Ölüdeniz Beach, Turkey
PHOTO:GETTY IMAGES
It's known as the Blue Lagoon, and the moniker is apt — the bay is so richly colored it almost doesn't look real. The bay and the surrounding forest are nature preserves with secret beaches, so it's unsullied and free of the overdevelopment that plagues many Turkish resort towns. Thankfully, it still has the necessary amenities (bathrooms, showers, cafes) to make your visit more comfortable. The place is a top spot for paragliders thanks to the nearby peak of Mount Babadag, and the lagoon's excellent visibility is ideal for snorkelers and scuba divers.
Advertisement
Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall, England
PHOTO:GETTY IMAGES
Located within a six-hour drive of London, this beach in Cornwall is famous for its white sand and turquoise waters. It's flanked by cliffs, so the cove remains calm even during the windy season. Bring your mask and snorkel — the visibility here makes spotting sea life a guarantee — and pack a change of clothes. Once the sun sets, you'll want to make a beeline up the cliffs to catch an outdoor show at Minack Theatre, complete with an ocean soundtrack and a view of the Atlantic.