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The beaches of Spain are some of the most beautiful in the world. You can find gorgeous beaches and hidden coves along the Spanish coast, and even in some of Spain’s top cities.
If soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lovely natural surroundings sound amazing to you, then keep reading to discover the 25 best beaches in Spain and a map to help you plan your trip.
Best beaches in Spain map
To help you find the ones you want to visit during your beach vacation in Spain, here is a map with all the best beaches in the country.
Mejores playas de España - EN
1. Cala Comte, Ibiza, one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain
Cala Comte, also called Platges de Comte, is comprised of several small coves that, together, make up one of the best beaches in Spain.
Located on the island of Ibiza, Cala Comte is recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, you’ll find amazing food, beautiful views, and a natural environment that looks like paradise. You’ll also have tons of fun here, from the bustling nightlife to the scenic hikes that give you views of smaller islets like Ses Bledes, S’esparta, and Es Bosc.
1. Cala Comte, Ibiza, one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain
So, if you want to experience one of the top beaches in Ibiza, Spain, come to Cala Comte. My advice is to look past the main beach and instead go to the hidden coves. If you’re not sure where to start, this hiking tour from Cala Comte goes along Costa de Cristal and leads you to areas that only locals know about. I recommend booking the tour in advance, especially during the summer.
- Recommended accommodation: I highly recommend the 7Pines Resort Ibiza, part of Destination by Hyatt. It’s surrounded by pine trees and offers views of Es Vedrà Island. Among the facilities are two outdoor pools, two saunas, a steam bath, showers, and waterbeds.
2. La Concha Beach, San Sebastián, one of the most famous beaches in Spain
La Concha Beach is in San Sebastián, one of the best cities to visit in Spain.
Located in the center of San Sebastián, La Concha Beach boasts a lovely shell-shaped bay and promenade. As you look into the distance, the island of Santa Clara is front and center, while the Urgull and Igeldo Mountains create a scenic backdrop. This place is as beautiful as it sounds, and it’s one of the reasons why this is one of the top beaches in Spain.
2. La Concha Beach, San Sebastián, one of the most famous beaches in Spain
Moreover, La Concha Beach has fine golden sand, and the coast stretches for 0.8 miles, so it’s one of the best beaches in northern Spain. Many sports fans come here to practice surfing and windsurfing and play beach volleyball and soccer. The beach is particularly lively in the summer, so it’s a great place to visit during your trip.
- Recommended accommodation: The Hotel Boutique Villa Favorita has beautiful views of the sea, and it’s close to Ondarreta Beach and Zurriola Beach.
3. Playa de Las Catedrales, Galicia, one of the best beaches in Spain
Located in La Mariña Lucense in the province of Lugo, Playa de Las Catedrales is one of the best beaches in Spain that I recommend.
This beach is widely recognized as one of the top coastal locations in the country. Although its real name is Aguas Santas Beach, is better known as Playa de Las Catedrales (Cathedral Beach). This name comes from the huge rocks surrounding the beach, which form arches and towers reminiscent of Christian cathedrals.
3. Playa de Las Catedrales, Galicia, one of the best beaches in Spain
As you can imagine, this is one of the prettiest beaches in Spain where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty. Moreover, it’s not far from Santiago de Compostela, so if you’re going to be in that town, you can take this excursion to Lugo. During the tour, you’ll see the city’s famous Roman walls, and end the day at Playa de las Catedrales.
- Recommended accommodation: The Hotel Playa de las Catedrales is ideal thanks to its close proximity to Playa de las Catedrales and Arealonga Beach.
4. Ses Illetes Beach, Formentera, a Spanish beach with crystal-clear waters
One of the best Mediterranean beaches in Spain is Ses Illetes Beach on the island of Formentera.
Ses Illetes has nearly 0.3 miles of coastline split by a small rocky area. This forms a series of islets, each with its own lovely views, and the name Playa de Ses Illetes translates to “beach of the small islands.” More specifically, the islets include Illa de Tramuntana, Illa des Forn, Escull des Pou, Illa Redona, and Escull d’en Palla.
