Mid-summer in the Northern Hemisphere––it's the time when we realize the futility of trying to get any work done because everyone else is at the beach. The cities empty out, and the sandy shores fill up with sun worshippers.
So here are some of our favorite hidden gems in cities that you may not come to mind when you think about summers by the seashore!
Beautiful urban setting, Puerto Olímpico is the place to go for stand up surfing in Barcelona.
Test waters in the Firth of Forth on the tiny Scottish island in greater Edinburgh. If the walls of the medieval abby could talk, they'd tell of storms and a shipwrecked king.
When A-listers want to feel what it's like to camp on a desert island, they may come to this private club and stretch of beach in Ramatuelle. You can join them just by making a reservation.
A beautiful and well-maintained beach, you can camp out and fall asleep to the sounds of the sea on Lantau Island. However, don't plan on sleeping much because this beach is known for its great restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Search for sea lavender and keep an eye out for agile grey seals romping in the surf along
this romantic, rocky beach on this British island on the Dee Estuary.
One of the greatest surfing spots in the world, you can ride a wave for almost half a mile! The water is deliciously warm, and it's the inspiration for Gidget, everyone's favorite surfer girl.
Some of us can't just lie around all day. The clear blue waters are a dream come true for snorkelers and aspiring marine biologists.
Only the locals know about this sweet Swedish beach (until now). It's a refreshing place to spend a sunny day and cannonball into the Baltic Sea.
Plan your next adventure with us!