Top 12 Must-Visit Beaches in Spain

Discover the hidden gems among Spain’s stunning beaches, offering everything from family-friendly shores to wild, untouched paradises.

The playa (beach) holds an almost sacred status in

Spain

, a nation defined by approximately 8000km (5000 miles) of coastline that seamlessly transitions from tranquil, pine-fringed rocky coves to expansive, dune-rippled beaches, vibrant Mediterranean harbors, and surf-lashed Atlantic bays. Adding to this allure are picturesque cliff-top villages, renowned

chiringuitos

(beach bars) where refreshing mojitos complement stunning sunsets, and charming tapas establishments serving freshly grilled seafood. Spain doesn’t merely visit the beach; it embodies a lifestyle steeped in sun, surf, and sand.

We have explored the nation from the rugged north to the sultry south to present our top picks for Spanish beaches. However, if you venture slightly off the beaten path, you are likely to

discover your own hidden gems

.

1. Platja Illetes, Formentera

Best for barefoot bliss

Platja Illetes features a stunning expanse of sugar-white sand that meets a vividly turquoise sea, offering a beauty reminiscent of the Caribbean. Fortunately, there’s no need for a long-haul flight; Formentera is accessible via a half-hour ferry ride from nearby Ibiza. Located on the western side of the Trucador Peninsula, the beach is complemented by two

illetes

(islets) named Pouet and Rodona.

Local tip:

To avoid the hustle of peak summer, visit in late spring or early autumn.

2. Playa San Pedro, Andalucía

Best beach for wild beauty

Nestled east of

Almería

on Spain’s sun-drenched southeastern coast, the

Parque Natural de Cabo de Gata-Níjar

showcases some of the country’s most stunning and uncrowded beaches. Here, ravines plummet to pristine sands and rocky formations, culminating at one of the region’s most beautiful beaches,

Playa San Pedro

, flanked by lush scrubland and the remains of a 16th-century fortress. Access it by foot or boat from Las Negras.

3. Cala Macarella, Menorca

Best family beach

Cala Macarella, situated on Menorca’s southwest coast, is a breathtaking beach that often leaves visitors in awe. Nestled between cliffs adorned with fragrant pines and holm oaks, this picturesque crescent of fine white sand meets crystal-clear waters. Though it becomes quite busy during the summer months, visiting early in the day or at sunset can provide a more serene experience. You can reach this beautiful cove via

boat

or by walking approximately 1.5km/0.8 miles (25 minutes) from the nearest parking area.

Detour:

Those captivated by Cala Macarella should venture to Cala Macarelleta, accessible by a scenic trek over cliffs and through pines.

4. Praia as Catedrais, Galicia

Best beach for rocky drama

For those enchanted by dramatic landscapes,

Praia as Catedrais

in

Galicia

delivers an unforgettable experience. Spanning 1.5km (0.9 miles), this stunning beach is famous for its remarkable rock formations that have been sculpted into Gothic-style arches, towers, and chambers by centuries of erosion. To appreciate the beach at its best, visit during low tide when the expansive sands are laid bare.

Local tip:

During Easter and the summer holidays (from July 1 to September 30), reservations for a free

permit

are required to visit this popular site.

5. Playa Las Teresitas, Tenerife

Best beach for views

The northeastern region of

Tenerife

presents a more rugged shoreline, where dramatic waves crash against the cliffs. In contrast to the island’s typical black sand beaches, Playa Las Teresitas boasts a picturesque arc of golden sand imported from the Sahara, alongside an inviting row of palm trees. The beach is ideal for family swimming, thanks to its protective breakwater. The backdrop is equally breathtaking, with the laurel forest-cloaked Anaga Mountains creating a stunning vista.

Local tip:

Located near the capital

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

, Las Teresitas is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and

chiringuitos

.

El Caracol

is a favored weekend spot for sipping cold mojitos amid lively tapas and salsa.

6. Platja de Formentor, Mallorca

Best beach for paddling

On

Mallorca

, the northern coastline is characterized by dramatic landscapes, with jagged cliffs and the weathered limestone peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana rising majestically. The beach at

Platja de Formentor

exemplifies this beauty, offering a sandy stretch framed by pines and gently shelving into crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, or rent paddleboards and kayaks for a bit of exploration.

Local tip:

Access the beach either via boat from Port de Pollença or by car along the winding roads of Cap de Formentor, stopping at scenic viewpoints, including the Mirador del Mas Pas, while enjoying splendid sunset views from the lighthouse.

