Europe

Beach Bucket List: Europe’s Best Beach Holidays

Golden sand, turquoise sea and the sun beating down on you…is there anything better than a beach holiday? Here at Oliver’s Travels, we love spending our summers by the coast, which is why so many of our properties are perfect for a beach villa holiday. If you’re ready to start planning your next coastal retreat but unsure where to head first, you’ve come to the right place: we’ve pulled together a list of all the beaches that are near our villas for the ultimate European getaway.

If you already know where you want to go in Europe for a beach holiday, just click one of the links below to be taken straight to the destination of your choice!

Spain | France | Greece | Portugal | Italy | Cyprus | UK

Spain

Playa de Cofete, Fuerteventura

Enjoy miles and miles of unspoilt sand, hugged by the iconic mountains of Jandía Natural Park. Found on the west coast of Fuerteventura, this windy spot is home to impressive surf-suited waves, creating a uniquely breathtaking beach holiday experience.

Where to stay: Oramar Vistas | Sleeps 6

France

Plage de Santa Giulia, Corsica

Step into a dreamlike paradise on the French island of Corsica. Top-and-tailed with boulders that lead into divine turquoise water, the calming Plage de Santa Giulia encourages you to disconnect and recharge as you enjoy the ultimate beach villa holiday in France.

Where to stay: Le Moulin Des Vignes | Sleeps 6

Plage du Sillon, Brittany

Promising spectacular sunsets that turn the promenade a beautiful orange, the impressive Plage du Silon is a must if visiting Saint-Malo for the day. At low tide, you can walk for miles along this sandy coastline, enjoying the pristine condition of its beach.

Where to stay: Chateau Du Chevalier | Sleeps 15-35 |

Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica

One look at this beach and you’d expect to find it somewhere far more remote, exotic and inaccessible. However, Plage de Palombaggia is actually another coastal gem on the island of Corsica. Combining all the much-loved features of a traditional beach holiday, this beach allows you unwind and drift away in crystal-clear waters.

Where to stayVilla Grand Sperone | Sleeps 14

Greece

Balos Lagoon, Crete

With a lagoon on one side and a beach on the other, Balos Lagoon is an out-of-this-world beach spot that you’ll never tire of photographing. It’s found near to the popular town of Kissamos, allowing you to spend an afternoon browsing the shops after a morning unwinding beneath the endless blue sky.

Where to stay: Villa Armenoi | Sleeps 6

Elafonissi Beach, Crete

If eye-catching Instagram snaps are what you’re after, Elafonissi Beach is a must-see during your beach villa holiday in Crete. With its iconic pink sand and gentle lapping waves, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything prettier.

Where to stay: Villa Alabaster | Sleeps 6

Portugal

Praia da Falesia, Algarve

With jaw-dropping cliffs that are perfect for keen walkers, Praia da Falesia is one for those who prefer the beach to serve as a backdrop to their holiday adventures. Found close to the hustle and bustle of Albufeira in the Algarve region of Portugal, it’s suited to surfers and sunbathers alike.

Where to stay: Villa Millie | Sleeps 6-10

Italy

Spiaggia La Cinta, Sardinia

If you find yourself on the island of Sardinia during your villa holiday in Italy, head over to the sleepy town of San Teodoro and visit this delightful hidden gem. Dip your toes into fine sand and enjoy clear shallow waters – ideal for a family beach villa holiday.

Where to stay: Casa Ruja | Sleeps 8

Cyprus

Fig Tree Bay, Protaras

Widely known as one of the best places to swim on the island of Cyprus, Fig Tree Bay is unsurprisingly a hit with holidaymakers. Grab a sunbed and enjoy sprawling out on the beach, or get your heart rate up by trying out some water sports.

Where to stay: Villa Ermis | Sleeps 6

Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa

You’ve likely already heard of the famous Nissi Beach. Popular with couples, families, and groups of friends, Ayia Napa is a lively beach holiday resort that never falls short on entertainment. It’s main draw? Sun and blue skies all year round.

Where to stay: Villa Thaumas | Sleeps 10

UK

Filey Beach, Yorkshire

Who said you need to get on a plane to see the best beaches in Europe? Filey Beach is easily accessible by car when holidaying along the North East Yorkshire coast. Stretching across 5 miles, it boasts incredible views and even allows dogs on certain stretches – because why should your four-legged friend miss out on the sandy fun?

Where to stay: Leyburn Manor | Sleeps 20-26

Perranporth Beach, Cornwall

A small stream runs down along the beach and into the sea at Perranporth, making the area a great destination for your family beach holiday in Cornwall as little ones hop in and out. At low tide, take some time to explore the nearby caves as well – who knows what you’ll uncover?

Where to staySandcrest Cottage | Sleeps 6

Bournemouth Beach, Dorset

A hit for families and couples alike, Bournemouth Beach is so big that you’ll probably be able to find a piece of sand all to yourselves. Flanked by pretty beach houses that are like something out of a postcard, it’s manned by lifeguards, has free public toilets, and there are always plenty of great beach activities to get involved in – everything you need from a UK beach holiday.

Where to stay: Meadow Cottage | Sleeps 6

Porthminster Beach, Cornwall

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported to the Med, but this beauty is actually Porthminster Beach in St Ives, that gorgeous town on the edge of the Earth in the nether reaches of Cornwall. Typically quieter than the other beaches nearby, this stretch boasts a calm sea and silky soft sand, making it a top choice for families with little ones enjoying their first UK beach holiday.

Where to stay: St Ives Cottage | Sleeps 8

 

We’ve got a whole collection of villas near the beach to get you right near the coast for maximum beach time. If you’re still unsure which spot to choose, check out our full range of villa holidays. You can also get in touch with our concierge team who can help you find the perfect villa in Europe for your needs. 

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