From the wild Atlantic coast of Wales to the turquoise bays of Lampedusa: a recent analysis reveals which beaches are topping travelers’ wish lists in 2025.
Endless stretches of sand, secluded coves, and dramatic cliffs: vacation rental platform Holidu recently analyzed the best-rated beaches in Europe based on Google Maps reviews. The result? A sun-soaked journey to 25 exceptional destinations that impress not only with natural beauty.
Topping the list is a beach often ranked among the most beautiful in the world: Spiaggia dei Conigli on the Italian island of Lampedusa. With its soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and a protected nature reserve that serves as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, it’s no surprise that Google users have given this spot top marks. Check out the full list here.
Even if you don't immediately think of Wales or southern England when you think of beaches, several British coasts make it into the top ten: Barafundle Bay and Traeth Mwnt in Wales score points for their seclusion and natural scenery, while Woolacombe Beach in Devon is particularly popular with families and surfers.
In Spain, Playa de Mataleñas near Santander is one of the favorites - thanks to its golden sand in the middle of a rugged cliff landscape. Cala Mariolu in Sardinia boasts turquoise waters and exclusive access by boat or a hiking trail. And in Portugal, the dramatic scenery of Praia da Adraga near Sintra delights not only bathers but also photographers.
If you're looking for Mediterranean picture-book beaches, you will find them at Simos Beach on Elafonisos in Greece: two crescent-shaped bays, brightly shimmering sand and gently sloping water make it particularly popular with families and those seeking peace and quiet.
| Place | Beach name | Region | Country | Google rating | Number of reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spiaggia dei Conigli | Lampedusa | Italy | 4,9 | 2'967 |
| 2 | Barafundle Bay Beach | Pembrokeshire | Great Britain | 4,9 | 1'668 |
| 3 | Traeth Mwnt | Ceredigion | Great Britain | 4,9 | 722 |
| 4 | Woolacombe Beach | Devon | Great Britain | 4,8 | 32'006 |
| 5 | Dunraven Bay | Glamorgan | Great Britain | 4,8 | 18'412 |
| 6 | Cala Mariolu | Sardinia | Italy | 4,8 | 5'597 |
| 7 | Playa de Cofete | Canary Islands | Spain | 4,8 | 4'746 |
| 8 | Simos Beach | Attica region | Greece | 4,8 | 4'552 |
| 9 | Praia da Adraga | Lisbon region | Portugal | 4,8 | 2'585 |
| 10 | Playa de Mataleñas | Cantabria | Spain | 4,8 | 2'421 |
| 11 | Kedrodasos Beach | Crete | Greece | 4,8 | 2'367 |
| 12 | Playa de Sotavento de Jandía | Canary Islands | Spain | 4,8 | 2'301 |
| 13 | Praia de Cacela Velha | Algarve | Portugal | 4,8 | 2'076 |
| 14 | Praia da Bordeira | Algarve | Portugal | 4,8 | 1'681 |
| 15 | Trebarwith Beach | Devon | Great Britain | 4,8 | 1'666 |
| 16 | Cuckmere Haven | East Sussex | Great Britain | 4,8 | 1'581 |
| 17 | Praia da Prainha | Algarve | Portugal | 4,8 | 1'553 |
| 18 | Man O'War Beach | Dorset | Great Britain | 4,8 | 1'465 |
| 19 | Bigbury Beach | Devon | Great Britain | 4,8 | 1'418 |
| 20 | Odeceixe Mar Beach | Algarve | Portugal | 4,8 | 1'357 |
| 21 | Praia da Cordoama | Algarve | Portugal | 4,8 | 1'348 |
| 22 | Gullane Beach | East Lothian | Great Britain | 4,8 | 1'238 |
| 23 | Benone Beach | County Londonderry | Great Britain | 4,8 | 1'228 |
| 24 | Castelejo Beach | Algarve | Portugal | 4,8 | 1'185 |
| 25 | Platja de Gandía | Valencia Region | Spain | 4,8 | 1'158 |
