If you are looking for a great beach to relax at, soak up some rays, take a swim, go snorkeling or even surfing then one of the following 7 locations might be perfect for you. All of these beaches are also known for their beauty, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the magnificence and show your friends when you get back home.
Navagio Beach – Greece
Also known as “The Shipwreck” or “Smugglers Cove” this beach literally has marooned ship on it. Noted as one of the most photographed and famous beaches in Greece, Navagio Beach is fairly small and secluded. Located on the north-western shores of Zakynthos Island in a sandy cove, the beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs. This white sandy beach is only accessible by boat, but this does not stop thousands of visitors from flocking to the transparent blue waters and taking a swim.
Plage de Saleccia – Corsica, France
Located by St. Florent on the island of Corsica, Plage de Saleccia is a very long white sand beach. This half-mile long stretch of paradise is located in a totally undeveloped area, so be sure to bring everything you will need for the day. Although this beach is somewhat out of the way it does get busy in August when many locals come in their own boats. However, the beach is long enough that one can still find peace and relaxation. Celebrities have sometimes been seen in the area, often anchoring their boats or yachts just offshore. The sun can be unforgiving and bringing a sun umbrella for some relief is recommended.
Cala Luna – Sardinia, Italy
Cala Luna, or “Moon Cove,” is a half-moon shaped beach that is lined with tall limestone cliffs. This location was chosen for part of the film “Swept Away” starring Madonna. Nearby there is a massive sea cave with carvings, stalagmites, stalactites and an underground beach. For approximately 10 Euros a person one can take a short boat ride to this location. There is a small stream flowing through Cala Luna that is surrounded by beautiful pink oleanders that can give you a break from the sun.
Zlatni Rat – Croatia
Just west of Bol harbor, this skinny white pebble beach is located on a narrow peninsula that juts out into the Adriatic Sea. This is a unique beach which changes shape with varying currents, wind and tides. The winds in the region make the area very popular for windsurfing. Interestingly, the western edges of Zlatni Rat beach, as well as many nearby coves, are clothing optional areas. Waves in some areas along the beach get big enough for surfing. If you plan to take a walk along the beach be sure to wear something on your feet as the small pebbles can become uncomfortable after some distance.
Cala Xarraca – Ibiza, Spain
Located only five minutes from San Juan, Cala Xarraca beach’s crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. The area is also popular with photographers and those looking to take a nice walk on the soft sand. There are naturally occurring mud baths that many people enjoy and a nice restaurant not far from the beach for when you get hungry. This is a very popular spot with limited parking so it is important to arrive early. Another option is to come later in the day to watch the sunset. During the summertime it is still hot enough to take a swim while you watch the sun go down.
Porto Katsiki – Greece
Porto Katsiki, or “Port of the Goat” beach is on the Greek island of Lefkada. It received its name because originally it was believed that only a goat could get to this area. It has baby blue waters and beautiful white sand which is surrounded by cliffs. The waters are shallow, calm and clean. This makes it a great location for swimming and snorkeling. To reach the beach one must either come by taxi boat or descend 347 steps down the embankment to the sand. There are restaurants and amenities located on the cliffs above, thus allowing visitors to stay for the whole day.
Dune du Pyla – France
This beach is situated next to the tallest sand dune in all of Europe near the Arcachon and Biscay Bays. The dune is 354 feet tall, 1,640 feet wide and over 1.5 miles long. It is a fairly steep climb down to the beach, but most agree that the trip is worth it. The waters here are very clear and there is ample camping space for those who wish to have an extended stay. The sunsets are said to be breathtaking and this is a great location for relaxation. The area can be a bit windy, but this often makes for great surfing conditions.