Europe is the world’s most culturally diverse continent, and has approximately 50 countries, hundreds of towns and cities, stunning nature, awe-inspiring vistas and of course, incredible beaches.
To many outside Europe, it has a reputation for nudist or secluded beaches, but this couldn’t be more wrong – there are plenty of family friendly beaches throughout Europe that offer resorts and experience that adults and kids alike love. Here’s our list of the top 5 best family friendly beaches to visit in Europe.
5. Grand Plage Beach – Biarritz, France
The Grand Plage is more than simply a beach; it is a Venetian resort complete with two casinos (Barrière and Bellevue), tuxedoed waiters to serve its guests, charming aged hotels and waterfront shopping at various fashion boutiques. It’s also a popular spot for young surfers, and attracts a crowd of adults and younger beach goers alike. Find a spot on Grand Plage (literally “big beach” in French) and relax next to native French bathers.
4. Pelekas Beach – Corfu, Greece
Greece is one of the most sought after summer distinctions with its many unique islands, white sand beaches and tourist friendly atmosphere. Pelekas in Corfu is situated on the Ionian Sea and has been a family favourite among visitors for decades. Although children should be monitored closely and adults should be wary as the waters of the sea have a tendency to turn choppy quickly, Pelekas Beach is a gorgeous stretch of golden sand with the town of Pelekas nestled behind it, filled with hotels, restaurants and other sights to explore.
3. Fig Tree Bay – Protaras, Cyprus
Fig Tree Bay was Trip Advisor’s third Best Beach in Europe in 2011, and although it dropped to 13 in 2013, it is still a gorgeous, small resort beach and ideal for families with kids both young and old. It is a tourist location, so summers aren’t ideal due to the sheer population of visitors. However, waiting until September or October will provide visitors with an all-round tranquil and idyllic experience they’ll want to relive again and again.
2. Villasimius – Sardinia, Italy
Both Italy’s architectural and natural beauty knows no bounds, and Villasimius is a testament to such natural grandeur. Located in Sardinia, in the province of Cagliari. From Rome, Villasimius is about a one hour flight, and boats a stunning white stretch of coastlines before clear, cerulean waters. There are several different beaches to choose from. Some are rather harsh and rocky, like Capo Carbonara, and are ideal for those looking to explore on foot and take in the scenery more than lounge in the sand. If a traditional beach getaway where you can stretch out on a towel or beach chair and splash around in the waves, beaches like the official center Simius Beach and Cala Caterina Beach are perfect.
1. Woolacombe Beach – North Devon, England
The UK boasts some impressive beaches, especially in the South West – Devon and Cornwall that make a great destination for a cheap family beach holiday. Woolacombe located in North Devon recently won the title of ‘best beach in the UK’ in a recent Trip Advisor 2015 best beaches poll. It also came fourth best beach in Europe. Nearby Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks offers cheap self-catering accommodation perfect for families.