Zlatni Rat, Croatia

Zlatni Rat, or the “Golden Horn,” is one of Europe’s most unique beaches. This V-shaped spit of pebbly sand juts into the Adriatic Sea and changes shape with the wind and tides. Located on Brač Island, it’s a hotspot for windsurfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The water is clear, calm, and every shade of blue. Pine trees line the shore, and the whole place feels like a natural sculpture. Unique, photogenic, and endlessly relaxing.

Maya Bay, Thailand

Made famous by The Beach movie, Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi Leh is a stunner. Surrounded by tall limestone cliffs and shallow turquoise water, it feels like a private lagoon from another world. After being closed for years to recover from overtourism, it recently reopened with strict limits to protect the ecosystem. Visits are now shorter, but still totally worth it. It’s one of those surreal spots that makes you whisper, “wow,” without even realizing.