Looking for an excuse to book a sun-soaked mini break? Hello, August bank holiday! We’ve rounded up the top lounging locations so you can send off your summer in style. And the best bit? They’re all just a short hop away.

Flights? Booked. Bags? Packed. Holiday mode? On.

Menorca

If you’re dreaming of a go-slow getaway, then mellow Menorca might be just the ticket! This Balearic beauty is synonymous with snow-white sands and turquoise-tinted waters. Son Bou’s the longest beach on the island, while Cala Trebalúger on the south coast is a quiet hideaway cocooned in nature. If you’re keen to get your steps in before a day of dozing, take the scenic coastal path from Sant Tomas to Cala Escorxada. Once you arrive, you’ll be handsomely rewarded with a ribbon of sand nestled between pine-packed cliffs.

Madeira

It might be better known for its stunning scenery and cosmopolitan capital, but Madeira’s got plenty to satisfy the sun-seekers. Praia do Porto do Seixal delivers on dramatic beauty, with its volcanic sands cradled by emerald cliffs. You’re just a few minutes from the natural tidal pools of Porto Moniz too! Praia de Machico is prime sandcastle building real estate, so it’s a favourite for families. Madeira’s smaller sister, Porto Santo, is known as the Golden Island thanks to its sprawling blonde shores. Easily reached by ferry from Funchal, it’s designed for escape-from-it-all days delving into a good book.

The Algarve

Often crowned one of Europe’s best beach destinations, and for good reason, you’re never far from a peaceful plot in the sun-kissed Algarve. There are more than 100 beaches to choose from, with everything from secluded spots to child-friendly coves. If it’s dramatic scenery that makes you want to unroll that beach towel, then Praia De Marinha is the one for you. Here, the cliffs have been morphed and moulded by the sea, resulting in an out-of-this-world landscape of crevasses and caves. Pint-sized paddlers will adore Praia da Rocha’s rippling waves and soft sands. And there are lots of water sports on offer for the more adventurous beachgoers too!

Ibiza

Ibiza’s more than 200km of shimmering coastline should put it top of your beach break wish list. The island’s most idyllic spots are found tucked-away within the UNESCO-crowned Parc Natural de Ses Salines. Playa de Ses Salines is a lively location, so pick a patch and get ready to be serenaded by the beach bars’ Balearic beats. San Antonio Bay, on the west coast, is speckled with sweeps that are linked by pretty promenades. On the east coast, R&R is easy to come by in sleepy Santa Eulalia, with its duo of secluded stretches. No matter which part of the coast you visit, outdoor adventures are always on the cards. A sunset kayak on the sparkling Mediterranean? A snorkel tour of the island’s fascinating marine life? The opportunities are endless.

Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca’s honey-gold carpet unfolds along Spain’s southeast shoreline. Levante Beach is the star of Benidorm’s beach scene, where days in the rays are spent sprawling on sunbeds or trying out thrilling watersports. When evening falls, you can cocktail crawl along the endless selection of bars and restaurants. North east of Alicante, you’ll find the charming coastal town of Altea, which boasts a bounty of beautiful beaches. Playa la Roda is the main draw, flanked by a palm-lined promenade. It’s nestled at the foot of the Old Town, so you can embark on sightseeing stints in between sunbathing sessions.

Majorca

Fly-and-flop weekends are Majorca’s bread and butter. Each of its beaches has a different personality, from shy and secluded coves to loud and lively sweeps. Shallow waters, pristine sands and a shorefront playground, Playa de Alcudia has all the essential ingredients for a fun-filled family day. On the east coast, sandy showstoppers like Cala Varques provide an unspoilt paradise, far from the crowds. Part of their charm is the lack of facilities, so make sure to pack a picnic! Cala Mondragó is another must-visit, set against the lush greenery of a nature reserve, it’s a magical place to unplug. There’s a chiringuito for toes-in-the-sand lunches when you’re feeling peckish too.

Costa Del Sol

Sunny by name, sunny by nature, very few can beat the Costa Del Sol when it comes to sun-soaked stays. There are seaside spots aplenty for making the most of the dreamy climate, like glamorous Marbella. Here, you’ll be spoilt with 25km of beach-bar-bejewelled shoreline. Choose Torremolinos if you want to sample a pick-and-mix selection of beaches. They’re all conveniently linked by a seafront parade so hopping between them all is a breeze. Neighbouring Benalmadena doesn’t let the side down either, boasting the Blue Flag Santa Ana Beach and the watersports wonderland, Torre Bermeja Beach.

Costa Dorada

Have you ever wondered why the Costa Dorada’s named the Golden Coast? Step foot onto one of the picturesque playas and it’ll all seem clear. There’s a bumper selection to explore, and more than 80 of these fly the Blue Flag, so expect pristine sands and fantastic facilities. If you’re travelling with tots, Salou boasts the most in-demand sands. Llevant Beach is conveniently located in the centre of town and has the added attraction of the dancing fountains when the kids are all splashed out. La Pineda’s best suited to those seeking solitude, fringed with silky sands. The agenda here is simple: lounging, paddling and then a little more lounging.