If you plan to escape Spain’s intense summer temps by heading north to the cooler region of Galicia, make sure to boat over to the Cíes Islands, a small archipelago located off the coast of Pontevedra. The three islands that make up the group are part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. You can take a day trip to the islands by boat, but as this is a protected space, you’ll need to get authorization first and purchase a boat ticket ahead of time.

Travelers who head to the Costa Blanca—destinations such as Alicante, Valencia, and Benidorm—can expect to frolic in warm Mediterranean waters and enjoy busy, lively beaches. If you want a similar setting without the crowds, consider heading to Tabarca (officially Nueva Tabarca), which is just a short boat ride away from the Port of Santa Pola. The island is tiny, so you can visit on a day trip. See the lighthouse, snorkel in the island’s clear waters, and stroll around the historic town center.

Ibiza's official “season” kicks off from June to September thanks to an influx of parties, DJ residences, and booze cruises. That said, Ibiza is more than its nightlife. The island also invites wellness travelers into the mix, including those looking for beachside relaxation at luxury hotels, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, yoga retreats, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Popular beaches include Cala Comte, Cala Xarraca, and Cala Martina.

Known for its hidden beach coves and quiet luxury, Menorca does see tourism pick up in the summer but is slightly calmer than many of its other Balearic siblings. Head to the capital, Mahón, to get a bit of history and explore the fish market and the harbor, then be ready to hike, swim, and explore the island’s various calas (beach coves); Macarella and Macarelleta are two secluded beaches located in a beautiful cove on the west coast of Menorca.

This island’s name means “strong winds,” and the area’s breezy gusts make it a perfect spot for surfers (both budding and advanced), windsurfers, and kite surfers. Highlights include Flag Beach, in the north, which is a favorite among surfers, and the pristine Cofete, which is part of a natural reserve that sits at the base of the island’s volcanoes. You can also head to the village of Betancuria, a tiny, whitewashed town set among a unique combination of desert and volcanic landscapes.

Tenerife is the ideal spot to visit for families that want to explore, enjoy beach time, and check out one of Europe’s largest water parks, Siam. Whale-watching excursions are also popular, and you can’t visit the island without checking out its massive volcano, Mt. Teide, which you can see via cable car. If you’re mostly visiting for some beach fun, base yourself in Costa Adeje, in the south, where you’ll find golden sands and beach coves with shallower waters that are ideal for children.