Beaches in Spain

Best Beaches to Visit in Spain

With nearly 5,000 km of coastline, Spain offers everything from secluded turquoise coves to sweeping Atlantic surf beaches. Use this guide to plan the perfect beach vacation in Spain—whether you crave water sports, family‑friendly sands, or hidden gems.

Top Beach Regions

• Costa Brava: Rugged cliffs, pine‑fringed coves, and crystalline water ideal for snorkelling.
• Costa del Sol: Sun‑soaked resorts like Marbella and Nerja with over 320 days of sunshine a year.
• Balearic Islands: Formentera’s powder‑white sands and Ibiza’s chic beach clubs.
• Canary Islands: Volcanic black‑sand beaches and year‑round warmth—great for winter sun.

Hidden Coves & Blue Flag Gems

• Cala Macarella (Menorca): Instagram‑worthy turquoise lagoon framed by limestone cliffs.
• Playa de las Catedrales (Galicia): Dramatic sea‑sculpted arches—visit at low tide for the best photos.
• Cala Fonda “Waikiki” (Tarragona): Off‑the‑beaten‑path naturist beach backed by pine forest.
• Playa de Bolonia (Cadiz): Sweeping dune fields, Roman ruins, and consistent Levante wind for kitesurfing.

Family‑Friendly Sands

• Playa de la Concha (San Sebastián): Sheltered bay, lifeguards, and promenade ice‑cream stands.
• Platja de Alcúdia (Mallorca): Shallow waters, playgrounds, and nearby water parks.
• Playa de la Malagueta (Málaga): Easy city access, seafood chiringuitos, and palm‑lined paths.

Surfing & Water‑Sports Spots

• Mundaka (Basque Country): Legendary left‑hand barrel—best autumn to spring.
• Tarifa (Andalusia): Europe’s wind‑capital for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
• El Quemao (Lanzarote): Powerful reef break for experienced surfers.

Beach‑Hopping Tips

Arrive Early: Popular coves fill by 10 a.m. in July–August. Pack Reef‑Safe Sunscreen: Protect marine life and Blue Flag standards. Use Public Transport: Coastal trains link Barcelona to Sitges and Málaga to Torremolinos, saving parking hassles. Check Flag System: Green for safe swimming; red means strong currents.