Sun, Sand and Squeeze: Revealing The Most and Least Overcrowded Beaches in Europe

Europe is brimming with well-known beach destinations, the likes of Ibiza, Tenerife and the Algarve spring to mind. But, it’s also home to numerous hidden gems that offer unique experiences without the overwhelming tourist crowds. During peak summer holidays, many European beaches are packed with locals and tourists alike, all trying to secure their slice of sandy paradise for the day.

So, which European beaches are overflowing, and where can you find a peaceful spot in the sun? At Wizz Air, we've curated a list of the least crowded beaches for your next beach getaway.

We compiled a list of over 50 of the most visited European countries and their top beaches. To determine which beaches were the most and least crowded, we used 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 us an estimate of how much space each beach offers per person.

The least overcrowded beaches in Europe

 

Rank	Beach	City	Country	Towel Space per person
1	Beach of Durrës	Durrës	Albania	64.5
2	Camber Sands	East Sussex	England	61.1
3	Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn)	Bol/Brac	Croatia	54.1
4	Borsh Beach	Borsh	Albania	43.0
5	Plage de Pampelonne	Ramatuelle	France	33.8
6	Brighton Beach	Brighton	England	27.0
7	Praia da Falésia	Algarve	Portugal	24.3
8	Mogren Beach	Budva	Montenegro	20.1
9	Nissi Beach	Ayia Napa	Cyprus	19.3
10	Playa d'en Bossa	Ibiza	Spain	17.7
11	Plage de Palombaggia	Corsica	France	13.5
12	Balos beach	Crete	Greece	12.2
13	Porto Giunco	Sardinia	Italy	11.7
14	San Stefanos	Corfu	Greece	11.3
15	Plage De Saleccia	Corsica	France	10.1
16	Ploče Beach	Budva	Montenegro	10.1
17	Drobni Pijesak beach	Rijeka Reževići	Montenegro	10.1
18	Konyaaltı Plajları	Antalya	Turkey	9.0
19	Livadi Beach	Himarë	Albania	7.4
20	Myrtos Beach	Kefalonia	Greece	7.1

 

1. Beach of Durrës, Durrës, Albania

Our 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. Albania offers a variety of experiences that can easily compete with its more well-known, busier neighbours, such as Greece.

 

2. Camber Sands, East Sussex, England

Next on our list 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. This destination 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. The beach's wide-open spaces and pristine scenery make it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor activities year-round.

 

3. 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.

The best way to reach Bol on Brač island is flying to Split airport and then take a taxi or speed boat to Bol.

 

4. Borsh Beach, Borsh, Albania

Coming in fourth place is Borsh Beach, located along Albania's stunning Ionian coast. Borsh Beach is one of the country’s longest and most picturesque beaches with our calculations showing there to be enough room for 43 beach towels per person. Like other beaches in Albania, Borsh Beach remains relatively unspoiled and is less crowded than many other European coastal destinations, making it a hidden gem for travellers seeking tranquillity. Its combination of natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere makes Borsh Beach an ideal spot for those looking to relax and enjoy the unspoiled landscape of Albania’s coastline.

Borsh beach can be reached by flying to Tirana International Airport (TIA), the capital of Albania or, alternatively you can fly to Corfu International Airport (CFU) in Greece.

 

5. Plage de Pampelonne, Ramatuelle, France

Plage de Pampelonne, located near the charming village of Ramatuelle on the French Riviera came in fifth place offering enough room for just under 34 beach towels per person. Plage de Pampelonne is one of the most famous and glamorous beaches in France, stretching over along the Mediterranean coast, the iconic beach is known for its soft white sands, crystal clear waters and lively beach clubs. Despite its reputation for glitz and glamour, the size of the beach means it also has quieter sections, making it a versatile destination for both those seeking relaxation and those looking for a lively social scene. It's an appealing alternative to busier party destinations like Ibiza, offering a more laid-back yet still vibrant atmosphere.

 

The most overcrowded beaches in Europe

 

Rank	Beaches	City	Country	Towel Space Per Person
1	Playa Sa Caleta	Ibiza	Spain	0.5
2	Cala Macarella	Menorca	Spain	0.6
3	Barceloneta Beach	Barcelona	Spain	0.7
4	Mellieħa Bay	Mellieha	Malta	0.9
5	Cala Goloritzé	Sardinia	Italy	1.2
6	Isla Canela	Costa de la Luz	Spain	1.4
7	Playa del Duque	Tenerife	Spain	1.4
8	Playa de Maro	Nerja	Spain	1.6
9	Puerto de la Cruz	Tenerife	Spain	1.7
10	Sant Sebastià Beach	Barcelona	Spain	1.9

 

1. Playa Sa Caleta, Ibiza, Spain

According to our research, the most overcrowded beach is Playa Sa Caleta, in Ibiza, Spain, with our calculations showing there is room for 0.5 beach towels, not even 1 beach towel each. Ibiza, famous for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, often faces the challenge of overcrowding, especially during the peak summer season. The island's popularity as a global party destination attracts thousands of tourists, leading to packed beaches, bustling streets, and traffic congestion, so it’s not surprising to see it top our list of overcrowded beach locations.

Though Playa Sa Caleta isn’t as well-known as some of Ibiza's other beaches, it often attracts a mix of locals and tourists, many of whom are searching for a quieter spot away from the island's busier areas. However, at just 80 metres long, the beach's limited space can quickly feel cramped, and it doesn’t take many visitors for the area to become crowded and a bit uncomfortable.

If you're seeking a beach with more space, Playa d'en Bossa could be a great choice. As the longest beach in Ibiza, it offers plenty of room for visitors to spread out and find their own spot to relax, even though it's one of the island's most popular destinations. Benirás Beach is also another great option for a tranquil escape on the island. Due to its secluded location, this beach tends to be less crowded.

