Best beaches in Barcelona

Experience the Best Beaches in Barcelona: Sun, Sand, and Mediterranean Bliss

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for seekers of sun, sea and sand along with many of Barcelona’s famous attractions. The gorgeous blue skies and pleasant climate make it a perfect beach holiday destination. However, with so much choice on offer it can be a real challenge to decide on which beach to lay your towel. In this post, I share the Best Beaches in Barcelona to explore and spend a fun beach day, find out the local amenities, how to get there and dining venues you can find locally.

After an exhausting visit to the many historic sites and attractions in the city, you might want to enjoy your sun and beach time in the city itself with these easy to get to urban beaches. Or, if you have more time, why not venture outside with a fun day trip to any of the many seaside gems along the Catalan coast. Either way, I’m sharing the urban beaches and easy to reach beach towns you can travel easily by public transportation.

With over 4.5 kilometres of coastline around Barcelona, you’ll have your pick of these amazing beaches to enjoy and an easy drive or ride to the beach areas along the waterfront areas of the city. Here’s some of our favorite places to hang out around Barcelona’s best beaches below.

 

Weather and best time to go

The best time to explore the beaches in Barcelona is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during this period ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal for beach activities.

It’s worth noting that Barcelona’s beaches can get crowded, especially in July and August, so consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience. Or, get outside of the city to any of the other coastal areas that are not so crowded during peak season.

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Best urban beaches in Barcelona (southern beaches)

If you are sticking closer to Barcelona, the urban beaches in the city are easy to get to with local public transportation and with amenities and concessions that make a day on the beach. I’m sharing the popular and top beaches to explore in Barcelona below:

Somorrostro to Sant Sebastia

When hitting the beach inside Barcelona city you have two real choices: the northern or southern side of Port Olympia. The most popular beach on the southern side is Barceloneta because it’s the easiest to reach – just follow the flow of tourists from Barceloneta metro. Barceloneta is but one part of several beaches which connect to form one long sandy stretch from San Sebastian to Somorrostro.

This entire row of beaches comes with that authentic Barcelona feel, as rollerbladers cruise past street performers along the coastal sidewalk. You can grab a cocktail – or three – from a “chiringuito” (beach bar) or enjoy the view of the Mediterranean over a meal in one of the beaches´ many restaurants. Sant Sebastia is the furthest beach and sits under the iconic visage of the W hotel. It is here you should turn around for an amazing view looking back towards the city.

It’s worth noting that, by being the most central, these beaches get packed quickly and a rocky shore punctuated by a steep drop in depth takes the expression ´taking a dip´ way too literally and doesn’t make it an ideal swimming location.

 

 

Barceloneta beach

The main beach of Barcelona with easy access to metro and public transportation, Barceloneta Beach is popular with a nice boardwalk area, shops, cafes and bars. A variety of amenities and lifeguard station along with great coastal views to enjoy a fun beach day in town. It is a popular beach area and busy during the day especially at peak season. I find this a fun beach to explore and walk the promenade and check out the attractions, I prefer to visit later in the afternoon and walk down to the lesser crowded beaches of Barcelona.

There’s a full range of amenities you can also take advantage of below:

• Lifeguards: On duty during high season for safety.
• Showers & Toilets: Public showers and restrooms available along the beach.
• Changing Areas: Basic changing rooms near main access points.
• Sunbed & Umbrella Rentals: Available for hire, especially in summer.
• Accessibility: Ramps and adapted bathrooms for wheelchair users.
• Sports Facilities: Volleyball courts, ping pong tables, and workout stations.
• Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi in some parts of the beach.
• Food & Drink: Beach bars (chiringuitos), ice cream vendors, and nearby cafes.
• Bike Paths: Runs along the promenade, with bike rental stations nearby.
• Security: Beach patrols present; lockers not widely available, so keep valuables close.

Tip-watch your belongings and for pick pocketing in the area

How to get there by public transport: take bus V17, V19, 47, 59, D20; By Metro L4 (Barceloneta & Ciutadella)

 

Sant Sebastia Beach

Here’s a concise outline of the amenities available at Sant Sebastià Beach in Barcelona and how to get there.

