Top 3 campsites by the beach in Europe
Waking up steps from the sea, coffee in hand, the sound of waves —it’s exactly the kind of campervan moment a sabbatical is made for. Whether you’re chasing waves, wind, or just some sun-drenched stillness, Europe’s coastline offers incredible beachside campsites that let you park close to the action.
Here are three great beachside spots —plus a bonus pick nearby the coast—each with its own vibe, water sport, and postcard-perfect setting. All of them are well-suited for campervans, with good access, shaded pitches, and space to settle in for a while.
Pavillon Royal — Bidart, France
Perched on the Basque coastline between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Camping Le Pavillon Royal is a longtime favorite among surfers. The campsite sits right above the beach, with direct access to consistent beach breaks—perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers looking to ride the Atlantic swell. The site itself is beautifully kept, with mature pine trees offering shade, and many pitches enjoying ocean views.
Facilities include modern showers, a small on-site market and a restaurant with terrace seating. Surfboard rentals and schools are within walking distance, and Bidart’s laid-back town center is just a short cycle away.
Tip: Book early for a sea-facing pitch during summer—it’s popular for good reason.
Punta Jerta — Island of Krk, Croatia
For calm waters and crystal-clear snorkeling, Camp Punta Jerta on Krk Island offers the kind of still, turquoise bays usually reserved for postcards. The beach here is pebbly and quiet, perfect for floating, freediving, or just watching the sunset from your towel.
The campsite is small and family-run, with campervan-friendly pitches shaded by olive trees and just meters from the sea. It has a peaceful, local feel, with minimal frills and a big focus on the setting. A bar and restaurant are a short walk away along the waterfront—ideal for a slow glass of Croatian wine after a day in the sun.
Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear—there are plenty of coves nearby to explore.
Torre de la Peña — Tarifa, Spain
Where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, Tarifa is a wind lover’s paradise. Camping Torre de la Peña sits just west of the town, with pitches overlooking rolling hills, white sand, and the Strait of Gibraltar. On windy days—which are frequent—colorful kites fill the sky as kitesurfers take over the beach below.
The site has a famously relaxed feel, with terraced campervan pitches shaded by trees and a great restaurant (El Chozo) known for its sea views and local seafood. It’s a favorite with a mix of adventure seekers, and chill travelers who’ve decided to stay for a while. Tarifa’s bohemian town center is a short drive or long walk away, packed with bars and surf shops.
Tip: Even if you’re not kitesurfing or windsurfing, Torre de la Peña is worth a stop for the views and the beachside bar and restaurant only accessible to campsite guests.
Bonus: Espazo Nature — Galicia, Spain
While not directly on the sand, Espazo Nature sits high enough to offer sweeping views of Galicia’s rugged coastline and beaches. The area is one of Spain’s most underrated surf regions, with consistent Atlantic waves and a quieter lineup than more famous spots further east.
The campsite blends eco-friendly design with comfort—think spacious pitches, modern facilities, and a setting surrounded by green hills. It’s a short drive to several excellent surf beaches, making it a great base for those who want to enjoy the ocean by day but sleep somewhere peaceful at night.
For Travel Inspiration, see Destinations
Every region in the world offers something unique for a sabbatical.