The 8 best European beach destinations

Madeira, Portugal: Madeira's beaches feature wild splendor, with craggy cliffs and volcanic black sand. Visitors can enjoy unique coastal landscapes and breathtaking views along the shoreline of Funchal.

Mallorca, Spain: Mallorca offers diverse beaches, from secluded coves to vibrant resort towns. Platja de Soller and Palma Nova Beach are popular choices with soft sands and ample amenities.

Crete, Greece: Crete is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, including Balos Beach and Elafonissi Beach. Balos features white sands and turquoise lagoons, while Elafonissi offers pink-hued sands and shallow waters.

Corsica, France: Corsica boasts nearly 200 beaches, ranging from pure white sand to colorful pebbles. Visitors can explore scenic bays and coves, such as Parata Point, known for its natural beauty.

Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona offers three miles of golden sand beaches near the city center. La Barceloneta is a popular choice with its vibrant atmosphere and beachside amenities.

Malta: Malta's beaches feature remarkably clear water, perfect for snorkeling. Highlights include the Blue Lagoon with its crystal-clear waters and Għajn Tuffieħa Beach with warm, clear water and natural hillsides.

Rhodes, Greece: Rhodes boasts numerous Blue Flag-rated beaches, offering a variety of experiences from calm waters to windsurfing spots. Faliraki Beach and Vagies are popular choices with clear water and scenic beauty.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: The Amalfi Coast features small rocky beaches with colorful sun umbrellas and beach chairs. Towns like Positano and Amalfi offer warm turquoise waters just steps away from their centers.