• Accessibility: Features include ramps, adapted showers and toilets, wooden footbridges extending close to the water, visual and tactile signage, and amphibious chairs for assisted sea access.
• Safety and Services: Lifeguard towers, Red Cross services, first aid stations, local police presence, and a public address system ensure visitor safety.
• Basic Facilities: Public showers, toilets, changing areas, footbridges, and public telephones are available for convenience.
• Leisure and Rentals: Sun loungers and parasols can be rented, and there are drinks and ice cream kiosks, as well as nearby restaurants.
• Sports and Recreation: The beach hosts sports clubs offering swimming pools, solariums, fitness areas, and courts for beach volleyball, table tennis, and pelota.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are bicycle parking areas for cyclists.
• Environmental Initiatives: Sant Sebastià Beach is a smoke-free area and holds a Blue Flag certification, indicating high environmental and quality standards.

How to get there by public transport: take bus V15 & V19; By Metro L4 (Barceloneta)

 

Nova Icaria to Llevant (Northern Beaches)

You’ll find the beaches on the other side of the Port Olympia are fantastic and long beaches with a nice vibe with plenty of space away from the more popular tourist beaches in town. These beaches are all fantastic locations to swim in with an easy and gentle declining slope into the ocean. Any of the beaches are easily reachable by a pleasant stroll along the sidewalk past the port and upwards, or via the line 4 yellow metro line to either Bogatell, Llacuna, Poblenou or Selva de Mar and a shorter walk. Nova Icaria and Bogatell are the first beaches along the coast and are known for their volleyball courts and flanking parks. Further along the coast is Mar Bella beach – an LGBT+ hotspot.

Here you´ll find one of Barcelona´s most lively chiringuitos ´Be Gay´ fronted by beds to recline on whilst you enjoy a mojito to pumping dance music or reggaeton. If you feel like letting it all hang out, then this is where you´ll also find Barcelona’s official nudist beach. Further along still, the coastline ends with La Nova Mar Bella and Llevant beaches that have less busy beach bars and more space both on the sand and in the sea – should you fancy a leisurely swim away from the crowds.

Llevant Beach

Here’s a quick summary of amenities available at Llevant Beach and how to get there

• Accessibility: Features include ramps, adapted showers and toilets, wooden walkways extending close to the water, visual and tactile signage, and parking areas for people with reduced mobility. ​

• Safety and Services: Lifeguard towers, first aid stations, local police presence, and a public address system ensure visitor safety. ​

• Basic Facilities: Public showers, toilets, changing areas, footbridges, and rubbish bins are available for convenience. ​

• Leisure and Rentals: Sun loungers and parasols can be rented, and there are drinks and ice cream kiosks, as well as nearby restaurants. ​

• Sports and Recreation: The beach hosts a volleyball court located at the west end near the breakwater that separates it from Nova Mar Bella beach. ​

• Dog-Friendly Area: An area set aside for dog owners and their pets is available throughout the summer season. ​

• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are bicycle parking areas for cyclists.

How to get there by public transport: Take bus H16, V29, V31; By Metro L4 (Selva de Mar & El Maresme|Fòrum)

 

Bogatell Beach

Here’s a quick outline of the amenities available at Bogatell Beach and how to get there.

• Accessibility: Features include ramps, adapted showers and toilets, wooden walkways extending close to the water, and parking areas for people with reduced mobility.
• Safety and Services: Lifeguard towers, first aid stations, local police presence, and a public address system ensure visitor safety.
• Basic Facilities: Public showers, toilets, changing areas, footbridges, and rubbish bins are available for convenience.
• Leisure and Rentals: Sun loungers and parasols can be rented, and there are drinks and ice cream kiosks, as well as nearby restaurants.
• Sports and Recreation: The beach hosts volleyball courts, table tennis tables, a football pitch, and a fitness area, catering to sports enthusiasts.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are bicycle parking areas for cyclists

Get there by public transport: Take bus V25, V27, V31, H16, 59; By Metro L4 (Poblenou & Llacuna)

 

