8. Sveti Jakov, Dubrovnik, Croatia
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Swollen streets, crowded waterfronts, and the view overrun with selfie sticks — that's the Dubrovnik we all know and (try to) love. But just a mile south of town, it's a different world at Sveti Jakov, a calm, pebble-sand beach overlooking peaceful Lokrum island, with views of the Old Town's packed harbor in the distance. What's the catch? You'll face a bit of a hike to get there — either a walk or bus ride to the church at the top, then a 100-plus staircase down the cliff face to reach the beach. On the plus side, there's a little restaurant to refresh you once you're there — plus the Adriatic to wade in.
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9. Aretes, Halkidiki, Greece
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Halkidiki's three long, sandy "fingers" splayed out into the Aegean Sea are home to some of Greece's best beaches — and that's saying something. Aretes is one of its most laid-back options, though. The wave-like coastline wiggles itself into three distinct bays — the biggest, a wide sandy stretch that's calm but popular; beyond it, a rocky stretch; and lastly, a small sandy cove that not many bother walking to. In fact, on a quiet day, it might be all yours. It's perfectly sized for two, with gray-green rocks shearing up behind the tiny inlet. Head back to the restaurant on the main beach when you get peckish.