Best Beaches in Barcelona You Need to Visit

The Best Beaches in Barcelona

Looking to stay within the city limits? There are so many gorgeous beaches within Barcelona itself. These beaches can get quite busy, especially in the summer. In some cases, it's worth getting there early to snag your spot in the sand.

Barceloneta Beach

Barceloneta Beach is the most popular beach in Barcelona and the center of all the action. There's a super lively atmosphere and there's always a party. It's pretty much crowded all year long, so arrive early and be prepared for a bustling environment.

The beach is named for Barceloneta, the neighborhood and historic fishing quarter where it's located. People love visiting this neighborhood for the tapas restaurants and stunning views of the sea.

Somorrostro Beach

Somorrostro Beach is a half kilometer long beach in Barcelona, situated between the Gas Breakwater and the Moll de Marina Pier. At the edge of the beach lies the famous Golden Fish sculpture (also known as Barcelona Fish), a memorable symbol constructed to commemorate 1992 Olympic Games.

The Beach Centre lies on the Somorrostro Promenade. It's an environmental education center that promotes the seafront through organized workshops, talks, tours, games and more.

Sant Sebastià Beach

Sant Sebastià Beach is one of the largest and oldest beaches in Barcelona towards the west. It's also one of the longest stretches of sand at 660 meters. It's frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Even with its history as a popular beach club going back to the 19th century, this is a beach where you come to relax. It has a more laid back vibe in comparison to the party beaches of Barcelona.

Mar Bella Beach

Located in the Sant Martí district, Mar Bella Beach is notably known for its designated nudist beach area. It's also an LGBTQ+ friendly beach.

There are quite a few amenities at this beach and it is frequented mostly by locals. There's a sports recreation area with basketball hoops, ping pong tables and skateboarding spots. In addition, there's a children's playground and a volleyball court.

Nova Mar Bella Beach

Nova Mar Bella Beach is a less crowded and more peaceful beach to enjoy. The sea here is clear and clean. You won't have to wake up super early to get a spot here, and you won't be shoulder to shoulder with other tourists.

It was created in 1992 when Barcelona redeveloped its waterfront for the Olympics. There's also a volleyball court to enjoy about halfway up the beach.

Nova Icaria Beach

Located about halfway up the city's waterfront, Nova Icaria Beach is known for its volleyball courts and recreation activities, like a playground and a ping pong table. There are dozens of volleyball courts in the summer, and some are permanent fixtures all year long.

There are also loads of restaurants and bars. In addition, Nova Icaria Beach is wonderful for its section for those who are disabled or have reduced mobility. There's even an an amphibious chair you can loan.

Bogatell Beach

Bogatell Beach is a clean and beautiful beach in Barcelona. There are fewer crowds here and it's a great beach to enjoy with your kids. The water is safe for swimming and there's plenty of space to build sandcastles.

There's also two ping-pong tables, soccer on the beach and a volleyball court at one far end of the beach near the Mar Bella breakwater.

Sant Miquel Beach

Sant Miquel Beach is attached to the popular Barceloneta Beach, connected in one continuous expanse of sand. While Barceloneta is known for its party vibes, Sant Miquel is the beach for water sports.

This is the best beach for standup paddleboarding and surfing. There are quite a few shops nearby, as well as water sports rental companies.

Llevant Beach

This is a newer beach in Barcelona and the farthest east of the beaches on this list. For this reason, it's a bit quieter than the other beaches. There's still the long stretch of sand and twinkling blue waters that you'd expect from the beaches here.

One unique feature of Llevant Beach: there's a separate area that's pet-friendly for cats and dogs.

Best Beaches Near Barcelona

While the beaches in Barcelona are beautiful, they can get quite crowded with tourists. Sometimes it's a good idea to get out of the city. Beach trips make for excellent day trips.

Check out this list of the best beaches near Barcelona for a relaxing day on the seaside. Some of these beaches are more beautiful than the ones in Barcelona, so it's worth the extra effort to get there.

Sitges Beach

Sitges is a town that's only about 40 minutes from Barcelona, making it the perfect day trip. It was also recently named as the World's Happiest Beach by Travel+Leisure for its "smooth sand, warm waters, and a peaceful sea area".

This is my top pick for the best beach near Barcelona, even if you need to travel a little ways to reach it. Trains travel often between Barcelona and Sitges, so it's an easy journey.

El Remolar Beach

El Remolar Beach is the most natural beach on this list. It is about 30 minutes from Barcelona, and it is a protected ecosystem covered in sand dunes and seasonal pools.

It is a habitat for many species of coastal birds. It's been one of two beaches in the Barclona area awarded as a "Virgin Beach" for its sustainability.

Gavà Beach

Located south of Barcelona, Gavà is home to three pretty beaches that are far less crowded and more peaceful than those in the city. The beaches are 4km from the town center, so it isn't as convenient to visit if you don't have a car.

There's a large expanse of soft sand, waters with a gentle wave, and the region is surrounded by grassy dunes. This has all the makings for the perfect day at the sea.

Where to Stay for a Barcelona Beach Holiday

Looking for an accommodation right by the beach in Barcelona? Lugaris Beach offers beautiful holiday beach apartments in Barcelona. It's like a home away from home in the city.

Plus, it's within a short walking distance to the beach (less than five minutes!). The apartments have cozy living rooms and kitchenettes, so you can prepare your own meals if you choose.

The reception staff at Lugaris are very helpful and attentive. They offer luggage storage solutions if you arrive early or depart late from Barcelona.

There's also a swimming pool, a washer and dryer, and amazing views from this holiday apartment in Barcelona. Gaze out to the ocean with a coffee in your hand each morning. That's my idea of an incredible vacation.