4. Ses Illetes Beach, Formentera, a Spanish beach with crystal-clear waters
Ses Illetes Beach is one of the best beaches in Spain for families, thanks to its calm, shallow waters, and convenient amenities. Everyone will love the clear turquoise waters, too!
- Recommended accommodation: Sa Pedrera Suites & Spa is very close to Ses Illetes, and Llevant Beach is just 0.2 miles away.
5. Benijo Beach, Tenerife, one of the most natural beaches in Spain
Benijo Beach is one of the most impressive beaches in Tenerife, so that should be reason enough to visit. If you need another reason, it’s not super crowded, so consider adding it to your list of best beaches in Spain.
5. Benijo Beach, Tenerife, one of the most natural beaches in Spain
While it’s true that this isn’t the ideal place to go with kids, the elderly, or those with mobility issues, it is one of the quietest beaches in Spain. If you don’t have problems with stairs, then Benijo Beach is the perfect place to relax. Plus, it’s one of the few black sand beaches in Spain.
- Recommended accommodation: Casanaga in Anaga Rural Park is lovely and just three minutes from the beach. Some of its apartments even have terraces with ocean views.
6. Zahara de los Atunes & Los Alemanes Beach, two of the best beaches on Spain’s Atlantic coast
Cádiz has some of the best beaches in Spain on the peninsula, and one of them is Zahara de los Atunes. Its pristine sand is super soft, and the crystal-clear waters reflect the warm sunlight just so, making it a wonderful place to relax.
Plus, less than a 10-minute drive away, you can find Los Alemanes Beach, another gorgeous Spanish beach. Los Alemanes is nestled between the capes of Gracia and La Plata, and it isn’t overcrowded, so it’s another tranquil spot. Moreover, it has about a mile of golden sand, and its waters are perfect for taking a dip. If you travel to Southern Spain, you must stop by.
6. Zahara de los Atunes, the best beach on Spain’s Atlantic coast
If you’re visiting during the summer, both of these beaches in Spain offer plenty of space to walk and sunbathe.
- Recommended accommodation: I definitely recommend the Hotel Playa de la Plata, which is just 0.1 miles from Zahara de los Atunes and has a very enjoyable atmosphere.
7. Cala Formentor, Mallorca, a pristine beach in Spain you should visit
Some of the best swimming beaches are in Mallorca, Spain, and one of those is Cala Formentor. It’s on the northwest tip of the island, about 4.5 miles from Puerto de Pollença.
7. Cala Formentor, Mallorca, a pristine beach in Spain you should visit
Its white sand and majestic oak and pine trees make it one of the best beaches in Spain. Of course, this combination of sea and mountains also makes it a favorite destination for tourists to Mallorca. So, while Cala Formentor can be a bit difficult to get to by land during the summer, it’s still worth visiting.
- Recommended accommodations: If you’re visiting as a couple, the best option is the Hoposa Pollensamar Apartamentos, which has an outdoor pool and apartments with private terraces. If you’re traveling with family, check out Villa Señorial, which has spacious rooms and beautiful views just 0.1 miles from the beach.
8. Bolonia Beach, Cádiz, one of the best nudist beaches in Spain
Bolonia Beach is another impressive Spanish beach in the province of Cádiz, and it’s best known for its enormous dune, which is over 650 feet wide and 100 feet tall.
Another charming aspect of the beach is its pristine environment, with 2.5 miles of fine white sand and shallow blue waters. The only downside to this virgin beach is that sometimes the winds are very strong.
8. Bolonia Beach, Cádiz, one of the best nudist beaches in Spain
That said, nearby is the ancient Roman city of Baelo Claudia, an interesting site with a preserved Roman forum from ancient Hispania. With its proximity to this historic site and huge sand dune, Bolonia Beach is surely one of the best beaches in southern Spain.
If you’re in Cádiz and have no way to get to this beach, you can book this private day trip to Bolonia and Gibraltar in advance. You won’t regret it!
- Recommended accommodation: The Apartamentos Miramar is a lovely property that’s just one minute from the beach. Along with the terrace and swimming pool, you can enjoy beautiful gardens with views of the sea.
9. Matalascañas Beach, Huelva, one of the best beaches in southern Spain
If you’re looking for a great Mediterranean beach in Spain, check out Matalascañas Beach. It’s in the province of Huelva, and as one of the closest beaches to Seville, it’s very popular among Sevillians.
