Whilst the cruising grounds of the Caribbean are renowned for tropical islands, palm dotted sands, and warm rippling waters perfect for a winter getaway, the variation in settings and locations of the beaches in the Mediterranean are ideal for a summertime yacht charter.
From the golden sands of France to the crystalline waters surrounding Greece and Turkey, the Mediterranean is home to some of the most beautiful beaches the world over.
With so many of them accessible via superyacht, there’s arguably no better way to spend the summer than to check them out with family and friends to create unforgettable memories.
Indeed, whether you’re looking to sunbathe, enjoy some watersports, or simply take in the sights from the comfort of a sundeck, there’s sure to be a hotspot suited to your desires.
In this feature we take you through 10 of the best beaches in the Mediterranean to visit on your luxury yacht charter vacation this summer.
Simos Beach, Elafonisos, Greece
Set against the glorious backdrop of Greek Peloponnese islands, the breath taking Simos Beach in Elafonisos is regularly listed amongst the best beaches in the world, and for good reason.
It consists of two beautiful bays - Megalos (Large) Simos and Mikros (Small) Simo – divided by a smaller stretch of sand. Dotted with gleaming white sand dunes, the beach is lapped by the clearest Mediterranean waters that are perfect for swimming and watersports.
Ramla I-Hamra Bay, Gozo, Malta
Hidden away at the bottom of a fertile valley on the historical island of Gozo is a curve of soft titian-tinted sands is backed by a rugged outcrop of bamboo and tamarisk-strewn dunes, enclosed by twin rocky headlands.
Ramla l-Hamra Bay (Red Beach) is the largest beach on the island and one of the most unspoilt and beautiful in Malta, watched over by a statue of the Virgin Mary which stands majestically in the middle of the Bay.
Don’t forget to explore the famous Calypso Cave located on the cliffs on the western corner of the beach.
Praia do Telheiro, Algarve, Portugal
This surfer’s paradise is situated on the western tip of the Algarve, close the charming coastal town of Sagres.
Famed for its seclusion and undisturbed beauty, the spot is perfect for those visiting by superyacht, and especially those looking to enjoy some watersports.
Backed by orange cliffs, this rugged bay is exposed to the powerful Atlantic Ocean which makes it perfect for catching waves
The isolated nature of the golden-sand beach ensures only a handful of visitors even in the height of summer, perfect for some privacy and relaxation aboard your luxury superyacht.
Step ashore for a few hours and you will also discover Portugal’s agricultural heartland and the wild terrains of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park.
Rodas Beach, Las Islas Cíes, Galicia, Spain
Known to locals as “Galician Caribbean”, the popular yachting destination of the Cíes Islands off the north coast of Spain are a breath-taking collection of heavenly beaches lapped by sparkling waters, encompassed by the scents of surrounding pine trees.
Expanding more than 1,300 yards (1,200m) between Monteagudo and the Faro islands, Rodas Beach is the largest and arguably the most picturesque in the archipelago and a perfect place to take in the uninterrupted views of the coastline.
Myrtos beach, Kefalonia, Greece
Flanked by the Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros mountains, the mile-and-a-half long arc of limestone pebbles that forms Myrtos beach is one of the most captivating in the East Mediterranean.
Gracing many a guide book, the view from above is truly spectacular, where the green of the mountain flora meets the bright white of the pebbles which in turn are lapped by fantastic turquoise.
This is a great place to stop and watch the sunset with a cocktail during a charter itinerary of the Ionian Islands.
Patara Beach, Turkey
Situated on Turkey’s idyllic Turquoise Coat, Patara Beach is one of the longest beaches in the whole of the Mediterranean, and remains largely undeveloped to make it also one of the best.
Its miles and miles of soft sands ensure that even in high season you are almost certain to find a deserted stretch to relax in peace.
Playa San Miguel, Ibiza
Despite Ibiza’s reputation for summer hedonism, its cluster of secluded beaches that it hides away from the droves of tourists are some of the most beautiful to be found.
The small seaside village of San Miguel on the island’s rugged north coast and embodies a traditional Spanish feel with markets selling local produce and a collection of small bars and restaurants where you can get some of the best seafood in the Balearics.
Cala Gonone, Sardinia
There are two main beaches along the coast of Cala Gonone, which itself is carved into the tree-speckled cliffs, but it is secluded sandy coves situated further away that are really worth a visit.
Totally undisturbed, these sections of the coast provide charter guests the opportunity to enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine away from the large crowds which gather on the more popular hotspots.
The inaccessibility of Cala Ganone’s undeveloped coastline on Sardinia’s east coast is what makes it so appealing for luxury charter yachts.
The wilder beaches of Cala Mariolo and Cala Goloritze in the south are particularly stunning, where the pearly white sands are dotted with windswept rocks, lapped by the azure waters.
Perfect for getting the diving gear out of the tender garage, the waters of Sardinia are populated by fascinating sea creatures which are particularly approachable.
Cavalaire-sur-Mer, Côte d’Azur
The Côte d’Azur is famous all over the world for its stunning coastline and exclusive resorts. Away from the hotspots of St Tropez and Monaco however are charming French towns and fishing villages that are home to rural, unspoilt beaches backed by palms, pines and peace.
Cavalaire-sur-mer is one of the best you can find and a must for watersports enthusiasts who can enjoy anything from kayaking and jet-skiing to diving amongst one of the 10 wrecks in the area.
Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
The jewel in the crown of Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Sveti Stefans 2 kilometres of coastline encompasses glistening pink tinged sands and breath taking views.
The iconic status of the island has long attracted elite travellers but this has not disturbed the beauty of the area. ‘King’s Beach’ or Miločer Beach offers a true escape in the Adriatic wilderness, surrounded by 18 acres of park containing exotic flora such as Lebanese cedars, cactus, agave, and tropical mimosas.
Take a look at all of the luxury superyachts available for charter in the Mediterranean.
A SELECTION OF SUPERYACHTS AVAILABLE FOR CHARTER IN THE MEDITERRANEAN
