10 Best Solo Female Travel Beach Destinations In Europe

Traveling alone as a solo female travelers can make you feel strong and free, especially when you’re exploring Europe’s amazing beaches. Whether you want quiet time, excitement, or just to chill out, Europe has lots of beaches for you. From Portugal’s rocky cliffs to Greece’s beautiful sandy shores, here are 10 top solo female travel beach destinations in Europe.

Best Beaches in Europe

1. Algarve, Portugal

With its stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and golden sands, Algarve is a paradise for solo female travelers. Explore charming villages, indulge in fresh seafood, or simply soak up the sun on its picturesque beaches.

Here are some must-visit beaches for solo travelers:

Praia da Marinha: Known for its golden sands and limestone cliffs, Praia da Marinha is a breathtaking spot for relaxation and exploration.
Praia de Benagil: Visit the iconic Benagil Cave by kayak or boat tour and admire the beauty of this unique coastal feature.
Praia da Falésia: Stretching along Albufeira, Praia da Falésia boasts striking red and white cliffs, perfect for scenic walks and sunbathing.
Praia do Camilo: Accessible via a staircase, Praia do Camilo offers a secluded beach experience with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Praia de Dona Ana: With its picturesque rock formations and turquoise waters, Praia de Dona Ana is a favorite among photographers and sunbathers alike.
Praia da Rocha: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Portimão’s Praia da Rocha, where you can sunbathe, swim, or indulge in water sports.
Praia de Odeceixe: For a more rugged experience, head to Praia de Odeceixe on the western coast, known for its cliffs and natural beauty.

2. Santorini, Greece

Famous for its white-washed buildings and mesmerizing sunsets, Santorini boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Whether you prefer black, red, or golden sands, you’ll find your perfect spot to unwind and rejuvenate.

Here are some of the most notable beaches on the island:

Kamari Beach: Located on the southeastern coast of Santorini, Kamari Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It has black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters, lined with sunbeds, umbrellas, tavernas, and cafes.
Perissa Beach: Adjacent to Kamari Beach, Perissa Beach also features black sand and clear waters. It offers a range of water sports activities, beach bars, and restaurants along its promenade.
Red Beach (Kokkini Paralia): This unique beach is famous for its dramatic red cliffs and sand, created by volcanic activity. While it’s one of the most visually striking beaches on Santorini, it can get crowded due to its popularity.
White Beach: Accessible only by boat or on foot from nearby Red Beach, White Beach offers a secluded and peaceful atmosphere. It features white cliffs and pebbles, and the water is exceptionally clear, ideal for snorkeling.
Vlychada Beach: Known for its distinctive white cliffs and rock formations sculpted by the wind and sea, Vlychada Beach is a picturesque spot for relaxation. It has a more laid-back ambiance compared to some of the other beaches on the island.
Perivolos Beach: Continuation of Perissa Beach, Perivolos Beach offers a vibrant beach scene with beach bars, restaurants, and water sports facilities. It’s popular among both locals and tourists alike.
Monolithos Beach: Located near the airport, Monolithos Beach is a family-friendly option with shallow waters and fine black sand. It’s equipped with facilities for children, including a playground, making it a favorite among families.

3. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” is a breathtaking stretch of coastline along the Italian Riviera, characterized by its colorful villages perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque villages, terraced vineyards, and hiking trails that offer spectacular panoramic views. Here’s an overview of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre:

Riomaggiore: This charming village is the southernmost of the Cinque Terre and is famous for its colorful houses that cascade down the steep hillside towards the small harbor. Visitors can explore the narrow alleyways, visit the medieval castle, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Manarola: Known for its postcard-perfect views and scenic beauty, Manarola is one of the most photogenic villages in Cinque Terre. Its brightly colored houses cling to the cliffside, overlooking the sparkling waters below. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque harbor, sample local wines, and hike the scenic trails that connect the villages.
Corniglia: Unlike the other villages, Corniglia is perched high on a promontory, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline. It is the smallest and quietest of the Cinque Terre villages, with fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore the charming narrow streets, visit the medieval church of San Pietro, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the sea.
Vernazza: Considered by many to be the most picturesque village in Cinque Terre, Vernazza boasts a natural harbor surrounded by colorful buildings, a medieval castle, and a lively waterfront promenade. Visitors can relax on the small sandy beach, sample local delicacies at seaside cafes, and hike the scenic trails that wind through vineyards and olive groves.
Monterosso al Mare: The largest and most touristy of the Cinque Terre villages, Monterosso al Mare is known for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and bustling promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and gelaterias. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and indulge in water sports activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The village also offers a glimpse into its rich history through its medieval churches, ancient watchtowers, and picturesque squares.

In addition to exploring the charming villages, visitors to Cinque Terre can also hike along the scenic coastal trails that connect the villages, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation amidst stunning surroundings, Cinque Terre offers something for everyone.

