From the Greek islands to the French Riviera and Spain’s Costa Brava, Europe’s renowned beach destinations offer sun and sea paired with historical sites and delicious cuisine. And though some of them are known for attracting jet-setting party crowds, not all are teeming with people.

Across the continent, there are secret beaches near popular destinations where you can create your own adventure. Many European beaches curve around bright Mediterranean waters backdropped by dramatic cliffs. There are troves of soft sand, sea caves, and tucked-away bars to explore.

Here are 15 of Europe’s most beautiful secluded beaches to enjoy the next time you need to escape from it all.

San Giovanni di Sinis, Sardinia, Italy

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The north coast of Sardinia is famous for its sugar-sand beaches, which is why everyone heads there. But all of Sardinia’s coastline is spectacular—you just have to work a little harder to reach the less obvious beaches.…