Spain is home to some of the best beaches in the world, offering crystal-clear waters, pristine sands, and breathtaking views. Here are a few of the best beaches in Spain that are worth a visit:
- Playa de las Catedrales: Located in Galicia, this beach is known for its stunning rock formations and tide pools, making it seem like a natural cathedral.
- Playa de Ses Illetes: Situated in Formentera, this beach is known for its white sands and turquoise waters. The shallow waters make it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Playa de la Concha: Located in San Sebastian, this beach is crescent and surrounded by mountains. Its calm waters make it a great relaxing place and soak up the sun.
- Cala Comte: This beach is located in Ibiza and is known for its clear waters and rock formations. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming.
- Cala Macarella: Situated in Menorca, this beach boasts crystal-clear waters and white sands. It’s surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, making it a picturesque spot for a day in the sun.
The Costa Brava
Spain’s Costa Brava is a stunning destination known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea, and picturesque Mediterranean towns. With rocky headlands, breathtaking cliffs, and lively cities, the Costa Brava appeals to all kinds of travelers. Let’s look at some of the best beaches of Costa Brava and why it is so special.
Llafranc Beach
Llafranc Beach is one of the most charming and picturesque beaches in the Costa Brava region of Spain, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and modern amenities.
The beach is in the heart of the Costa Brava coastline, surrounded by stunning coastal cliffs and lush green vegetation. With a length of 330 meters, Llafranc Beach is spacious enough to accommodate a large crowd without feeling crowded.
The beach offers plenty of facilities, including showers, restrooms, sun loungers, parasols, beach bars, restaurants, and water sports equipment rentals.
The turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea are clear and warm, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Llafranc Beach is also an excellent base for exploring the rest of the Costa Brava region, with its charming fishing villages, medieval towns, and rugged coastline.
Pro tip: Visit the beach early morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Tamariu Beach
Tamariu Beach is one of the best beaches in Spain, located in the Costa Brava region of Catalonia. It is a small and secluded beach that offers crystal clear water, pristine shores, and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and vegetation. This sandy and crescent-shaped beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports such as snorkeling and kayaking.
Tamariu Beach’s small fishing village offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood. With its peaceful ambiance, sparkling waters, and natural beauty, Tamariu Beach is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to the Costa Brava, a visit to Tamariu Beach should be on your list of must-see destinations.
Aiguablava Beach
Aiguablava Beach, located on the Costa Brava, is one of the best beaches in Spain, known for its crystal clear waters, serene atmosphere, and stunning views.
This beach is in a deep cove surrounded by lush green vegetation and rocky cliffs, providing ample shade and privacy. It is a perfect destination for a peaceful retreat or a romantic getaway.
The beach is composed of fine golden sand and gentle slopes into the sea, making it an excellent place for swimming and water sports. In addition, the clear water and rocky terrain make it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Overall, Aiguablava Beach is a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil escape in a picturesque and natural setting.
Playa de las Catedrales
Playa de las Catedrales, known as the Beach of the Cathedrals, is one of the most popular beaches in Spain. Located in the province of Galicia, it’s known for its stunning rock formations that look like cathedral archways when the tide is low – hence its name. Let’s have a closer look at the captivating Playa de las Catedrales and why it’s one of the best beaches in Spain.
Beach Amenities
Playa de las Catedrales, located in Ribadeo, is one of the best beaches in Spain if not the world. Its pristine beauty and natural scenery complement the amenities that make your visit comfortable and memorable.
Here are some of the beach amenities available at Playa de las Catedrales:
- Public restrooms
- Showers to rinse off the saltwater and sand
- Wooden walkways to ease access and protect the natural dunes
- Public parking
- Sun loungers and umbrellas for rent
With these amenities, visitors can enjoy their day at the beach without worrying about the logistics of making it all possible. Pro Tip- Plan and arrive early in the day to claim your lounger and umbrella or even pack your own to avoid any last-minute stress while visiting this mesmerizing beach of Spain.
