The 10+1 most beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean’s North coast

Golden sand or black sand? Pebble or shingle? Greece or Spain? Whatever we do, this life is full of dilemmas and we certainly have a hard time choosing. In order to start making sense of our choices and narrowing down the options a bit, we have chosen to list some our favourite seaside destinations on the Northern coasts of the Mediterranean Sea. We can definitely say that this list will not be completely fair, as there are thousands of magnificent beaches around the coasts of the Mediterranean, some of which we might not even have heard about. Nevertheless, there are beaches and beaches and according to each person’s preferences the listing criteria might change significantly. As such, here we present you with our favourite 10 which we hope will inspire you to leave the rainy coasts of the Ol’ Blighty behind and go after the warm Mediterranean sun.

Cala Mitjaneta, Menorca
The “Small Isle” as its name implies is definitely not a place to look down on, rather than admire. Despite being less known than its big brother, Majorca, the wonderful Menorca is full of hidden treasures and this delightfully blue cove is easily amongst them. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Cala Mitjaneta is crowned by high limestone cliffs full of pines. The sand is fine and white and the water is clear aquamarine. Simply a feast for the senses.

Navagio Beach, Zante
Whichever beach top 10 list you look at, Navagio beach is guaranteed to be in one of the spots near the top. Situated in the wonderful Greek island of Zante in an otherwise inaccessible cove surrounded by immensely high cliffs, Navagio beach takes its name from the characteristic shipwreck of a smuggling ship brought ashore in 1983. A place where history meets natural beauty, a visit to Navagio is definitely something you have to do while on holidays in Zante. The clear blue waters make boats seem as if they float on air and the fine white sand will make you want to stay there forever.

Elafonissi, Crete
Holidays in Crete are a prime occasion to enjoy some of the Med’s if not the world’s best beaches. The biggest of the Greek islands, Crete, is home to the unique Elafonissi beach. The uniqueness of Elafonissi could easily be attributed to its bright pink sand and this is owed to thousands of dried corals brought ashore by the waves. Nonetheless, you have to be there quite early on peak season as lots of people tend to visit, making the area crowded.

Monterosso al Mare, Liguria, Italy
Italy has long been known about its sense of style and finesse and if you take a look at this village and the beach it’s hard not to see why. The old town facing the sea is divided from the touristy bit with all the hotels and restaurants but despite where you might be around the village you can look down on the beach. Host to an impressive rock formation separating the beach in two, the beach of Monterosso is amongst the most visited in the area due to its size, clear waters and most importantly, stunningly good looks.

Manarola, Liguria, Italy
Another of the “five villages” as those are called and arguably the most picturesque, Manarola is a place of wonder. Home to colourful houses perched on its cliffs and a beach which is not practically a beach, Manarola is the odd one out in our list. However, the smooth rocks and platforms at the bottom of the village are home to deep clear waters, perfect for a swim and even more for a dive. Enjoy a day swimming away from the usual and witness the jaw dropping scenery of the Italian Riviera first hand.

Zlatni Rat, Brač, Croatia
It might not be as well-known as the Spanish islands in the Mediterranean but the Croatian island of Brač is an unspoilt paradise near the Adriatic coast. What’s more however is that his island is home to some of the most captivating beaches in Croatia and in the Mediterranean as well. One such beach which also happens to be unique is Zlatni Rat or Golden Cape. This marvelous stretch of land is adorned with white pebbles and is surrounded by unspoilt nature and clear azure blue waters. Talk about inviting!

Red Beach, Santorini
A unique beach in a unique setting in its own right, the Red Beach of Santorini owes its existences and spectacular characteristics to the volcanic eruption which gave birth to the island as we know it thousands of years ago. Surrounded by high cliffs and decorated by red and black pebbles, the Red Beach is a colourful sensation. You would be highly advised to snorkel around exploring the impressive underwater landscape if you happen to be there because holidays in Santorini are much more than romantic sunsets.

Es Trenc, Majorca
Forget about resort beaches and crowds, as this wonderful stretch of fine white sand will bring you closer to the Caribbean than you might ever have thought possible of a Mediterranean coast. Stretching for over 2 km and not attached to any specific resort, access is free and the waters are shallow in case you don’t feel particularly brave. Walk a bit till you find your own quiet spot and if you are a fan of windsurfing on a holiday to Majorca, rest assured that this beach will most likely blow you away.

Cala Salada, Ibiza
Ibiza has long been known for its intense party scene and famous visitors. Nonetheless, the white isle’s beauty is something that ought not be overlooked when thinking about planning your getaway there. Cala Salada, situated close to San Antonio is definitely amongst the best beaches you could witness on a holiday to Ibiza. Its golden sand and transparent blue water is adorned by pine forests on all sides. Spend a day away from the touristy party madness of San Antonio by driving the 15-minute distance to this beach and unwind in one of the unspoilt havens the island has to offer.

Benidorm, Spain
Holidays to Benidorm have long been a thing for British tourists and of course one of the main reasons are its beaches. Host to immaculate friendly waters and beautiful strips of golden sand awarded with blue flags, make Benidorm one of the top contenders on our list. Pair that with the fact that you can find about anything you might want while on a holiday there and Benidorm worthily deserves the title of the most versatile destination on our list as well.