Spain’s 8000km of coastline includes some of the world’s best beaches: glorious, palesand arcs, hidden coves, turquoiseblue bays and much more. But even on the most stunning beaches, you’ll be sharing the sand with people who know how to make the most of Spain’s many charms. If you want to enjoy the laidback beach life like a local, here’s what you need to know. Spain’s beaches are great all year round, but they’re at their most social in August, when everyone goes to the coast. You can’t beat the first two weeks of September – the peak crowds have gone and the weather is still perfect. Spain has many naturist beaches, which are clearly signposted – you don’t need to be naked to visit, but you may feel uncomfortable if you’re the only one in your bathers. If you prefer to keep your clothes on, you’ll find that topless bathing is the norm on many beaches, particularly along the Mediterranean coast.
Spain boasts some of Europe’s best beaches, with the Mediterranean coastline being the most famous for its warm waters and lively atmosphere. The Costa del Sol, in southern Spain, is a favorite among both locals and international visitors. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s no wonder this stretch of coast is a popular destination. Marbella, in particular, is known for its upscale resorts and beach clubs where you can indulge in luxury while soaking up the sun. For a more laidback vibe, head to Nerja, where you can relax on Playa de Burriana or explore the nearby caves. The Costa Blanca, further north, offers a mix of golden sands and rocky coves. Alicante’s Playa del Postiguet is a city beach with all the amenities you could need, while the smaller beaches like Playa de la Granadella in Jávea provide a more secluded experience. The Balearic Islands are another mustvisit destination for beach lovers. Ibiza is famous for its party scene, but it also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Cala Comte, with its clear turquoise waters, is perfect for a refreshing dip, while Cala d’Hort offers stunning views of the mystical Es Vedrà rock. Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a paradise for sunbathers. Playa de Muro, with its long stretch of white sand, is ideal for families, while Cala Varques is a hidden gem for those seeking solitude. The island of Menorca, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to some of the most pristine beaches in Spain, like Cala Macarella with its crystalclear waters. The Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa, offer a different kind of beach experience. Tenerife, the largest island, is known for its black sand beaches, a result of the island’s volcanic origins. Playa Jardín, designed by artist César Manrique, is a perfect blend of nature and art, while Playa de las Teresitas, with its golden sands, is a manmade wonder using sand imported from the Sahara. Lanzarote, another Canary Island, offers unique beaches like Playa de Papagayo, a series of small coves surrounded by volcanic cliffs. Fuerteventura, known as the ‘Island of Eternal Spring,’ is famous for its long, golden beaches. Playa de Sotavento is a favorite among windsurfers and kitesurfers, while Playa de Cofete, accessible only by a dirt road, offers a wild and remote experience. Beyond the beaches, Spain’s coastal towns and cities offer a wealth of cultural and culinary experiences. Barcelona, with its urban beaches like Barceloneta, is a vibrant city where you can enjoy a day at the beach followed by a night of tapas and Gaudí’s architectural wonders. In San Sebastián, in the Basque Country, you can spend the day on Playa de la Concha, one of Europe’s most iconic beaches, and then indulge in the city’s worldrenowned pintxos bars. In Galicia, on the northwest coast, the beaches are rugged and wild. Playa de las Catedrales, known for its dramatic rock formations, is a natural wonder that’s best explored at low tide. The nearby town of Ribadeo is a charming base for exploring this part of the coast. Spain’s beaches are not just about sun and sand; they’re also about the people and the culture. Whether you’re enjoying a cold cerveza at a beach bar, watching a game of beach volleyball, or simply taking in the sunset, you’ll find that the Spanish coast offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement that’s hard to find anywhere else.