Things to do in the area
Playa de las Catedrales is one of the best beaches in Spain, offering pristine views and a range of activities for tourists and vacationers alike. Here are some things to do in the area:
- Explore the beach: The beach boasts stunning rock formations and sea caves accessible during low tide.
- Take a walk along the cliffs: The cliffs surrounding the beach offer fantastic coastline views, and several hiking paths traverse them, making it a popular place for trekkers.
- Take a boat tour: Several boat tours are available for tourists exploring the surrounding sea and islands.
- Visit the town of Ribadeo: Ribadeo is a quaint town located near Playa de las Catedrales and is known for its charming architecture, lively nightlife, and seafood.
- Enjoy water sports: The beach offers excellent opportunities for water sports, such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Scenic beauty
Playa de las Catedrales is one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, known for its natural arches, breathtaking cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Located on the north coast of Spain in Galicia, this beach offers stunning scenery that is unlike anything else in the world.
Visitors can explore the intricate rock formations, admire the view of the Atlantic Ocean, and relax on the golden sandy beach. Swimming, surfing, and snorkeling are popular activities in this area, along with taking scenic nature walks. Playa de las Catedrales is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers who want to experience the beauty of Spain.
The Basque Coast
The Basque Coast in northern Spain is a paradise for beachgoers. This coastline, stretching from Bilbao to San Sebastián, boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. With crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and plenty of attractions, it’s no wonder why the Basque Coast attracts so many visitors each year.
In this section, we’ll explore the best beaches along the Basque Coast and the incredible experiences that await you there.
Zarautz Beach
Located in the heart of Basque Country and overlooking the Bay of Biscay, Zarautz Beach is a popular destination for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning coastline of northern Spain.
At over 2 kilometers long, this beach is the longest in the Basque Country and offers something for everyone. So whether you want to catch some waves, relax on the sand, or stroll along the boardwalk, Zarautz Beach has it all.
The beach is known for its consistent waves, making it a surfer’s paradise. It’s the birthplace of Spanish surfing, and the beach hosts several major surf competitions each year.
If surfing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as swimming, paddleboarding, and hiking along the nearby mountain trails.
Pro tip: Visit in the off-season (September to May) to avoid the crowds and experience the beauty of this beach without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.
Mundaka Beach
Mundaka Beach is a beautiful and popular destination on the Basque Coast of Spain, known for its world-class surfing waves and stunning scenery.
This beach’s unique landscape is formed by a river mouth, a sandbar, and a line of mountains that protects the area from strong winds and creates the perfect conditions for surfing.
Besides surfing, Mundaka Beach offers plenty of activities for visitors, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and hiking in the nearby Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Charming village streets, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops worth exploring surround the beach.
With its perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, Mundaka Beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Spain that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Playa de la Concha
Playa de la Concha is one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain and is located in San Sebastian, a coastal town on the Basque Coast. The beach is known for its gorgeous landscape, turquoise waters, and pristine stretch of sand.
Here are some reasons why it’s one of the best beaches in Spain:
- Scenic beauty: Playa de la Concha offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay and the surrounding hills. The picturesque island of Santa Clara adds to the beauty of the beach.
- Water Quality: The clear and clean turquoise water of the beach provides excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
- Accessibility: The beach is easily accessible by public transport, and there are tons of restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby.
- Activities: The beach offers a wide range of activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. There’s also a promenade for a stroll along the beach.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day soaking up the sun or an adventure in the water, Playa de la Concha is a must-visit destination in Spain.
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, located off the coast of Morocco, lie some of the best beaches in the world, and certainly the best of those in Spain. From the iconic El Golfo beach with its striking emerald green lagoon to Playa del Ingles and its still waters, the Canary Islands offer something for everyone.
Let’s explore some of the best beaches the islands have to offer:
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is one of the top destinations in the Canary Islands, and for a good reason – its beautiful beaches. Here are some of the best beaches on the island that will make your vacation memorable.
- Playa de las Canteras: This beach is known for its golden sand, crystal clear water, and coral reef that attracts a variety of marine life. It’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops are nearby.
- Maspalomas dunes: This beach is located in the south of the island and is famous for its impressive dunes. The beach is wide and sandy, and plenty of activities, such as camel riding and windsurfing.