4. Costa Brava, Spain

Costa Brava, located in Catalonia, Spain, is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline and picturesque beaches. Here are some highlights:

Calella de Palafrugell: A picturesque fishing village with beautiful coves and crystal-clear waters. It’s known for its charming promenade, whitewashed houses, and traditional Catalan cuisine.
Lloret de Mar: A bustling resort town with several beaches, including Fenals Beach and Lloret Beach. It offers a vibrant nightlife, water sports activities, and historical sites like the Santa Clotilde Gardens.
Tossa de Mar: Famous for its medieval castle overlooking the sea, Tossa de Mar features several beaches, including the large sandy beach of Tossa and the quieter Mar Menuda Beach.
Cadaqués: A charming coastal town known for its whitewashed buildings and artistic heritage. Its main beach, Playa Grande, offers stunning views of the surrounding hillsides.
Begur: This coastal town boasts several beautiful beaches, including Sa Riera Beach and Aiguablava Beach, both known for their clear waters and scenic surroundings.
Tamariu: A small fishing village with a lovely sandy beach surrounded by pine-covered hills. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
Empuriabrava: Known as the “Venice of Spain” due to its network of canals, Empuriabrava features a long sandy beach lined with bars, restaurants, and water sports facilities.
Blanes: The gateway to the Costa Brava, Blanes offers several beaches, including the popular Platja de Blanes. It’s known for its botanical gardens, waterfront promenade, and lively atmosphere.

5. Crete, Greece

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is blessed with a diverse coastline featuring some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean. Here’s a glimpse into the remarkable beaches of Crete:

Elafonissi Beach: Located on the southwestern coast of Crete, Elafonissi is renowned for its unique pink sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s often ranked among the best beaches in the world, offering a magical setting with its small islet reachable by wading through shallow waters.
Balos Beach: Situated on the northwest coast of Crete, Balos is a paradise of white sand, shallow turquoise lagoons, and dramatic rocky cliffs. Accessible by boat or a hike, it rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and Gramvousa Island.
Falassarna Beach: With its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Falassarna is a popular beach destination on the western coast of Crete. It’s known for its stunning sunsets, excellent facilities, and opportunities for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Vai Beach: Nestled on the northeastern coast of Crete, Vai is famous for its unique palm forest, which creates a tropical atmosphere along its golden sandy beach. It’s a protected area with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Preveli Beach: Located on the southern coast of Crete, near the Preveli Monastery, this beach is a scenic oasis with a river flowing through palm-lined gorge leading to a sandy beach and turquoise sea. It offers a tranquil retreat amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Matala Beach: Situated on the southern coast of Crete, Matala gained fame in the 1960s as a hippie hangout. It features a picturesque bay with caves carved into the cliffs, providing unique sunbathing spots and a bohemian atmosphere.
Agiofarago Beach: Accessible by a scenic hike through a gorge, Agiofarago Beach offers a secluded retreat with pristine waters and dramatic cliffs. It’s a favorite spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
Plakias Beach: Located on the southern coast of Crete, Plakias is a long sandy beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and clear waters. It offers a range of water sports activities and is a popular destination for both families and couples.

6. Split, Croatia

For solo female travelers visiting Split, Croatia, there are several beaches to explore:

Bacvice Beach: Close to the city center, offering a lively atmosphere with sandy shores, perfect for socializing and enjoying beachside cafes.
Kasjuni Beach: Situated on Marjan Hill’s southern side, it provides a tranquil setting with crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation and snorkeling.
Firule Beach: Adjacent to Bacvice, it offers a quieter environment with sandy shores and all necessary amenities for a relaxing day by the sea.
Znjan Beach: A bit further from the city center, it’s a spacious pebble beach with opportunities for water sports and a relaxed atmosphere.
Bene Beach: Hidden on Marjan Hill’s northern side, it’s favored by locals and offers a peaceful escape surrounded by pine trees and calm waters.

These beaches cater to various preferences, from lively social scenes to serene relaxation, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for solo female travelers.

7. Nice, France

Nice, France, offers several beaches that solo female travelers can enjoy:

Promenade des Anglais: This iconic promenade stretches along the coast, offering pebbled beaches where you can take leisurely walks, soak up the sun, and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Plage Beau Rivage: Located near Nice’s Old Town, this beach is popular for its soft sand and clear waters. Solo female travelers will find a lively atmosphere with plenty of amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby restaurants and bars to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
Castel Plage: Nestled beneath Castle Hill, this beach provides an upscale experience with luxurious sunbeds, gourmet dining options, and impeccable service. It’s perfect for solo female travelers seeking a refined beach day with stunning views of the coastline.
Blue Beach: Situated close to the Promenade des Anglais, Blue Beach offers a relaxed vibe with soft sand and clear waters. Solo travelers can enjoy water sports activities or simply unwind and enjoy the sunshine. Nearby cafes and shops provide convenient options for snacks and souvenirs.
Coco Beach: For a more secluded experience, head to Coco Beach, tucked away from the city center. With its rocky shores and clear waters, it offers a peaceful escape where solo female travelers can relax and rejuvenate amidst nature’s beauty.

These beaches cater to different preferences, ensuring that solo female travelers can find the perfect spot to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand while feeling safe and comfortable in Nice.

8. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, is a paradise for solo female travelers with its stunning beaches:

Corralejo Beach: This expansive sandy stretch is perfect for soaking up the sun or trying thrilling water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Sotavento Beach: Known for its long golden sands and shallow turquoise waters, it’s a favorite spot for windsurfers thanks to its consistent winds.
Cofete Beach: Tucked away on the island’s wild western coast, Cofete offers rugged landscapes and breathtaking ocean views, accessible via a scenic drive.
Playa de la Concha: Near El Cotillo, this tranquil lagoon boasts calm waters ideal for swimming and a picturesque setting for relaxation.
Playa de Costa Calma: With its long sandy shoreline and gentle breeze, Costa Calma Beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Playa del Matorral: Located near Morro Jable, this pristine beach offers soft sands and clear waters, ideal for leisurely walks and sunbathing.
Playa de Cofete: Remote and untouched, Cofete Beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility for solo travelers seeking to connect with nature.

These beaches offer diverse experiences, from adrenaline-pumping water sports to peaceful relaxation, ensuring solo female travelers find the perfect spot to enjoy Fuerteventura’s coastal beauty.

9. Malta

Malta, with its picturesque coastline and crystal-clear waters, offers several beautiful beaches perfect for solo female travelers:

Golden Bay: One of Malta’s most popular beaches, Golden Bay boasts golden sands and shallow waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Solo female travelers will appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the range of amenities available, including beach bars and water sports facilities.
Mellieha Bay: Located near the village of Mellieha, this family-friendly beach offers soft sand and calm waters, making it perfect for solo travelers looking for a relaxing day by the sea. The surrounding area has cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can grab a bite to eat or pick up souvenirs.
Ghajn Tuffieha Bay: Tucked away between rugged cliffs, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and clear waters. Solo female travelers can enjoy a scenic hike down to the beach and spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the surrounding countryside.
St. George’s Bay: Located in the bustling town of St. Julian’s, St. George’s Bay offers a lively beach experience with soft sand and calm waters. Solo travelers can relax on the beach or enjoy water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing. Nearby cafes and bars provide opportunities for refreshments and socializing.
Paradise Bay: Situated in the northern part of the island, Paradise Bay lives up to its name with its pristine waters and tranquil atmosphere. Solo female travelers can unwind on the sandy beach, go for a swim in the clear sea, or explore the nearby cliffs and caves.
Marsaxlokk Beach: Located in the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, this small beach offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Solo travelers can relax on the sand, watch the colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, and sample fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
Ramla Bay: Located on the island of Gozo, Ramla Bay is famous for its red-golden sand and clear waters. Solo female travelers can soak up the sun, swim in the sea, and explore the nearby Calypso Cave, which is steeped in mythology and offers stunning views of the bay.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Malta’s beaches offer something for every solo female traveler, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit to this beautiful Mediterranean island.

10. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia, Italy, boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean, making it an ideal destination for solo female travelers seeking sun, sea, and relaxation. Here are some of the top beaches to explore:

Spiaggia della Pelosa: Located in the northwestern part of Sardinia near the town of Stintino, Spiaggia della Pelosa is famous for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Solo female travelers will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the nearby Asinara Island.
Costa Smeralda: This glamorous stretch of coastline in northeastern Sardinia is known for its luxury resorts, upscale beach clubs, and crystal-clear waters. Solo travelers can enjoy lounging on the soft sandy beaches, exploring hidden coves, and indulging in world-class dining and shopping experiences.
Cala Luna: Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, Cala Luna is a secluded beach nestled between towering limestone cliffs on the eastern coast of Sardinia. Solo female travelers will be captivated by the pristine beauty of the turquoise waters and the peaceful ambiance of this hidden gem.
Spiaggia di Chia: Located on the southern coast of Sardinia near the town of Domus de Maria, Spiaggia di Chia is renowned for its golden sand dunes, clear waters, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Solo travelers can unwind on the soft sand, swim in the shallow waters, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from the nearby lighthouse.
Spiaggia del Principe: Tucked away in a cove on the Costa Smeralda, Spiaggia del Principe is a secluded beach with powdery white sand and emerald green waters. Solo female travelers can escape the crowds and relax in the peaceful surroundings, surrounded by granite rocks and fragrant juniper trees.
Cala Goloritzé: Another hidden gem on the eastern coast of Sardinia, Cala Goloritzé is famous for its towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and pristine white pebble beach. Solo travelers can hike down to the beach and spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and admiring the natural beauty of this protected marine area.
Spiaggia di Tuerredda: Located on the southern coast of Sardinia near the town of Teulada, Spiaggia di Tuerredda is known for its turquoise waters, fine white sand, and stunning views of the nearby Isola di Tuerredda. Solo female travelers can enjoy a relaxing day on the beach, swimming in the calm waters and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

These beaches offer solo female travelers a variety of experiences, from secluded coves and pristine nature reserves to glamorous beach resorts and luxury amenities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit to the beautiful island of Sardinia.