12 European Islands for a Dreamy Beach Holiday
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The relaxation and exploration opportunities offered by the European Islands are one sure way to have a dreamy beach vacation. If you settle for these European islands, you’ll likely escape huge crowds on mainland beaches. From magnificent coastlines to stunning landscapes and rich history, these European islands guarantee a magical beach holiday.
1. Lefkada, Greece
Sitting in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada is known to be the only Greek island connected to the mainland by a bridge. This gorgeous island is loved for its soft-sand beaches, blue waters, charming villages, and culturally rich museums.
The indescribable beauty of Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma Beaches will transform your summer vacation into a memory you will cherish forever. These beaches are accessed by scenic winding roads, staircases, or boats, features that add to their already beautiful personalities.
While it would be impossible to think about anything else apart from the stunning Lefkada beaches, do not overlook the Castle of Agia Mavra, Dimosari Waterfalls, and Cape Lefkatas for the most breathtaking views on the island.
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Read more: Lefkada, the Caribbean of Greece
2. Tenerife, Spain
The landscape of Tenerife guarantees you an opportunity to engage in endless outdoor activities. For water sports fans, you will love being by Tenerife’s beaches: Playa de Las Teresitas, whose golden sand was imported from the Sahara, The luxurious Playa de las Americas, and Playa del Duque. Whether you’re looking for a mid-range or an upscale vibe, there is something for you on Tenerife’s beaches.
Beaches and water sports are not all there is to experience on Tenerife Island. Take cable car rides up Mount Teide for panoramic views of the island. You can also go hiking in Teide National Park, take boat tours for whale and dolphin watching or visit the famous animal park, Loro Parque. Tenerife is served by two international airports, which makes traveling there even more convenient.
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Read also: Top European Beaches
3. Rhodes, Greece
The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is the place for those searching for family-friendly beaches and unending snippets of history. Prasonisi Beach lets you experience two seas simultaneously; it is the meeting point of the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas. It is an opportunity to have the best of the two seas in a single destination.
While Prasonisi Beach is truly one of a kind, you want to explore other gems such as Tsambika Beach, Anthony Quinn Bay, Faliraki Beach, Traganou Beach, and Lindos Beach. Visit the historic Rhodes Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Acropolis of Lindos to enhance your trip.
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Read also: Must-Visit Islands in Greece
4. Corsica, France
Corsica has much to offer tourists looking for unspoiled beauty and timeless charm. From high peaks to stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and dense forests, there is much to see and experience on this island.
Some must-see beaches include Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, and Rondinara Beaches. These beaches offer perfect Mediterranean sea views, white sand, and lush vegetation. Take time to enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing, or just take in the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
While Corsica’s beaches are good enough to make your summer vacation unforgettable, you should also take scenic drives around the islands, visit its historic cities, such as Bonifacio and Calvi, and sample the rich Corsican cuisine.
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Read also: Europe’s Best Value Beach Destinations
5. Sicily, Italy
Being the largest island on the Mediterranean Sea, the vastness of Sicily offers so much to explore, from rugged coastlines and tall volcanoes to a rich history and vibrant culture. Sicily has numerous beaches, but those that keep attracting tourists include San Vito lo Capo, Cala Rossa, and Taormina Beaches. There is something for every type of beachgoer in Sicily, whether you’re looking for a rich underwater life, clear waters, or extensive shorelines.
Your trip to Sicily is never complete without exploring Europe’s highest and most active Volcano, Mount Etna. Explore its landscapes, take guided hikes, or even ascend to its summit for panoramic views.
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Read more: Underrated Places in the Mediterranean
6. Corfu, Greece
Corfu is known for its excellent all-year-round weather, breathtaking coastlines, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
Cool off at Paleokastritsa, known for its clear waters, breathtaking coastline, and well-preserved greenery. You can swim, snorkel, or take boat rides to explore hidden caves here.
Wind up your evenings by exploring the Venetian architecture, historic landmarks, and narrow alleyways of Corfu Town. Ensure to also stop by the iconic Achilleion Palace to enjoy panoramic sea views.
