Top Five Underrated Beaches on the Mediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean Sea is surrounded by 22 countries and boasts miles of coastline and hundreds of beautiful islands. Leave the popular shores where you'll have to fight for a spot for your towel and head to other secluded and less touristy beaches on the Mediterranean Sea.
Timeout presents a selection of alternative beach destinations where you can find the best beach relaxation.
1. Morinj, Montenegro
Montenegro is rapidly gaining popularity among travel enthusiasts. However, many opt for the vibrant resorts around the Bay of Kotor, leaving Morinj untouched by tourists. The beach is secluded enough to avoid crowds but developed enough to provide beach bars, toilets, and rental loungers.
2. Ksamil, Albania
The ancient Greeks had an eye for the perfect Mediterranean seaside town. That's exactly what Butrint on the Ksamil Peninsula in southern Albania is. The ancient ruins near the modern beach town of Ksamil are the largest and most romantic historical site in Albania. In addition to impressive ancient landmarks in this part of the Mediterranean, Ksamil offers modern beaches with stunning sunset views towards the island of Corfu.
3. Saplunara, Croatia
Mljet, in southern Croatia, is known for its national park with mangroves, which covers one-third of this paradise island. Further along are two sandy beaches, relatively untouched except for a few bars. Like everywhere in Croatia, the beaches here mean white pebbles. According to legend, it was on this coast that St. Paul was shipwrecked in AD 61. Hidden ruins of the 5th or 6th-century church named after him are located near Podškolj.
4. Cabo de Gata, Spain
The Spanish nature reserve Cabo de Gata-Níjar, home to flamingos, offers stunningly wild beaches surrounded by cactus landscapes. Playa de los Genoveses and the bays of Monsul are impressive, but the beach you won't want to miss is Los Muertos. It can be reached by a scenic coastal path that leads to the 19th-century Mesa Roldán lighthouse.
5. Tropea, Italy
Tropea, the "pearl" of Calabria, is perched on a cliff in southern Italy and is surrounded by two long stretches of sandy beach. Here, you'll find powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. The town is filled with historic palazzos and original trattorias located in many open courtyards.
Most of Tropea's beaches are free, but you can pay for a sun lounger. Tropea is also famous for its red onions.
You can also read about the best nudist beaches in Europe here.