10 Best Beaches in Spain, a well-known vacation spot in Europe, is renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking natural landscapes. Its beaches are particularly popular among tourists seeking relaxation and sunshine during their summer holidays. With a multitude of beaches and a wide variety of landscapes, Spain‘s coastline offers both beauty and diversity.
From lively beaches bustling with beach bars to picturesque bays nestled within protected parklands and hidden, fashionable sandy spots, there is a beach to cater to every individual’s preferences. To assist you in planning your next sun-drenched Spanish beach holiday, we have compiled a list of the finest beaches in Spain.
La Concha [SEE MAP]
Nestled in the Basque country, lies a quaint beach surrounded by lush green mountains and offering picturesque views of pristine islands and bobbing white boats. La Concha beach is situated in a charming town that boasts of elegant Belle Epoque-style architecture and an abundance of exceptional dining options.
This hidden gem is located in a sheltered bay and has been hailed as one of the most stunning city beaches in Europe. Spanning a massive 1350 meters, La Concha is protected by the mountainous terrain and is influenced by tides, providing ample space for visitors to revel in its splendor.
The vast expanse of the beach also allows for ample room in the calm sea for swimming and paddling. For the more adventurous, kayaking to the nearby island is a must-try activity.
Isuntza Beach, Lekeitio
Located halfway between Bilbao and San Sebastian, this quaint little village boasts a charming beach that is truly picturesque. The true beauty of this stunning coastal area is unveiled during low tide, when a sandy path emerges, leading all the way to the captivating San Nicolás Island.
Embark on a leisurely stroll along the rocky pathway and discover the wonders of the island – just remember to return before the tide starts to rise again! Isunza Beach’s landscape is shaped by the mouth of the Lea River, which flows into the sea here, adding to the already enchanting scenery.
Choosing to stay in this town offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Basque country. Indulge in the region’s delectable cuisine, marvel at its Gothic architecture, and even venture up a nearby mountain for breathtaking views of the beach and the island beyond.
Tossa De Mar
Tossa De Mar, located in the Costa Brava, is a charming town that boasts a plethora of beaches to suit every preference. The family-friendly Playa Gran beach, with its wide horseshoe shape, is protected by a large bay and features soft golden sands and deep blue waters that are perfect for swimming.
What sets Playa Gran apart from other beaches is the 14th-century fortifications that sit atop the rocky headlands overlooking the bay. These fortifications are beautifully illuminated at night, adding to the beach’s elegance. For a change of pace, Platja d’es Codolar is a small beach nestled in a cove at the base of towering cliffs and features a bar.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds of tourists, head north along the coast to Cala Pola, a secluded and natural-feeling beach just outside of town that easily surpasses the other beaches in the area.
Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa
Playa de Bolonia, a serene beach located in a quaint fishing village, is a hidden gem that has retained its untouched and idyllic charm. Unlike many other beach towns in Spain, this village has not succumbed to high-rise constructions, preserving its old-fashioned and undeveloped allure. The beach, a favorite among Spanish locals, is gradually gaining popularity among international tourists. Situated within the boundaries of the Estrecho Natural Park, Playa de Bolonia remains a tranquil haven for beach enthusiasts.
In addition to its natural beauty, the beach is also known for its historical significance. The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Baelo Claudia, which dates back 2,000 years, can be found in this village. This adds a unique cultural element to the already picturesque surroundings.
While Tarifa is renowned as Spain’s kitesurfing hub, Playa de Bolonia offers a more laid-back surfing scene. Travelers can enjoy the small surf schools and cozy bars that cater to their needs. The powdery white sand and sand dunes along the bay not only enhance the beach’s beauty but also protect the local vegetation. Visitors can find their own peaceful spot among the dunes and unwind in the tranquility of this well-kept secret beach.
Platja de Ses Illetes, Formentera
The breathtaking Platja de Ses Illetes is a must-see for anyone visiting Spain. This stunning beach is often regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country and can easily rival some of the Caribbean’s finest.
