Top 15 Stunning Beaches to Visit in Spain

Spain boasts an unparalleled diversity of coastlines, ranging from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, and from the temperate north to the subtropical south. Coupled with warm summers, this creates an ideal environment for some of the finest beaches globally. Each beach highlighted here offers unique reasons for their acclaim: some feature idyllic bays with pristine, crystalline waters suitable for swimming, while others comprise rugged Atlantic shorelines that serve different purposes. Regardless, all of these locations are undeniably breathtaking in their distinct ways.

1. Praia da Rodas, Galicia

The allure of this immaculate white bay consistently ranks it among the world’s premier beaches. Located in the Cíes Islands, an archipelago in the Atlantic, directly across from Vigo, access is available via regular ferry services. As it is a protected national park, daily visitor numbers are limited to 2,200, necessitating advance planning for those wishing to explore this pristine destination. Thanks to favorable geography, the islands receive only half the rainfall of the nearby Galician coast, enhancing the magnificence of Rodas. The beach is flanked by rugged, pine-covered hills, leading to inviting emerald waters that are irresistible.

2. Platja de Ses Illetes, Formetera

The southernmost of the Balearic Islands, Formetera is renowned for its tropical beaches that appear almost out of place in Europe, with Platja de Ses Illetes being the most notable. Situated at the northern tip of the island, it boasts sugar-white sands that create a stunning turquoise water effect. Nearby small islands contribute to a pool-like quality of the sea on clear days, while the more exposed coast offers excellent conditions for windsurfing.

3. Lekeitio, Basque Country

This picturesque coastal town in Biscay offers a delightful blend of features. The beach itself is broad and gilded, gently shelving towards the small island of San Nicolás located in the bay. During low tide, visitors can walk out to San Nicolás, which is adorned with a light cover of pine trees and grass. The surrounding area captivates with lush, green hills and Lekeitio’s charming fishing harbor, framed by historical townhouses. Additionally, standing at the entrance of the beach is the basilica, an exquisite gothic church showcasing flying buttresses.

4. El Cofete, Fuerteventura

El Cofete stands out as one of the most exposed and windswept beaches on this list, yet it boasts a cinematic beauty seldom matched. Positioned on Fuerteventura’s western coastline, it faces the full force of the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching this beach requires navigating a challenging 20-kilometer gravel road alongside sheer cliffs. The reward for this arduous journey is a magnificent three-kilometer-long sandy expanse, framed by the Jandia mountains that rise dramatically to 800 meters and are often shrouded in mist, while the wild ocean unfurls before you.

5. Praia as Catedrais, Galicia

This remarkable stretch of coastline serves as both a beach and a natural monument. At high tide, it presents an impressive sight with rocky outcrops, while low tide unveils a transformed landscape revealing natural arches and caves, among towering rock formations reaching up to 30 meters. During spring tides, particularly around the full moon, the water recedes more than usual, exposing even more of this majestic site.

6. Playa de la Concha, San Sebastián

This urban beach has captivated visitors for centuries. The visually appealing horseshoe bay outlined by golden sands is often synonymous with San Sebastián. At the bay’s entrance lies the Island of Sant Clara, which ensures the gentle waves are no deeper than ankle height. Together with the elegant promenades, lampposts, and landmarks such as the royal Miramar Palace, Playa de la Concha epitomizes Spanish charm.

7. Playa de los Genoveses, Almería

Set within the Cabo de Gata area, this beach tends to feel remote, with occasional signs of civilization visible only as distant whitewashed homes. Renowned for attracting attention, this region was also the backdrop for many Spaghetti Westerns, showcasing a stark landscape characterized by bare mountains and sparse vegetation. Playa de los Genoveses is frequently rated as the best beach in Andalusia, featuring a gentle curve of golden sand extending over a kilometer with moderate waves inviting visitors to unwind.

8. Playa del Silencio, Asturias

Located far from any town or village along the Asturian coastline lies a pebble beach of breathtaking allure. Even on sunny summer afternoons, Playa del Silencio seldom sees large crowds. This cove, deeply nestled inland and enveloped by cliffs, provides a tranquil retreat. The cliffs formed by rocky ridges resemble towering columns, while the sheltered waters offer calm conditions for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy refreshing dips in the Atlantic amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

9. Playa de Bolonia, Cádiz

Situated to the south of Cádiz, the remote fishing village serves as the backdrop for an extraordinary beach that stretches nearly four kilometers. The setting features modest hills covered with pines, mastic bushes, and junipers, accompanied by a dune system and the ancient ruins of the Roman port Baelo Claudia. Here, visitors can explore the remnants of a basilica and a factory where the Roman delicacy garum was produced, all amidst a scene of spectacular natural beauty.

10. Playa de Cué, Asturias

Where else can you sunbathe on grass? Playa de Cué, situated just east of Llanes in Asturias, offers this unique experience. The beach is entirely shielded from the Atlantic winds and currents by three small islands and various smaller rocks. When the tide recedes, visitors can walk to these islands and relax on the sandy stretch at the base of grassy cliffs. During high tide, the beach is submerged, allowing for swimming in the clear, lagoon-like waters and sunbathing afterwards on the grassy bank.

11. Playa Comillas, Cantabria

Adjacent to a beautiful fishing port adorned with charming squares and historic stone houses, this Atlantic beach, approximately one kilometer long, is washed by moderate waves and occasionally gusty breezes. Visitors interested in scenery can stroll along the beach from October to April, enjoying views of snow-capped mountains in the distance when the weather permits. During the summer, the golden sands provide a perfect spot for relaxation while observing the rhythmic waves.

12. Cala Sa Calobra, Mallorca

This enchanting beach on the island’s northern coast is absolutely stunning, yet not easily accessible. The most straightforward way to reach it is by taking a boat from Port de Sóller to the secluded hamlet of Sa Calobra, nestled between towering cliffs that characterize much of Mallorca’s western and northern coastlines. Upon arrival, a waterfront pathway emerges from the cliffside, leading visitors to this picturesque cove, where a shingle beach is flanked by two monumental rocks that serve as guardians.

13. Cala Conta, Ibiza

The unique geological features of this cove, including rocky outcrops and offshore islands, create an almost whimsical atmosphere. Visitors typically find themselves claiming any available spot, whether that’s atop a sandy ledge or right along the shoreline. The irregular coastline gives rise to shallow, crystal-clear pools, allowing beachgoers to wade for considerable distances with water no deeper than their waist. Moreover, as evening falls, this west-facing beach offers one of Spain’s most breathtaking sunsets.

14. Platja de Sant Sebastià, Catalonia

Located in Sitges, just south of Barcelona, this small urban beach features soft sand and moderate waves, ideal for a leisurely summer afternoon by the Mediterranean. What enhances its appeal is the integration with the older sections of this historic fishing village. While relaxing on a towel or sun lounger, visitors can admire the dome of the parish church along with the town hall perched on a hill beside the waters, which is framed by an ancient seawall.

15. Playa de Zarautz, Basque Country

The longest beach in the Basque Country, stretching 2.5 kilometers, offers breathtaking scenery that captures the essence of northern Spain’s Atlantic coast. Flanked by lush, green hills at both ends, the beach features a raised promenade lined with shops and bars. During low tide, vast stretches of pale sand are exposed, while the consistent surf attracts numerous enthusiasts; the central section is designated for surfing, with a family-friendly area situated closer to the eastern part of the resort.