Ses Illetes provides enough space to comfortably accommodate everyone.

Sometimes reaching a beach is an adventure in itself. Coming to Tsigrado on the south coast of Milos requires climbing. But fear not, it’s not some extreme rocky descent. This stunning beach is accessed by two wooden ladders. After such an original entrance, you’re rewarded with a gorgeous, tiny pebbly strip with transparent waters. Sheltered by cliffs, Tsigrado Beach has no wind and the surf is almost always calm. Snorkeling is a must here – you will have fun exploring all the rocks. If conquering ladders seems a bit too much, there’s Fyriplak beach nearby with equally turquoise waters and a pleasant sandy surface. 

The coast south of Marseille is peppered with spectacular calanques, or narrow “openings” inside the tall limestone mountains with clear water. Wild and breathtaking, Calanque d’En-Vau is a must visit. This place isn’t a park-your-car-and-swim kind of beach – you will have to hike through the pine forest and then follow a steep path down. But it’s absolutely worth the journey as the En-Vau is among the most magnificent places to take a swim in France. The sea here is crystal clear and the surroundings are pure Mediterranean bliss. Bring your water shoes as the surface is pebbly. If you want to avoid the hiking part, book a boat trip offered by Croisières Marseille.

Seeing Cinque Terre—a UNESCO-protected stretch of five fairytale coastal villages—is on many a bucket list. But swimming in this stunning setting is the kind of bonus you don’t forget. In Manarola, the oldest of the five villages, take a dip in the deep, clear Ligurian Sea with front-row views of its iconic rainbow-colored houses stacked along the cliffs. There’s no sandy beach here, but the marina serves as a swimming spot, with smooth rocks for sunbathing and ladders for easy sea access. After tackling Cinque Terre’s many staircases, there’s no better way to cool off. Moreover, you’ve got all the trattorias and cafes steps away for a post-dip focaccia and Aperol Spritz. 

Sardinia is a treasure trove of beaches with crystal-clear waters, and Cala Coticcio (part of the Maddalena Archipelago) might just be the most striking of them all. This secluded gem isn’t the easiest to reach: it requires a 45-minute hike through rugged terrain, so be sure to wear proper shoes. But for lovers of transparent waters, the reward is nothing short of cathartic. A narrow strip of sand gently melts into a surreal turquoise sea, framed by dramatic limestone cliffs. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear — this is one underwater landscape you’ll want to explore.

No need to go all the way to Bali or the Gili Islands when Greece has Antipaxos. A younger brother to the Ionian island of Paxos, it’s truly a land of aquamarine. The coast of this tiny island is full of marvelous beaches with ideal snorkeling conditions. Voutoumi is your best pick – a postcard-perfect bay surrounded by cliffs and greenery. But then, it’s just an introduction to the cyan kingdom of Antipaxos. Head to the beaches of Mesovrika and Vrika for more transparent Ionian swimming. 

A gem of the Porto-Vecchio region of Corsica, Palombaggia is a triumph of Mediterranean nature. Towering pine trees frame the bay, where soft white sand meets impossibly blue waters that gently lap the shore. With shallow, calm conditions and no strong waves, it’s a favorite for families. Naturally, it’s also among Corsica’s most visited beaches. Visit in the off-season and you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful, Caribbean-like escape. Summer sees more crowds, so getting to Palombaggia early is a must. Get on a paddleboard to see the bay from the water and don’t miss a chance to snorkel the cliff outcrops. 

Cyprus has one magical place where the water is electric-blue and crystalline. A part of the stunning Cape Greco peninsula, Ayia Napa Sea Caves will take your breath away. It’s a complex of limestone cliffs with a tunnel network lovingly sculpted by the wind and waves. With many rocks and an ultra-clear sea, the area is very popular with snorkeling enthusiasts. While there’s no organized beach, swimming is allowed and widely practiced by Cape Greco visitors. Cliff-jumping is the most straightforward way to plunge into the transparent waters, but you can also climb down to the caves and park your towel there. It’s wild Mediterranean bathing at its finest: liberating and beautiful. 

The Spanish island of Menorca is the ultimate destination for charming coves. Cala en Brut is a Balearic dream. With the look of a natural pool and cyan waters, this beach is fantastic for swimming. The sea is accessed by ladders and you can leave your things on the cliffside platforms. Cala en Brut is also one of the best snorkeling spots on Menorca, with an abundant underwater life. It’s a part of Cala en Blanes resort urbanization, so all the amenities and restaurants are nearby. For another turquoise cove, head to Cala en Forcat, less than 2 miles away. 

Sicily is famous for its wild stretches, and Cala Capreria is among the most striking ones on the island. It’s a dreamy cove in the magnificent Riserva dello Zingaro. Think tiny pebbles, a transparent turquoise sea and cliffs all around. To make things more adventurous, Cala Capreria can only be reached by a scenic hiking trail. It’s the nearest beach to Riserva dello Zingaro’s entrance (where you can leave your car parked).