Who doesn’t love lounging on a beach on their hols?
The white sand between your feet. Crystal clear waters cresting onto the shore. The scorching sun giving you a tan that’ll be the talk of your friends back home. We’re getting excited just thinking about it!
With so many stretches of sand to choose from in the Mediterranean, it can be tough to know which one you should head to first. Good thing we’ve put together this list of the best Mediterranean beaches to be found in the region.
Beach towels at the ready – things are about to get postcard-worthy very quickly.
1. Jaz Beach, Montenegro
This 1.2km beach has plenty to offer those stepping foot onto its white sand. For starters, it’s located in Budva, and if a city nicknamed “the Montenegrin Miami” doesn’t get you excited, then the vibrant buzz of the place will.
As for the beach itself, prepare to be wowed by its incredible turquoise water. Whether you’re going for a dip in or admiring it from up high on Tivat Road’s nearby sheer cliffs, it’s hard not to be amazed. It also tends to be warmer than other Mediterranean waters, so even the most surf-averse sunbather might be tempted to make a splash.
2. Zlatni Rat, Croatia
It might not have the nicest-sounding name, but don’t fret, this Croatian beach’s moniker simply means “golden horn”, due to its cornet-like land. For this reason, it’s one of the most snapped beaches in Croatia, so get those cameras at the ready.
Formed from golden pebble sand, Zlatni Rat is refreshingly uncrowded, which means there’s ample space for you to stretch out on. Chaises and umbrellas can be rented for max relaxation, or you can shade yourself from the sun in the shadows of the pine trees that surround this slice of paradise.
3. Navagio, Greece
Across the Greek Islands, beaches are plentiful, which might make deciding on the right one tough. But for our money, this sandy sprawl on the northwest coast of Zakynthos is the best of the bunch.
You’ll have to take a boat from another resort to get there, but it’s well worth making the trip. All the usual white sands and incredible blue waters can be found here, but it’s the story of the shipwrecked vessel on its shore that puts it in our Med hall of fame. The result of a hot pursuit that ran aground in 1983, the ship has stayed there ever since, giving this Greek beach an adventurous side that’s all its own.
And while it can’t be beaten for decades-old wreckage, it’s definitely lacking in shade, so pack a sun hat, an umbrella and plenty of sun cream if you’re planning to voyage here.
4. Pokonji Dol, Croatia
Another pebbly beach located in Croatia, Pokonji Dol beach might get rocky underfoot, but some of the clearest water in Europe make it a Mediterranean must-swim. Roped off but large enough that you won’t swim into anyone else’s path, there are plenty of sights to see mid-stroke too. Along with the translucent sea, you’ll find an offshore church on its own little island, a charming and peaceful view that’s the perfect accompaniment to a laid-back paddle.
Plus, with two nearby restaurants, it’s the perfect place to have delicious beachside food – and a few cocktails – after you’ve worked up an appetite from all that swimming you’ll be doing.
5. Spiaggia Rosa, Italy
Unlike anywhere else on this list, you can’t actually step foot on this unique stretch of beach. That’s because the fragile ecosystem of its sands has been protected since the 1990s. Still, Pink Beach (to give it its English name) remains an incredible sight.
Fuchsia and salmon-shaded thanks to tiny fragments of corals and shells which have been eroded to powder, the colours of this incredible area can still be viewed from afar as part of a guided boat trip. An unforgettable sight for anyone making the trip.
6. Caló des Moro, Spain
Of all the Balearic Islands’ beaches, Caló des Moro is said to be the most picturesque. Small but perfectly formed, it’s only 40 metres in length, so it’s best to arrive early if you want to nab a space for you and your party. Hemmed in by two cliffs (complete with swaying pine trees), there’s an exclusive feel to Caló des Moro that makes beachgoers here feel truly blessed.
Speaking of – the small expanse feels like it’s been properly rewarded with waters of the deepest turquoise. In fact, they’re so perfect looking, you might feel guilty diving into them. A few seconds here and you’ll soon see why it’s no longer the hidden gem that it once was.
7. Kizkalesi, Turkey
How many beaches in the Mediterranean can boast not one, but two nearby castles? Our guess is not many, which is why Kizkalesi beach makes the cut here. Castle number one is on the beach itself, and you can have a nosey around it for a small fee.
Castle number two, on the other hand, is located just offshore. You’ll have to swim to it, but if you want to feel like a swashbuckling explorer or play at castaway, there’s nothing else like it on this list. And for an incredible view, wait until sunset. Seeing the sky turn orange with this Turkish castle in the foreground is a moment you’ll never forget.
8. St Peter’s Pool, Malta
Malta’s beaches fill up quickly. Prefer something a little less, well, packed? Make your way to St. Peter’s Pool, a beach that’s as tailormade for adrenaline junkies as it is for those seeking a diamond in the rough.
You’ll be on white chalk rock as opposed to sand, but this small cove is the perfect jumping-off point (literally) for a quick dip. Beachgoers here dive off into the deep blue waters below, making a splash as the sun beams down on the fun. And don’t worry, everything’s safe enough that you won’t have to worry about injuring yourself or others here.
9. Praia Dona Ana, Portugal
While some may go for the hustle and bustle of Lagos, we’re opting for this tucked-away treasure located just south of Portugal’s more popular resort instead. The world’s your oyster here, either relax on the curving sand or take a Ponta boat trip and be amazed by the cliffs, rock formations and grottoes that surround this mesmerising beach.
And afterwards, pull up a chair at the beachside café for relaxed refreshments before you bid farewell.
Wish you were on one of these beaut beaches? Stop wishing and get booking instead! Head over to our unbeatable range of cruise holidays and get something in the travel schedule today.