10 Best Beaches to Visit in Spain

World-renowned for its shell-shaped golden sand and sweeping views of the Bay of La Concha, this beach offers some of Spain’s most captivating seaside scenery. Its protected waters host swimmers, rowing teams, and recreational fishing boats year-round.

Flanked by mountains at both ends, La Concha provides easy access to promenade cafés, Michelin-starred pintxos bars, and vibrant culture in the adjacent Old Town. With lively amenities coupled with natural beauty and old-world charm, La Concha fully encapsulates the best of and top things to do in San Sebastian.

Best for: Natural beauty surrounded by a vibrant ambiance.

As Barcelona’s most popular urban beach, Barceloneta has it all for a complete seaside experience during one of the best times to visit the city. Golden sand greets sunbathers against a backdrop of palms and modern architecture along the bustling beachfront promenade, while the beach’s vibrant, resort-like atmosphere mixes cosmopolitan crowds with locals looking to swim and surf its gentle waves.

After relaxing in the sun or taking a dip in the refreshing Mediterranean waters, you’re perfectly situated to enjoy Barcelona’s famed seafood restaurants, nightlife, and Gothic Quarter. For those who prefer a lively Spanish city beach holiday, Barceloneta tops the list.

Best for: Swimming and surfing on Barcelona’s doorstep.

Boasting a long stretch of golden sand and calm waters protected by the Tenerife harbor, Los Cristianos is a premier destination for families and tourists, and among the top reasons to visit Spain on vacation.

Its array of beachside amenities includes sunbeds, showers, seaside bars, and water-sport rentals in a vibrant tropical setting. The beach also connects visitors to the bustling, cosmopolitan Los Cristianos town, which is dotted with restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

With its gorgeous sand, welcoming waters, lively ambiance, and stunning views of towering Mount Teide, Los Cristianos offers a quintessential beach getaway.

Best for: Families looking for a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

With miles of golden sand and calm waters, Playa de Gandía offers a picturesque seaside paradise. Renowned for its cleanliness and facilities, the beach provides visitors with ample space to relax under the warm Spanish sun.

With its shallow shoreline, Gandía also appeals to families with small children, who can safely paddle in the sea. Boasting lively beach bars and seafood restaurants along the promenade, Playa de Gandía has something for every beachgoer.

Best for: Families, especially those with small children.

Learn more: Top Things to Do in Spain with Family

Renowned as one of Ibiza’s many picturesque hidden coves, Cala Salada charms visitors with its crescent of fine white sand set beneath iconic red cliffs on the island’s unspoiled northern coast. Its turquoise waters dazzle against a pine forest backdrop, inviting beachgoers to enjoy swimming and snorkeling along its peaceful shoreline. Local fishermen dock their wooden boats on the sand, while beach bars serve cocktails under thatch umbrellas.

With island vibes, a laidback atmosphere, and the abundant natural beauty synonymous with Ibiza, Cala Salada fully encapsulates the magic found in the Spanish Balearics.

Best for: Those looking to swim and snorkel in a laidback environment.

With its fine golden sand and tranquil waters, La Barrosa is a coastal jewel in Cádiz and among the most romantic places in Spain for couples. Having been designated a Blue Flag beach for its environmental standards and amenities, La Barrosa charms visitors with its natural beauty and family-friendly shoreline.

Lined with beachside bars serving fresh seafood, it also features a promenade perfect for strolling at sunset. Thanks to its spacious sands and gorgeous setting overlooking Sancti Petri island, La Barrosa provides a picturesque and relaxing escape for every type of traveler.

Best for: Natural beauty in a family-friendly environment.

Famous for its monumental stone arches and natural cliffs that resemble a cathedral, As Catedrais beach offers a one-of-a-kind landscape along the Galician coastline. During low tide, beachgoers can stroll through smooth passages and hidden caves formed by erosion. Postcard-perfect views of the endless Atlantic Ocean and fine white sand that create a peaceful, remote paradise are among the joys travelers can expect.

With its mystical rock formations and gorgeous seaside scenery straight out of a fairy tale, it's clear why As Catedrais stands out as a spectacular Spanish beach destination.

Best for: Exploring passages and hidden caves in a fairy-tale setting.

Flanked by lush pine woods, La Gavina’s golden sands and tranquil turquoise waters have attracted Spanish artists, aristocracy, and celebrities since the early 1900s. Its sleek waterfront hotels and upscale yet laidback vibe perpetuate its longstanding reputation as the pinnacle of glamour along the Costa Brava coastline. Romantics delight in its dreamy sunsets over the Mediterranean, while families enjoy paddling in the gentle waves. You too can experience what Costa Brava has to offer with a customizable itinerary.

With its upscale amenities, charming old-world personality, and beautiful protected bay, La Gavina encapsulates the elegance, vibrance, and coastal beauty defining Costa Brava’s most sophisticated beaches.

Best for: A glamorous, protected escape with upmarket amenities.

Tucked away on Majorca's rugged northwest coast, Torrent de Pareis is often cited as one of Spain's most beautiful and unique beaches. This secluded beach features a scenic inlet with crystal-clear waters tucked between towering rock formations that have been carved out by the Torrent de Pareis mountain stream over centuries.

The beach is only accessible by boat or a three-hour hike, adding to its mystique as a Spanish natural wonder seemingly untouched by modern crowds or development. With its serene vibe, striking landscape, and turquoise Mediterranean waters, it's easy to see why Torrent de Pareis earns acclaim as a Spanish beach gem that you can discover on an intimate or adventurous trip.

Best for: Adventure travelers or couples looking to hike in search of beauty

Set gracefully along the breathtaking Bay of La Concha, Playa de Ondarreta delights visitors with its golden beach backed by elegant homes and green hills. Its pleasant waters host local families and tourists looking to swim and sunbathe steps away from Old Town. As part of one of the most famous city beach promenades in the country, Ondarreta allows easy access to vibrant urban life and the seaside beauty San Sebastián is renowned for.

With postcard-worthy views of the bay and conveniently located near top Spanish culinary destinations, Playa de Ondarreta represents some of the best seaside cities have to offer.

Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, and spectacular views.

Whether you are looking for family-friendly beaches or a laidback atmosphere, Spain’s best beaches have no shortage of attractions. From La Concha in San Sebastián, with its accessibility to cafes and Michelin-starred pintxos bars, to secluded Torrent de Pareis in Mallorca, there is no end to the possibilities for those looking for sun, sand, and surf.

Ready to plan your ultimate beach getaway in Spain? Then take a look at our Spain tours and vacations or Spain travel guide for further information.