The beach boasts crystal-clear waters that gently lap onto pristine white sands, creating a paradise-like atmosphere that will leave you in awe. Despite being a small strip of sand that protrudes into the ocean, Platja de Ses Illetes is a sight to behold.
While the beach can get crowded with day-trippers, most visitors come to bask in the dazzling turquoise waters that surround the sand. The ocean is so shallow that it’s almost like taking a warm bath, making it the perfect spot to lounge around and soak up the sun.
Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Maspalomas beach, located in the southern part of Gran Canaria, exudes sophistication and style. Its main attraction lies in its vast expanse of sand, stretching for 6 kilometers and reaching an impressive width of 100 meters at certain points. The beach is adorned with towering sand dunes, reminiscent of the Saharan desert, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the azure blue of the sea.
The golden hue of the dunes against the sparkling sea forms a breathtaking backdrop, while beachgoers can relax on sun loungers or indulge in snacks and refreshing beverages offered by the nearby cafes.
This beach is perfect for families seeking quality time together, as it offers something for everyone. If lounging under the sun for extended periods is not your preference, you can also opt for an exciting adventure at sea by renting a pedalo or a jet-ski.
Praia da Rodas, Galicia
Praia da Rodas is an unforgettable beach that will leave you in awe. Its perfectly curved sandy crescent is breathtakingly beautiful and could easily be considered one of the best beaches in the world. Located in Galicia, along the wild Atlantic coastline, Praia da Rodas is a romantically attractive stretch of powdery sand.
The locals often refer to it as the ‘Caribbean beach’ due to its dazzlingly turquoise, clean and calm waters, although it is much colder than the Mediterranean. Spend your summer days relaxing on the sand, taking in the stunning nautical scenery, and indulging in fresh seafood served on the shore. At night, you can camp under the stars at the nearby campsite.
Burriana Beach, Nerja
Located in Nerja, a town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Burriana Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. With an 800-meter stretch of sand, the beach is surrounded by a bustling promenade filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. Despite the slightly stony sand, the beach’s beauty is not diminished, and visitors can rent sunbeds for added comfort. Families with small children will appreciate the excellent amenities, including showers, playgrounds, toilets, and a lifeguard. For those seeking adventure, jet-skiing and parasailing are available. And don’t forget to take in the stunning sea-views from the clifftop Balcón de Europa at the end of the day.
Cala D’en Serra, Ibiza
After a wild night of partying in Ibiza, it’s important to recharge and rejuvenate. And what better way to do that than by heading to the beach? Cala D’en Serra is the perfect spot for those looking for a more secluded and peaceful beach experience. Tucked away from the typical tourist spots, this egg-shaped beach requires a bit of insider knowledge to find. But the journey is worth it.
Drive through charming old villages and navigate a winding road to discover this hidden gem. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear blue waters and soft, powdery sand. There’s only one beach bar, but it serves up fresh fish and sangria straight to your sunbed. Soak up the tranquil atmosphere and enjoy the seclusion of this secret beach spot. While it may not have the flashy beach clubs or amenities of other beaches on the island, Cala D’en Serra offers a slice of sun-soaked paradise.
Sitges is one of the 10 Best Beaches in Spain
Werner Lang / Wikipedia
Situated against the picturesque Parc Natural del Garraf and adorned with elegant mansions along its seafront boulevard, Sitges is a progressive town that has gained fame for its stunning coastline, sun-seeking enthusiasts, and inclusive atmosphere, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. This vibrant destination boasts an array of bars, nightclubs, and, of course, beaches.
Among these beaches, the Platja de la Bassa Rodona stands out as the most renowned. Stretching across 285 meters, this beach offers soft sand and tranquil waters, creating a surprisingly relaxed ambiance. Another popular choice is the lively Platja de la Fragata, which caters to families and offers a vibrant atmosphere overlooked by the charming Sant Bartomeu church. For those seeking a bustling scene, Platja de la Ribera, located near the town, is a must-visit destination where one can indulge in people-watching while lounging on the sandy shores.
