Planning a family holiday to Europe? How about a family beach vacation full of special memories of your kids building sandcastles on white sand, while you enjoy a refreshing drink on the patio of your private villa or relax by the infinity pool? This is what defines us at Insider Villas.
So, if this sounds like something you might want as part of your next vacation, keep reading and explore some of what we think to be the top spots for the best beach vacations with kids in Europe.
Europe has many amazing beach destinations, each with its own special feel. The best ones are those where you can relax with your family on beautiful sands, enjoy exciting water sports, or explore beautiful coastal towns. What makes Europe so special is that you can do all of these things in a single trip.
To help you plan your next family trip, we made a list of some of the best spots in Europe for a beach vacation with the kids. From the beautiful Algarve in Portugal to the stunning Dalmatian Coast in Croatia, get ready to find your family’s perfect beach vacation destination.
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Villa Johanna
Brac Island, the largest in Croatia’s Dalmatian archipelago, is a fantastic destination for families looking for sun, sea, and adventure. The island is home to the famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), a unique beach that shifts shape depending on the wind and tides.
Families can enjoy crystal-clear waters, shallow lagoons, and plenty of space for kids to play. The island’s charming towns, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect beach vacation spot.
Hidden Gem: Supetar Harbour – A charming seaside area offering fantastic seafood. A must-try is the seafood platter at Palute Restaurant, paired with a carafe of house white wine.
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The Point Villa in Cadaques
Spain’s Costa Brava is a great choice for a family beach vacation. It has a rough coastline, beautiful villages, and a lively culture. You will find many sandy beaches, some hidden in quiet coves, ideal for a peaceful day by the sea. There are plenty of child-friendly activities along the coast, including fun amenities like kids’ clubs, water parks, and evening shows.
Hidden Gem: Cala Sa Tuna – A picturesque cove in Begur, offering crystal-clear waters and traditional whitewashed houses.
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Zakynthos, a beautiful Greek island, is perfect for families with young children due to its shallow, crystal-clear waters and rich cultural heritage.
The island’s sandy beaches provide plenty of space for kids to play, while the surrounding lush greenery adds to its charm. Families can enjoy exploring local villages, tasting fresh Mediterranean produce, and taking boat trips to discover the island’s hidden treasures.
Hidden Gem: Olive Oil Tasting at Aristeon Ecological Olive Press – A unique way for kids to learn about traditional Greek agriculture while sampling delicious olive oil.
Puglia is located in the heel of Italy. Its history, culture, and beautiful coastline combine to create a unique experience. Old olive groves, pristine beaches, and lovely towns with traditional trulli houses with cone-shaped roofs are among the attractions.
Hidden Gem: Ostuni’s Whitewashed Streets – Wander through the maze-like alleys of Ostuni, the “White City,” and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
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The French Riviera, also known as Côte d’Azur, is famous for its glamorous beaches, stylish beach clubs, and fancy yachts. However, isn’t just about luxury; it also offers fantastic family-friendly destinations with calm waters, charming old towns, and kid-friendly attractions.
Hidden Gem: Île Sainte-Marguerite – A short boat ride from Cannes, this quiet island offers beautiful beaches and scenic walking trails.
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Villa On the Bay
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is full of breathtaking destinations, including clear turquoise waters, historic walled cities, and picturesque islands. Over 1,000 islands dot the Adriatic Sea, offering families endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a must-visit gem along the Dalmatian Coast, blending history, nature, and family-friendly fun in one spectacular destination.
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Photo by Reiseuhu
Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is famous for its white sand beaches, clear waters, and rugged scenery. Sardinia is perfect for families looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its white-sand beaches and rugged landscapes provide the ultimate Mediterranean escape.
Hidden Gem: Su Nuraxi di Barumini – A well-preserved ancient stone fortress, offering a glimpse into Sardinia’s prehistoric past.
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Villa Hibiscus
The Algarve is found on the southern coast of Portugal. It is famous for its beautiful beaches and tall cliffs, and it is great for families. With warm weather and calm waters, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing family holiday.
Algarve also has some great luxury family villa options with private pools, in-villa services, and amazing ocean views. Picture yourself waking up to the nice sea breeze and having breakfast on your terrace while looking at the sparkling Atlantic.
Hidden Gem: Praia da Marinha – Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and features crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling.
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Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and family-friendly resorts. Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or relaxation, this Mediterranean paradise has it all.
Hidden Gem: Deià Village – A picturesque artist’s village offering stunning views and a tranquil escape from the tourist hotspots.
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Planning a family beach vacation in Europe takes some thought to make sure everyone has a good time. Consider choosing the right place to stay and pick the best time to go. There are many things to think about for a successful trip. By understanding your family’s needs and what you like, you can create great memories on the beautiful beaches of Europe. Here are some important factors to consider when you’re planning your perfect family beach vacation in Europe.
High-end concierge service.
One of the first choices you need to make is whether to stay in a villa or a hotel. Each option has its own benefits for families. Villas offer more space, privacy, and flexibility, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable time together without feeling crowded. Luxury villas usually come with all the great amenities you are accustomed to at home and more.
Most of our villas have private pools, open gardens and outdoor areas where children can play freely. And, in-villa services such as spas, private chefs, dedicated staff for the parents.
“At Insider Villas, we transform exquisite stays into unforgettable experiences—where every villa is more than a retreat; it’s your home away from home.” – Olivier Heuchenne
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On the other hand, hotels provide convenience and varied services. They often have restaurants, kids’ clubs, and organized activities. Staff members are also often ready to help with luggage, offer concierge services, and handle housekeeping, which can reduce the stress of traveling with kids.
