Beach Towns You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Visit This Summer)
Forget Ibiza. Skip Nice. These under-the-radar beach towns offer all the summer magic—without the price tags, party crowds, or waitlisted restaurants.
Here’s your ticket to Europe’s best-kept coastal secrets.
✍️ Sophia · June 9, 2025
🌍 1. Kotor, Montenegro
Why go: A fjord-like bay with Venetian architecture and crystalline waters.
Nestled along the Adriatic coast, Kotor feels like a blend of Dubrovnik and a Norwegian fjord—with a fraction of the crowds. Wander through its medieval old town, hike up to the San Giovanni Fortress for sweeping views, then cool off in the calm turquoise waters of Kotor Bay.
🛏 Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Hippocampus, a restored stone house in the Old Town.
🍽 Must try: Black risotto and grilled octopus at Konoba Scala Santa.
🗺 Nearby gems: Perast (just 15 mins away), a fairytale baroque village with island churches.
🇪🇸 2. Llanes, Spain
Why go: Rugged cliffs, wild beaches, and northern Spain’s green coast charm.
In Asturias, Llanes offers an entirely different Spanish summer—think Celtic-influenced villages, green hills, and uncrowded beaches like Playa de Torimbia. You won’t find nightclubs, but you’ll find cider houses, coastal hikes, and breathtaking Atlantic sunsets.
🛏 Where to stay: Hotel La Posada del Rey, a cozy stay in the town center.
🍽 Must try: Fabada Asturiana and natural cider poured the local way.
🗺 Local vibe: Catch a sea poem engraved in the “Cubos de la Memoria” by the port.
🇫🇷 3. Collioure, France
Why go: French Riviera vibes without the Riviera prices.
This colorful Catalan-French town inspired Matisse and Picasso—and it’s easy to see why. Pastel houses hug the Mediterranean, while boats bob in the clear water. It’s postcard-perfect, without the St. Tropez crowds.
🛏 Where to stay: Hôtel Casa Païral, set in an 18th-century mansion with a peaceful garden.
🍽 Must try: Anchovies (Collioure’s specialty) and a glass of Banyuls wine.
🎨 Don’t miss: The Fauvism Trail walking tour through artistic landmarks.
🇦🇱 4. Himarë, Albania
Why go: A dreamy slice of the Albanian Riviera—cheap, chill, and unreal.
Albania’s coast is finally getting the love it deserves, and Himarë is one of its shining stars. Think white-sand beaches, clear waters, and mountains in the background. There’s a slow vibe here—one where mornings stretch into lazy afternoons by the beach.
🛏 Where to stay: Rea Boutique Hotel, beachside with sea-view rooms.
🍽 Must try: Fresh calamari and local honey at a seaside tavern.
🚤 Get active: Kayak to nearby Gjipe Beach, hidden between cliffs.
🇮🇹 5. Maratea, Italy
Why go: The Amalfi Coast’s moody, lesser-known sibling.
Tucked in Basilicata, Maratea is called “the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian” for a reason. It’s a mix of pebbly coves, ancient churches, and one of Italy’s tallest Christ statues overlooking the coast. It’s dramatic, spiritual, and utterly peaceful.
🛏 Where to stay: La Locanda delle Donne Monache, a former convent turned boutique hotel.
🍽 Must try: Cavatelli pasta and local red wine from Monte Vulture.
🧘 Don’t miss: A sunset walk to the hilltop statue of Christ the Redeemer.
🇬🇷 Bonus: Kythira, Greece
Why go: Off-the-radar Greek island that’s all slow beauty, no cruise ships.
Between the Ionian and Aegean Seas, Kythira has a mythical, untouched feel. Waterfalls, castles, and hidden beaches make it ideal for travelers who want Greece without the Instagram crowds.
🛏 Where to stay: Porto Delfino Hotel, overlooking the bay of Kapsali.
🍽 Must try: Eggplant stew and thyme honey sweets.
📖 Fun fact: Aphrodite, the goddess of love, was said to be born here.
☀️ Final Tips for Exploring These Hidden Beach Gems:
Pack cash – some towns have limited ATMs or card acceptance.
Rent a scooter or car – for hidden beaches just outside town.
Avoid mid-August – even these quiet towns get busier during Ferragosto and school holidays.
Be open to slower service – it's part of the charm.
✍️ This blog was written by Sophia.
