14 Best Beaches in Spain: The Most Beautiful Spanish Beaches

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When you think of beaches in Europe, you’ll probably think about many of the top destinations: Portugal, Greece, Italy and, of course, Spain. This gorgeous country in southern Europe is an incredibly popular spot for a beach break in Europe. With almost 6,000 kilometres of coastline shared between the historic mainland and a scattering of beautiful islands, it’s no wonder that many of the best beaches in Spain will take your breath away. 

From the rugged, windswept shores of the north to the sultry Mediterranean beaches of the south, Spain offers an array of beach experiences that cater to every traveler’s desire. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, feel like getting a sun tan, or a culture enthusiast, you’re sure to love the most beautiful Spanish beaches.

Are beaches better in Spain or Portugal?

I think this is a matter of opinion. However, the beaches of Spain and Portugal tend to offer something a little different. 

Spain boasts a diverse coastline that spans the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Balearic and Canary Islands. This diversity means you can find a variety of beach experiences, from lively, bustling beaches on the Costa del Sol to tranquil, hidden coves on the Costa Brava.

On the other hand, Portugal is famous for its pristine and unspoiled beaches, especially along the Algarve region. The Algarve offers stunning cliffs, golden sands, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The beaches in Portugal, particularly on the southern coast, are known for their natural beauty and are often surrounded by picturesque coastal villages.

If you prefer a variety of beach options, nightlife, and a more diverse cultural experience, Spain might be your choice. If you seek natural beauty, tranquility, and a quieter atmosphere, Portugal’s beaches may be more appealing.

The 14 best beaches in Spain

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 14 best beaches in Spain. By the end of this article, you should be one step closer to deciding where you’d most like to visit in Spain.

1. La Concha Beach, San Sebastian

La Concha Beach in San Sebastian, Spain, is a picturesque crescent of golden sand nestled in the heart of this charming coastal city. Located along the Bay of Biscay in the Basque Country, La Concha Beach is easily accessible. You can reach it by taking a stroll from the city centre or hopping on a local bus.

This beach is renowned for its natural beauty, making it a favorite destination for locals and tourists. Its calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports, while the surrounding lush hills provide a stunning backdrop for sunbathing. 

The beach boasts excellent facilities, including clean public toilets, showers, and well-maintained lifeguard services, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all.

Finally, la Concha Beach caters to a diverse range of people. It’s ideal for families seeking a relaxing day by the sea, couples wanting a romantic atmosphere, and water sports enthusiasts looking to surf or paddleboard. Its proximity to San Sebastian’s vibrant city centre also means you can easily explore the city’s foodie scene and top attractions.

2. Playa del Arenal-Bol, Calpe

A really beautiful beach in Spain is the Playa Arenal Bol. This charming dream beach is located in the resort of Calpe on the Costa Blanca and is the perfect place for a few relaxing days on the beach. Here you can relax under the warm Spanish sun, far away from the hustle and bustle of the huge beaches. Moreover, this beach has all the facilities you need for a vacation. There are toilets, showers, lifeguards and plenty of restaurants.

Going to Calpe will allow you to enjoy a long beach of fine sand and turquoise waters. Especially in springtime, it is pleasantly quiet here, the weather is wonderfully warm and even the sea is inviting for a swim.

One of the special features of Arenal Bol beach is Penon Ifach. It is a huge rock that gives this sandy beach its unique backdrop. The motif of the beach is really ingenious and the photographers come here especially to take some great pictures.

However, the long promenade is also very beautiful and invites you to take a walk along the coast. A beach vacation in Calpe is an unforgettable experience, as you will discover interesting places along the way, such as Roman baths and even pink flamingos.

The best beaches in southern Spain

The best beaches in southern Spain are a haven for beach lovers. The area boasts some of the country’s finest coastal gems, with sun-soaked stretches of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Here are some of the best beaches in the south of Spain.

3. Playa de la Calahonda, Nerja

If you plan to visit Costa del Sol, Spain, you must add Playa de la Calahonda to your list. This beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Nerja, a lovely coastal town near Malaga. 

