Category
Beaches
Beaches around the world, selected for their setting, atmosphere or character.
Wikipedia (es) - CC BY-SAPlaya de Zurriola
Beach
The surfers' and young San Sebastián locals' beach, on the Gros side – less touristy than Playa de la Concha. The waves are consistent and the atmosphere far more local.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SALydd-on-Sea Beach
Beach
Nearly deserted shingle beach beyond Camber, accessible from Lydd, with direct views of Dungeness nuclear power station, which lends it a singular post-industrial atmosphere. Frequented only by locals.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SABamburgh Beach
Beach
One of the finest beaches on the north English coast, dominated by Bamburgh Castle rising from its volcanic promontory above the dunes. On stormy days the spectacle is breathtaking—locals return even in winter.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAMarazion Beach
Beach
Expansive sandy beach facing St Michael's Mount, one of Cornwall's sunniest thanks to its southern aspect. A renowned kitesurfing spot and starting point for the low-tide footpath to the castle.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAAmroth Beach
Beach
Official starting or finishing point of the 299 km Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a pebble and sand beach with submerged forests visible at low tide—remnants of a 5,000-year-old prehistoric woodland.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SABellevue Park and Beach
Beach
A fine sandy beach north of Aarhus, popular with locals for swimming and beach volleyball in summer. The Kattegat waters are surprisingly clean, and the sunset over the sea is unforgettable.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPlaya de Cortadura
Beach
Semi-wild beach at the southern tip of the isthmus, less crowded than La Victoria, with natural dunes and direct access to the nature reserve. Locals come here by bike from the city.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAOxwich Bay
Beach
Sheltered 3km beach within a national nature reserve, with dunes, marshland and woodland beyond. Calm waters make it ideal for swimming and kayaking.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SALusty Glaze Beach
Beach
Private cove nestled between dramatic cliffs, accessible only by a steep staircase. More secluded than the main beaches, with a well-regarded beach restaurant and lively summer evening events.
Wikipedia (it) - CC BY-SAOtranto - Baia dei Turchi
Beach
Unspoilt cove accessible only on foot (30 minutes' walk from Otranto), with white-sand dunes and fragrant pine woodland. Water of an almost unreal blue-green hue, sandy bottom, zero facilities—this is the reward for effort. Legendarily connected to the Ottoman landing of 1480.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPoniatówka Beach
Beach
Wild urban beach on the right bank of the Vistula, accessible on foot from the city centre. Fine sand, clear water in summer, makeshift beach bars and views across Warsaw's skyline — a striking contrast to the urban sprawl.
Wikipedia (es) - CC BY-SAPlaya del Molino de Papel
Beach
A wild little cove at the foot of the Maro cliffs, reachable only on foot via a coastal path. Turquoise waters and pristine surroundings make it the locals' secret spot to escape crowded beaches.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SASandsend Beach
Beach
A long sandy beach 5 km north of Whitby, with the village of Sandsend at one end and wild dunes. Far quieter than Whitby, ideal for dog walkers and leisurely strolls.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SACullercoats Bay
Beach
A preserved fishing cove between Tynemouth and Whitley Bay, lined with characteristic limestone cottages. Less busy than Tynemouth, it offers an authentic coastal panorama and the atmosphere of a fishing village from another era.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SABalmedie Country Park & Beach
Beach
Expansive wild beach of pale sand backed by impressive dunes, just 10 km north of Aberdeen. Quieter than the Esplanade and favoured by locals seeking genuine escape and space.
Wikipedia (ca) - CC BY-SACala Pregonda
Beach
Wild cove with emerald waters and russet sand scattered with ochre rocks, accessible only on foot or by boat. The absence of a road ensures a pristine atmosphere even at the height of summer.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAGovernor's Beach
Beach
Emblematic beach of white pebbles contrasting with black chalk cliffs – an almost lunar landscape unique to Cyprus. Several small isolated coves accessible on foot along the coast.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPorth Beach & Island
Beach
Quiet beach 2 km north of the town centre, with a rocky island accessible on foot at low tide. The hinterland is a little-known butterfly reserve.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SABroughty Ferry Beach
Beach
A long sandy beach at the mouth of the Tay, popular with families and weekend surfers. Commanding views over Broughty Castle and the estuary; sunsets over the Tay are spectacular here.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAPlage des Grands Sables
Beach
Belle-Île's largest beach, spanning two kilometres of fine sand in a crescent arc, remains remarkably unspoilt even in summer. Ideal for family bathing thanks to its shallow waters.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAStroomi Beach
Beach
Fine sandy beach on Tallinn's northern coastline, frequented by local families rather than tourists. In summer, Estonians picnic until 11 p.m. thanks to the white nights—an unparalleled scene of local life.
