Europe's cultural capitals are traditionally regarded as must-see locations, but the Caribbean and the South Pacific often get more attention from travelers looking for beach holiday spots. Many travelers ignore the coastal attractions of the continent, despite the variety of seaside alternatives available, including the serene enclaves of Greece and Croatia, the untamed beauty of Iceland, and the vibrant nightlife of the Côte d'Azur.

We've put up a list of Europe's top beaches that is suitable for all types of visitors. Beyond the breathtaking countryside and ocean vistas, these locations are just as diverse as Europe itself. Explore walks during the off-season, family-friendly beaches with much to do, quiet areas for phrazle relaxing alone, and vibrant party locations. Stated differently, there's a beach getaway for everyone, regardless of their identity or goals.

Navagio, Greece's Zakynthos Island

The massive, battered hull of a ship that went aground in the early 1980s is the main attraction at this well-known location. Now, the ship is positioned in the center of a crescent beach, only a short distance from the tideline where the brilliant blue Ionian Sea meets the pale white sand. The cove can only be reached by boat due to the high cliffs surrounding the beach, but there are plenty of service providers nearby to guarantee a constant flow of visitors throughout the summer. (That is, when efforts to stop landslides aren't being made.) It's worth the journey: The dramatic appearance of the rusting shell against the breathtaking natural beauty of Zakynthos Island must be seen in person to be fully appreciated.

France's Calanque d'En-Vau, Cassis

This remote location on the southern coast of France is ideal for adventurers: It's only reachable by boat or a two-hour climb from the port at Cassis, and the difficulty of getting there adds to the attraction. This beach, which is tucked away at the end of a lengthy inlet and flanked by enormous, rocky cliffs, has a surreal quality to it due to the visual contrast of the white limestone and the brilliant blue Mediterranean.

Italy's Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa

Situated on the island of Lampedusa, 100 miles southwest of Sicily, between Tunisia and Malta, this beach is among the most breathtaking in the world, but its isolated position tends to discourage all but the most adventurous people. However, there is a substantial payoff for those who go the extra mile: Swimmers and snorkelers will find paradise in the consistently calm, clear water that is shallow enough to wade far out into the bay. This is one among the few regular nesting locations for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle, so keep a watch out for them.

Beach Elafonissi, Crete, Greece

Elafonissi's diverse range of sports and breathtaking environment appeal to both adrenaline addicts and laid-back beachgoers. Photographers will love the pink sand and the surrounding mountains, while more athletic types may go windsurfing, kiteboarding, or surfing. When you're feeling particularly peckish, get a plate of dakos at one of the neighborhood tavernas. Dakos is a dish made locally that consists of crisp bread topped with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, mizithra cheese, olive oil, and herbs.