The Best Alternative Beaches in Europe for Crowd-Free Shores

From secret spots along the Costa Blanca to in-the-know Estonian hideouts, discover these sandy stretches.

A beach is essential to a holiday. The feeling of sand between our toes, the rhythmic sea, and the salty ocean breeze are the backdrop we envisage for a European break. The snag is, everyone else thinks the same. Consequently, during peak seasons, carving out a shore spot can feel impossible.

However, some of the best alternative beaches across Europe tell a different story. During the sunniest months, these beaches are likely to be calmer. From Karpas Peninsula in Portugal to Ramla Bay in Malta, here are our favorite seaside spots for avoiding crowds.

Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus

North Cyprus was isolated just a few years ago. Now, it’s calmer and quieter than the south. Specifically, the Karpas Peninsula, with its pristine Mediterranean waters and honey-hued sands, captures that calm. The Golden Beach, a 4km stretch of coastline, is a highlight.

Where to stay: Karpaz Gate Marina Hotel is popular among discerning yachters. The Marina Beach Club offers an infinity pool, private beach, and family facilities.

Where to eat: Even if not staying at Karpaz Gate, book a table at their Beach Club Restaurant. The tables on the veranda look directly onto the sea.

Ramla Bay, Malta

Separated from Malta by a small channel, Gozo is renowned for its coastline. Ramla Bay, with its reddish sands, is a hidden gem on the northeast coast. The warm waters are calm by day, and the sunsets are spectacular by night.

Where to stay: Ta’Cenc offers eco-friendly luxury with charming suites, a wellness spa, and two swimming pools.

Where to eat: one80 Kitchen at Mgarr Yacht Marina serves fresh fish and authentic Maltese dishes with harborside views.

Betina Špilja, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Although Betina Cave Beach is not a soft-sand beach, it is a beach within a cave. Hidden within the rocks, this pebbly stretch is lapped by crystal-clear waters and is never crowded since it cannot be reached by land.

Where to stay: St. Joseph’s in Dubrovnik’s old town offers romance, privacy, and authenticity. Each suite has its own kitchenette.

Where to eat: Lucin Kantun serves reimagined Croatian dishes and classic cocktails. The chic outdoor terrace and hidden location make it a must-dine.

Sithonia Cape, Halkidiki, Greece

Sithonia Cape juts out of the southern end of Sithonia Peninsula, removed from the resorts of Halkidiki. Consequently, this wild beach offers solace in abundance.

Where to stay: Ekies All Senses Resort, around 50 minutes’ drive away, offers barefoot luxury with hammocks perfect for sipping ouzo.

Where to eat: Panorama Kalamitsi, a short drive from Sithonia Cape, is authentic and well-loved by locals.

Plage d’Hatainville, Normandy, France

Plage d’Hatainville, one of the largest and quietest beaches near Barneville-Carteret, is more suited to a wander and explore rather than an all-day stay.

Where to stay: Hotel La Marine offers guests breakfast with a sea view, downtime on the terrace, and bright, sunny rooms.

Where to eat: La Potinière offers direct access from the terrace to the sea and a buzzy feel late into the night.

Matsi Beach, Estonia

Matsi Beach in Pärnu, flanked by sand dunes and coastal pine forest, is calm, picturesque, and one of the only sandy beaches in the area.

Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Rosenplänter in Pärnu offers intriguing interiors that pay homage to the building’s past.

Where to eat: Steffani, a relaxed daytime diner in Pärnu, has an eclectic menu and locals setting the world to rights.

Riserva Vendicari, Sicily

Riserva Vendicari’s boundless sands stretch out at the edge of a protected national park. Moreover, it offers enchanting coves, rugged landscapes, and very few sunbathers.

Where to stay: Casa Vendicari, once a Sicilian farm, is now an authentic boutique hotel steps from Vendicari Beach.

Where to eat: Agriturismo Il Baglietto, within the nature reserve, serves typical Sicilian fish dishes under olive trees.

Cala Sardinera, Costa Blanca

Cala Sardinera isn’t your usual tourist trap. This wild beach with coarse sand enjoys shelter beneath the Cap Prim headland, reached via an enchanting hike through pine trees.

Where to stay: Casa Babel in Villalonga, at the foot of the Safor Mountains, offers eight rooms in an 18th-century mansion.

Where to eat: Tula on Playa del Arenal in Jávea serves honest, unpretentious dishes using seasonal ingredients in a fine-dining setting.