For many sun lovers, summer vacations are a time for lounging on the beach and swimming in the ocean. But the relaxing vacation vibe can quickly be spoiled in a crowded, famous coastal city where you can barely find a stretch of sand to lay your towel on.

At these underrated coastal destinations worldwide, you can enjoy all the benefits of a seaside summer vacation without the crowds, noise, and sky-high prices of more mainstream spots.

Bornholm, Denmark 

Bornholm is an island in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Denmark. It offers rich history, unique architecture, and plenty of arts and culture (just like mainland Denmark) but with beaches, boating opportunities, and 360-degree coastal landscapes.

Located on the southernmost tip of Bornholm, Dueodde Beach has ultra-fine white sand and sparkling blue waters. From the beach, you can spot the picturesque Dueodde lighthouse, Denmark’s tallest lighthouse.

Beach life is just the beginning here. Bornholm is also known for the remains of the medieval castle, Hammershus, the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe where you can take a fascinating tour back in time. A hearty farm-to-table culinary scene will keep you well-fed during your island journey.

Mangalore, Karnataka State, India

“One of the most overlooked coastal locations in India by foreign travelers is Mangalore,” says Sahana Kulur, travel writer and co-founder of Vacaywork. “Nestled on the banks of the Arabian Sea, Mangalore offers delicious coastal food and is even known as the ice cream capital of India. It boasts surfing schools and kayaking options in its backwaters.” 

The city of Mangalore boasts a wide selection of beaches for summer sunbathing and a number of significant historic temples, making for a good balance between history, culture, and relaxation. Mangalore is one of the major ports of India, and coastal cruises stop here.

While in town, Kulur recommends Padubidri Beach, one of India’s 12 Blue Flag Beaches. It’s clean and quiet, slightly removed from the busier, more popular beaches but still accessible for the city’s downtown. Here, you can enjoy white sand, clear blue water, fishing, and picnics.

Willemstad, Curacao

Though the Caribbean is well-loved for beachside vacations, Curacao, a small island near the coast of Venezuela, doesn’t have the same name recognition as Aruba or Turks and Caicos. But while those destinations are busy with annual travelers, the 35 beaches on the island of Curacao are quiet and pristine.  

You could easily spend your whole vacation on the beach, but it’s worth a trip or two to downtown Willemstad, the capital city of this island nation. You’ll find a vibrant street art scene, local markets, and rows of photogenic pastel houses along the water.

Downtown is also where you’ll find a thriving restaurant industry that heavily emphasizes local seafood and nightlife such as clubs, concerts, and rooftop bars.

Narva-Jõesuu, Estonia 

“With over 3,700 km of Baltic coastline, Estonia is an underrated coastal destination,” says Kulur. “Compared to famous beach destinations like Greece, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, a holiday on the beaches of Estonia can cost at least 40% less and offer a much quieter experience.”

Narva-Jõesuu Beach is the longest beach in Estonia, says Kulur, and it’s lined with pine forests for an unusual and unique beach experience. You can sunbathe in the morning and then stroll in the cool forest during the hottest hours of the day in the afternoon.