Europe’s top sun-soaked beach destinations

Beach holidays during the summer months often come with the promise of sunshine, yet many of us yearn for a sunshine-filled escape in the depths of winter. Finding destinations that remain warm and sunny during off-peak months - when we often most crave a dopamine uplift - can take a bit more research.

The good news is you don’t have to wait until the height of summer for a blissful beach getaway. Europe’s coasts offer many sun-kissed beach destinations where you can catch golden rays long after the crowds have left. To reveal them, we analysed 30 beach hotspots comparing average annual sunlight hours and temperatures in both high (May to October) and low (November to April) seasons to help you find the perfect beach destination whatever the time of year.

GP Dr Hana Patel and pharmacist Carolina Goncalves also share their top tips on how to enjoy the benefits of sunshine safely to make the most of your holiday without worry.

To uncover Europe’s brightest coastal gems, we delved into climate area data, examining average annual sunlight hours and temperatures. Through a weighted rank algorithm, we determined which beach destinations bask in the most consistent warmth and sunshine. The result is our definitive sunshine ranking – a guide to the sunniest beach escapes in Europe, where you can enjoy golden shores and clear skies come winter or summer.

Ölüdeniz tops our ranking of Europe’s sunniest and warmest beach destination (sunshine rating: 95/100). The beach lures both local and foreign tourists as a natural wonder, with spring waters emerging from the seabed to keep its waters crystal-clear.

Ölüdeniz beach is ranked as the top overall sunniest beach destination in our study

Bathed in sunlight all day, the beach’s renowned Blue Lagoon is home to turquoise waters, surrounded by a stunning mountainous backdrop. Even in cooler seasons, the beach offers a peaceful escape with crisp waters, calm surroundings.

Visit this part of the Mediterranean stretch in Turkey to unwind and enjoy its peacefulness, with fewer crowds than the popular Aegan coast.

Anthony Quinn Bay, (officially named ‘Vaghies’) is the second sunniest beach destination year-round (sunshine rating: 94/100). It was named after the Mexican actor Anthony Quinn, who treasured the Greek bay and bought this part of the island, hoping to create an international centre for artists and filmmakers. While his dream did not materialise, the name still stuck. The beach is perfect for rock gazing, diving and swimming in its lagoon.

Anthony Quinn Bay is listed as the second overall sunniest beach destination in our study

Rating the third sunniest overall beach destination is Nissi Beach (sunshine rating: 92/100). Considered the most popular beach in the Ayia Napa area and one of the most iconic in Cyprus, it is a blend of white sands, clear waters and atmospheric spots to eat and drink.

Famous for its vibrant party scene, it attracts partygoers with its lively beach parties, top DJs and non-stop entertainment. What’s more, you can enjoy a beer from just €2.50.

Playa de Maspalomas, Spain, tops the chart as the sunniest beach during off-peak travel seasons, soaking up an average of just over 10 hours of sunshine a day - perfect to escape the winter blues.

The beach is home to the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse. Built in 1861, it was once a vital guide for steamboats navigating routes between Europe, Africa, and America. Today, the lighthouse marks the beginning of a vibrant seaside promenade.

A little further from the beach is the Maspalomas Palm Tree Plantation, a protected natural space providing a resting spot for birds migrating from Europe to Africa. Wandering through its palm-lined paths offers a breath of fresh air after a day in the sun.

Among the top five sunniest beaches in the summer is Tsamadou beach, which is located on Samos Island in Greece. Whilst the beach can be slightly windy, the cooling breeze is a welcoming relief during the peak summer heat – with a little over 12 hours of daily sunshine. The beaches translucent tropical waters are perfect for a refreshing swim.

Tasmadou Beach is the third sunniest beach destination, receiving the longest hours of sun

The beach is rich in history; it is said that it was named after the Greek national hero, Anastasios Tsamados. The destination offers stunning landscapes across the pebbly beach. As you walk through the verdant forest, you can spot the cyan waters sparkling through the thick pine.

Playa de Las Teresitas, Spain, is one of Europe’s top five warmest beach destinations in the off-peak season. Once known for its pebbles, black volcanic sand, and rough waters, Santa Cruz transformed its coastline in 1953 when the City Council approved the creation of an artificial beach. Sand was imported from the Sahara Desert, and by 1973, the beach had been transformed into a golden paradise that quickly became a local and tourist favourite hotspot. With temperatures averaging 22°C in off-peak seasons, it’s the ideal escape for a vitamin D boost.

At the height of the summer, Valdearenas Beach, Spain, remains peaceful in the week, even during the busy holiday season. It’s a fantastic spot to have fun with pedalo boats, canoes and inflatables. The freshwater lake, part of the region’s largest reservoir, is home to an ecosystem rich in avian and fish fauna.

With peak temperatures reaching 31°C, you’re guaranteed an activity-packed day, whether exploring the local wildlife or trying out different water sports.

The sun isn’t just a mood booster; it’s nature’s way of improving your health and well-being. Whether relaxing on the beach or enjoying a stroll with ocean views, its warmth has a natural allure.

However, it’s important to stay mindful of how we care for our skin and protect ourselves from prolonged exposure. To help strike the balance between enjoying the sun and staying safe, we turned to health experts GP Dr Hana Patel and pharmacist, Carolina Goncalves. They share their specialistadvice on how to care for your skin, protect overlooked areas of the body, and make the most of your time in the sun – safely and smartly.

Whether you’re planning a summer holiday or an off-season escape, there is always somewhere along Europe’s coastline where you can catch golden rays and glowing shores. From Spain’s warming winter sun to Greece’s blazing beach days, our guide shows there is always a time and place not too far from home to soak up the sun. A lavish, sun-kissed beach holiday will always have a way of making everything feel just right.