This beach stuns visitors with its white sand, crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
This gorgeous beach stretches for 8km(Image: Getty)
The best bit of summer is unwinding on a spectacular beach with waves gently rolling onto the shore, seagulls crying above and sunshine beaming down. If this represents your ideal day, it’s essential that you discover the perfect beach to experience it on.
Fortunately, recent research has just ranked some of Europe’s finest beaches to identify the ultimate summer getaway destination. The study, carried out by airport transfer firm hoppa, has examined dozens of sought-after holiday destinations.
Each location was assessed based on its average three-star hotel price, journey time from airport to beach, and Google reviews to determine the very best options.
Taking the top spot as the finest beach for summer 2026 is Praia da Falésia in Portugal. Situated in the renowned Algarve area, this beach offers an utterly stunning day out, reports the Express.
The pale sand extends over 8km, protected by striking orange and white cliffs.
Those who visit the beach describe it as among the finest in the area, with one individual commenting on Tripadvisor: “The blend of the colours of the golden sand, the crystal blue sea and the imposing cliffs make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.”
Another said: “A wide expanse of golden and red sand, nice rock formations in the background and the waves here are gentle, perfect for swimming. It’s a popular beach, but due to its size, it’s a big, long beach; it never seems crowded even in high season.
“It’s a beach to most definitely check out if you’re planning a holiday to Albufeira.”
With lifeguards on duty and sunloungers available to hire, it caters to every need. Suitable for both families and couples, the beach’s generous size means it rarely feels overcrowded.
Europe’s best-rated beaches
- Praia da Falésia — Algarve, Portugal
- Platja de Muro — Majorca, Spain
- Myrtos Beach — Kefalonia, Greece
- Promenade des Anglais Beach — Nice, France
- Playa de Poniente — Benidorm, Spain