Calahonda Beach is on the left-hand side of Balcon de Europa, Nerja’s most famous viewpoint. It is a sandy beach, but there are pebbles on the shore. The water is crystal clear, so you can see underneath you as you step in. It is a fantastic beach for snorkelling.

The beach facilities are good too. There are toilets, showers, sunbeds and lifeguards in the summer. Since it is next to the historic town, there are many bars and restaurants to have a meal and try the traditional sardine skewers. 

If you drive to Nerja, you can park in Balcon de Europa parking or Barco de Chanquete parking, which is a bit further but is sometimes less busy, and then walk towards the viewpoint and access the beach by the ramp, called “Boquete de Calahonda”.

4. Playa de los Muertos, Cabo de Gata

It is common knowledge that the beaches of southern Spain are some of the most desirable in the country for a well-deserved vacation, but this name may not sound too familiar to you: Playa de los Muertos, “Beach of the Dead” in English. Keep calm and keep reading as the name does not do justice to the paradise that you are about to discover. 

The Playa de los Muertos is a beach within Cabo de Gata Natural Park, in Almería (Andalusia region), a park of volcanic origin, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and home to stunning natural beaches such as this one. Playa de los Muertos is one of the cleanest, blue, and crystal-clear waters you’ll find in the area and even though it’s not a sandy beach, the small pebbles are super comfy to lay for sunbathing. 

It’s a beach suitable for everyone as long as you’re up for a 20-minute walk from the parking lot. Since it’s an off-the-beaten-track wild beach, there are no facilities so be sure to bring plenty of water and a sandwich. 

The peculiar name comes from the paradisiacal cove you’ll find on the right side of the beach: in the past, when there were shipwrecks, there that claimed the lives of many. However, the most suitable name would be Paradise Beach. Both the best experience, try to visit between either May/June or September/October.

5. Maro Beach, Nerja

Maro Beach is nestled between the rugged cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park in Nerja in southern Spain. It is not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Nerja but in the country. 

While it was once considered a hidden gem, it has gained such popularity during the last few years that you must go early to find parking at all – the police basically close the road by Maro Town once it is full, and from there, it is about 20-30 minutes to walk and a heavy up-hill on the way back. 

Parking is mostly on marked spots along the road. Driving from Nerja to Maro takes about 15 minutes, but there are buses too. In the summer months, there is a lifeguard, you can rent parasols and sunbeds, use the public toilet, and purchase refreshments in the small bar on the beach. There is also a kayak rental so you can explore the magnificence of the marine park with its secluded beaches, caves, and waterfalls cascading straight into the crystal clear sea.

6. El Palmar Beach, Cadiz

El Palmar is one of the most beautiful beaches near Cadiz. It is a remote, rural beach, known among the surfing community as one of the best places to practice this sport on Costa de la Luz.

Getting to El Palmar by public transport is not that easy. You can get to the nearby Vejer de la Frontera or Conil de la Frontera by bus, and then get a taxi or hire a bike to get to El Palmar. Alternatively, you can drive here and park right next to the beach. Most of the accommodation options in the village are surf retreats and schools.

The beach at El Palmar is large and sandy, with mild waves, which makes it perfect for beginner surfers. The beach has no facilities, but it is lined with a few restaurants and basic beach bars where you can grab lunch or dinner. At the far end of the beach, you will find the 34-meter-high Trafalgar lighthouse. You can either walk to it or go horse riding at sunset on the beach, which is a magical experience.

The best beaches in Spain near Barcelona

If you’re visiting Barcelona, you’re going to love these beaches. Located close to the romantic European city, you could plan a beach day as a day trip or simply spend some time exploring this northern region once you’ve explored Barcelona itself. These are the best beaches in Spain near Barcelona.

7. Tamariu Beach, Costa Brava

Nestled along the ruggedly beautiful Costa Brava coastline, Tamariu is a hidden gem for beach lovers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Tucked away in the province of Girona, Tamariu is a charming white-housed fishing village with a beach that embodies the essence of the Mediterranean.