Wikipedia (pt) - CC BY-SAPraia do Paraíso
Beach
An intimate beach secreted between two cliff faces, accessed by a steep staircase. Favoured by local residents seeking refuge from the main beaches during summer.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAGraniers Beach
Beach
A small, family-friendly local beach just steps from the citadel, often overlooked by tourists rushing to Pampelonne. Clear water, tranquil atmosphere, a few fishing boats. The locals' favourite spot for a quick dip.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPerranporth Beach & Perran Sands
Beach
Vast three-mile stretch of sand south of Newquay, backed by massive dunes and the ruins of a 6th-century oratory half-buried in the sand. Among Cornwall's finest wild beaches, often completely deserted outside the height of summer.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SASurfers' Beach – Anse à l'Ane
Beach
A wild, quiet beach in Trois-Îlets, reachable from Fort-de-France by ferry then on foot. Locals favour it for snorkelling and Sunday picnics, the water remarkably crystalline.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAMawgan Porth Beach
Beach
Crescent-shaped wild cove a few kilometres north of Newquay, with an estuary and unspoilt dunes. Locals flock here for surfing and a refreshingly uncommercial atmosphere.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAMarina Piccola
Beach
The most authentic marina on the island, sheltered beneath the Faraglioni. A few historic bathing establishments like La Canzone del Mare coexist with freely accessible rock coves.
Wikipedia (pt) - CC BY-SACalifórnia Beach
Beach
Beach west of Santiago Fort, popular with local surfers when the swell picks up. Relaxed atmosphere, with a few street-food vans in the evenings during summer.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAAbereiddy Bay and Blue Lagoon
Beach
Wales's unique volcanic black-sand beach, adjoining a flooded slate quarry that forms a striking blue-green lagoon. Home to the international Red Bull Cliff Diving competition.
Wikipedia (it) - CC BY-SASan Montano Beach
Beach
Crescent-shaped beach set in a sheltered bay at Lacco Ameno, blessed with exceptional blue-green waters. Shallow and tranquil, it's favoured by local families on weekends.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAInch Beach (Trá Inse)
Beach
A 5km sand spit stretching into Dingle Bay, boasting perfect waves for surfing and golden light unique to late afternoon. One of Ireland's most renowned kitesurfing spots.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SANewgale Beach
Beach
Vast 3km beach of shingle and sand, exposed to Atlantic winds that make it a paradise for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The Duke of Edinburgh pub overlooking the beach is where local sportspeople gather after sessions.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAGower Peninsula – Rhossili Bay
Beach
Frequently ranked among Europe's finest beaches, this 5km bay facing the Atlantic delivers spectacular sunsets over Worm's Head. Visit midweek to avoid crowds.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAPointe du Bout Beach
Beach
A tranquil beach on the Trois-Îlets peninsula, a 20-minute speedboat journey from the Embarkation Quay. Turquoise waters and sandy bottom are ideal for snorkelling amongst tropical fish.
Wikipedia (pt) - CC BY-SAPraia do Barril
Beach
Beach reached on foot from Pedras d'El Rei via a small train or a 15-minute walk. Famous for its tuna anchor cemetery, a poignant remnant of the area's fishing heritage.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SABallycastle Beach & Harbour
Beach
A lively coastal village with a blue-sand beach and an operating fishing port. The atmosphere feels more authentic than Portrush, and Saturday morning market is absolutely worth the visit.
Wikipedia (it) - CC BY-SABagni di Tiberio
Beach
First-century Roman bathing site directly on the sea, accessible by boat from Marina Grande. Secluded pebble beach with Roman ruins in the water – swimming between history and the Mediterranean.