7. Playa de la Concha, Basque Country

Best city beach

San Sebastián

is renowned for its gastronomic offerings, boasting numerous Michelin-starred establishments. However, its picturesque beaches framed by lush hills also captivate visitors. One notable beach is

Playa de la Concha

, an exquisite 1.6km (1-mile) stretch of golden sand regarded as one of Europe’s finest city beaches. Whether you come to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with cold drinks and

pintxos

(Basque tapas) at a nearby

chiringuito

, the experience is memorable. As night falls, the glittering lights reflect off the Bay of Biscay.

Detour:

Consider taking a boat trip to the charming

Isla de Santa Clara

. This small island features its own tiny beach at low tide and offers forested paths leading to a lighthouse, perfect for a picnic.

8. Flecha del Rompido, Andalucía

Best beach for endless sands

The

Costa de la Luz

, known as the Coast of Light in Andalucía, is rightly named. This coastline, which boasts 200km (125 miles) of fine golden sands, is adorned with striking light, azure skies, and the invigorating sea air, which instantly uplifts one’s spirit. The beaches here are breathtaking, with

Flecha del Rompido

being a prominent highlight—a 13km-long (8-mile) sandbar at the mouth of the Río Piedras. Accessible solely by ferry, this beach remains remarkably tranquil, even during peak summer.

Local tip:

Be sure to carry binoculars, as the beach is part of the Río Piedras wetlands reserve, attracting various bird species including ospreys, little egrets, sandwich terns, and red-crested pochards.

9. Playa de Torimbia, Asturias

Best nudist beach

In the breathtaking region of

Asturias

on Spain’s northern coastline,

Playa de Torimbia

captivates visitors with its gorgeous form. This crescent-shaped beach, nestled between rugged headlands, features flawless golden sand and waters that dance in a spectrum of blues. Although visitors must walk the last kilometer from the parking lot to the beach, this effort helps keep the crowds manageable. Not to worry if you forget your swimsuit; clothing is optional here.

Detour:

For those seeking adventure, the beach is conveniently located near

trail-rich


Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa

, showcasing some of Europe’s most dramatic mountain scenery.

10. Begur, Catalonia

Best beach for secluded coves

The ruggedly beautiful beaches of the

Costa Brava

, extending from Barcelona to the French border, are some of Catalunya’s finest treasures. Notable among them is the area surrounding the castle-crowned town of Begur, where winding roads lead to enchanting coves, such as the secluded

Cala d’Aiguafreda

, the nicely pebbly

Cala de sa Tuna

, and the sandy paradise of

Sa Rieira

.

Detour:

For breathtaking views, hike to the medieval ramparts of

Castell de Begur

, a site notable for its association with the 1959 film

Suddenly, Last Summer

, starring Elizabeth Taylor.

11. Platja de Ses Salines, Ibiza

Best beach for birdwatchers

When locals from

Ibiza

are asked about their top beach choice,

Platja de Ses Salines

frequently emerges as a favorite. Found at the southern end of the island, close to Formentera, this beautiful beach features creamy sand and crystal-clear waters backed by rolling sand dunes and lush pine forests. Swim in the gentle, warm waters or relax at one of the beach bars with a cocktail as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.

Detour:

The beach lies within the UNESCO World Heritage

Parc Natural de Ses Salines

. Explore beyond the beach to uncover a rich ecosystem of salt pans, marshes, and pine-forested cliffs, a haven for birdlife including Balearic shearwaters, Audouin’s gulls, and, from August to October, migrating flamingos.

12. Playa de Bolonia, Andalucía

Best for photography

Located south of

Cádiz

,

Playa de Bolonia

stands out as one of Spain’s most picturesque beaches, featuring an expansive 4km (2.5-mile) stretch of silky blond sand, towering dunes, and coastal pines. The beach is mesmerizing, particularly when the Levante wind stirs the Atlantic and creates exhilarating waves for surfers. Make the most of your visit by exploring the adjacent Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, featuring well-preserved remains of an ancient theater, forum, thermal baths, marketplace, and basilica, all offering stunning views of the Moroccan coastline.

Detour:

For those seeking a refreshing dip, there is a 1.5km (0.9-mile) dirt path leading to Faro Camarinal, where you can discover the tranquil, nudist-friendly Playa El Cañuelo.