Best Beaches in Europe 2026 — Elafonisi, Balos, Praia da
Planning Transfers to the World's Top Beaches
During peak summer, expect longer travel times to beaches like Elafonissi and Balos in Crete due to ferry schedules and parking limitations. Careful transfer planning, including setting precise pick-up times and choosing the right vehicle, is key to avoiding delays. Make sure to align your arrival with ferry times or to beat the worst of the traffic.
Top Beaches According to Travellers
Tripadvisor's latest rankings put Isla Pasion in Mexico at the top globally. In Europe, Elafonissi and Balos Lagoon in Crete are the highest-rated. Portugal’s Praia da Falésia and Sardinia’s La Pelosa also made the top 10, drawing visitors with their colours, cliffs, and history.
Why Transfers Are Important at These Beaches
Each of these beaches presents transport challenges, such as limited ferry schedules, restricted access, and steep roads. When booking a transfer, your driver should be familiar with local parking rules, the best drop-off points, and optimal arrival times.
Beach Logistics: A Detailed Guide
| Beach | Country | Top features | Transfer tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elafonissi | Greece (Crete) | Pink sand, shallow lagoons | Book a driver with a roomy car and aim to arrive early to avoid wind and crowds. |
| Balos Lagoon | Greece (Crete) | Turquoise waters, steep walk | Choose a transfer that includes advice on footwear and a drop point near the ferry. Avoid small, low-clearance cars. |
| Praia da Falésia | Portugal (Algarve) | Ochre cliffs, long walks | Consider a mid-size vehicle with good suspension for the cliffside roads and schedule a late afternoon return. |
| La Pelosa | Italy (Sardinia) | Caribbean-like water, watchtower | Parking is restricted, so pre-book a transfer with a driver who knows the local permit zones. |
Unique Coastal Spots: Some Things to Keep In Mind
Beaches like Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in South Africa and Isola Bella in Italy have special access rules. At Boulders Beach, you need to
