With miles of sandy coastline, it’s no surprise that Fuengirola is a major draw on Spain's Costa del Sol. But the resort town offers than just beaches—a Moorish castle, immersive bio-zoo, amusement parks, and retail zone provide entertainment for the whole family.

Founded in the early 10th century as the capital of Fatimid-ruled Tunisia, Mahdia is today a quiet port town and provincial center of about 40,000 people, known for its fishing, silk weaving and olive industries. One of Tunisia's most picturesque cities, Mahdia lies between Sousse and Sfax and has many historic attractions, including the ruins of an ancient Punic city (pre-dating Mahdia), the Fatimid port, the first Fatimid mosque (built in the 10th century), and a 16th-century Ottoman fort.

Swaying palms and a seaside promenade draw laid-back crowds to Larnaca—and its international airport means it’s the first stop for many visitors to Cyprus. Beyond the coast, sidewalk cafés, markets, and shops lend the port city a lived-in, local feel.

The Atlantic coast of New Jersey, with its beaches and boardwalks, stretches from Sandy Hook in the north to Cape May in the south. Fresh ocean breezes fan 127 miles of sandy beaches. Drive between cities or catch a NJ Transit bus or Atlantic City jitney bus. Atlantic City packs people in to nightlife venues and casinos. Wildwood's boardwalk is well-trod. Asbury Park is once again popular, particularly with gays and lesbians. Cape May's restaurants and Victorian inns lure tourists to the historic town.

Sure, you can leave the sunny sands in favor of a crocodile watch or horseback ride, but when the main strand is called Seven Mile Beach, it's clear what draws most visitors to Negril. Depending on how much sun you want, you're welcome to go topless or even sunbathe in the buff in some places.