Playa Sa Caleta, Ibiza, Spain
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It's easy to burn out after a few days in Ibiza's party-heavy atmosphere. When you do, head to this beach — it's not on the typical tourist itinerary, so you'll find it a bit calmer than the more popular places on the northern side of the island. And the setting alone is enough to leave you feeling recharged: Nestled in a break between two red rock cliffs, the beach itself is protected from the elements, and the ocean here is as blue and clear as they come. Once you've maxed out on sunbathing, stop by the nearby Phoenician ruins for an archaeological history of the area.
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Lubenice Beach, Cres Island, Croatia
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If historical reputation is any indication, this Croatian beach is not to be missed. The area has been settled for roughly 4,000 years and continues to be a popular spot in Croatia for locals and tourists alike. The beach itself is secluded, and sturdy shoes are a must since you'll have to brave a steep 45-minute hike to get there,
Don't miss the Blue Cave, a grotto carved into the cliff a few yards down. You'll need to swim to the edge of the beach to reach it, but once you're inside, the experience is unlike any other — sunlight reflecting through the water makes the scene appear lit from within. Once you've had your fill of the seaside, hike back up into town for a taste of Lubenice's ultra-fresh seafood in a medieval setting.