Furthermore, Matalascañas’ 3.1 miles of fine white sand makes it one of the longer beaches in Spain. It also has a superb environmental rating from the Foundation for Environmental Education, with 16 consecutive blue flags from 1994 to 2009.
9. Matalascañas Beach, Huelva, one of the best beaches in southern Spain
Despite its popularity, Matalascañas isn’t as crowded as other Andalusian beaches, so you can sunbathe in peace. In addition, there are plenty of beach bars, cabanas, volleyball nets, and even waterslides, so it’s perfect for families.
If you’re in Doñana Natural Park, you can access Matalascañas Beach on foot, so keep that in mind, too.
- Recommended accommodation: The On Hotels Oceanfront resort is designed for adults and has ocean views, an outdoor and indoor pool, and a sun balcony where you can rest.
10. Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias, one of the best beaches in northern Spain
Playa de Gulpiyuri is easily considered the best beach in northern Spain, and it’s said to be the smallest beach in the world. It’s in Llanes, Asturias, and its small size (about 130 feet) makes it a geological wonder.
What’s also special about Playa de Gulpiyuri is that it’s closed off to the sea by a cliff, and a small cave allows the tide to pass through. So, if you want to visit a hidden Spanish beach in the north, this is one of the best.
10. Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias, one of the best beaches in northern Spain
If you go, you’ll be close to another lovely beach, San Antonio. It’s also part of the Protected Landscape of the Asturian Eastern Coast and has a wild cove, white sand, and crystal clear waters. Combined with its cliffs and green meadows, it’s a little paradise.
- Recommended accommodation: Stay in Naves, at the Hotel Villa Marrón, a restored colonial house near the beach of San Antolín. The amenities here include an outdoor pool and a beautiful garden.
11. Mónsul Beach, Almería, one of the best Mediterranean beaches in Spain
Among the best beaches in Spain, I must also include Mónsul Beach. It’s one of the most famous beaches in Almería and a must-see if you’re going to be in the area.
At about 0.2 miles long, it’s not the largest beach, but it’s one of the nicest beaches in Spain’s southern region, with virgin sand and a pristine natural environment. It’s in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, so be sure to bring everything you’ll need with you.
11. Mónsul Beach, Almería, one of the best Mediterranean beaches in Spain
Also, if you like to sunbathe or swim in the nude, you can do that here without any problems. Mónsul Beach is family-friendly, and its clear waters make it easy to see the marine life. Plus, if you like photography, the huge rocks that line the beach create a volcanic landscape you’ll want to capture.
- Recommended accommodation: You should definitely stay at El Dorado Cabo de Gata in San José, which is in Cabo de Gata Natural Park and has an outdoor pool and balcony rooms.
12. Papagayo Beach, another beautiful beach in Spain
Papagayo Beach is one of the most beautiful places to see in Lanzarote, so it’s a Spanish beach that you can’t miss.
Moreover, Papagayo is the most famous beach in Lanzarote thanks to its fine golden sand and pristine waters, which often take on an emerald color. In 2019, Papagayo was chosen by Condé Nast Traveler readers as the best beach in Spain.
12. Papagayo Beach, another beautiful beach in Spain
To see Papagayo beach in a different way, I recommend this sailing tour along the coast. Another option is this kayaking and snorkeling excursion from Playa Blanca. The crystal-clear waters make snorkeling a popular activity here, so you shouldn’t pass it up!
- Recommended accommodation: Without a doubt, the Gran Castillo Tagoro Family & Fun Playa Blanca is one of the best family hotels in Lanzarote. It has six swimming pools, including a children’s pool with waterslides, so it’s perfect for families with kids.
13. Es Trenc Beach, Mallorca, another one of Spain’s best beaches
Es Trenc Beach in Mallorca is another Mediterranean beach in Spain that I highly recommend. It has over 5.5 miles of white sand dunes and clear blue waters, so it’s perfect for a refreshing swim.