Tamariu’s three beaches are perfect for those who prefer a peaceful escape over bustling tourist hubs. The crescent-shaped cove houses crystal-clear waters and is framed by rocky hills, providing an intimate atmosphere and very mild waves. Since the beaches are in town, there are well-maintained facilities, as well as lifeguards during peak season. Don’t forget to explore the charming waterfront promenade lined with seafood restaurants offering fresh catches of the day – a true Catalan seaside experience.

Reaching Tamariu from Barcelona is very easy, just a 1.5h drive on the freeway and ending in the panoramic coastal road. Alternatively, you can reach from Girona in under 1h. Both cities are home to international airports. Because it is more isolated than other beaches, reaching Tamariu with public transportation may be harder, but a combination of buses will take you there.

8. Es Codolar Beach, Tossa de Mar

Platja d’Es Codolar beach is a hidden gem located in the picturesque town of Tossa de Mar, in Northern Spain. This small cove beach is nestled in the heart of the Costa Brava, just an hour from Barcelona.

Nestled beside the medieval walls of the old town, the beach offers the most spectacular views of the castle and surrounding majestic cliffs. While the beach is small, it is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing and taking in the breathtaking view.

There is a small bar on the beach that offers snacks and drinks. Sunbeds and umbrellas are also available to rent. For those looking for something a bit more lively, the larger beach, Platja Gran, is just around the corner, where there are also plenty of bars and restaurants close to the beach.

A visit to the town of Tossa de Mar itself is also recommended, with its winding streets and spectacular views of the Catalan coast.

Platja d’Es Codolar beach is an ideal spot for those looking for a small cove with stunning scenery but still wanting to be close to other amenities such as the larger beach, Platja Gran, and the old town of Tossa de Mar.

Overall, Platja d’Es Codolar is one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain and is a must-visit on any trip to Tossa de Mar and the Costa Brava region.

9. Barceloneta Beach, Costa Brava

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Even though the city beach, Barceloneta, is not precisely one of Barcelona’s hidden gems, many visitors don’t really realize that there’s no need to drive out of the city to enjoy a great day at the beach. On the contrary, Barceloneta is located right in the town, within walking distance of a few of the city’s main attractions. You can therefore reach the beach easily on foot or by bus.

Many of the bars and chiringuitos – the typical Spanish beach bars – are open all year round so that you can enjoy a delicious lunch or a cold drink in the sun at any time of the year. In the high season, many other services and events also await you. The beach stretches from Barceloneta along the entire coastline of Barcelona. So the choice is vast.

While some sections are better suited for families and relaxation, others offer active activities such as workouts, yoga on the beach, volleyball nets, water sports, and surfing opportunities. Moreover, you can find showers, toilets, bars, and more throughout the entire coastline of the city.

19. Cala Cap Roig Beach, Costa Brava

An hour and a half north of Barcelona lies a secluded beach on the Costa Brava, close to Platja d’Aro. Platja d’Aro is a popular beach resort, and the wide stretch of flat white sand here is beautiful but busy, especially in the peak summer season.  A short walk from the main strip is a secluded cove which provides a tranquil respite from the crowds.

Cala Cap Roig is a beautiful combination of rocky outcrops, sandy beach and coastal paths to explore. There are plenty of hotels nearby, so, if you stay near, you can stroll down to the beach and enjoy the feeling of a private beach, although it is open to the public.

There is a small café bar called Chiringuito on the beach serving drinks and snacks, and if you’re feeling brave you can climb up the rocky Cap Roig for a bit of adventure!  Otherwise, just sit back and relax. 

For maximum peace and quiet, visit here in the shoulder season and avoid July and August if you can! May, June and September usually have weather good enough for the beach, without the summer crowds.

The best beaches In Spain on the islands

Last but by no means least, we have the Spanish Islands. Without a doubt home to some of the best beaches in Spain, the Spanish Islands have everything from wide sandy bays to secluded coves that you wouldn’t know unless you already knew! Here are some of the best beaches on the Spanish islands.

