Alternative Summer Beach Destinations in Europe

With summer fast approaching, I got to thinking about all the beach destinations Europe has to offer. Everyone knows the classics like Italy, France and Greece, which is why they tend to be pretty overcrowded and booked up in summer. For those that are adverse to crowds, or planning things more last-minute, where then do you go?

To help, I’ve put together a short list of alternative summer beach destinations. This list ought to get you thinking about places you hadn’t considered before as “summer holiday” spots. Not only are each beautiful beach getaways, but they also have plenty of cool sights and activities to do between trips to the beach. After all, that’s usually why I visit them, what with my super pale skin and all.

Bulgaria

It’s always strange when a place is totally adored by one group of tourists and utterly ignored by another. This definitely seems to be the case with Bulgaria’s coast along the Black Sea. For a select few nationalities, it seems to be a particularly popular summer vacation destination. For the rest of the world though, heading somewhere like Bulgaria would never even cross their mind. Of course that’s a crying shame as Bulgaria is a pretty great choice for some beach time.

For starters, it’s quite a cost-effective choice of destination as things like food and accommodation are quite reasonable. Secondly, Bulgarian summers would suit Goldilocks perfectly – not too hot, not too cold, just right. Finally there’s the beaches that dot Bulgaria’s coast, from Varna all the way down to Nesebar, Sunny Beach and Sozopol. Each destination has something different to offer, from beachfront clubs, to full beach resorts, to quiet little stretches where there’s no fuss at all.

Latvia

Northern Europe tends to be associated exclusively with cold weather but summer does indeed happen there too. All around the Baltic Sea you can find spectacular beaches to enjoy during the warmer months. Probably the best choice for an affordable Baltic beach holiday in my opinion is Latvia.

Compared to its Scandinavian brethren, Latvia is much gentler on your wallet and quite a transport hub for the region, making it easy to get to. What’s more, Latvia has oodles of coastline and much of it is lined with scenic beaches. Head to Jurmala outside Riga or down to Liepaja and you can bask in the sun on soft sand beaches. Venture instead to somewhere like Karosta and you’ll find shells and pebbles, but also cool ruined military bunkers.

Now full disclosure, the water is never going to compete with temperatures found in the Mediterranean or Adriatic. But if you’re thick skinned or don’t care to go in the water, then that’s hardly a problem now is it. I’d be remiss if I didn’t also recommend Lithuania and Estonia, that both also have nice beaches.

Montenegro

The popularity of Croatia as a summer destination has been building and building for years now and at some point it’s likely going to become too much. Somewhere that hasn’t reached nearly that level of popularity is neighbouring Montenegro, the tiny Balkan nation that has it all. Day trippers from Croatia may only head to historic Kotor and marvel at its Venetian beauty, but there’s more than just Kotor on offer here.

Relatively popular outside English-speaking markets is the small city of Budva, spoiled with a number of great beaches. Head south and you’ll find more and more beach spots, from luxurious Sveti Stefan to even less well-known spots. Venture north and you’ll find a couple of beaches on the Bay of Kotor like at Tivat, not to mention the beachfront at criminally underrated Herceg Novi. Montenegro does a lot with its small coastline, and good beaches is just one of those things.

As an aside; although I haven’t visited yet, I have a feeling neighbouring Albania is heading this way as well.

Rep. of Macedonia

As an Australian, when I hear beach I immediately think of the seaside. But in Europe, that’s not always the case. Many European countries are totally landlocked and still have summer spots with beaches. A clear standout in this regard, at least to me, is North Macedonia and its Lake Ohrid. This large lake that forms the border between the Rep. of Macedonia and Albania is dreadfully scenic, with mountains and forests, but it’s also acts as the country’s seaside.

Along many parts of the shores of Lake Ohrid you’ll find strips of pebble beaches by the crystal clear and calm waters. For children or those uncomfortable with open water, it’s the perfect environment for swimming or paddling. With pontoon areas by the shore of Ohrid, plus beaches in areas like Struga, St. Naum and Ljubaništa, Lake Ohrid has umpteen lakeside options. Like other Balkan destinations, you should find the area particularly affordable, plus have a variety of day trip options at your disposal.

Northern Spain

When people talk about Spain and beaches, chances are they’re thinking Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol or islands like Mallorca. This is after all where people have been going for years, lying under the aggressive Spanish sun on Mediterranean beaches. But for Spanish beaches with less of a kick, the north is where it’s at.

Whether it’s Basque Country or Galicia, the north has a slightly different climate. Rather than oppressive heat, summers in this part of Spain are a little more mild while still being pleasant and sunny. Now good weather is one thing, but good beaches is equally important. But there’s no need to worry on that front. Cities like San Sebastian and Vigo have some truly stunning beaches just out from the city centre, while the beaches of Islas Cies just off the coast of Vigo are near legendary.

What are your favourite summer beach destinations in Europe? Which of these alternative spots have you spent time in? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.