• Wherever you go, you're sure to have gorgeous scenery on your oceanside holiday.beach image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
  
  There are a vast number of beaches to choose from when planning your European vacation. so it can become quite daunting. First, decide what type of beach you'll most enjoy. Ask yourself if you want a serene vacation spot that looks untouched by humans, or a beach with bustling nightlife nearby. Whether you have children may also play a role in your choice.
  
  

Cala d'en Serra, Ibiza, Spain

• On the island of Ibiza, you'll find a serene beach by a bay with calm waters, which offers great spots for snorkeling and secluded coves, called Cala d'en Serra, according to the Guardian. Ibiza is located on the east coast of Spain, near Valencia, and Cala d'en Serra sits on the north coast. People come to this beach for a peaceful respite from their busy lives, and find it without fail. Nearby you'll find lovely restaurants serving delicious tapas.
  
  

Tropea, Calabrea

• The Tropea promontory in southern Italy, featuring rugged cliffs towering above sparkling white sands, extends into the Tyrrhenian Sea. You'll feel like you're in a fairytale as you walk across the picturesque cliffs towering over the ocean waters. Cultural experiences abound as well; stroll through the picturesque streets of Tropea and visit historic churches and other landmarks.
  
  

Biarritz, Basque Coast of France

• This popular surfing destination has long been a favorite European beach. Biarritz has taken on an air of glamor since many famous people frequent this vacation spot. You'll find plenty of hip restaurants nearby. The area also has an intriguing blend of French and Spanish cultures because of its proximity to Spain.
  
  

Barley Cove, Ireland

• Ireland has a charm all its own when it comes to beach holidays. Sitting bravely at the edge of the Atlantic winds and waters, the coastline often has a wild feel. That doesn't mean the beaches are always cold and inhospitable, though. Barleycove beach, which sits between two headlands on Mizen Peninsula, on the southeastern coast of Ireland, offers sweeping sand dunes leading to the beach itself.
  
  

Cirali, Turkey

• Turkey has its own hidden seaside spots, like Cirali beach, with sandy shores beneath towering green hillsides. This is a place to get away from the crowds of beachgoers. Plus, you may have the chance to see a nesting site of loggerhead turtles, a rare opportunity in the Mediterranean.
  
  

Mykonos, Greece

• Mykonos is its own island, with its own special flavor of Greek culture. It offers an ideal couple's retreat, as well as a fun spot for families to explore together. Plus, it boasts classical architecture and delicious Greek cuisine. A beach vacation could hardly get any better.
  
  

Brela Beach, Croatia

• More and more people are realizing that, like Greece, Croatia has its own natural splendor and idyllic seaside towns, often at a lower cost, since fewer people travel there. At Brela Beach, you'll find rocky headlands extending into sparkling Mediterranean waters. Luxury hotels and hidden coves tucked into pine-covered hills abound.