13. Es Trenc Beach, Mallorca, another one of Spain’s best beaches
Moreover, it’s a protected natural area where you can enjoy a fantastic day at the beach in Mallorca, Spain. If you’re in southern Spain and don’t have a car, I suggest booking this excursion. It’ll take care of your transportation and let you see Es Trenc’s old bunkers from the 1940s.
- Recommended accommodation: The THB Sur Mallorca in the fishing village of Còlonia de Sant Jordi has two tennis courts and an 82-foot outdoor pool, so it’s a great option.
14. Rodas Beach, Islas Cíes, another one of the best beaches in northern Spain
Rodas Beach is the largest of the Cíes Islands, in Vigo, and one of the best beaches in northern Spain. So, if you find yourself in Galicia, be sure to stop here.
This beach is unique in that its pine forests reach the shore, and the coastal waters are clean and transparent. The shoreline stretches about 0.6 miles and has earned Rodas Beach several awards. It’s also a wildly popular beach, so the Xunta de Galicia established a maximum number of visitors (2,200) in 2018 to help protect it. If you plan to go here, I recommend booking a spot in advance.
14. Rodas Beach, Islas Cíes, another one of the best beaches in northern Spain
Also, if you visit, you’ll be close to another famous beach on Spain’s Cíes Islands, Figueiras Beach. This one is much quieter than Rodas Beach, and the best way to get there is by booking a round-trip ferry ride. If you book this option, the company will take care of requesting your permit access to Rodas Beach, so all you’ll have to worry about is remembering your sunscreen.
- Recommended accommodation: I highly recommend the Hotel Pazo Los Escudos Spa & Beach, which offers a variety of rooms facing the sea and gardens. It also has the Club de Agua Spa and a café with views of the estuary and the Cíes Islands.
15. Cala Macarella & Macarelleta, Menorca, two lovely white sand beaches in Spain
Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta, in Menorca, are among the best beaches in Spain for swimming. They’re also two excellent examples of what the pristine, untouched coves in southern Menorca look like. In other words, a true paradise.
These two neighboring coves have white sand, turquoise blue waters, and they’re protected by cliffs and pine trees. It’s not surprising that they’re two of the most-visited beaches during peak season.
15. Cala Macarella, Menorca, a lovely white sand beach in Spain
To get to Cala Macarella, you can take a bus from Ciutadella, go by car, or take a walk along the Camí de Cavalls promenade that surrounds the island. From here, you can go to Cala Macarella by following Camí de Cavalls, towards Cala Turqueta. Just be careful not to walk over the dunes that protect the land here.
Finally, another way to see these coves is to take this boat trip from Cala Galdana, which gives you the option to go diving in the crystal clear waters.
- Recommended accommodation: Without a doubt, Meliá Cala Galdana is the perfect hotel in a beautiful location. It has two outdoor pools, ocean view rooms, a gym, two hot tubs, and a solarium.
16. Trengandín Beach, Cantabria, one of the longest beaches in Spain
Thanks to their lovely contrast of green vegetation and blue water, many of the best beaches are in northern Spain. This includes Trengandín Beach, which is on the coast of Trasmiera, next to the province of Noja and the Victoria Marsh.
Trengandín is one of the longest beaches in Spain, with over 1.8 miles of fine white sand. At low tide, it’s spectacular and perfect for long walks. There is also a decent number of amenities here, including showers, accessible restrooms, walkways to the beach, lifeguards, and even a beach library. There is also a surf school, so it’s one of the best beaches in Spain for families.
16. Trengandín Beach, Cantabria, one of the longest beaches in Spain
If you prefer kayaking, you can take this tour through Noja, during which you can discover some of the best places on the Cantabrian coast that are only accessible by boat.
- Recommended accommodation: The Hotel Las Olas on the Trengandín promenade is right in front of the beach and less than ten minutes from town.
17. Los Muertos Beach, Almería, one of the cheapest beaches in Spain you can’t miss
Los Muertos is a huge beach in Spain that’s known for its delicate sand (no sticks or stones!) and its isolated location between Agua Amarga and Carboneras.
The beach extends more than 0.6 miles along a clear, blue sea, making it one of the best Mediterranean beaches in Spain. It’s also one of the best beaches to visit in the south if you’re on a budget.