- Puerto Rico: This beach is perfect for families and those looking for a more developed beach experience, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of amenities, including shops and restaurants. The beach is sheltered, making it great for swimming and sunbathing.
- Playa de Amadores: This beach has a spectacular mountain backdrop and is known for its calm waters and soft golden sand. It’s perfect for swimming and relaxing; plenty of bars and restaurants are nearby.
Maspalomas Beach
Maspalomas Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the Canary Islands and is considered one of Spain’s best beaches. Located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, Maspalomas Beach is known for its scenic dunes, clear water, and gorgeous sunsets.
Visitors can enjoy various activities, from sunbathing and swimming to windsurfing and kitesurfing. The beach is also home to various shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a lively and bustling destination.
Additionally, Maspalomas Beach is part of a protected natural reserve, offering a unique and unspoiled experience for those looking to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Playa de las Canteras
Playa, de las Canteras is one of the best beaches in Spain and a must-visit destination in the Canary Islands. With its clear turquoise waters, golden sand, and lively promenade, this beach has everything you need for a fun and relaxing day in the sun.
Here’s what makes Playa de las Canteras so special:
- The beach is over three kilometers long, making it the perfect place for long walks or jogs.
- The calm and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops along the promenade allow you to enjoy a bite or a drink while taking in the stunning views.
- Playa, de las Canteras, is also well connected to the rest of the city, with public transport links and bike rental stations nearby.
Playa de Puerto Rico
Playa de Puerto Rico is one of the best beaches in Spain, located on the south coast of Gran Canaria Island in the Canary Islands. This beach is known for its calm, clear waters, golden sand, and stunning views.
Here are some of the activities you can enjoy at Playa de Puerto Rico:
- Swimming and sunbathing.
- Jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and other water sports activities.
- Strolling along the beach promenade and watching the sunset.
- Exploring nearby restaurants and bars for tapas and drinks.
Pro tip: For a quieter experience, visit the beach early in the morning before the crowds arrive, and bring sunscreen and water to stay hydrated.
Tenerife
Tenerife, one of the beautiful Canary Islands, has some of Spain’s best beaches. Here are a few top beaches in Tenerife that you should visit!
- Playa de Las Teresitas: This beautiful beach features golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert, giving it a unique look and feel. The beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, and the clear turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling.
- Playa del Duque: With its crystal-clear waters and fine sand, Playa del Duque is one of Tenerife’s most beautiful and luxurious beaches. This beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and you can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many high-end restaurants nearby.
- Playa de las Vistas: This beach is known for its golden sands, calm waters, and stunning views of the Los Cristianos harbor. It’s a popular spot for families and has plenty of facilities, including showers, toilets, and beach bars.
Pro Tip: Be sure to bring plenty of sun protection, snacks, and water for your day at the beach, as many of these spots are more secluded and may not have nearby shops or vendors.
Playa de las Teresitas
Playa de las Teresitas, located in Tenerife in the Canary Islands, is one of Spain’s most beautiful and popular beaches.
With its golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert, clear turquoise water, and stunning mountain views, Playa de las Teresitas is an idyllic beach destination. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the calm, warm waters or stroll along the palm tree-lined promenade.
The beach also offers excellent facilities, including showers, changing rooms, and various restaurants and bars. Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the beach before the hustle and bustle of the day set in.
Playa de los Cristianos
Playa de los Cristianos is a stunning beach in the south of Tenerife Island in the Canary Islands, known for its crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and perfect year-round weather. This beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and trying out watersports.
The beach is surrounded by a bustling promenade filled with bars, restaurants, and shops catering to the needs of tourists.
The water is calm and shallow, ideal for families with kids. You can also take a boat ride from this beach and explore the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
Pro tip: To avoid crowds, visit the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Playa de las Vistas
Playa de las Vistas is one of the most popular beaches in the Canary Islands, and for a good reason.
With its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning scenery, this beach is a must-visit for any traveler.
Whether you’re looking to relax under the sun, swim in the warm water, or try water sports, Playa de las Vistas has something for everyone.
