Where to Find Europe's Best Beaches: Spain vs. Portugal

Spain and Portugal are two top vacation destinations in Europe with beautiful sandy beaches, a warm sunny climate and a low cost of living.

Spanish cities and beaches attract over 82 million visitors each year and the country ranks #2 in Europe for tourism. In comparison, the country of Portugal ranks #10 in Europe with just over 22 million visitors each year. However, if you are looking for authentic fishing villages, cultural experiences, rolling surf and less crowded beaches, Portugal may be more to your liking than the high-rise Spanish Costas!

Both countries have family friendly beaches, city beaches and more remote crescents of sand that few visitors choose to visit. Checkout our list of these countries best beaches before planning your next sun-and-sand vacation in Europe.

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Best Beaches in Spain

For families, La Manga del Mar Menor in Murcia offers a shallow saltwater lagoon formed by a 35 kilometer long sandbar with several channels connecting it to the Mediterranean Sea. The result is kilometers of beaches on both the ocean and the lagoon with opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing and canoeing in this scenic area.

Couples looking for a more high-end resort will find exclusive designer shopping, marble plazas and gorgeous beaches in Marbella on the Costa del Sol. The multi-million dollar super yachts in the marina may be out of your budget, but you can still enjoy the private beach clubs, tennis courts, golf courses, stand-up paddle boarding, waterfront dining and subtropical gardens in this classy resort.

Looking to escape the crowds? Make your way further north to Tamariu on the Costa Brava. This idyllic area has sandy coves fringed with tall green pines and coral pink rocks. This area boasts some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean making it a delight to go swimming, snorkeling or take a boat trip in this peaceful area. It's the perfect place for chilling out on the beach, yet beautiful Barcelona to the south and the French border to the north are just an hour away if you fancy a scenic coastal drive.

The quieter northwest coast of Spain is popular with surfers as it is battered by Atlantic breakers. Consider the city of San Sebastian in the Spanish Basque region which has endless sandy beaches along this picturesque shoreline. The hilly backdrop and traditional houses in the Old Town make this almost unrecognizable as 'typical Spain' but it provides the perfect haven for beach lovers.

Of course, many of Spain's best beaches are on the Balearic Islands of Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza. In summer these sandy beaches are the perfect place for party-goers to sleep off a night of dancing, clubbing and drinking, if that's what you're looking for in a vacation!

In winter, the Spanish Canary Islands are a popular choice. Located off the coast of Africa, these volcanic islands have some of the Europe's best beaches, although they often consist of mainly black volcanic sand. One exception is Maspalomas Beach on Gran Canaria, which has gigantic wind-sculpted sand dunes of golden sand as a backdrop to one of the best beaches in Spain.

Best Beaches in Portugal

Most of Portugal's best beaches are in the southwest of the country, south of Lisbon and scattered along the Algarve coastline. Praia da Rocha in Portimao is one of the longest, broadest and firmest sandy beaches in the Algarve, which can get crowded in summer. Sheltered by the cliffs, it is popular for sunbathing, safe swimming, surfing, walking or playing beach volleyball.

The small town of Sagres on the Algarve has an undeveloped beach with orange cliffs and dramatic rolling waves. If you want to spend time exploring Portugal's agricultural heartland by car, this town is the gateway to the Alentejo and the dramatic Costa Vicentina Natural Park.

Porto de Mos Beach certainly wins as one of the best beaches in Portugal when it comes to natural beauty. The golden sands, multicolored cliffs, caverns and rock formations are stunning against the turquoise sea. This gorgeous beach usually benefits from fresh sea breezes to keep temperatures pleasant.

If you want to combine your beach vacation in Portugal with a few city highlights, Playa do Guincho is just 30 minutes from Portugal's capital, Lisbon. The golden sands are pounded by Atlantic breakers and the fresh seafood here is sensational! Nearby is the lighthouse and Cabo da Roca, Europe's most westerly point which was once believed to be the end of the world!

Spain or Portugal? Which Beach Getaway is Right for You?

Whether you choose to explore the best beaches in Spain, or would prefer to catch some rays in coastal Portugal, a car rental will allow you to make the most of your visit exploring the surrounding area at your own pace. Visit Moorish palaces, tiny fishing villages and stunning national parks as part of your adventure. Of course, your car rental also makes airport transfers with your luggage very affordable and easy.

When you're ready to start planning your European beach retreat, be sure to call Auto Europe! We have over 60 years of experience helping clients plan memorable beach vacations. From spacious van rentals in Portugal that are able to accommodate the entire family, to trendy sports cars in Spain and practically everything in between, we have the vehicle that will best compliment your needs wherever you'll be traveling. Reserving a car rental online is easy and can be done by using our secure booking engine at the top of the page. If you would prefer to speak with one of our agents directly, simply call us at a time that is convenient for you, toll-free 24/7 at 1-888-223-5555.

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