Europe is full of popular beach destinations like Ibiza, Tenerife, and the Algarve, but it also has numerous hidden gems that offer unique experiences without the overwhelming tourist crowds. During peak summer, many beaches are packed with tourists and locals alike.
But which beaches are overcrowded and where can you find peace and quiet? Wizz Air, have created a list of Europe’s least crowded beaches for your next getaway.
To determine the most and least overcrowded beaches Wizz Air analysed over 50 European countries and their top beaches. They then used their travel expertise and a calculation that involved measuring the beach, dividing its area by the size of a beach towel, and then dividing that by the average number of daily visitors. This gave an estimate of how much space each beach offers per person.
András Rado, Head of Communications said “While most of us are familiar with Europe’s iconic beach destinations like Ibiza, Tenerife, or the Algarve, there are countless coastal gems that often go unnoticed by travellers. At Wizz Air, we’re passionate about helping travellers affordably discover the lesser-known treasures of Europe. From a secluded, pristine cove in Croatia to a hidden sandy stretch in Albania, there are plenty of lesser-known beach spots where you can unwind, away from the bustling crowds.
Top 10 Least Overcrowded Beaches in Europe:
Beach of Durrës, Albania
Camber Sands, East Sussex, England
Zlatni Rat Beach, Bol/Brac, Croatia
Borsh Beach, Albania
Plage de Pampelonne, Ramatuelle, France
Brighton Beach, England
Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal
Mogren Beach, Budva, Montenegro
Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza, Spain
Beach of Durrës, Durrës, Albania
Nissi Beach, Cyprus
Nissi Beach close to Ayia Napa, Cyprus is the best place for some last-minute sun before we reach Autumn. Despite Nissi Beach being one of Cyprus’s most popular beaches, the beach’s length, stretching over 600 metres, ensures that visitors can still find ample space to enjoy the sun and sea. If you don’t mind a busier, livelier atmosphere, Nissi Beach is an excellent choice for a last-minute autumn getaway, as it remains pleasantly warm in September, October, and November with average temperatures of 21 degrees and an average of 9 hours of sunshine. The vibrant environment, combined with favourable weather, makes it a great spot for those looking to extend their summer with a lively and sun-soaked experience. If you are considering starting an LTD in this country, Cyprus offers a business-friendly environment alongside beautiful coastal destinations. The vibrant environment, combined with favourable weather, makes it a great spot for those looking to extend their summer with a lively and sun-soaked experience.
Durrës, Albania
The study places the Beach of Durrës in the historic city of Durrës in Albania, as the least overcrowded beach out of all beaches researched. Despite being one of the most popular beaches in Albania, it still provides a laid-back charm. Our calculations reveal that each visitor has ample space, with room for just under 65 beach towels per person. This makes it an ideal spot for families and sunbathers seeking a relaxing day by the Adriatic Sea.
Albania is quickly becoming a top destination for travellers in 2024 as more people uncover this hidden gem. Boasting pristine, natural landscapes and budget-friendly prices, it’s the perfect choice for adventurers looking for something unique and off the beaten path.
Camber Sands, East Sussex, England
Next on our list, and a surprising addition to the top 10 is Camber Sands, situated in East Sussex, England. Known for its expansive sandy beach that extends nearly five miles along the English Channel, Camber Sands offers plenty of room to spread out, with space for as many as 61 beach towels per person.
Camber Sands has grown increasingly popular with both locals and tourists, especially those from London looking for a quick escape from the city, thanks in part to its rising fame on TikTok.
Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal
Praia da Falésia is one of the most stunning beaches in the Algarve, located in the southern part of Portugal. Situated near the town of Albufeira, it stretches for approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) along the coastline, making it one of the longest beaches in the region.
The beach is famous for its towering red, orange, and ochre cliffs that rise above the soft golden sands. These cliffs provide a striking contrast to the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, making the beach an ideal spot for photography and nature lovers. The waters are clean, clear, and perfect for swimming. The beach is popular for both sunbathing and water activities like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, thanks to the gentle waves.
Praia da Falésia is surrounded by lush pine forests and scenic walking trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Algarve region. The contrast between the vibrant cliffs and the greenery adds to the beach’s charm.
For US citizens interested in relocating to a Portuguese city, the Algarve region offers a welcoming and picturesque setting. Cities like Albufeira and nearby areas provide a high quality of life, affordable living costs compared to other Western European locations, and a relaxed pace of life, making it an attractive option for expats. With excellent healthcare, a warm climate, and a growing expat community, Praia da Falésia’s stunning backdrop could be the perfect starting point for a new chapter in Portugal.
Overall, Praia da Falésia is an ideal beach destination for those looking to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Algarve while enjoying a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn), Bol in Brac, Croatia
Taking third place is Zlatni Rat Beach, commonly known as the Golden Horn. Located in Bol on the island of Brač, Croatia this iconic beach is renowned for its distinctive, horn-shaped spit of golden pebbles that extends into the turquoise Adriatic sea. Although it’s a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world, its considerable size and expansive shoreline help maintain a sense of space, making it feel less crowded compared to smaller, more congested beaches in Croatia.
In fourth place was Borsh Beach in Albania, one of the country’s longest and most picturesque beaches with calculations showing there to be enough room for 43 beach towels per person.
Plage de Pampelonne, Ramatuelle, on the French Riviera came in fifth place offering enough room for just under 34 beach towels per person.
