Romantic European Getaways For Ocean Lovers

If you love the sea, you've probably got an ocean cruise at the very top of your travel bucket list. But while a trip on a luxury ocean liner is always exciting, it's not the only way to enjoy a vacation at sea. 

A yacht charter with your partner is a far more romantic option - ideal for a honeymoon, anniversary celebration, or just some much-needed quality time. To inspire you, here is our list of romantic European getaways for ocean lovers.

Aiguablava

Catalonia is an autonomous community in Spain and spans just over 30,000 square kilometers (12,000 square miles). Although it is small in size, it is big in romance, thanks to beautiful beaches like Aiguablava.

Aiguablava is a small bay situated on the Costa Brava, with a small beach and some fantastic seafood restaurants. It is an ideal mooring spot for a sailboat and the ultimate secluded romantic getaway on the Mediterranean. 

If this is your very first private European getaway cruise on a sailboat or catamaran, you may wish to have a skipper. That will allow you to just soak up the atmosphere while your captain does the work. Of course, skippering your boat can be a part of the adventure. So if you're up to it, we say go for it!

Porto Timoni

Of course, no European getaway would be complete without a stop at one of the Greek Isles. 

Corfu Island knows how to spark romance, with beaches like Porto Timoni. And you get double the pleasure as Porto Timoni consists of two bays each with its own beach.

This area has great historical significance as well, so take a walk up to the cliff-side village of Afionas. This quaint little town has much to offer in terms of rich history as well as breathtaking views of the azure waters far below. 

Plage de Palombaggia

Sailing is always such an adventure. It's no surprise that some people quit their job and sail around the world. When you see romantic getaways like this Corsican beach, you'll be tempted, too. 

Corsica is a little isle in the Mediterranean, and one of the 18 regions of France. The whole island is a delight to explore, but the beach at Plage de Palombaggia is the best of all its treasures. Here you can experience all the wonders of nature. 

Tranquil blue waters, lush greenery, and the most romantic little beach in between. The waters are so pure and clear, you'll find yourself gazing into them and drifting away on a cloud of bliss. Little wonder that this is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic beaches in France if not the whole of Europe. 

Zlatni Rat

Zlatni Rat Beach, (meaning Golden Horn), is located in the middle of the southern coast of Brac Island in Croatia. This pebbled beach is a popular stop for cruise ships along the Dalmatian Coast, en route from Split to Dubrovnik. 

If you're not used to pebbled beaches, you may find it a bit of a challenge, but it's so worth the effort. Enjoy epic views of the Adriatic Sea as you take a romantic walk along the white stone pathways or explore the Mediterranean pine groves beyond. 

Either way, you'll be guaranteed fresh air, spectacular views, and the warmth of Croatian hospitality at this much-loved island getaway.

Cala Cotticio

Another Mediterranean charmer, Cala Cotticio is a small beach and part of La Maddalena National Park on the island of Sardinia, west of the Italian Peninsula. With astounding natural beauty, and over 300 days of sunshine a year, Sardinia is a definite contender for your romantic getaway destinations list.

Even rare sea creatures cannot resist this island's appeal. Sardinia was the site of one of the last recorded sightings of a white whale, back in 2015. But we think that whale heard about this stunning little beach!

It is located on the northeastern part of the island of Caprera, which boasts some of the best beaches and coves in Sardinia. Picturesque pink-hued granite rocks surround this inlet of turquoise water. A more romantic spot than this tiny Mediterranean gem surely cannot be found.

Praia De Benagil

This stunning destination on the Portuguese Atlantic coast may not be as well known as other European vacation spots, but it's a real gem. Take a guided tour, or do your own exploring, it's all up to you. But be sure to visit the magnificent Benagil Caves, one of the famous Algarve Caves. 

After some meditative contemplation surrounded by cave walls, it's time to hit the beach. Marinha Beach, Portugal's best kept secret. Tucked between sun-kissed cliffs, it features a heart-shaped rock that visitors love to photograph. What a great sign that this is the place for romance!