Barcelona is a renowned travel destination home to miles of picturesque coastline, making it a great spot for a beach vacation. The beaches suit a range of travelers, ranging from party spots to secluded gems. With golden sand and refreshing waves, these top beaches in Barcelona are worth a visit.
Barceloneta Beach
Barcelona’s most popular beach is Barceloneta Beach. As the city’s largest and most accessible beach, it deserves the top spot on this list. Found along the bus route and only a mile or so from the Old City area, tourists and locals alike flock to this easy-to-reach playa for fun in the sun. Due to its immense popularity, Barceloneta Beach is where you’ll find a number of vendors, artists, restaurants and water sport opportunities. As Barcelona’s most famous beach, it is worth a visit but don’t expect to find solitude here.
Bogatell Beach
Another popular beach in Barcelona is Bogatell Beach. If you’re wanting to get away from the party crowd found on Barceloneta Beach, Bogatell Beach is a family-friendly option since it boasts an older crowd. This beloved Barcelona beach is smaller than the larger beaches on this list, however, it offers a more tranquil stay. Another perk to visiting Bogatell Beach is that this Barcelona beach is considered one of the city’s safest beaches.
Nova Icaria Beach
Play volleyball, dine in at a seaside tapas bar or learn a new water sport at Nova Icaria Beach. Found in the middle of Barcelona’s coastline, this beach draws a wide variety of travelers, from families to young co-eds. Nova Icaria is at an ideal location since it’s near a number of attractions, such as the Olympic marina and the Vila Shopping Center.
Sant Sebastia
If you’re staying at the W Hotel in Barcelona, then the closest beach to you would be Sant Sebastia. Swimmers have been flocking to this Barcelona beach for years. Sant Sebastia is where you should go swimming, surf, and paddleboard. Sant Sebastia isn’t just known for its swimming and surf however; this beach is actually one of Barcelona’s clothing-optional beaches.
Mar Bella Beach
Another great spot for surfing and windsurfing is Mar Bella Beach. On windy days, expect waves worthy enough for even the pickiest surfers. Visitors to Mar Bella Beach enjoy the fact that the water here is cleaner than other beaches on Barcelona’s coast. Since Mar Bella is a bit removed from the city center (although still on the public transit route), there is a section of the beach for nudists. However, on the other end of the beach, there is a playground and skateboard ramps for younger beach visitors.
Ocata Beach
If you’re seeking a quiet, secluded beach, then visit Ocata Beach, which requires a 30-minute train ride outside of the city. However, the commute is worth your time when you reach this spacious beach, as the beach scene here definitely isn’t as crowded as more popular beaches in Barcelona. Clean water and golden sand are what is waiting for you at this north Barcelona playa.
Castelldefels Beach
Head south of the city center to enjoy this five-kilometer beach. Castelldefels Beach is a great place to spend the day. Not just home to a gorgeous beach, Castelldefels also offers plenty of restaurants and shops in the area that are worth your time after you’ve grown tired of the sun and sand. Don’t be surprised to see a number of locals windsurfing and sunbathing here.
Somorrostro
If you’re looking for a fun-filled beach to spend a day with friends, then consider Somorrostro. This Barcelona beach is always filled with tourists, so it’s an ideal place to go if you’re looking to party and meet new people. This centrally-located beach isn’t just known for its touristy beachfront, however, foodies will enjoy the restaurant scene here too.
