Feel soft sand beneath your toes and listen to the sound of waves washing onto golden shores on your next beach holiday in one of these exceptional European destinations.

Discover paradise in hotspots like Greece, Spain, Turkey and Cyprus, with the Mediterranean and Aegean seas your aquatic playground for a number of exciting water sports. Soak up the sun’s rays, stroll along the promenades or enjoy a refreshing beverage from the beach bars. Embark on a culinary journey while on your beach holiday, with an array of restaurants serving fresh produce from across each destination, as well as locally made wine and beer. Choose between intimate adult-only retreats that line the beachfront or luxurious family-friendly sanctuaries filled with fun activities. Wherever your wanderlust entices you, you’ll be sure to find spectacular sandy shores, azure waters, clear blue skies and more besides. Here’s our pick of some of the best luxury beach holiday destinations in Europe and a taste of what they have to offer.

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Greece

You can’t imagine a better destination for a luxury beach holiday than Greece. With its variety of islands and inviting beachfronts, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Famous for its laid-back approach to life, Greece delivers relaxing getaways in sublime sunshine. Sensational family beach holidays are promised in Halkidiki, as many of its beaches, like Toroni and Armenistis, are Blue Flag-certified and offer thrilling water sports. Likewise, Rhodes is a perfect family destination where couples will also find peace and romance in its hidden coves. Visit the picturesque Lindos Beach or set sail on a glass-bottomed boat trip from Pefkos. Hailed as one of the most romantic locations in the world, Santorini is another superb beach holiday choice. This volcanic island boasts black sand on Perivolos Beach as well as copper sand on Red Beach. The largest Greek island, Crete,is a mythical place, with Elafonissi Beach, which offers a sparkling lagoon and nesting loggerhead turtles, a particular draw.

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Mainland Spain

No beach holidays compare to those on the “Sunshine Coast” of Costa del Sol in Andalusia, Spain. Blessed with more than 325 sunny days a year, the resorts along this fabulous stretch of Mediterranean shoreline are all amazing spots for fun or relaxation. Home to world-famous destinations Malaga and Marbella, as well as wondrous havens such as Fuengirola and Torremolinos, you’ll have plenty of options for your blissful beach holiday. You’ll find refreshing waters to dip into, luxury hotels and lots more. Opportunities for water sports, beach games and, of course, sandcastle building can all be enjoyed, while you’ll find charming boutiques, shops, bars and nightlife venues within easy reach. Andalusia is also an ideal place to experience authentic Spain, with the region’s heritage and tradition showcased in the stunning architecture, irresistible cuisine and across a host of museums and galleries.

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Canary Islands

Nestled off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a hotspot for relaxing beach holidays. You’ll be surrounded by spellbinding scenery across this Spanish archipelago, but it’s the largest island, Tenerife, where you’ll find the widest selection of immaculate beaches along its 40 miles-long coastline. If you’re seeking a family-friendly haven, Playa Jardin and its nearby waterpark are the best pick, while Playa El Médano is a surfer’s paradise. With Lanzarote’s desert climate, you can experience unparalleled sunny days on the black-sand “burnt beach”, Playa Quemada, or feel sun kissed on the golden shores of Costa Teguise, where you’ll also find luxury resorts and every amenity you could need. For the ultimate family beach holiday, Gran Canaria is a superb option. Outstanding child-friendly facilities and huge sandy stretches, like Maspalomas Beach, are a common find here. Fuerteventura is the spot for serenity and seclusion on your adult-only romantic getaway, with beaches like Playa Esmeralda offering tranquility.

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Turkey

The Turkish coastline oozes awe-inspiring beaches and postcard-esque scenery that will make your next beach holiday an unforgettable one. Turkey is an all-round destination, meaning you can enjoy peace and relaxation, thrilling nightlife or family fun. Featuring alluring beaches and stunning nature, Bodrum has the choice of many luxury beach resorts, including Bitez and Gumbet. Those looking to party will enjoy a holiday to Bodrum, as well as Dalaman. Known as the “Turquoise Coast”, the sparkling sea laps onto the shores of famous beaches like Belcekiz in Ölüdeniz. A number of seafood restaurants are found here with mouthwatering fresh produce served. Antalya boasts the blissful resort of Side, where East and West Beach offer the choice between family-friendly action and a secluded spot for couples to soak up the sun. Many of the beaches here are Blue Flag-certified, making them perfect for water sports like snorkelling, paddleboarding and jet skiing.

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Cyprus

Venture to the Mediterranean island of Cyprus for a magical beach getaway. You’ll discover a wonderful array of sandy expanses and resorts in this sunshine destination that’s bursting with photogenic scenery and a rich heritage. Paphos is regarded as the cultural capital of Cyprus as it infuses traditional experiences with high-class, modern amenities. This resort boasts 27 beaches, including the idyllic Coral Bay that has white sand, crystal-clear waters, beachfront hotels and children’s inflatables. Limassol features a palm-lined promenade with a plethora of seafront bars, cafés and restaurants as well as the huge water park, Fasouri Watermania. Searching for the best party location in the world? Head to Ayia Napa and blend the famous nightlife with a blissful beach holiday. Nissi Beach is the renowned spot for beach bars and parties, but for those seeking something a little calmer, Makronissos Beach is perfect and is conveniently located near the Makronissos Necropolis for a cultural excursion.

