Secret European Beaches You Can Only Reach by Boat

The Greek island of Skiathos is a great place to hire a small motorboat and explore the coastline, which has many beautiful (and often empty) coves to discover. For those seeking a remote beach, the white pebble shores of Lalaria are the place to go. Local folklore claims that swimming through the naturally formed rock archway here brings eternal youth—a more rejuvenating dip than most.

Organized boat trips, which leave regularly from the port of Skiathos Town, usually stop at Lalaria for a couple of hours and visit the nearby Blue Cave. The dazzling limestone cliffs, white pebbles, and crystal-clear turquoise seas require sunglasses.

Praia de Cabanas is located on a sandbar island just off the coast, near the picturesque town of Tavira in Portugal's east Algarve. A few minutes in a water taxi and a short stroll on a raised walkway over the dunes and you’ll find yourself on a vast stretch of beautiful white sand. Sun beds and parasols are available, but there are also miles of beach to explore and find your secluded spot away from others.

Although Praia de Cabanas is relatively close to town, it still maintains a rugged, remote vibe as it’s only accessible by boat. (You could technically swim or walk across the shallow lagoon when the tide is low, but it’s not advised.) Don't miss the last boat back, or you’ll be stuck on the island until morning!

If this pick seems familiar, it's probably because it's one of the most photographed beaches in Greece and has been used in numerous tourism campaigns and adverts over the years. Completely isolated and impossible to reach other than by sea, this is one beach that's definitely worth the effort to get to. Also known as Shipwreck Cove, this spectacular white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters is backed by towering cliffs and has a rusty shipwreck lodged in the sand. The ship hit the rocks during a storm in 1980 and eventually washed ashore, where it has stayed ever since.

Unfortunately, the sight of a wrecked ship in such a stunning setting has made this a popular beach, which can get packed during the high season. However, it is well worth the trip—to avoid the crowds and enjoy a swim in relative peace, it's best to go early or late in the day and use private hire boats rather than the tourist shuttles.

For a taste of the luxe life, head to La Guérite, a private island restaurant and beach club with stunning views of the Bay of Cannes. A beach shuttle transports guests to the island, where they can unwind on sunbeds beneath umbrellas and dine at the restaurant. However, this slice of paradise doesn’t come cheap—it's a favorite among yacht owners, and celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Beyoncé have been spotted here.

The small, uninhabited island of Espalmador beckons off the coast of Playa Illetes, looking close enough to swim to. But don’t be fooled—strong currents make the swim dangerous, making the island only accessible by boat. With its soft, powdery white sand and calm, sheltered waters, Espalmador is a popular day-trip destination from nearby Ibiza.