Underrated beach towns in Europe are honestly the only way I travel these days, like for real. Here I am, January 1st, 2026, bundled up in my hoodie in this dim US apartment, snow piling up outside, coffee going cold on the desk while I’m scrolling old photos from those trips. Everyone’s chasing the big names – Dubrovnik, Santorini, whatever – but me? I always veer off to these underrated beach towns in Europe that still feel like proper hidden gems. Places where you can actually hear the waves instead of influencers yelling. But hey, I get it, sometimes I contradict myself and end up in a crowded spot anyway, regretting it immediately. These are my flawed favorites, with all the dumb stories attached.
Why Underrated Beach Towns in Europe Keep Pulling Me Back
As an American, my idea of a beach growing up was crowded boardwalks and overpriced fries. Then I hit Europe and found these lesser-known spots – underrated beach towns with insane water, fresh eats, and zero pressure. But full disclosure, I still daydream about the hype places sometimes. Last summer I almost booked Mykonos again, talked myself out of it last minute. Good call. These hidden gem beach towns are where I actually relax, make mistakes, and come home feeling recharged. Or sunburned. Usually both.
My Go-To Hidden Gem Beach Towns in Europe
Alright, spilling my list. These underrated beach towns in Europe have my heart, complete with the embarrassing bits.
Ksamil, Albania – Basically Paradise Without the Price Tag
Ksamil has to be one of the most underrated beach towns in Europe right now. That water? Unreal turquoise, tiny islands you can swim to, sand that’s actually nice. I went a few years back, rented a cheap umbrella, tried paddling out to one of those islands and totally underestimated the current – ended up drifting, panicking a little, locals laughing as they towed me back. Classic. Food’s cheap and fresh, crowds were chill. Albania’s Riviera is blowing up a bit for 2026, but Ksamil still feels secret-ish. Check out more on the Albanian Riviera hidden spots.
Calella de Palafrugell, Spain – Costa Brava But Make It Quiet
This little spot on the Costa Brava is pure underrated beach town energy. Cute coves, white houses, paths along the cliffs. I hiked the Camí de Ronda one morning, slipped on some loose rocks (graceful, I know), found this tiny empty bay and just sat there forever. Evening concerts in summer, seafood that’s stupid good. Way better than the party parts nearby. For more Costa Brava secrets, peep this guide to underrated spots.
Ulcinj, Montenegro – Long Sands and Old Town Feels
Ulcinj’s got this massive beach, old town vibes, and a mix of cultures that’s cool. I biked along the shore one day, wind nearly knocked me over, stopped at some kite-surfing spot and watched pros while eating burek. Quiet but lively enough. Montenegro’s coast is underrated beach town central.
Paleochori, Milos, Greece – Volcanic Vibes and Crazy Colors
Milos is getting popular, but Paleochori beach still feels hidden. Weird colorful cliffs, warm water from volcanic stuff. I dug in the sand like a kid, burned my hand on hot spots – whoops. Stunning though. Greece has so many hidden gem beaches.
Random Tips from My Underrated Beach Town Adventures in Europe
- Shoulder season forever – less people, cheaper everything. I went peak once, hated it.
- Rent a car if you can; buses to these hidden spots are… an experience.
- Sunscreen, always. I’m pale, I forget, I suffer.
- Talk to locals – my broken phrases get laughs but good recs.
These underrated beach towns in Europe are my escape pods, seriously. Flawed, quiet, real.
Anyway, if you’re like me, stuck stateside dreaming of sun while it’s gross out, just pick one of these hidden gems and book it. Make your own awkward memories. What’s your underrated fave? Hit me in the comments. Stay warm out there, or whatever.
