Portugal · Europe
Portugal's Algarve coast is what happens when dramatic geology meets 300 days of sunshine a year. The coastline is defined by ochre and gold sandstone cliffs that have been carved by the Atlantic into arches, caves, grottoes, and sea stacks. Praia da Marinha is routinely named one of Europe's most beautiful beaches, and Benagil Sea Cave — accessible only by kayak or boat — looks like a cathedral designed by the ocean. Lagos has the best nightlife, Tavira has the old-world charm, and Sagres at the southwestern tip feels like the end of the earth. Best of all, Portugal remains one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe.
Portugal's nine official nude beaches, from Bela Vista and Meco near Lisbon to Salto, Adegas and Tavira's Homem Nu, plus the tolerated beaches and the 2010 naturism law.
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Ten European nude beaches that are legal or long tolerated, from Cap d'Agde and Île du Levant to Croatia's FKK camps and Sylt, with 2026 entry fees and rules.
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Spain’s liveliest beach bars are Cafe Mambo and Cafe del Mar in Ibiza, Tumbao and Tangana in Tarifa, and Ocean Club in Marbella. Barcelona’s are cheapest but close earliest.
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Spain's cheapest beach coasts are the Costa Calida and Costa de Almeria. Travel in May, June or September, eat the menu del dia at about 14 euros, and skip 10-euro sunbeds on free public sand.
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Spain's hidden beaches: Gulpiyuri, Playa del Silencio, Praia das Catedrais, the Cies Islands, Cala Macarelleta, Los Muertos, Castell and Coll Baix. Three need permits or a shuttle.
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Italy's nude beaches operate on tolerance, not designation — except Capocotta near Rome. The Sardinian Costa Verde, Lido di Dante, Guvano, and Lecciona anchor the rest.
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