The beach has sun loungers, umbrellas, and various shops and restaurants serving traditional Spanish cuisine.
Musical performances and other events are also held on the beach yearly.
Pro tip: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting Playa de las Vistas early in the morning or during the off-season.
Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is arguably Spain’s best beach destination, offering visitors endless golden sands, crystal clear waters, and stunning scenery.
It is located in the region of Andalusia and is known for its miles of sprawling beaches and relaxed atmosphere. So whether you’re looking for a romantic holiday or a fun-filled beach break with family, the Costa del Sol has something for everyone.
Let’s look at the top beaches on this famous Spanish coastline:
Marbella Beach
Marbella Beach, located on the Costa del Sol in the southern region of Spain, is regarded as one of the best beaches in the country, revered for its crystal clear waters, soft sand, and various activities.
The beach spans 1.8 km and is divided into three different areas:
- The beaches of San Pedro de Alcantara
- The Golden Mile
- The beaches of Las Chapas
The San Pedro de Alcantara beach is located near the town center. In contrast, Golden Mile Beach is more secluded and private, and Las Chapas Beach is known for its isolated location, allowing for a more tranquil experience.
Marbella Beach has all amenities, making it the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. For adventure enthusiasts, the beach offers a range of activities, including kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.
Pro tip: The best time to visit Marbella Beach is during the offseason, from November to February when the crowds dissipate, and the prices are considerably lower.
Playa de las Acacias
Costa del Sol is a treasure trove of beaches, including the beautiful Playa de las Acacias. With its crystal clear waters and fine golden sand, this stunning beach is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Southern Spain.
Located in the charming town of Nerja, Playa de las Acacias is a small and secluded beach that offers a tranquil and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach is surrounded by beautiful cliffs that protect it from the wind, making it an ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The water is suitable for children and adults, and plenty of amenities are nearby, including restaurants, cafes, and parking spaces.
To avoid crowds, visit Playa de las Acacias during the offseason or on weekdays.
Playa Punta de la Plata
Playa Punta de la Plata is one of the most beautiful and tranquil beaches on the Costa del Sol in Spain. The beach draws many visitors looking for a relaxing getaway with its clear blue waters, soft sand, and stunning views.
The beach is located in the Province of Malaga and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. It stretches over one kilometer and is surrounded by cliffs and small coves.
For those looking for outdoor activities, kayaking, and paddle-boarding are popular sports available at the beach. Moreover, the beach is perfect for sunbathing or having a picnic.
Tourists of all ages can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and fresh sea breeze. Pro tip- Pack your hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated at the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best beaches in Spain for surfing?
A: Some of the best beaches in Spain for surfing are Playa de la Zurriola in San Sebastian, Playa de Somo in Cantabria, and Playa de Rodas in the Cies Islands.
Q: What are the best beaches in Spain for families?
A: Some of the best beaches in Spain for families are Playa de la Concha in San Sebastian, Playa de la Barrosa in Cadiz, and Playa de Sant Sebastià in Barcelona. These beaches have calm waters and facilities for children.
Q: Which beaches in Spain are considered the most beautiful?
A: Some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain are Cala Comte in Ibiza, Playa de Ses Illetes in Formentera, and Playa de Bolonia in Tarifa. These beaches have crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes.
Q: What are the best beaches in Spain for partying?
A: Some of the best beaches in Spain for partying are Playa d’en Bossa in Ibiza, Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria, and Playa de la Malvarrosa in Valencia. These beaches have lively bars and clubs that attract partygoers worldwide.
Q: What are the best beaches in Spain for snorkeling?
A: Some of the best beaches in Spain for snorkeling are Cala Macarella in Menorca, Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife, and Playa de la Granadella in Alicante. These beaches have clear waters and marine life, making snorkeling an unforgettable experience.
Q: Are there any hidden beaches in Spain worth visiting?
A: Yes, many hidden beaches in Spain are worth visiting. Some are Cala Llombards in Mallorca, Playa de Enmedio in Asturias, and Playa de Las Catedrales in Galicia. These beaches are off the beaten path and offer stunning natural beauty.