Nova Icaria Beach

Here’s a quick look at the amenities available at Nova Icària Beach and how to get there:

• Accessibility: The beach features ramps, adapted showers and toilets, wooden walkways extending close to the water, visual and tactile signage, and parking areas for people with reduced mobility.
• Safety and Services: Lifeguard towers, first aid stations, local police presence, and a public address system ensure visitor safety.
• Basic Facilities: Public showers, toilets, changing areas, footbridges, and rubbish bins are available for convenience.
• Leisure and Rentals: Sun loungers and parasols can be rented, and there are drinks and ice cream kiosks, as well as nearby restaurants.
• Sports and Recreation: The beach hosts volleyball courts, table tennis tables, a football pitch, and a fitness area, catering to sports enthusiasts.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are bicycle parking areas for cyclists.

 

Get there by pubic transport: Take bus V21, V23, V27, H16, 59, 136; By Metro L4 (Ciutadella & Bogatell)

 

La Nova Mar Bella

Here’s a summary of amenities available at La Nova Mar Bella Beach and how to get there.

• Accessibility: Equipped with ramps, adapted showers and toilets, wooden walkways extending close to the water, visual and tactile signage, and parking areas for people with reduced mobility.
• Safety and Services: Lifeguard towers, first aid stations, local police presence, and a public address system ensure visitor safety.
• Basic Facilities: Public showers, toilets, changing areas, footbridges, and rubbish bins are available for convenience.
• Leisure and Rentals: Sun loungers and parasols can be rented, and there are drinks and ice cream kiosks, as well as nearby restaurants.
• Sports and Recreation: The beach hosts volleyball courts and a fitness area, catering to sports enthusiasts.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are bicycle parking areas for cyclists.

Get there by public transport: Take bus V27, V29, V31 & H16; By Metro L4 (Selva de Mar & El Maresme|Fòrum)

 

Mar Bella Beach

A popular nudist beach and gay beach area of Barcelona, here’s an outline of amenities and how to get there.

• Accessibility: Equipped with ramps, adapted showers and toilets, wooden walkways extending close to the water, visual and tactile signage, and parking areas for people with reduced mobility.
• Safety and Services: Lifeguard towers, first aid stations, local police presence, and a public address system ensure visitor safety.
• Basic Facilities: Public showers, toilets, changing areas, footbridges, and rubbish bins are available for convenience.
• Leisure and Rentals: Sun loungers and parasols can be rented, and there are drinks and ice cream kiosks, as well as nearby restaurants.
• Sports and Recreation: The beach hosts volleyball courts, table tennis tables, a football pitch, and a fitness area, catering to sports enthusiasts.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are bicycle parking areas for cyclists.

How to get there by public transport: Take bus H16, V25, V27, V31; By Metro L4 (Selva de Mar)

 

Day trip beaches (Outside Barcelona)

Castelldefels

When the city gets too much the locals take a short train journey south out of the city to Castelldefels and so should you. The beach here rests in front of the affluent town of Castelldefels and the castle which gives it its namesake. The area is so beautiful that even the wealthy Spanish footballers Lionel Messi and Luis Suraz have chosen to call it home.

This clean beach isn’t too busy with soft golden sand and shallow warm waters to paddle in. Children’s playgrounds are abundant making it ideal for families and Castelldefels has some of the finest restaurants with more affordable prices than those found within the city.

• Beach Size & Sand: Approximately 5 kilometers of fine, golden sand offering ample space for visitors.
• Accessibility: Easily reachable by train (R2 and R2S lines) and bus (lines L94, L95, L96, L97, and N16). Free parking is available along the seafront.
• Facilities: Equipped with public showers, toilets, and changing areas.
• Leisure & Rentals: Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. Numerous beach bars (chiringuitos) and restaurants line the promenade, providing a variety of food and drink options.
• Sports & Recreation: Popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to favorable wind conditions. Sailing schools and a sailing club are located nearby.
• Family-Friendly Features: Playgrounds and designated areas for children make it suitable for families.
• Cleanliness & Water Quality: The beach is noted for its cleanliness and clear waters, ideal for swimming.

