Last updated: May 28, 2026
When it comes to vacations, it’s easy to take the easy route. America’s a big place, after all – and with enough coastline to serve a thousand summers and spring breaks. Who here hasn’t enjoyed a long weekend in Florida, soaking up some rays and housing a Cubano on the beach? Sometimes, though, we want a little more from our getaway than a different flavor of the same nation. Especially when we don’t have as much time to play with as people in other nations.
And there it is, gleaming on the other side of the Atlantic; a continental landmass teeming with vacation potential, from secluded and romantic beaches to popular party-centric shores. Europe is a melting pot of cultural wonderment, and home to some of the world’s most stunning coastlines too. If you want a conventional sun-and-sea vacation, Europe is one of the best places to visit to do so. But where, specifically, should you go?
Greece
Greece is an absolute classic vacay destiny for beach lovers – with partial thanks to the sheer amount of coastline it has to offer. Greece comprises a mainland and some 6000 islands, which certainly adds up on the beach front. Of course, some beaches are much more popular than others.
Take, for instance, Santorini. This is a renowned island for nightlife – and even more renowned for its striking, volcanic black-sand beaches. Here, you can experience some stunning sunsets without leaving the party behind. Alternatively, Navagio beach in Zakynthos is a quiet, insulated cove colloquially referred to as Shipwreck Beach; it’s a quintessential place for blue-sea paddling and imagining a rich alternate life as a smuggler…
Croatia
Croatia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets – or, maybe, worst-kept now, as more people are discovered exactly what this Adriatic marvel has to offer. One of its biggest offerings is its absurdly long coastline, which stretches down some 1100 miles.
That’s a lot of coastline to find your favorite beach in! Given the sheer scope of the mission here, Croatia tours are the best way to experience the country; they let you sample its urban and rural highlights without hitching yourself to any one geographical post.
Spain
Now, Spain is one of the more stereotypical choices of European destination amongst vacationers, not just in the U.S. but globally. Still, it deserves its space in this guide – purely for the fact that Spain is so darn popular for a reason. Spain delivers incredible diversity when it comes to beaches, from the teeming family-friendly resort beaches of the Costa del Sol to the quiet sea-cave-y sands of Praia as Catedrais in Galicia.
