Spain boasts some of the most stunning coastlines in Europe. It offers a mix of golden sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking landscapes. Spain has it all if you’re seeking vibrant city beaches, secluded coves or dramatic cliffs. From the bustling shores of Barcelona to the unspoiled natural beauty of Galicia, beaches in Spain offer a unique charm. With over 5,000 km of coastline stretching across the Mediterranean and Atlantic, Spain’s beaches cater to sun-seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Top 10 Beaches In Spain
Here are these top 10 beaches in Spain that combine history, spirituality and scenic beauty during your amazing summer vacation:
1. Platja De Sant Sebastia
Photo: Friviere / Wikimedia Commons
The trio of Sant Sebastia, Sant Miquel, and Barceloneta form Barcelona’s most famous city beaches. Sant Sebastia, known for its lively atmosphere, offers over a kilometre of soft golden sand and calm waters, perfect for a relaxed swim. Restaurants and chiringuitos (beach bars) line the promenades, adding a vibrant energy to the area. Its accessibility and excellent amenities make it a favourite among locals and tourists. The beach also provides disabled access, showers and sunbeds for rent, ensuring a comfortable experience. The proximity to Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter and La Rambla reflects a seamless blend of a beach with cultural exploration.
Location: Barcelona, Catalonia
Best Time To Visit: May to September
2. La Concha Bay
Photo: Gordito1869 / Wikimedia Commons
La Concha Bay is among Spain’s most iconic beaches, famous for its perfect crescent shape and golden sands. Stretching for over a kilometre, the bay is framed by Mount Igueldo and the Alderdi Eder Park. The area provides endless activities, from surfing and hiking to Michelin-star dining nearby. Its serene, shallow waters make it ideal for families, while the lively promenade adds to the beach’s charm. With nearby attractions, visitors can enjoy a well-rounded coastal experience. The beach also offers paddleboarding and kayaking opportunities, making it a top pick for adventure lovers.
Location: San Sebastian, Basque Country
Best Time To Visit: June to September
3. Ses Salines
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Named after the salt lakes in southern Ibiza, Ses Salines is one of the island’s most famous beaches in Spain. Located just 10 minutes from Ibiza Town, this 1.5 km beach is backed by pine forests and offers crystal-clear waters. It’s a hotspot for partygoers, yet it also attracts families with its well-maintained facilities. The northern section is livelier, featuring trendy beach clubs with DJs playing throughout the day. The surrounding Ses Salines Natural Park is home to diverse wildlife, including flamingos. Visitors can also explore hidden coves nearby or indulge in fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants.
Location: Ibiza, Balearic Islands
Best Time To Visit: June to August
4. Playa De Monsul
Photo: José Antonio JG / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, Playa de Monsul stands out for its unique volcanic landscape. The beach features soft golden sands, crystal-clear waters and an iconic fossilised lava rock. It is famously featured in films such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Its remote location provides a peaceful escape, ideal for nature lovers and photographers. The surrounding area, with its rugged cliffs and coves, makes for a perfect day of exploration. A short hike from the beach leads to panoramic viewpoints, perfect for sunset photography.
Location: Almeria, Andalusia
Best Time To Visit: April to October
5. Ses Illetes
Photo: MrPepanos / Wikimedia Commons
For a slice of paradise, Ses Illetes is a must-visit among beaches in Spain. Located on Formentera, this beach is accessible via a ferry from Ibiza and a scenic 30-minute walk. With its powdery white sand and shallow turquoise waters, it feels like a Caribbean escape. The beach is within a protected natural park, ensuring a pristine, serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Due to its popularity, early arrival is recommended to secure a prime spot. Visitors can rent bicycles or scooters to explore the nearby coastal trails and enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
Location: Formentera, Balearic Islands
Best Time To Visit: May to September
6. Pechon Playa
Photo: Anual / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pechon Playa is nestled within a lush valley, offering emerald waters and picturesque surroundings reminiscent of Polynesia. The beach is almost entirely surrounded by hills and forests, creating a peaceful retreat. Visitors can enjoy kayaking along the Ria Tina Mayor or exploring the rugged coastline. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds. The area is known for its untouched beauty and scenic coastal hiking trails. You can visit the nearby village of Pechon, which offers traditional Cantabrian architecture and authentic Spanish cuisine.
Location: Cantabria, Northern Spain
Best Time To Visit: July to September
7. Isuntza And Karraspio
Photo: Nacho.grafista / Wikimedia Commons
These twin beaches are located in Lekeitio and provide a quieter alternative to La Concha. Isuntza sits by the harbour, while Karraspio lies across the river, offering golden sands and a charming Basque town backdrop. The small island nearby can be reached at low tide, adding an adventurous touch. Both beaches are perfect for water sports and picnics. The surrounding coastal walkways and scenic viewpoints make this area a great choice for nature lovers. Nearby, visitors can explore the medieval streets of Lekeitio, known for its historic fishing port and delicious seafood restaurants.
Location: Lekeitio, Basque Country
Best Time To Visit: June to September
8. Cala Granadella
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
A jewel of the Costa Blanca, Cala Granadella is a Blue Flag beach known for its emerald waters and pebbled shore. Surrounded by pine forests, it’s a haven for kayaking, snorkelling, and diving, with rich marine life, including stingrays and sea bream. Despite its small size, its natural beauty makes it a visitor favourite among beaches in Spain. Due to high demand, arriving early in the morning is advisable. There are several hiking trails nearby, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.
Location: Alicante, Valencia
Best Time To Visit: May to October
9. Amio Beach
Photo: Anual / Wikimedia Commons
Amio Beach is a secluded paradise, rich in vegetation and surrounded by cliffs. Located near the traditional town of Pechon, it’s ideal for nature lovers, offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and excellent surfing conditions. It remains an unspoiled haven with no large resorts nearby, but it is best visited at low tide. The beach’s isolation means fewer crowds, making it perfect for those seeking solitude. Visitors should bring their own supplies, as amenities are minimal.
Location: Cantabria, Northern Spain
Best Time To Visit: June to September
10. Playa Del Trabucador
Photo: Juan Emilio Prades Bel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This 6.5 km stretch of untouched sand is part of the Delta del Ebro nature reserve. A natural isthmus connecting the Ebro Delta to La Banya Point, it’s famous for stunning sunsets, flamingo sightings and kite surfing. The remote setting makes it perfect for a peaceful retreat. Birdwatchers can enjoy observing unique species in the surrounding wetlands. The shallow waters make it ideal for windsurfing and paddleboarding.
Location: Tarragona, Catalonia
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Beaches in Spain offer something for every traveller, whether you’re looking for lively city shores, remote coves or scenic landscapes. From the golden sands of Barcelona to the volcanic beauty of Almeria, each beach offers a unique charm. If you’re planning your next coastal getaway, let TripXL help you explore the best beaches in Spain with personalised travel experiences and expert recommendations. Book your dream beach vacation today!
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only