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These destinations look just like the Maldives – but they’re actually much cheaper to get to

These destinations are much closer to home - and that means you can get there without the long-haul flight

Rosie Gizauskas

Published: 16:52, 14 Dec 2018
Updated: 16:44, 15 Dec 2018

THE Maldives is a dream holiday destination - but a holiday there doesn't come cheap.

But luckily, there are some stunning beaches slightly closer to home that also have perfect white sands and turquoise seas.

The Maldives are paradise - but there are options closer by without the long-haul flightCredit: Getty - Contributor

We've picked out the most beautiful, Maldives-like beaches across Europe - and the good news is that they won't involve a long-haul flight to get there.

From Greece to Spain and even Scotland, read on to find out about the European beaches that look tropical - but are much closer to home.

Though you'll need to make sure you visit in summer for one of them - as it's actually in the UK.

Formentera, Spain

Formentera has crystal clear waters and turquoise seas

The smallest of the Balearic Islands, Formentera's beaches are like something from the Caribbean.

Just a quick ferry ride over from Ibiza, the tiny island is worth a day trip if you're staying on the party island, as Formentera doesn't have its own airport.

For this reason it's chilled out, quiet and the perfect place to relax and unwind and is more about good food and drink than the crazy clubs of Ibiza.

Elafonissi, Greece

You can walk to Elafonissi through the water from CreteCredit: Getty - Contributor

A tiny island located near to Crete, Elafonissi is actually walkable to through the water when the weather is warm enough.

Once you get to its beach, you'll find white and pink sands and turquoise waters in its lagoon.

Elafonissi is a mile long and is made up of coves to explore as well as rock formations.

Zlatni Rat, Croatia

The beautiful Croatian beach of Zlatni Rat is completely unique in its shapeCredit: Getty - Contributor

Zlatni Rat's unusual shape draws many tourists to it in the high season in summer and it's also known as the Golden Horn.

Situated on the picturesque island of Brac, the beach's peak actually changes shape every few years, depending on the weather.

In the middle of the two beaches there are woods to explore and the island is a great spot for water sports, such as kayaking and windsurfing.

Ksamil, Albania

Albania's Ksamil beach is known as the 'turquoise pearl'Credit: Getty - Contributor

Ksamil looks like it could be in the Caribbean - but it's actually in Albania, and is known as "the turquoise pearl".

With crystal clear waters, white sands and mountain backdrops, this beach is everything you'll need for the perfect Instagram photos.

You can also easily make a day trip on a boat to nearby Corfu via the town of Saranda, which is just a two hour trip in total and costs around €19 (£16) each way - just make sure you bring your passport with you for identification.

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Ksamil is also by flying into Corfu.

Isle of Barra

Head off to Eoligarry Beach on the Isle of Barra - who needs the Maldives? You might just be missing the heat.

Barra is situated in the Outer Hebrides and is the second southernmost inhibited island there, with around 1,100 residents.

Take a look at the world's first underwater villa in the Maldives