European coastal town compared to Spain has 20C temperatures in September and no crowds
If you're in search of a budget-friendly seaside getaway, consider swapping Spain's sun-soaked coasts for this lesser-known, yet enchanting counterpart in Northern Europe.
This charming seaside town, although not widely recognised internationally, is a beloved destination among locals and earned acclaim from Lonely Planet in 2018 as one of the most underrated beach spots.
Known as Estonia's "summer capital”, Pärnu becomes a bustling hub during the warmer months, attracting visitors with its sprawling sandy beach, vibrant beach bars, and the popular Nightclub Sunset.
Pärnu’s beach is a standout feature, notable for its exceptional water temperatures, which hit a record high of 33°C in 2010.
Typically, the waters hover around 30°C, making it ideal for swimming and especially appealing to beginner surfers due to its shallow depths.
The beach’s inviting conditions and picturesque setting often surprise visitors who don’t expect Estonia to be home to such a beautiful coastal retreat.
As one traveller put it: "Truly feels like a hidden gem (as who thinks of Estonia when thinking of nice beaches?)"
Another told local news outlet ERR: "We like it, it's almost like in Spain. So, actually it surprised me a little bit.”
About Parnu beach, one Tripadvisor review notes: "What a super beach very well laid out multiple places to eat and drink. The sand is excellent the sea is hollow for over 50 metres.
"There is a surf school with kiteboarding kayaks etc. There are changing facilities in the hack toilets and seating."
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This summer, Pärnu saw a significant influx of tourists, setting a new record with over 15,000 visitors on July 16 alone.
Beyond its stunning beach, the town is a cultural hotspot with numerous annual events, including the Beach Grind festival, which recently featured top international DJs like Marshmello and Chase & Status.
For those interested in history and architecture, Pärnu's main town boasts a mix of colourful buildings dating from the 12th to the 18th centuries.
Pärnu also has a rich spa heritage, with its spa hotels reflecting a tradition of wellness that dates back to the 1800s, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.