It’s been a grim start to the year across the UK with widespread rain and wintry weather. However, this week’s sunshine will have got many Brits looking forward to their holidays this summer.

Holidaymakers will have one eye on their upcoming trips, scouting travel websites for the best deals possible. They will also be researching the locations with the most beautiful beaches. Fortunately, Time Out has recently named the best beaches in Europe to give travellers some inspiration this year.

Time Out, a publication that provides guides for travel, entertainment and food, named Praia da Falésia, in Portugal, as the best beach in Europe. It is located in the popular Albufeira and is known for its five mile stretch of golden sand.

The beach is also famous for its stunning, towering red and white clay cliffs. They provide access to the beach via stairs or steep, sandy footpaths.

As well as providing shade to beachgoers, the red cliffs beautifully contrast the clear blue Atlantic ocean. A number of sunbeds and umbrellas are also available at Praia da Falésia.

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Grace Beard, Time Out’s travel editor, said: “If Mars had a beach, it would look like Praia da Falésia at sunset. I spent two weeks beach-hopping Portugal’s Algarve and it became a ritual to end each day with a stroll on this stretch of sand, which in certain lights took on the same orangey-red shade as the limestone cliffs that run behind it.”

Although the beach gets busy at peak times, it does benefit from having plenty of space. Visitors do not struggle with finding somewhere to sunbathe.

The area is popular for watersports, with people often kayaking, paddle boarding and surfing in the water. Praia da Falésia is also perfectly located near Vilamoura marina which offers a selection of bars and restaurants to enjoy.

The beach has a number of glowing reviews on TripAdvisor. Many people agreed the coastline is stunning and offers a peaceful place for visitors to relax.

Victoria C wrote in June 2025: “Falesia Beach is truly a hidden gem. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs and pristine coastline creating a perfect backdrop for a peaceful day by the sea. The atmosphere was incredibly calm and relaxing, with most visitors simply enjoying the tranquillity — it was the ideal place to unwind.”

A second visitor said in May 2025: “This is a stunning beach with excellent facilities. It has a laid back feel, plenty of sunbeds and parasols, but also plenty of room to just throw down a towel and sunbathe! The sea was warm, great for swimming and lifeguards on beach. Small snack bar at top of steps with toilets. Stunning dramatic cliffs, beautiful scenic beach that feels relaxed even when busy.”

Jeannot B put in October 2025: “A unique beach that deserves a visit. Very nice colors, the cliffs are mesmerizing and the ocean very clean. A must in the Algarve, A favorite!”