11. Sotavento Beach, Fuerteventura

Located in the Canary Islands, Sotavento Beach is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, as the strong winds create ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. With its long stretch of golden sand, Sotavento Beach also offers the perfect setting for relaxation and sunbathing.

Sotavento is one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura and it is an unforgettable destination for those seeking to experience the best of Spain’s coastal beauty. Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to get around the island and explore this amazing beach.

From the airport or any other location on the island, simply follow the signs towards Costa Calma. Sotavento Beach is located near Costa Calma and is easily accessible by road. The airport is well-connected to the beach and getting there should not take more than 1 hour.

When it comes to enjoying a day at the beach, having access to essential facilities can greatly enhance the overall experience. At Sotavento Beach, visitors are treated to a range of amenities such as surf schools or public toilets.

 Whether you are seeking tranquillity or adventure, Sotavento Beach has something to offer everyone. The trade winds that blow across the island provide relief from excessive heat, creating a comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities all year round. 

12. Platja Coll Beach, Mallorca

The northeast coast of the biggest Balearic island features peninsulas with wonderful hiking trails and beaches. Mallorca’s beach named Platja des Coll Baix is a wonderful combination of a hike and a swim for adults who don’t mind some scrambling—and the company of cheeky goats. 

You can begin your hike from Alcúdia or drive your Mallorcan rental scooter a little further to a parking spot. From the latter, the trip is only a 3-kilometer hike, round-trip. Make sure you’re wearing proper footwear and don’t pack too much. Many people attempt the hike and turn around when the boulders get too large.

Though the hike starts out on a pleasant forest trail, it becomes tougher as you descend to the water. The cove has stunning blue waters and a tranquillity that’s hard to find on other beaches in Mallorca. Enjoy a refreshing swim from the sandy beach before returning up the cliff.

If you can, try to visit Platja des Coll Baix early in the day before the crowds come. That will leave you plenty of time after your swim to continue hiking in the area. There are still many vistas to enjoy before returning to Alcúdia for some well-deserved ice cream.

13. Playa Amarilla, Tenerife

Playa Amarilla, also known as Yellow Beach, is a beautiful beach destination on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain. The brilliant yellow of the sandstone walls surrounding the beach gives it its name. The beach has a tranquil vibe with more locals than tourists relaxing on the golden sandstone.

Playa Amarilla is an excellent place for snorkelling and diving as the calm crystal clear water is teeming with marine life. If you are lucky, you will be able to snorkel with the sea turtles of Tenerife. The easy-entry beach is excellent for swimming with the whole family.

Sunbathing is popular at Playa Amarilla, with bathers stretching out their towels on the sun-warmed smooth rock. If you continue on the rocks past the beach there are places to sunbathe au naturel.

Hikers will love the trails above the beach that pass by wind-sculptured rock formations. It’s only a 5-10 minute walk to the Montana Amarilla Viewpoint but the stunning panoramic scene of rocky yellow coast against aquamarine water is worth it. The beach also has some of the best sunsets in Tenerife.

Playa Amarilla is located on the south end of Tenerife and is best accessed by car.

14. Cala Ferrera Beach, Mallorca

One of the best beaches in Spain is Cala Ferrera on the Balearic island of Mallorca. It is located in the town of Cala d’Or, approximately one hour from Palma. There are lots of accommodation options and things to do in Cala d’Or, including 5 beaches in total. 

Each of the beaches sits in its own cove, with white sand and turquoise water. Cala Ferrera is great for families and those wanting to snorkel and swim. The cove protects the beach, so the sea is often calm. There’s a roped-off swimming area and pedal boats and stand-up paddle boards are available to hire. 

Other facilities include: a beach bar selling drinks and food, lifeguards (during peak times), toilets, showers, and sun lounger rentals, which come with a fixed umbrella and a personal safe.

Cala Ferrera Beach is also visited by a fruit vendor, who is known for the song he sings. He has been selling a selection of fruit on the beach for years. It’s a very refreshing snack on a hot day!

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