10 Best Beaches in Spain
YasyaFinding the best beaches in Spain is not an easy task, not because there aren't any, but because choosing even a dozen from such a vast variety is incredibly difficult. On the mainland, the range is enormous: the Costa Brava coast in the northeast; the northern coast, including San Sebastian and Asturias; the southern areas of Malaga. And these are just some of the main regions. The Balearic and Canary Islands are also on the list, as they are Spanish territories. And let's not forget Ibiza, whose very name is directly associated with relaxing on the sand and dancing until dawn.
Nevertheless, a few special ones can be highlighted, so we have compiled a list of the 10 most remarkable beaches in Spain to help you decide on a holiday destination if you plan to buy tickets to Barcelona on Kupi.com with a layover in Istanbul this summer.
Ondarreta Beach, San Sebastian
Ondarreta Beach, widely known as one of the best beaches in Spain – and in Europe, and generally – is reason enough to visit northern Spain. Located near San Sebastian, this beach is a wide sandy strip with breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities, such as surfing. Children will love the floating pontoons equipped with slides and trampolines. For an even more exciting holiday, you can rent a kayak and head to the tiny island of Santa Clara, which boasts its own beach (and fewer tourists).
Formentor Beach, Mallorca
You'll need to make an effort to reach this picturesque beach. But once you're there, you'll realize it was definitely worth it: crystal-clear water, shade from tall pine trees, and magnificent mountain scenery. The water here is relatively calm, making Formentor one of the best beaches in Spain for family holidays. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season. From May to October, the air temperature remains consistently high, so you can spend the whole day on the beach, swimming and sunbathing. A few minutes' drive away is the Cap de Pera lighthouse, which is worth a visit if you want to admire the sunset in the evening.
Playa de la Malagueta, Malaga
Popular with both tourists and locals, this iconic sandy beach is located near the center of Malaga. So, a day trip to the sea is definitely here. It's easy to know you've arrived: just look for the "Malagueta" sculpture, as if made of sand. By the way, it's also a popular spot for photo shoots. The depth here increases quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on children.
Levante Beach, Barcelona
The easternmost beach of Barcelona ("llevant" means "east" in Catalan) and also the newest. It was opened in 2006 after a large-scale reconstruction of an industrial area filled with factories. Today, it's a lively spot for family holidays, tourists, and locals who flock here for the soft sand and crystal-clear water against a backdrop of sparkling skyscrapers. Those wishing to try their hand at surfing can use the services of several surf schools located nearby.
Las Arenas, Valencia
For those who want to combine a beach holiday with exploring city life, Las Arenas beach is an ideal option in Valencia. Thanks to its location just a few minutes' walk from the city center, it's easy to spend a morning (or a whole day) here, and then immediately head out to explore the city's vibrant gastronomic or nightlife. Convenient location is just one of the advantages; Las Arenas is also a spacious, wide, and clean beach. The infrastructure is also excellent: there are small stalls selling drinks and snacks, and the promenade with a separate bike path is perfect for walks.
Barceloneta, Barcelona
Do you want a relaxing beach holiday but don't want to leave Barcelona? Then head to the city's most popular beach, Barceloneta, which is easily accessible by public transport or on foot. There's always something happening here: artists create sand sculptures, teams play volleyball, and sailing races take place. And the wide promenade is a great place for an evening stroll. When you get hungry, pop into one of the many nearby restaurants. One piece of advice: do not leave personal belongings unattended, as thefts occur frequently, especially during the peak summer season when the beach is crowded with locals and tourists.
San Sebastian Beach, Sitges
This picturesque coastal town, located less than an hour's train ride from Barcelona, is sometimes called the Spanish Saint-Tropez. It boasts 17 beaches, each unique in its own way. Our advice is to head to San Sebastian beach: it's a small cove to the east of the city center. The sand here is soft, the water is clean, and the city views won't disappoint. When it's time for lunch, just stroll through the town and choose one of the restaurants serving traditional tapas and seafood dishes.
El Duque Beach, Tenerife
This grey sand beach, located in Costa Adeje opposite some of the island's most luxurious hotels, is surrounded by a promenade connecting it to several other beaches. Arrive early to secure a sun lounger and find parking, then spend a wonderful day on this Blue Flag-awarded beach. Umbrellas and sun loungers can be rented at a reasonable price.
Bajadilla Beach, Marbella
This sandy beach is one of several connected by a promenade in Marbella, one of the most fashionable towns on the Costa del Sol. On weekdays, Bajadilla beach is not as crowded as its neighbors. It is also perfect for tourists who prefer active recreation. Here you can easily find company for a game of volleyball on the court, or go catamaraning or kayaking. The beach is a few minutes' walk from the center of Marbella, with several restaurants and beach cafes located nearby.
Benirras Beach, Ibiza
Ibiza, long known for its parties, also boasts many stunning beaches. One of them is Benirras Beach, located in the northeastern part of the island. The atmosphere here is relaxed, and the sunsets are breathtaking, so we recommend staying until evening. The beach itself is a small rocky cove, with sun loungers and restrooms available, and on some days, a market operates nearby.