In short, the best choice for you will depend on the size of your family, your budget, and what you want out of your vacation. Think about what is most important to you, such as space, privacy, comfort and services. This will help you decide whether a villa or a hotel will best suit your needs.
Europe’s beaches are a popular destination year-round, but the best time of year to visit with kids depends on your priorities. The summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather and most sunshine, with some places like Mallorca reaching up to 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
However, this is also peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter experience with milder temperatures, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October).
The shoulder season often offers better accommodation prices ⇒
|
Season |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Summer (June-August) |
Warmest weather, most sunshine, ideal for swimming |
Larger crowds, higher prices |
|
Spring (April-May) / Autumn (September-October) |
Quieter beaches, milder temperatures, lower prices |
May have some rain, cooler water temperatures |
Traveling with young children can be tuff. But with some planning, you can have a stress-free beach holiday. Bring plenty of snacks, drinks, and fun activities to keep your kids busy while traveling and at the beach. Choose places to stay that have kid-friendly features, like cribs, high chairs, and shallow pools. Try to keep a routine that is similar to what you have at home. This can help your children feel safe and comfortable.
Don’t plan too many activities for each day. Make sure to allow time for relaxation. Let your kids choose how fast or slow to move along. They can enjoy free play on the beach. Don’t forget to pack important things like sunscreen, hats, and swim diapers. Always keep an eye on your kids when they are near water. With good planning and a calm attitude, you can make a nice beach vacation for the whole family.
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Beach activities for kids
European beaches have many fun things for kids to do, not just making sandcastles. Kids can enjoy thrilling water sports or go on exciting cultural trips. There is always something to inspire young minds and make great memories. Whether your kids love adventure or history, European beaches have something special for every young explorer.
Let’s look at some fun activities kids can enjoy during a beach vacation in Europe.
Many beaches in Europe have a lot of water sports. These activities are fun for kids and adults, too. You can try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. There is something for everyone, no matter their age or thrill level. Older children might have fun with windsurfing or scuba diving. You can find lessons and rental equipment in many coastal towns. Safety is very important when enjoying water sports.
Make sure kids wear life jackets, especially if they cannot swim well. Always watch them closely. Pick trusted companies for tours and activities. Also, check the weather and water conditions before you go out.
A beach vacation in Europe is a great way to relax and learn about different cultures. You can visit nice coastal towns and villages, see ancient ruins, or soak up the local way of life. Many towns have interesting historical sites like castles, forts, and museums. These places show the rich history of the region. You can take a walking tour, ride bikes, or use a local bus to find hidden treasures and see how people live.
At night, you can enjoy local music and dance shows, try tasty regional dishes at the nearby cafe, or walk through busy night markets. Getting involved in these cultural experiences makes good memories and helps children learn more about the world.
Beyond the beaches, many coastal places in Europe have beautiful natural views. They are great for outdoor adventures. You can walk on scenic hiking trails, find hidden waterfalls, or ride horses through the pretty countryside. Kids will have fun looking for local wildlife, naming plants and flowers, and enjoying nature.
Many national parks and nature reserves have programs and tours made just for families. They offer fun ways to learn about the environment. You can check out coastal caves or watch dolphins and sea turtles. In Europe’s great outdoors, there is always something exciting to do.
Europe packing checklist
Packing for a family beach trip in Europe takes some thought. You want to make sure you have everything for a fun and comfortable time. This includes important clothing, shoes, sun protection, and entertainment. A suitcase packed well can really help your trip go smoothly. By focusing on what you need most, you can pack light and avoid stress.
Here are some packing tips to help you have a great beach vacation.
While your vacation villa rental would have everything you need, it is never a bad idea to pack them anyway.
Sun protection is a must, especially for young kids. Bring a high-SPF sunscreen made for children. Apply it often, especially after swimming. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can protect against the sun’s harmful rays. A well-prepared first aid kit is also needed for any family trip. It gives peace of mind if someone gets hurt or sick. Make sure to include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, insect repellent, and any medicines you may need.
If you get motion sickness, it’s smart to pack some medicine for it. This is especially helpful if you are going on boat trips or driving on winding roads.
When you’re planning a beach vacation in Europe with your kids, there are many great spots to choose from. Consider places like Algarve, Costa Brava, and Zakynthos. These lovely locations offer a nice mix of relaxation and fun activities for the whole family.
Think about things like where you will stay, the best times to go, and what items you need to pack. Also, pay attention to safety measures. Water sports for kids, cultural trips, and nature walks can make your trip even better.
You will create lasting memories in beautiful places that have family-friendly options. So, pack your bags, enjoy the sun, and make unforgettable moments on the best beaches in Europe for a great family vacation.
Europe has many safe beaches that are great for kids. These spots have calm blue waters and soft white sand, perfect for lots of fun. You should look for beaches that have shallow areas, lifeguards present, and gentle waves. This makes them a good choice for families with young children.
Many websites focus on family-friendly villas. When searching, check for features like private pools, large gardens, playgrounds close by, and grocery delivery services that offer fresh local produce or chefs who make meals for kids.
Summer (June to August) is great for a perfect beach vacation in Europe. Kids are free from school, and the warm climate brings lots of sunshine and nice beach days. However, you can also think about spring or early fall. These times are not as crowded and usually cost less.
