Europe’s coastline is incredibly diverse, with glistening crystalline waters and sweeping expanses of volcanic black sand. From the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the white Mediterranean sands of the Balearics, these destinations attract millions of sun-seeking travelers every year. Yet, beyond the tourist hotspots lie thousands of miles of undiscovered stretches of coast, just waiting to be explored by those willing to venture further. Spanning from the North Sea to the Black Sea, here’s where you can find the best of Europe’s lesser-known beaches — without a seaside resort in sight.
Lokrum Island, Croatia
A mere 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town port, Lokrum Island offers a secluded retreat away from the crowded streets of the popular Croatian city. Protected by UNESCO as a special reserve of forest vegetation, Lokrum Island boasts more pine trees and peacocks — living wild on the island — than people.
Highlights:
- Mrtvo More (Dead Sea): A saltwater lagoon formed by tectonic shifts and erosion, connected to the Adriatic Sea by an underwater passage. The lagoon is surrounded by jagged rock faces, providing sheltered, still waters ideal for swimming. Sunbathe on the flat rock formations before diving into the crystal-clear waters, but watch out for friendly peacocks that might try to steal your lunch.
Burnham Overy Staithe, England
To experience Norfolk’s vast blue skies in all their glory, head to the hidden oasis of Burnham Overy Staithe beach on the North Norfolk Coast. This secluded spot requires a mile-long walk through the English countryside to reach the coast, but the unobstructed views of yellow-golden sands and rockpools make the final clamber over the sand dunes well worth it.
Highlights:
- Norfolk Coast Path: Park at Burnham Overy Staithe harbor, popular for sailing, paddle-boarding, and kayaking, then head along the raised sandy banks of the Norfolk Coast Path. The beach is entirely flat, with nothing but endless grains of sand and the occasional sunken pool of seawater left from the retreating tide.
Mirror Beach, Albania
Travel around the southern Albanian coast and you’re bound to find isolated pockets of white sand and crystal-clear waters, but Mirror Beach is arguably the best. Named for how the sunlight reflects on the sea, this area of untouched coastline remains a secret, even in the summer months.
Highlights:
- Ksamil: The nearest village, located nearly four miles away. A small car park near the entrance to the beach requires hiring an umbrella, but the private, intimate, and crowd-free spots make the fee worthwhile.
Riva Bianca, Italy
Known mostly to the residents of the medieval town of Lierna on the eastern shore of northern Italy’s Lake Como, Riva Bianca is a lakeside hideout frequented by local families. Backed by the lush, vegetation-clad mountains surrounding Lake Como, Riva Bianca offers a short stretch of shoreline but compensates with its scenic beauty.
Highlights:
- Castello di Lierna: An ancient defensive castle overlooking the beach.
- Local Cuisine: Excellent pizza and gelato spots in Lierna provide quintessential Italian meals. Swim shoes are recommended due to the small white pebbles the beach is named after, but the clean, calm waters are worth it.
Veleka Beach, Bulgaria
Set against the backdrop of the Strandzha mountains just seven miles from the Turkish border, Veleka Beach is named after the river that flows into the Black Sea. The beach typically extends for just less than a mile, providing ample space for sunbathing by the river or seaside.
Highlights:
- Paddleboarding: Take advantage of the river’s calm waters with the local windsurfing school.
- Free Umbrellas: Available at the beach entrance. Facilities are limited, so bring enough refreshments and SPF for a day under the blazing Bulgarian sun.
Plage Mala, France
Amid the glitz and glamour of Nice, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez lies Plage Mala, a small inlet tucked into a cove. This beach is the ultimate secret, hidden in the towering cliff faces of the French Riviera coast. With white sands and clear blue waters, this crescent-shaped bay offers the same beauty as the more popular beaches of the French Riviera but on a quieter scale.
Highlights:
- Access: Reachable by the coastal path along the Cap d’Ail shore or the 100 steps of Allée Mala near Cap d’Ail train station.
- Cliff Jumping: Well-suited for those keen to try cliff jumping. Be mindful of the safe swimming area reserved for those who prefer to save their energy for the long ascent back up the cliff.
These hidden gems of Europe’s coastline offer serene, untouched beauty away from the bustling tourist spots. Each beach provides a unique experience, from the secluded tranquility of Lokrum Island to the rugged charm of Burnham Overy Staithe, the reflective beauty of Mirror Beach, the local allure of Riva Bianca, the natural splendor of Veleka Beach, and the glamorous seclusion of Plage Mala. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, these secret beaches are perfect for your next coastal getaway.