How to get there

Outside of the city, you can get there from the city in just about an hour and 10 minutes on the train or by bus to the main station. Check the best routes here to get to Castelldefels

Lodging

Check out the top rated accommodations here for a fun beach day and stay at the Castelldefels area.

 

 

 

Sitges

There are stunning beaches the entire length of the coast around Barcelona but none have as much personality as the ones surrounding Sitges. This charismatic seaside town is easily accessible by a 40-minute train journey and makes for an excellent day trip. Arriving by train you can enjoy the walk down to the beach through the old town and its winding streets lined with tapas bars, shops and restaurants.

Sitges is very popular with the LBTQ crowd that comes in for the day or to stay a longer weekend when the beach is packed with locals and tourists alike.

When you reach the coast you´ll find a diverse selection of beaches all within walking distance of each other. The longest beaches being Playa de La Riera and Fragata offering calm waters, plenty of space and any sports facilities you could want. Whereas, on the other side of the picturesque church you can find two more beaches in the family beach San Sebastian and the more secluded Balmins beach, which sports two lively beach bars and an optional nudity section.

• Beach Facilities: Most beaches are equipped with sunbed and umbrella rentals, public showers, restrooms, and changing areas.
• Accessibility: Many beaches feature ramps and walkways for easier access, catering to visitors with mobility needs.
• Safety Services: Lifeguards are present during the summer months, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers.
• Dining Options: Numerous beach bars (chiringuitos) and nearby restaurants offer a variety of food and drink choices.
• Promenade: A scenic seaside promenade connects several beaches, ideal for walking or cycling.

Local Beaches and features

• Platja de la Fragata: Popular for water sports and beach volleyball, attracting an active crowd.
• Platja de Sant Sebastià: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to local eateries.
• Platja de la Ribera: One of the busiest beaches, offering cocktail bars and sunbeds.
• Platja dels Balmins: A clothing-optional beach welcoming to all visitors.
• Platja d’Aiguadolç: Another clothing-optional beach, accessible and frequented by a diverse crowd.
• Platja del Muerto: A more secluded, clothing-optional beach, popular within the LGBTQ+ community.

Activities and Events

• Fitness and Wellness: During the summer, some beaches host activities like aquagym, Zumba, and yoga classes.
• Cultural Events: Live music and other cultural events are occasionally organized on the beaches.

Sitges’ beaches cater to a wide range of preferences, whether you’re seeking family-friendly spots, active pursuits, or a more relaxed environment. If you need more detailed information on specific beaches or activities, feel free to ask!

How to get there

Outside of the city, you can get there from the city in just about 40 minutes on the train or by bus to the main station. Check the best routes here to get to Sitges

Lodging

Check out the top rated accommodations here for a fun beach day and stay at the Sitges area.

 

 

 

 

 

Sant Pol De Mar

If you are really seeking paradise and tranquility, then head to the north coast of Barcelona in the area around Sant Pol de Mar. The popular opinion of locals and tourists alike is that the best of the best beaches of the region which originally started as a fisherman´s village. It takes a little over an hour on the train from Barcelona and once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning beach to enjoy.

The main beach of Sant Pol de Mar (Platja Gran) features pristine white sand and typically calm waters perfect for swimming. For a unique experience, head to El Morer beach just 500 meters north of town, where fine pebbles replace sand—ideal for those who hate brushing sand off after a swim. The water here is incredibly clear due to the pebble bottom, making it popular with snorkelers who come to spot Mediterranean sea life like colorful wrasse and sea bream. Local tip: Wear water shoes at El Morer as the pebbles can be uncomfortable underfoot, especially during midday when they heat up.

