Why choose between the exciting buzz of a city adventure and a relaxing trip to the beach, when you can have both? For travelers looking to maximize their vacation time this summer, look no further than Skyscanner's list of top 10 urban beaches.
Barcelona, Spain
Offering a variety of beaches, Barcelona is sure to have the urban beach setting for every taste. Barceloneta is one of the biggest beaches, attracting hundreds of Barcelonans every day. For those looking for something a little more relaxed, Nova Icaria offers a quiet setting ideal for families who can enjoy the nearby games areas and volleyball courts.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital has two beaches close to the city center, easily accessible by the local S-train. Amager Beach Park is the closest and features a sandy beach that runs along the road and to a neighboring island, connected to the mainland by three bridges. But if you don't care much for beaches, why not just dive into Havnebad, Copenhagen's harbor. The water is clean and clear and ideal for cooling off after a day of walking around the city.
Brighton, UK
Voted as one of the top 10 beaches in the world, the beach in Brighton is famous for its pier which hosts an abundance of fairs, arcades, side stalls and bars for traditional seaside fun. At night, the area turns into one of the UK's premier night life hotspots.
Vancouver, Canada
With over 11 miles worth of beaches to choose from, it's no wonder that Vancouver made the list as one of the top urban beaches in the world. Kitsilano Beach (or 'Kits' as the locals call it) is one of the trendiest beaches, featuring Vancouver's largest salt water pool, tennis courts and a playground for kids.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
In Dubrovnik, like anywhere else on Croatian Adriatic, one can swim and sunbath almost everywhere along the coast. But the most famous beach is probably Banje Beach, centrally located with views over Dubrovnik Old Town.
New York, United States
Despite being one of the biggest and most densely populated cities on earth, New York has several beaches where New Yorkers can escape from city life and get their sand fix. Coney Island in Brooklyn is a popular getaway, with Brighton Beach and Manhattan Beach as favorite sandy hangouts.
Berlin, Germany
Despite being a landlocked city miles from the coast, Berlin boasts the largest inland beach in Europe. The Wannsee Beach Complex in the district of Zehlendorf provides enough space for nearly 50,000 visitors. But if you're looking for something less touristy, head to Strandbar Mitte. Located right on the river Spree Berliners come here to relax on stripy deckchairs and enjoy mojitos on sand shipped in to create an artificial beach right on the river bank.
Tel Aviv, Israel
The Israeli capital boasts several beaches within its limits. Gordon-Frishman beach is about as central as you can get in Tel Aviv and the Gordon salt water pool attracts many people who come for an early morning workout. The beach is wide and sandy and is one of the hippest places to be in Tel Aviv, with beach bars, DJs, volleyball courts and a trendy crowd coming to enjoy the Mediterranean shore.
Sydney, Australia
One of the most famous city beaches, Sydney's Bondi is well known for surfing as well as relaxing in the sun. Visitors can enjoy the dozens of cafes, bars and restaurants overlooking the beach or for the more active, go cycling, rollerblading and skating on the attached parkland.
Los Angeles, United States
With over 20 beaches to choose from, there are plenty of opportunities to re-enact Baywatch fantasies. Manhattan Beach has great views of Santa Monica bay and is a favorite with walkers. El Matador Beach is a quieter more romantic spot, ideal for couples, whereas Redondo Beach is more suitable for families.