As a country surrounded by water on three sides, Spain’s best beaches span a delightful range: rocky Mediterranean calas (coves) in the Balearics, wide sandy swathes in Andalusia, and volcanic-sand shores in the Canaries. Many top beaches reward effort—remote locations, short hikes, or limited parking—but they’re worth it. A rental car is often the best way to explore Spain’s nearly 5,000 miles of coastline, though some beaches sit steps from town. Note that Mediterranean spots can be pebbly rather than sandy, so bring water shoes for rocky shores.
Cala Pregonda, Menorca
A red-sand sliver on Menorca’s rugged northern shore, Cala Pregonda is framed by low shrubs and cerulean water. It’s a 15–20 minute walk from the parking area; there are no facilities, so arrive early and bring shade, food, and water. Locals often embrace naturism on remote coves. Access by flying to Menorca or taking the ferry from Barcelona.
Where to stay: Menorca Experimental; Son Vell.
Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa (Andalusia)
Known for sweeping sand dunes and views of the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, Playa de Bolonia is a broad, windswept Atlantic beach. Calm days suit swimmers; windy days draw kite surfers. Cádiz is reachable by high-speed rail from Madrid and Barcelona; rent a car to reach Bolonia.
Where to stay: Casa La Siesta; OKU Andalusia.
Playa del Silencio, Asturias
Enclosed by soaring cliffs, this rocky cove offers clear, cold waters and dramatic green-to-blue contrasts. A switchback stair makes descent straightforward, but the pebbled shore calls for water shoes and a beach chair. Asturias is served by rail from Madrid via Oviedo.
Where to stay: Narbasu Restaurante y Hotel; El Môderne Hotel.
Playa de Rodas, Galicia
Part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia Natural Park, Playa de Rodas is accessible only by boat. Its crystalline, famously cold waters and pristine sand have earned worldwide acclaim. Because it’s inside a protected reserve, visitor numbers are capped and visitors must carry out their own waste. Galicia is best reached by high-speed rail or regional flights; rent a car to explore further.
Where to stay: Attica21 Vigo 4 Superior; Espazo Nature.
Cala Jondal, Ibiza
On Ibiza’s southern coast, Cala Jondal is a pebbled, curated beach favored by a chic crowd. Beach clubs and restaurants serve seafood and chilled wines; reservations for sunbeds and tables are recommended. Taxis can avoid limited parking. Ibiza is served by an international airport.
Where to stay: Six Senses Ibiza; Agroturismo Atzaró.
Playa de Papagayo, Lanzarote (Canary Islands)
A golden-sand beach near Lanzarote’s rugged southern tip, Papagayo requires a drive on unpaved roads or a pleasant hike through dramatic volcanic terrain. The two-kilometer trail rewards visitors with sweeping sea views. Fly to the Canaries (Tenerife or Gran Canaria) then connect by short flight or ferry to Lanzarote.
Where to stay: Casa de La Flores; Alava Suites.
Platja d’Aiguablava, Costa Brava
A turquoise cove edged by cliffs, Aiguablava is a classic Costa Brava beach with services—umbrellas, paddleboards, restaurants—making it convenient for families and active visitors. Arrive by coastal walk from Fornells for superb views; parking is limited, so come early. It’s an easy one-hour drive from Barcelona.
Where to stay: Finca Victoria; La Bionda.
Playa de Mónsul, Almería (Cabo de Gata)
Hemmed by volcanic rock formations, Playa de Mónsul’s otherworldly landscape has been a backdrop for films. Part of Andalusia’s largest nature preserve, fishing is restricted and marine life is abundant, making it excellent for snorkeling. Roads and regional flights serve Almería; renting a car is the most flexible way to explore Cabo de Gata.
Where to stay: Cortijo Boutique Siete Calas; Equilicuá.
Playa de la Concha, San Sebastián (Basque Country)
This crescent-shaped city beach is flanked by Belle Époque architecture and guarded by Isla de Santa Clara, offering calm, swimmable waters in a city setting. Renowned for being one of the world’s best city beaches, La Concha also places you steps from top pintxos bars and Michelin-starred dining. Reach the Basque Country by flying into Bilbao or San Sebastián or by high-speed rail.
Where to stay: Nobu San Sebastián; Akelarre.
Tips for visiting Spain’s beaches
– Bring water shoes for pebbled coves and rocky approaches.
– Pack shade, food, and water for remote beaches with no facilities.
– Reserve sunbeds and beach-club tables in high season, especially in the Balearics.
– Respect protected areas: observe caps on visitor numbers, carry out waste, and follow local rules.
– Consider rail plus rental car: Spain’s high-speed network connects major cities, and a car gives access to lesser-known coves.
Whether you seek secluded coves, windswept Atlantic expanses, volcanic shores, or lively city beaches, Spain’s coastline offers diverse and often unforgettable beach experiences.
