If you yearn for a European summer vacation but don’t want to deal with the suffocating crowds descending on popular hotspots each year, opt for smaller, quieter coastal locations that will deliver everything you could hope for in a seaside holiday.
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The best coastal escapes in Europe
San Sebastián, Spain
There is something truly magical about the laid-back atmosphere of Donostia-San Sebastián, nestled in the sweeping hills of Basque country. This Spanish coastal town makes for the ultimate vacation getaway when it comes to Europe coast escapes. The idyllic beaches perfectly hug the city’s old town, creating the perfect balance between relaxed beach life and the bustling energy of the city.Â
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The dazzling waters of BahÃa de la Concha are speckled with kayaks lining the bay and paddlers leisurely making their way across the still waters, catching up with friends under the sweeping summer sunshine.
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
If you have never thought to book a trip to the Canary Islands, consider this your sign to take the plunge and visit Fuerteventura. The sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean crashing onto the endless stretch of Cofete Beach, set against the backdrop of the dramatic JandÃa mountains, will take your breath away.
The entire island has been classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, speckled with salt pans, volcanoes, and wind-battered coastlines surrounding Mount Tindaya rising from its center. Located in the north and northwest areas of the island, visitors will find the resort town of Corralejo and the fishing village of El Cotillo. Slow seafood lunches, complete with island tomatoes and Majorero cheese, can be enjoyed at a range of beautiful restaurants situated across Corralejo.Â
Whether you need an escape from the weather or the endless chaos of everyday life, packing your favorite one-piece swimsuit for women and booking the ultimate European coastal vacation to a location like the Canary Islands may transform your life in ways you could have never imagined.Â
Europe coast escapes – Hvar, Croatia
Visitors to Hvar Croatia often feel like they are in a special type of sunshine specifically reserved for Hvar. A day spent at any one of its secluded bays can feel like you have been transported into a storybook. When your skin begins to tingle, you can make your way to the water’s edge for a refreshing dip.Â
As the sun begins to set, you can enjoy a casual and mouth-watering dish of freshly grilled octopus, perfectly salty chips, and a nice cold beer, watching your surroundings transform under the deep honey hues of a setting summer sun, making way for a dazzling sky of twinkling stars reflecting off the endless waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Cap Ferret, France
If there is anything that can attract visitors to Cap Ferret, a sliver of land extending over Arachon Bay on France’s Atlantic Coast, it is the seafood. Oysters are served straight from the ocean alongside prawns, whelks, and periwinkles on minimalistic, French-influenced menus that will satisfy any foodie.
Rent a bicycle to see the sites of the area, including beautiful whitewashed wooden cabins with a rainbow of painted shutters in L‘Herbe, north of the port. Or travel to the peninsula’s Atlantic coast to enjoy the vast and sandy Plage de la Torchere, a popular surfing spot for tourists and locals alike.
Favignana, Egadi Islands, Italy
Early mornings in Favignana, the largest of three islands in the Egadi archipelago, located off the far western end of Sicily, can feel like the edge of the world. Dwarfed by never ending skies, windswept trees, spiky cacti, and a vast, porcelain sea, it is the ultimate escape from busy city life.Â
Houses are simple and square, with narrow lanes winding through low stone walls. The only cars belong to locals while everyone else navigates the stony streets on bicycles and scooters. A swim along the coast consists of rock shelves in crystal-clear, sparkling waters, while a short boat ride out of port reveals beautifully hidden bays. Book a stay at any of the stylish boutique hotels, and be sure to visit the botanic garden, home to nearly 500 plant species.
Europe coast escapes – Troon, Scotland
It may seem unusual to think of Scotland as a summer getaway destination, but the small Scottish town of Troon will exceed all expectations of nature enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors. While the sun doesn’t shine that often, when it does make its long-awaited appearance, the Ayrshire coast is illuminated in all its glory.
Take a long walk along the sandy, rugged beaches, hike through the surrounding dunes, or stroll along the historic Royal Troon Golf Course before heading to the harbor for the ultimate serving of fish and chips. Book your stay at the Marine Troon Hotel, which underwent a full refurbishment in 2022 to include a complete spa, nail bar, and indoor heated pool with jaw-dropping sea views.Â
Syros, Greece
Despite being located just 30 minutes away by ferry from Mykonos, Syros feels like a world away from its more popular coastal partner city. Here, you will find zero selfie sticks blocking your view, reasonable and affordable prices, and unmatched Syriani hospitality.
The waterside capital, Ermupolis, is known for its humble cubic houses and whitewash, with its Lower Town reflecting Neo-Classical influence. But there is more to this location than just its rich history. There is a university and year-round events across its beaches and villages, including jazz, street art, film, and classical music festivals, and waterside restaurants serving delicious menus perfected by homegrown chefs.
