The Best, Most Secluded Beach Clubs in Europe

If you're anything like me, summer means chasing down the most secluded beach clubs Europe has to offer. They’re the equivalent of an adult summer playground. From tiny islands off the Croatian coast to hidden gems on the French Riviera, these spots aren't just off the beaten path—they practically require a secret handshake. But once you’re in, these chill spots are peaceful, luxurious, and beautiful—what could be so bad?

Below are some of the coolest, most under-the-radar beach clubs that I've uncovered in my recent treks around Europe, perfect for a day of lounging around while tuning out the real world. Here's how to find them, and why each club is worth the journey.

Sicily, Italy
Owned by Italian wine brand Planeta as part of its hospitality group, Insula Beach Club is tucked away on the golden sand dunes of Sicily’s Lido Fiori, on the southwest coast of the island. If you love wine this is the spot, as you can imbibe all of Planeta’s wines from Menfi, Sambuca di Sicilia, Vittoria, Noto, Etna, and Capo Milazzo, in one gorgeous setting. The address isn’t hard to find, but if you don’t know it’s there you may zip on by, as it’s in a wild setting. The beach club is available to guests of the Foresteria Wine Resort and La Segreta Country House in Menfi as well as external guests—and if you fall in love with the club (as I did) there’s even a weekly and biweekly pass.

Zoagli, Italy
Brand new for summer 2024, Marina di Bardi, owned by The Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort, sits in the quaint town of Zoagli along the Portofino coast, offering a fresh take on the Italian Riviera experience. The beach combines modern elegance with natural beauty, perfect for those looking to escape the crowded beaches of its more famous neighbors. The coastal club offers a private beach with direct access to the Ligurian Sea, marina access for boats and water sports, a lounge area with sea views, and a restaurant serving coastal fare and drinks. Hotel guests will be whisked over by a driver; otherwise, Zoagli is accessible by train or a short drive from Genoa.

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Tucked away on the tiny island of Šipan, Bowa is accessible only by boat from Dubrovnik, making it feel like your own private paradise. With its thatched-roof cabanas and crystal-clear waters, this beach club offers a secluded escape with a side of luxury. It's the perfect spot to enjoy fresh Mali Ston oysters and catch of the day tartare while taking in panoramic views of the Adriatic—plus the wine list is local with a selection of the best Croatian wines around.

“Bowa has a vibe of the European Maldives,” says Ivan Vuković, a Dubrovnik tour guide. “The best off-the-beaten-path experience.” You can get to the beach club by private boat or speed boat, or you can book a transfer with Bowa restaurant from two places, including Old Town Dubrovnik or Brsecine Beach (call and they’re happy to help organize). Note: if going with a group of friends it’s wise to order the seven-course tasting menu and wine pairings and leave the specifics in the hands of the chef.

Hydra, Greece
Hydronetta Beach Bar, in Hydra, Greece, is where you can dive straight into the Aegean from sun-warmed rocks before lounging with a refreshing cocktail in hand. “Just a quick ferry ride from Athens, Hydra's coastline is lined with charming beach bars, and Hydronetta is a favorite,” says Arianna Sartzetakis, CEO of Uncover More, a platform offering tailored recommendations on what to eat, see, and do. Her Greek roots bring her back to the Mediterranean each summer so we’re all ears when it comes to hidden gems. “Located below the cannons on the yacht-filled harbor, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a freddo cappuccino in the morning, take a dip in the ocean, and end with a cocktail at sunset,” says Sartzetakis. At Hydronetta, time slows down, and you’ll find yourself wishing the day would never end.

Ischia, Italy
There’s no shortage of beach clubs dotted around Ischia. However, Rena, a project of the Porto 51 family, is one of my favorites. I discovered it by way of Alessandro Buono, owner of Ischia’s only distillery Distillerie Aragonesi, who notes that the beach club acts more like a proper cocktail bar with elevated tapas. The easiest and prettiest way to reach Rena is a taxi boat from Sant'Angelo port (the staff can help call a return taxi boat when you’re ready to go). The vibe is laid back and stylish; think neutral-hued, oversized lounge pillows and beach umbrellas that give a nod to Greek clubs and kiosks—with sunset cocktails that take you into the night with DJs and live music.

Rena Ice Cocktails are inspired by Algida’s timeless ice cream creations and it’s wise to make your way down the list. The Calippo Fizz (with Zacapa rum, Falernum, lime, and gomme syrup) and Croccante All’Amererna (with Bulleit bourbon, Marendry, Belsazar red vermouth, and chocolate bitters) are standouts—plus the Tartare Bao and Citrus Scampi, should you get peckish.

Narbonne, France
Situated on France’s so-called “other Riviera,” the Occitanie region, L'Hospitalet Beach in Narbonne is a hidden gem run by renowned winemaker Gérard Bertrand. This beach club combines all the charm you’d expect from the Riviera with some of the region's best rosé and gourmet cuisine, straight from Bertrand’s organic and biodynamic vineyards. A short drive from Narbonne, it feels worlds away from the typical tourist spots, making it a true escape. Guests staying at Château L'Hospitalet Wine Resort Beach & Spa enjoy convenient shuttles, but there’s ample parking for non-guests eager to experience this slice of paradise. Don’t miss the chance to sip on one of the club’s unique wine cocktails—there are over 14 to choose from, each more tasty than the last. Personally, I’d recommend a taste of Clos du Temple, the world’s most expensive rosé (which is very hard to find and worth every penny).

Menaggio, Italy
Perched on the serene shores of Lake Como, Victoria Beach Club in Menaggio—the only beach club of its kind in the area—offers a chic escape with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Getting there is a breeze: Just hop on a ferry from Varenna or Bellagio and you’ll be at Menaggio’s quaint harbor in minutes, with the beach club a short stroll away. The beach club, new for 2024, is an extension of the Grand Hotel Victoria, but open to non-guests. Once there, indulge in fresh Italian cuisine, including homemade pastas and locally sourced seafood, paired with a crisp glass of Franciacorta (Italian sparkling wine). The real treat is sipping an aperitivo as the sun sets over the lake, with the golden glow over the water.

Antibes, France
If you’re searching for classic French Riviera charm without the crowds, Plage Belle Rives in Antibes is your hidden gem. Situated on a stretch of pristine beach at Hôtel Belles Rives, where F. Scott Fitzgerald partied with Hemingway and wrote Tender is the Night, you’ll see firsthand why literary icons enjoyed this area. Getting there is as easy as hopping a train to Juan-les-Pins and taking a breezy 10-minute stroll through palm-lined streets. Once you arrive, expect to drop around 50 euros for a front-row beach chair—which is totally worth it for the uninterrupted views of the crystal-clear Mediterranean. The food and bev? Sip on a local French rosé while nibbling on perfectly grilled sea bass—with a side of truffle fries, of course.

Pula, Sardinia
On Sardinia’s Southwestern coast lies Is Molas Beach Club, a true escape from the crowded tourist spots. It’s easy to get to; just pop the address into Google Maps and you’ll enjoy the rugged Sardinian landscape along the way. Once there, enjoy the uninterrupted views and crystal-clear water, and make the most of the onsite restaurant’s dreamy terrace. Feast on locally sourced Sardinian cuisine (don’t miss the grilled seafood paired with a chilled island Vermentino). Expect to full-on relax but if you’re looking to let loose, there’s always live music and DJ sets happening to provide the full beach experience.

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