10 of the Best Beaches near Barcelona

“From beautiful blue seas to stunning historic architecture, and all the laid-back tapas bodegas in-between, Barcelona is an ideal destination for a short getaway. It’s beaches are world famous too, but can get crowded, so it’s worth heading further out. Here are 10 of the best beaches near Barcelona for you to choose from.

1. Platja de Sant Sebastià
———————————

About 40 minutes from the centre of Barcelona by train or via the C-32 highway is Platja de Sant Sebastià. This wheelchair accessible beach sits near the port of Sitges, a town famous for its welcoming attitude and gay-friendly bars, clubs and festivals.

Enjoy its elevated views over Sitges old town and busy promenade, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many seafood and tapas bars on the seafront. Later, take a walk into the town for drinks and dancing.

By Jorge Franganillo from Barcelona, Spain – Barcelona: Platja de Sant Sebastià, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=76936242

2. Platja del Portitxol
——————————

The sandy cove of Platja del Portitxol (pronounced “port-ish-ol”) is a peaceful haven of unspoilt blue waters and white sand. The bay is protected by rocks on the north and south sides of the beach, and by a unique peninsula called Les Muscleres.

This makes the sea here calm and warm, perfect for relaxing swims or snorkelling. Platja del Portitxol is also close to ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and has pine woodland all around – so pack a picnic and go for a stroll.

3. Platja de Castell
—————————

If you’re serious about finding the perfect beach near Barcelona, hire a car and travel 62 or so miles (100km) to Platja de Castell near Girona.

This perfect sandy beach has avoided all touristic developments thanks to the locals and their total resistance to building on the beautiful coastline here. Set out your towel on the right side of the beach if you prefer sunbathing au naturel.

4. Cala Fonda
——————–

The gorgeous secluded beach of Cala Fonda is one of Tarragona’s best kept secrets. Around 56 miles (90km) from Barcelona, it’s worth the train ride. When you arrive, enjoy the walk to the beach through gorgeous scenery along the coastline trail. Hidden from the world by a wooded hill, this beach is like having your own private island. There are no cafés or bars, so take snacks and enjoy the peace.

Cala Fonda. Espai d´interes natural Tamarit-Punta de la Mora-Bosc de la Marquesa-Tarragones – By Jordi Carceller Comas – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=69444748

5. El Garraf
——————-

Another Sitges star, El Garraf is a clean and family-friendly beach with warm waters perfect for swimming in. You can get to Garraf in around 30 minutes by train from Barcelona, and while it can get a little busy in the high season, it’s still much quieter than Barcelona’s main beaches.

Once you’ve had enough of the sun, take a walk around the pretty town of Garraf, enjoy a cold beer at a local taverna and watch the boats in the local marina.

6. Caldes d’Estrac
————————-

Head to Caldes d’Estrac for huge sandy beaches and plenty to do. It’s the ideal day trip beach if you’re staying in Barcelona, as it only takes around half an hour to get there by train.

There are restaurants, bars and watersports to keep you busy once you arrive. If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk some of the area’s scenic trails along the coast and into the countryside. If you’d rather relax but you’re visiting in the colder seasons, take a trip to the town’s thermal baths.

7. Sant Pol de Mar
————————-

Sant Pol de Mar beach is set in the quaint town of Sant Pol de Mar. Once you’ve paddled to your heart’s content in the clear blue waters, take a walk along the bay to find some of the best eateries this area has to offer.

Sip cool local cava in a beachfront bar and eat fresh local seafood as the sun goes down behind fishing boats that bob in the ocean. This is a laid-back beach ideal for a romantic long weekend.

8. Castelldefels
———————–

If you prefer your beaches action-packed, Castelldefels’ three-mile (5km) stretch of sand is the place to be – there’s numerous activities to choose from. Hire a kayak and explore the coastline, try bodyboarding or take to the waves on a windsurfing lesson.

If you’ve always fancied captaining your own ship, you can learn to sail here. And while it’s a windy location, that makes it perfect for kitesurfing, as well. Once you’ve worn yourself out, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from to relax in.

CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=14089399. Platja de la Bassa Rodona
———————————–

The Platja de la Bassa Rodona is Sitges’ main gay beach, visited by thousands of people each year. It’s busy, but there’s a relaxed feel here, and there are plenty of beach bars to grab a drink or a bite to eat.

If you prefer a shady spot, there are parasols and loungers to rent, as well as deckchairs. If you fancy some old-fashioned beach fun, rent a pedalo and explore the beach from the sea.

10. Platja Illa Roja
—————————

This scenic beach is a favourite Instagram hotspot because of its beautiful views of the rocky island that towers over the sand, and the privacy of this little cove.

We should give you a prior warning though – it’s famously a nudist beach, and visitors come from all over the world to soak up the sun in beautiful surroundings without the cumbersome lycra of their Speedos. You can only get here by following a trail through the nearby pine forest, so wear sturdy shoes.

Planning a trip to Barcelona and its gorgeous nearby beaches? Browse our hotels in Barcelona and find a room in the right spot.

#### Photo Credits

Cover pic: By Alberto-g-rovi – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48611995“