European Beaches Set to Captivate This Summer's Vacationers

The summer holidays are here, and water-based vacation destinations are high on everyone's list. Holidu, a vacation home portal, has unveiled its ranking of the top-rated beaches in Europe for 2025, based on Google Maps data. This list showcases that high satisfaction isn't limited to the well-known beaches of Southern Europe, but extends to lesser-known coasts in the United Kingdom.

The ranking is a combination of average rating and the number of reviews. Among the top-rated beaches is Cala Mariolu, a rocky cove with turquoise water situated in Sardinia, Italy, accessible only by boat or steep paths.

Spiaggia dei Conigli, located on Lampedusa's southern coast in Italy, is another standout. Known for its clear waters, fine sand, secluded location, limited accessibility, and ecological value, it ranks as one of the best-rated beaches in Europe.

In the United Kingdom, Woolacombe Beach in Devon offers wide sandy expanses, a long shoreline, and good conditions for water sports. Its developed tourist infrastructure is reflected in the high number of reviews. Meanwhile, Traeth Mwnt, a small beach in a protected cove with views of Cardigan Bay, and Barafundle Bay, only accessible on foot via a coastal path, are both located in Wales. Their natural surroundings, light sand, and lack of tourist infrastructure result in consistently positive reviews.

Barafundle Bay Beach in Wales secured the second place, and Traeth Mwnt in Wales took the third place in Holidu's 2025 best-rated beaches in Europe. Both are accessible and searchable online through sources like Google Maps and Holidu's ranking reports.

Praia da Adraga in Portugal, nestled in the coastal landscape of the Serra de Sintra, offers striking rock formations and direct road access. Playa de Mataleñas, located in a steeply incised bay near Santander, Spain, is popular with bathers due to its sheltered location.

The remote, kilometer-long Playa de Cofete in Fuerteventura, Spain, with its strong waves and no tourist infrastructure, is another notable beach.

The article does not discuss the most visited beaches in Europe or the economic impact of beach vacations on European tourism. It also does not cover beaches in the Caribbean with coconuts and tropical climates.

For more information about life and work abroad, visit our website at [email protected].