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“Slip into bliss on a European beach of your dreams. With spectacular destinations like Greece, Spain, Cyprus, Portugal and Turkey available, you’ll be in heaven.

“Choose between white, golden and even volcanic black-sand beachfronts to spend lazy days soaking up the sunshine or enjoying the refreshing feeling of the waves washing over you. Dive beneath the Aegean and Mediterranean sea to uncover a world of wonder and delight, with snorkelling and scuba diving the best way to admire the tropical marine life.

“Families will feel safe on the immaculate Blue Flag beaches to be found across Europe and are only a stone’s throw away from a myriad of luxury hotels and resorts and town centres bursting with shops, cafés, bars and restaurants.

“Close proximity to the sea means each of these dreamy destinations serve up a mouthwatering variety of seafood dishes. Try the freshest of produce in recipes that date back hundreds of years, washing it down with a divine glass of wine.”

Lindian Village Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, Rhodes

Soak up the glorious Mediterranean sunshine on your private balcony at the 5-star Lindian Village Beach Resort, Collection by Hilton or lounge lazily by the pool. With a private beach, you’ll be in a blissful paradise while also being inspired by the stunning views of Rhodes. This is an exceptional family-friendly retreat that offers a kids’ club, kid’s pool and playground as well as a fitness centre, spa and Turkish bath for the adults.

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St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas, Crete

Be wowed by the stunning views of the Aegean sea while you relax in the 5-star St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas in Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. Perfect as a wedding and honeymoon destination, children will also make unforgettable memories here in the kids’ club, cinema and games room. Dine in the incredible on-site venues, including the outdoor Labyrinthos Restaurant that overlooks the aquamarine swimming pool and the Greek Kafenion that’s situated on the beach.

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Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites, Paphos

Spend your days taking dips in the swimming pools, feeling the relaxing benefits of their built-in jacuzzi jets at the 5-star Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites in Cyprus. You’ll also find a rejuvenating Elixir Spa, sauna, steam room and fully-equipped gym in this wellness haven. A private beach is just steps away from this luxury resort, opening a world of fun in the sun. Spend your evenings dining on outstanding cuisines and enjoying the live music and entertainment.

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Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort, Halkidiki

Step from the comfort of the luxurious 5-star Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort in Halkidiki to the soft sands of the adjoining private Blue Flag beachfront. Pamper your mind and body by visiting the thermal spa this resort is named after, before enjoying some show-stopping entertainment in the authentic Greek amphitheater. Children and adults alike will love staying here as you can get active with water sports or stay dry and challenge each other on the sports courts.

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Gennadi Grand Resort, Rhodes

Stay in complete luxury and serenity at the eco-friendly Gennadi Grand Resort in Rhodes. This 5-star sanctuary boasts a hydromassage jacuzzi, heated pool, sauna, steam bath and spa as well as an ultra-modern gym that’s perfect for keeping fit while on holiday. All-inclusive packages allow you to experience bliss on another level, with dining in all of the aromatic restaurants included alongside a selection of beers and wines to complement your mouthwatering meals.

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Creta Maris Resort, Crete

Lounge on the private Blue Flag beach, where every amenity is provided by the luxury 5-star Creta Maris Resort. A slice of Heaven, you’ll be awed by the jaw-dropping Mediterranean views that promise serenity as well as fun-filled activities. Just 500m away from Hersonissos, you can explore this ancient Cretian town or be pampered in the hotel’s own spa and wellness facilities. Children will make magical memories in the waterpark and swimming pool as well as the open-air cinema and kid’s club.

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Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa, Turkey

Venture to Turkey’s Mugla coast to discover the superb 5-star Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa. All-inclusive delights can be enjoyed across the diverse array of restaurants and chic bars that are perfect for enjoying one-of-a-kind dining experiences on your romantic couple’s getaway. Families are welcome to soak up the sun poolside or on the beach, with a kids’ club and aquapark also on site. Take a peaceful moment on your private terrace before retiring to the comfort of your accommodation after a day of memory making.

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Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, Canary Islands

The 5-star Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is a lively resort bursting with fun and excitement. Families, friends and couples are invited to come and enjoy all of the amazing facilities, including numerous swimming pools, a spa, fitness centre, sports courts, live night time entertainment and minigolf. You’ll dine in style here, with a myriad of venues offering divine a la carte cuisines and views of the stunning nearby beach and the enchanting sunset that explodes across the sky.

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Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort & Spa, Canary Islands

Palm tree-lined pools provide the ultimate area of serenity at the Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort & Spa. This 5-star resort is a haven in the Canary Islands, offering the opportunity to explore the local area while staying in complete luxury. The waterpark and kids’ club make this a great hotel for a family holiday, while adults can also relax in blissful surroundings, with spa treatments and yoga classes as well as exceptional dining facilities that promise to make every night special.

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Ikos Andalusia, Costa del Sol

Perfectly situated between the scenic resorts of Marbella and Estepona, the 5-star Ikos Andalusia is a jewel on the Costa del Sol’s shoreline. Rooms have been designed to be ultra-relaxing and soothing spaces, with neutral colours used to create a tranquil environment. While the Ikos Andalusia is a family-friendly haven, with its children’s pool, kids and teen club and water sport activities, there is an adult-only quiet zone for the couples who are seeking a romantic getaway in paradise.

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