Beach London, London

Just in time for the Summer Olympics, Londoners are ferrying enough sand up the Thames River from North Norfolk to build the largest man-made beach in Europe: Beach London. Think deck chairs, daybeds, bars, a restaurant, a sand volleyball court, play areas for kids, and room for thousands of sunseekers across four acres. It's on Greenwich Peninsula, where the Thames River turns a big S-curve right next to the city's major concert venue, The O2 arena. The perfect spot to preparty while overlooking the Canary Wharf skyline? Absolutely.

What to Do: In July and August hear bands and international-circuit DJs on the beach or catch a beach-volleyball tournament, a beach-rugby match, a fashion show, and other events. During the Olympics you can watch live coverage on big screens and check out the VIP village.