Wikipedia (es) - CC BY-SAPlaya de Benijo
Beach
Wild volcanic black sand beach north of Anaga, with views of the Roques de Anaga. Nearly inaccessible by bus, it remains unspoilt by crowds – locals come here to watch the sunset from the rocks.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAAberdeen Beach Esplanade
Beach
Two miles of golden sand right in the city centre, surprisingly clean and pleasantly quiet outside peak season. Commanding views across the North Sea towards the oil platforms on the horizon—a quintessentially Aberdonian vista.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAFreshwater East Beach
Beach
Crescent-shaped, almost wild beach 8 km from Tenby, with sand dunes and access to the Coast Path towards Trewent Point. Very quiet on weekdays, crystalline waters and free car parking outside season.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAFouras-les-Bains Beach
Beach
Family-friendly beach on the Fouras peninsula, 15 km from Rochefort, with direct views of Aix Island and Fort Boyard. Calm waters and fine sand, less crowded than Oléron beaches.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SACaerbwdy Bay
Beach
Secluded cove with striking red sandstone cliffs, accessible only on foot from St Davids. Remarkably quiet even during peak summer, this is the beach locals fiercely guard for themselves.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAAgia Triada Beach
Beach
Popular beach among Thessaloniki residents, 30 km away, with an authentic fishing village and fish tavernas on the sand. Far quieter than Halkidiki beaches on weekdays.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAPlage de la Bocca
Beach
Fine sand beach west of Cannes, far less crowded than the private beaches of the Croisette. Free access, local family atmosphere, with views of the red-hued Esterel at day's end.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPraia de Porto da Cruz
Beach
Volcanic black shingle beach framed by cliffs at Porto da Cruz, with a lively beach bar in summer. The waves suit local bodyboarders well and the atmosphere is decidedly non-touristy.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAWhipsiderry Beach
Beach
Modest wild beach reached by a steep path from the Porth cliffs, largely bypassed even at peak season. The rock pools at low tide host some of the region's richest marine fauna.
Wikipedia (es) - CC BY-SAOyambre Beach
Beach
Vast unspoilt beach stretching 2 km within the Oyambre natural park, considered one of Cantabria's finest. Perfect for surfing and lengthy walks at sunset.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SACricquebœuf Beach
Beach
A few kilometres from Honfleur on the Fleurie Coast, this wild shingle beach is bordered by cliffs and a small isolated Romanesque church. Far less busy than Deauville – ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SACastle Beach Tenby
Beach
Sheltered beach nestled beneath Castle Hill, quieter than South and North Beach, accessible at low tide. Dramatic setting with towering cliffs and direct views across to Caldey Island.
Wikipedia (ca) - CC BY-SACala Saona
Beach
The only cove on the western coast, framed by ochre cliffs and pine trees. A small, family-friendly beach with deep blue waters, perfect for snorkelling in the late afternoon once the tour groups have departed.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SARunswick Bay
Beach
A spectacular cove 11 km north of Whitby, with fishing cottages clinging to the cliff above a largely untamed sandy beach. Less crowded than Robin Hood's Bay, accessible only on foot from the elevated car park.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SALes Roches Noires Beach
Beach
A wilder extension of the main beach southwards, less crowded and bordered by rocks at low tide. Perfect for hunting shells and watching cockle-gatherers at work.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAŠunj Beach (Lopud Island)
Beach
The only true sandy beach in the region, on Lopud Island fifty minutes by ferry away. Cross the island on foot or by golf cart from the village to reach this crescent-shaped beach, virtually empty outside July and August.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAHolywell Bay
Beach
Wild beach 8 km south of Newquay, featuring vast dunes and a sea cave that reveals a freshwater spring at low tide. Less crowded, it's the locals' preferred choice.
Wikipedia (pt) - CC BY-SAPraia da Galé
Beach
Expansive fine-sand beach west of Albufeira, quieter than the central strands and popular with Portuguese families. The dunes behind the beach form a protected natural habitat.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAVilamoura Beach
Beach
Fine-sand beach directly accessible from the marina, less crowded than Falésia thanks to its location. Visit early morning when locals jog along the shoreline.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAAnse Mitan Beach
Beach
Fine sand beach overlooking Fort-de-France Bay, ideal for snorkelling with shallow waters and colourful fish. Less crowded than southern beaches, with coconut palms providing welcome shade.
Wikipedia (pt) - CC BY-SAPraia da Ursa
Beach
A wild beach accessible only on foot via a 30-minute trail from Cabo da Roca. Nestled between 100-metre cliffs and two giant rocks (the Bear and the Cub), it is one of Portugal's most dramatic beaches.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAPunta Grò Beach
Beach
A wild pebble beach accessible only on foot or by boat from Limone sul Garda, surrounded by limestone cliffs. No facilities – just turquoise water and mountains, frequented by local fishermen.
Wikipedia (es) - CC BY-SANatural Pool of Salinas de Sin
Beach
Natural basin arranged in the río Cinca near Salinas de Sin, with water slightly warmer than at Bielsa thanks to south-facing exposure. Secret bathing spot for valley residents.