17. Los Muertos Beach, Almería, one of the cheapest beaches in Spain you can’t miss
That said, if you want to experience all that Los Muertos has to offer, I recommend this boat tour, which goes to Los Muertos Beach, Cala del Corral, Las Salinicas, Cala Puente, Cala Sorbas, and Cala Castillo. You’ll also visit several charming towns and enjoy the marvelous views of the Mediterranean.
- Recommended accommodation: If you want to stay overnight, I recommend the Hotel Senderos in Agua Amarga, which is just minutes away from Los Muertos and Agua Amarga Beach.
18. Playa de Cofete, Fuerteventura, another quiet beach in Spain you should visit
If you read my guide on the top things to do in Fuerteventura, you’ll know that Playa de Cofete is one of the best beaches in Spain.
Its virgin sand and remote location have made it one of the most popular beaches in the Canary Islands, so you can’t miss it. In addition, its pristine water makes it the perfect Spanish beach for snorkeling.
18. Playa de Cofete, Fuerteventura, another quiet beach in Spain you should visit
Getting there is a bit complicated and ideally would require a 4×4 so you can drive to the edge of the cliffs. If you want to make things easier, you can take this tour from Caleta de Fuste. Either way, this beach is sure to steal your heart!
- Recommended accommodation: The Occidental Jandia Playa is the best place to stay, especially with friends. It’s close to the beach, has two outdoor pools, a heated pool, a spa with a sauna, and four bars.
19. Cala d’Ílla Roja, one of the best nudist beaches in Costa Brava, Spain
While more and more people here wear swimsuits, Cala d’Ìlla Roja is one of the most popular nudist beaches in Spain.
In addition, this cove boasts a gorgeous natural environment, with large reddish rocks that give the beach its name. The shoreline stretches for about 395 feet, and it’s 65 feet wide, so you can walk the full length of it and enjoy the scenery.
19. Cala d’Ílla Roja, one of the best nudist beaches in Costa Brava, Spain
To access this beach on Spain’s Costa Brava, you must go through the coastal path between Sa Riera and Platja del Racó. It’ll be worth it, as you can enjoy the golden sand, transparent waters, and the minimal crowds.
- Recommended accommodation: The Hostal Ses Negres in Begur is just 0.3 miles away, and you’ll also be a few steps from Platjia de Sa Riera.
20. Granadella Beach, Alicante, the best beach on Spain’s Mediterranean coast
Located in southern Jávea, in the province of Alicante, Granadella Beach is one of the best Mediterranean beaches in Spain.
This stony cove is nestled among some isolated cliffs, creating a magical bay beach that you must see. Its crystal-clear waters attract hundreds of thousands of tourists annually, and in 2012, it was named the most beautiful beach in Spain by the Spanish TV station, Antena 3.
20. Granadella Beach, Alicante, the best beach on Spain’s Mediterranean coast
If you want the full experience of this incredible beach, take this catamaran excursion from Jávea. I recommend booking it in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
- Recommended accommodations: For families or groups, I recommend the Villa Priscilla, which has four bedrooms, a bathroom, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a private pool with a garden and barbecue area. Alternatively, the La Vista al Mar hotel is close to the beach and perfect for couples since it offers views of the sea, an outdoor pool, and a garden.
21. Caló des Moro, Mallorca, one of the best small beaches in Spain
Caló des Moro is one of the best beaches in Spain and a crown jewel of Mallorca. At 130 feet long, it’s small but absolutely stunning, so you can’t pass it up.
For years, Caló des Moro was relatively unknown, mainly because it was difficult to access. However, as word spread about this beach’s undeniable beauty, it became a fairly popular cove, especially in the summer months. In addition, it’s one of the best Spanish beaches for snorkeling, thanks to its translucent turquoise blue waters.
21. Caló des Moro, Mallorca, one of the best small beaches in Spain
Another fun activity you can do here is this boat ride to Es Pontàs from Cala Figuera, which passes several lovely natural monuments.
- Recommended accommodation: If you go to Caló des Moro, you must stay at the Mieres Villa, which is just three minutes away and has an equipped kitchen.
22. Cala Estreta, Girona, among the best beaches on the Spanish peninsula
Cala Estreta, in Palamós, Girona, is another beautiful place for a beach vacation in Spain. This stunning cove is in a gorgeous natural environment and is only about 20-30 minutes from Es Castell Beach.