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Read more: Easily Accessible Greek Islands for a Quick Getaway
7. Lofoten Island, Norway
Lofoten Island would be the perfect destination for a unique summer experience. The island has high mountains, clear and serene fjords, picturesque fishing villages, and picture-perfect coastlines.
Constantly voted as Norway’s best beach, Lofoten’s Haukland Beach is known for its white sands and crystal clear waters nestled amidst scenic mountain views. Ensure to spend time on Ramberg Beach, too; it is a perfect spot for water sports and watching the midnight sun.
Hiking fans may want to trek the numerous hiking trails on the island or even summit the island’s peaks like Reinebringen and Offersøykammen. For cultural immersion, consider visiting the charming fishing villages dispersed throughout the island; consider Reine, Å, and Henningsvær for their irresistible allure.
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Read also: Top Exotic Beach Destinations
8. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira, located in the North Atlantic, guarantees tourists a fun-filled and culturally rich summer. It is the destination to go and experience beaches like no other. For instance, Madeira’s largest beach, Praia Formosa, is characterized by black volcanic sands, while Calhau da Lapa is pebbled-lined. These beaches offer a serene environment for relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling.
You can make your summer vacation in Madeira more exciting by taking scenic drives, such as the cliffside route from Funchal to Porto Moniz. While at it, ensure to visit the historic Funchal Old Town.
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Read also: Incredible Secret Beaches Around the World
9. Gozo, Malta
If you’re looking for a Mediterranean island with many secluded bays, Gozo should be one to consider. This island’s secluded bays and charming countryside promise tourists a peaceful and laid-back summer vacation.
Ramla Bay, one of the island’s most popular beaches, features golden-red sands, blue waters, magnificent countryside views, and a historic watchtower. Also, ensure that you explore the rocky coves and sandy shores of Marsalforn and Dwejra Bay.
Besides the vibrant beach life, there are many treasures for historical enrichment. Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see.
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Read also: Hidden Islands in Europe
10. Capri, Italy
While Capri is known for its luxurious summer vacation, there are still many things to explore on different budgets. Located off the Amalfi Coast in the Mediterranean, this resort town is known for its exquisite villas, clear waters, stunning beaches and golden cliffs.
Careful, though; Capri is not the place to go looking for sandy beaches; it is a volcanic island, and most beaches are rocky. Either way, you will have the time of your life on its picturesque beaches, with the most sought-after being Bagni di Tiberio, Gradola, Marina di Mulo, and Spiaggia Marina Grande.
Another good reason to visit Capri is to experience the magical sea cave, Blue Grotto. The sunlight’s reflection into the cave creates a magical illumination you will appreciate first-hand.
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Read also: Warm Budget-Friendly February Destinations
11. Porquerolles, France
Often recognized as the loveliest island on the French Riviera, Porquerolles is a haven for tourists looking to relax in undamaged nature. Take all the time you need on Porquerolles’ favorite beach, Plage de Notre-Dame.
The clear waters and powdery white sands make it an ideal location to sunbathe and swim. With so many beaches now destroyed by human activities, visiting Porquerolles’s Plage de Notre-Dame could be your best summer vacation.
There is much more to do in Porquerolles, such as visiting Fort Saint Agathe for panoramic views of the island, cycling along scenic coastal hikes, and sampling the island’s rich wine culture.
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Read also: Underrated Tropical Vacation Destinations
12. Pakleni Islands, Croatia
Pakleni (also called Paklinski) is a group of rocky islets located just off the coast of Hvar. The secluded beaches and hidden coves that line the coastline of this archipelago are a paradise beach lovers would fancy.
If you must choose only one island from the chain of the islands that comprise Pakleni, let it be Sveti Klement. It is home to a wide variety of secluded bays, cozy restaurants and bars, and sandy or rocky beaches.
While there are so many beaches in Pakleni, Palmizana Beach is a must-see; it has always been featured as one of the best beaches in the Adriatic, thanks to its beautiful shorelines and calm waters. Ensure to explore the dense pine forest behind Palmizana Beach; it only adds to the charm of this beach’s little paradise.
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Read also: Top Tropical Destinations
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
