There’s nothing better than relaxing by a beach on holiday. Just think of a cocktail in hand, hearing the waves in the background and soaking up some vitamin D. But where in Europe would you recommend as the best beach?
Well, travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have created the 2024 European Beach Index to help travellers find their ideal beach destination. The index ranks 10 popular European beaches based on factors such as the sea and air temperature, five-star reviews, average daily costs and the height of the waves.
Greg Wilson, CEO and travel insurance expert at Quotezone, said: “Travellers seeking the perfect summer getaway will be searching for destinations where they can soak up the sun and relax on the beach without worrying about big waves and cold temperatures.
“Our team looked at 10 popular summer vacation destinations across Europe, ranking them on factors such as water and air temperatures, waves and five-star reviews.
“Another factor we took into consideration was the average daily costs in each destination, including meals, transport and hotels, as many families are looking for budget-friendly vacations that won’t break the bank.”
10. France
A beach in Corsica, France came last in the ranking, largely due to its expensive food, hotel and transport expenses, costing travellers more than double compared to the cheapest destination.
Most popular beach – Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica
Average sea temperature in June – 21.8 °C
Number of five-star reviews – 3,394
Average temperature in the hottest month – 22.8 °C
Average daily cost in the destination – 233 €
Wave height – 0.48m
(Image: Getty)
9. England
England is not a typical beach destination, however, many Brits still plan charming seaside staycations and Bournemouth beach is a popular choice for holidaymakers in the UK.
This beach offers beautiful seaside views and a pier full of attractions for the whole family, but due to England’s cold sea and air temperatures, the beach has been ranked second to last in the list.
The most popular beach – Bournemouth Beach
Average sea temperature in June – 14.7 °C
Number of five-star reviews – 5,987
Average temperature in the hottest month – 17.2 °C
Average daily cost in the destination – 180 €
Wave height – 0.17m
(Image: Getty)
8. Spain
The location in Gran Canaria also has beautiful golden sand and we can certainly see why people flock there due to a warm average temperature. Let’s not forget that is a nudist beach.
Most popular beach – Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Average sea temperature in June – 21.3 °C
Number of five-star reviews – 4,971
Average temperature in the hottest month – 24.6 °C
Average daily cost in the destination – 151 €
Wave height – 1.06m
(Image: Getty)
7. Portugal
The Algarve remains a popular destination for families and we can see why thanks to the location being slightly more affordable thanks to its daily costs.
Most popular beach – Praia da Falesia, Algarve
Average sea temperature in June – 19 °C
Number of five-star reviews – 4,042
Average temperature in the hottest month – 24.4 °C
Average daily cost in the destination – 137 €
Wave height – 0.6m
(Image: Getty)
6. Italy
When you think of Italy you think of beautiful Sardinia with its crystal blue waters and warm temperatures.
Most popular beach – La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia
Average sea temperature in June – 21.5 °C
Number of five-star reviews – 6,768
Average temperature in the hottest month – 24.2 °C
Average daily cost in the destination – 166 €
Wave height – 1.05m
(Image: Getty)