That said, getting there isn’t exactly easy, so there are rarely any crowds here. Moreover, it’s one of the best beaches in Spain where nudism is allowed.
22. Cala Estreta, Girona, among the best beaches on the Spanish peninsula
One of the beach’s main attractions is an old fisherman’s shack surrounded by pine trees and cliffs, which you can rent. Of course, if you just want to enjoy the scenery and take a refreshing swim, you can do that, too.
- Recommended accommodation: Don’t hesitate to book the Calella Golfet Sobremar. You’ll have a private pool, a terrace with mountain views, and close access to other beaches like El Golfet and Sant Roc.
23. Playa del Silencio, a charming beach in Spain that you’ll love
Playa del Silencio (the Beach of Silence), is one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain along the Cantabrian Sea. It’s located in the town of Castañeras in the Cudillero municipality and is sometimes called Gavieiru Beach.
This wild beach is protected by a cliff, which gives it a shell shape and lots of sharp rocks that serve as a natural parapet. In this way, the beach is protected from the strong sea currents, so the waters are calm. Thus, the name Playa del Silencio.
23. Playa del Silencio, a charming beach in Spain that you’ll love
Along with the tranquil waters, the surrounding landscape is spectacular. To get there, you’ll have to walk about 0.3 miles and descend a set of stairs. Also, there aren’t any modern amenities, but that has helped to maintain this beach’s natural beauty.
While it’s a popular Spanish beach, it doesn’t get too crowded. That said, tourists have been leaving trash behind, so if you visit, please be mindful of the environment by cleaning up after yourself.
- Recommended accommodation: The best option is the Hotel Restaurante el Fornón in the Asturian coastal city of Novellana. Plus, it’s located between Luarca and Cudillero, one of the best small towns in Spain.
24. Tabarca, a tiny island with some of the best beaches in Spain
Tabarca is a little sliver of paradise on the Costa Blanca, and its crystal-clear waters are a designated Marine Reserve. Thanks to its pristine environment, this cove is undoubtedly one of the best Mediterranean beaches in Spain.
It’s a tiny island that belongs to Alicante, which boasts great weather year-round and delicious Mediterranean food that will round out your experience here.
24. Tabarca, a tiny island with some of the best beaches in Spain
To get there, I recommend booking this boat trip from Santa Pola. If you like to snorkel, take advantage of the clear blue waters here and do this snorkeling excursion.
- Recommended accommodation: The Boutique Isla Tabarca is just a 15-minute walk from the beach and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
25. Cala Fonda, another lovely beach in Spain for swimming
Cala Fonda, also known as Waikiki, is a lovely quiet beach in Spain on the Tarragona coast. This virgin beach is one of the best-preserved coasts in the country, with fine golden sand, calm waters, and the lush Forest of the Marquesa.
25. Cala Fonda, another lovely beach in Spain for swimming
It’s also known as one of the top nudist beaches in Spain, so if you’re looking for an uncrowded and naturally striking place to sunbathe, this is the best option in Tarragona.
- Recommended accommodation: The best place to stay is the Hotel Gran Claustre Restaurant & Spa, which has an outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace with beautiful views.
When is the best time to go to the beach in Spain
At this point, you’ve probably found a beach in Spain you’d like to visit, but maybe you’re not sure about the best time to go. Well, this depends on what you want to do during your trip.
For example, summer is the hottest and driest season, so June, July, and August are the perfect time to take a beach vacation in Spain, especially if you want to go swimming.
Of course, there are exceptions. If you want to visit the Spanish beaches in the Balearic Islands, you can typically go any time between April and September. The summer months will be the hottest and the most crowded. The situation is similar in Andalusia; you can avoid the crowds by visiting in May, September, or October. One exception is the Canary Islands, where you can basically go to the beach year-round.
In conclusion, if you simply want to see these beaches and enjoy a walk on the sand, any month of the year is suitable for a beach trip in Spain.
If you have any other questions or you’d like to tell me about your favorite beaches in Spain, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below. I’ll be happy to answer you. Have a safe trip!