 

2. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain

Cala Macarella, one of Menorca's most iconic beaches, is renowned for its turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings, but its beauty also draws large crowds, making it one of the island's busiest spots with our calculations showing there is room for 0.6 beach towels per person. During the peak summer months, the beach can become overcrowded, with sunbathers and tourists fighting for space on the small stretch of sand. Despite its natural charm, the sheer number of visitors can make it difficult to fully enjoy the tranquil environment that Cala Macarella is known for.

If you’re looking for a quieter beach with more space, then Cala Pregonda on the north coast of Menorca is a great option. Due to its remote location, Cala Pregonda is a peaceful beach that some say is less crowded than others in the area.

 

3. Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona, Spain

La Barceloneta Beach, one of Barcelona's most famous beaches, is often buzzing with activity, especially during the summer months. Its central location and easy access from the city centre make it a magnet for both locals and tourists. This often results in an overcrowded atmosphere, making it difficult to relax, with our calculations showing that sunbathers can expect only about 0.7 beach towels worth of space per person.

 

Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe

In addition to assessing the available space per person on various beaches, we also researched the average temperatures and sunlight hours for September, October, and November to identify the best hidden gems for a late-season sun getaway.

By analysing these factors, we’ve revealed the destinations that not only offer ample space and relaxation but also provide favourable weather conditions and extended daylight hours to help you enjoy summer for as long as possible.

 

Beaches	City	Country	Towel Space Ranked	Average sunshine hours per day ranked	Average Temp ranked	Total Rank
Nissi Beach	Ayia Napa	Cyprus	38	46	44	42.7
Konyaaltı Plajları	Antalya	Turkey	29	45	33	35.67
Borsh Beach	Borsh	Albania	43	37	20	33.3
Praia da Falésia	Algarve	Portugal	40	30	27	32.3
Kalithea	Rhodes	Greece	18	37	36	30.3
Ramla Bay	Xaghra	Malta	14	35	42	30.3
Benirrás Beach	Ibiza	Spain	11	43	36	30.0
Livadi Beach	Himarë	Albania	28	37	20	28.3
Myrtos Beach	Kefalonia	Greece	27	37	20	28.0
Balos beach	Crete	Greece	35	12	36	27.7
San Stefanos	Corfu	Greece	33	24	26	27.7
Dhërmi Beach	Dhërmi	Albania	25	37	20	27.3
Praia Da Rocha	Algarve	Portugal	24	30	27	27.0
Puerto de la Cruz	Tenerife	Spain	9	27	45	27.0
Playa Sa Caleta	Ibiza	Spain	1	43	36	26.7
Playa del Duque	Tenerife	Spain	7	27	45	26.3
Sveti Jakov Beach	Dubrovnik	Croatia	22	36	20	26.0
Navagio Beach (shipwreck beach)	Zakynthos	Greece	20	24	33	25.7
Mellieħa Bay	Mellieha	Malta	4	30	42	25.3
Playa d'en Bossa	Ibiza	Spain	37	3	36	25.3

 

1. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus

According to our research, 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.

Book a direct flight at the cheapest price to Cyprus with Wizz Air. 

 

2. Konyaaltı Plajları, Antalya, Turkey

In second place was Konyaaltı Plajları, located in Antalya, Turkey. Konyaaltı Plajları is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots with our calculations showing there is enough room for 9 beach towels per person. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean make it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat. In autumn, Konyaaltı Plajları continues to enjoy pleasant weather, with average temperatures of 20 degrees and ample sunshine, an average of 9, extending well into October and November. This favourable climate, combined with its relatively low profile compared to other beaches, makes Konyaaltı Plajları a perfect choice for a last-minute summer getaway without the crowds.

Book a direct flight at the cheapest price to Antalya with Wizz Air.

 

3. Borsh Beach, Borsh, Albania

Borsh Beach not only earns its spot on our list of least overcrowded hidden gems but also ranks in our top three destinations for last-minute sun trips, thanks to its consistently warm weather throughout autumn. Tucked away along Albania's picturesque Ionian coast, Borsh remains pleasantly warm, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a late-season getaway. Its extended sunny days and inviting temperatures allow visitors to enjoy the beauty and serenity of this coastal gem long after peak tourist season has passed.

Book a direct flight at the cheapest price to Albania with Wizz Air.

Commenting on the findings, Andras Rado, Head of Communications states “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 truly unwind, away from the bustling crowds.

We hope our study has opened travellers' eyes to just some of the many hidden treasures across Europe. Our investigation highlights these incredible beaches that provide a peaceful alternative to the more crowded and popular seaside destinations." 

 

Ready to jet off on your next adventure?

If you're searching for affordable flights to uncover these hidden gems and lesser-known destinations, look no further than here at Wizz Air. We can help you get the cheapest flights to each of these unique locations mentioned above, with the potential to build additional discounts through our newsletter and on-site fare finder.

 

Methodology

We compiled a list of over 50 of the most visited European countries and their top beaches from various sources. To determine the surface area of each beach, we used measurements provided by Sandee and an average width of 30m was used due to tidal changes. For our calculations, we assumed an average beach towel size of 0.8m x 1.60m and a surface area of 1.2m².

To estimate the number of daily visitors, we divided the annual average number of visitors in 2023 by 365. For calculating beachgoers, we surveyed 100 individuals about their likelihood of visiting a beach at their destination. With 45% of respondents indicating they would visit, we used this percentage to estimate that 45% of daily visitors would be beachgoers.

To work out beach towels per person we used the following calculation

• Surface area (metres squared) / surface area of beach towel (metres squared) / average daily visitors