10. Fomm ir-Riħ, Mgarr, Malta
PHOTO:MARK MUSCAT / 500PX/GETTY IMAGES
There’s a pebble beach in the Western part of Malta where the deep blue Mediterranean waters cover one of the county’s best snorkeling sites. Even better, you’ll mostly have the bay to yourself as this wild spit of land is only accessible by rough, steep footpath which you’ll traverse for a good 20 minutes before you reach its secluded scenery. For those who are able, the trek is well worth it once you see this unspoiled respite.
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11. Butterfly Valley, Fethiye, Turkey
PHOTO:RESULMUSLU/GETTY IMAGES
No, that isn’t a trick of the light but the 105 different butterfly species this beach is known for. Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is a popular resort destination popular for its historical sites and soft, sandy beaches, but this nature reserve is off the beaten path of the Turkish Riviera. Butterfly Valley (known locally as Kelebekler Vadisi) cuts through rugged cliffs and into the clear blue waters where you’ll arrive by boat, either from an ecotour or the shuttle from Belceğiz Beach in the village of Ölüdeniz, where you’ll find a charming blue lagoon.