Sant Pol Beach (Platja de Sant Pol)

• Type:Urban beach with calm water
• Length:Approximately 275 meter
• Facilities: -Sunbeds and umbrellas available for renBeach bars (chiringuitos) offering refreshment
• Public restrooms and shower
• Environment:Semi-urban setting, family-friendly atmospher
• Access:Easily reachable from the town center and train statio
• Swimming Conditions:Ideal for swimming due to its calm water

Platja El Morer

• Type Spacious and relatively uncrowded beah
• Distance from Town Center Approximately 0.4 m
• Facilities: Two seafood restaurants near. Clean and well-maintained beach ara
• Ideal For Swimming and enjoying a quieter beach experiene

 Cala de la Vinyeta

• *Type: Natural beach with no amenites
• *Distance from Town Center: Approximately 1.5km
• Features:
• Light sand and clear turquoise waer
• Sandy seabed, suitable for swimmng
• *Access: Easy to reach, though facilities are limied

Platja del Cavallo

• *Type: Free public beach with amenities
• *Distance from Town Center: Approximately 1. km
• Facilities:
• Light sand and clear blue water
• Sandy seabed, suitable for swimming
• *Access: Easy to reach, offering a relaxed beach experience

 

How to get there

Outside of the city, you can get there from the city in just about an hour on the train or by bus. Check the best routes here to get to Sant Pol De Mar

Lodging

Check out the top rated accommodations here for a fun beach day and stay at the Sant Pol De Mar area.

 

How to get to Barcelona’s beaches

Most of Barcelona’s beaches are easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some ways to get to the beaches:

Metro: Barcelona has an efficient metro system with several stations near the beaches. You can take Line 4 (yellow line) to reach the Barceloneta Beach or Line 4 or Line 3 (green line) to reach Nova Icaria or Bogatell Beach.

Bus: Barcelona has a comprehensive bus network that connects different parts of the city, including the beaches. Several bus lines serve the beach areas, such as Bus 14, 36, 39, 40, and 45. Check the specific bus route and stop that will take you closest to your desired beach.

Bicycle: Barcelona has a bike-sharing program called Bicing, which allows you to rent bicycles for short trips. Many bike lanes run along the beach promenade, making it a convenient and enjoyable option to reach the beaches while enjoying the scenic views.

Walk: Depending on your location in Barcelona, some beaches may be within walking distance. For example, if you’re staying in the Gothic Quarter or El Born neighborhoods, it’s a short walk to Barceloneta Beach.

Remember to check the public transportation schedules, plan your route in advance, and consider using transportation apps or maps for real-time updates on routes and timetables.

 

Best tips to visiting Barcelona’s best beaches

 

 

Best places to eat around Barcelona’s Beach Area

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Visit to Casa Mila

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Mossen Costa i Llobera garden in Barcelona

Barcelona Panoramic views

Montjuic parks and gardens

La Boqueria in Barcelona

 

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Conclusion on the Best Beaches in Barcelona

Visiting the beaches in Barcelona offers a delightful experience for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re seeking a bustling atmosphere, a peaceful retreat, or a blend of both, Barcelona’s beaches have something for everyone. From the iconic Barceloneta Beach, with its vibrant energy and numerous amenities, to the serene Nova Icaria and Bogatell Beaches, perfect for relaxation, each beach offers its unique charm. For those looking for a more alternative experience, Mar Bella Beach provides a laid-back atmosphere. Additionally, the nearby Sitges beaches offer a picturesque coastal escape. With a variety of transportation options available, including metro, bus, and bike, accessing these stunning beaches is convenient. Plan your visit accordingly and immerse yourself in the sun, sand, and sea of Barcelona’s beautiful beaches.

Thanks for checking out this post on Barcelona, Spain with Visiting Spain and Mediterranean.com, hope that this was helpful for planning a visit with things to do, attractions and other fun places to explore. Please come back again for more adventures in Spain and the Mediterranean coast.

 

About author – Noel Morata

After relocating from the United States to Andalusia in 2020, I’ve made it my mission to discover every corner of Spain. Based just east of Granada, I’ve spent over 12 months exploring Catalonia province and the rest of Spain, including multiple extended visits to Barcelona throughout different seasons. My background in Spanish cultural studies and years of residence and exploring all of Spain have given me unique insight into the region’s historical significance, local customs, and culinary traditions.

I regularly update my guides with the latest information gathered through personal visits and relationships with local tourism officials, always seeking what’s new and exciting in each destination. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m passionate about discovering authentic local markets and regional specialties.

Last updated: April 2024 based on my most recent visit