I’m always dreaming about the beach, and one of the countries with the best beaches in the world is beautiful sunny Spain. While right now you’ll have to wait a while for summer weather to return, planning ahead means you can keep an eye out for the best airline ticket prices and hotel deals.
But where exactly should you go? After all, Spain has over 3,000 miles of coastline. Take a look at these 8 gorgeous beaches in Spain for some inspiration.
Read More: Get Away From It All at These Hidden Beaches
Ibiza
There’s a reason the island of Ibiza is so popular – yes, it’s a great place to go to let loose, but it also has beautiful beaches. You can expect gorgeous, crystal-clear waters, coves, and golden sand beaches when you explore the coastline of Ibiza.
While you’re on the island, check out the unbelievably beautiful beaches in the Parc Natural de Ses Salines and swim under the pines at Cala Mastella. Whichever beaches you choose to visit, spend some time exploring the sea floor!
Mallorca
Another island off the Spanish coast, Mallorca (or Majorca) is another fantastic destination to get away from it all and soak up the sun. For beautiful turquoise waters, visit the Playa de Muro.
In the far north of Mallorca, you’ll find Cala Figuera on the Cap Formentor peninsula. “The small bay is boxed in by rugged rocks and there is no sand as the beach has a mixture of fine and coarse pebbles. The rocks are wonderful for snorkelling and getting a glimpse of an iridescent underwater world.”
San Sebastian
Head to mainland Spain to find San Sebastian, a resort town on the Bay of Biscay. The most beautiful beaches in San Sebastian are Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta. At Playa de la Concha, you’ll find what some think is the perfect city beach, so set aside time for exploring the city, too.
At Playa de Ondaretta, you’ll find golden sand beaches with people lounging and playing beach volleyball. The beach is sheltered from the western winds, making it an ideal place to visit even when weather conditions aren’t ideal.
Tenerife
The Canary Islands are an archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa. They’re actually volcanic isles, so the beaches consist of black and white volcanic sand. The largest of the Canary Islands is Tenerife, which is dominated by the active volcano Mt. Teide.
Tenerife boasts absolutely gorgeous turquoise beaches. The Playa de Fanabe is one of the busiest and most popular. “Playa Fanabe is considered an upmarket area in Tenerife, frequented more by couples looking for a romantic holiday and less by young people looking for some fun. The beach is surrounded by luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants, all in all creating an atmosphere of supreme relaxation.”
Benidorm
Located on the eastern coast of Spain, Benidorm is a seaside resort town known for its nightlife. Levante Beach and Poniente Beach are Benidorm’s most popular, with Levante Beach offering sun loungers, parasols, floating platforms, cable skis, playgrounds, and more.
Poniente Beach is the longest beach in the resort and is typically quieter than Levante Beach. It features a striking modern promenade designed by the architect Carlos Ferrater.
Bogatell
Bogatell Beach is located in Barcelona, so if you want to explore all the history, culture, and beauty that Barcelona has to offer, put Bogatell at the top of your list. Another advantage of choosing Bogatell is that Barcelona is located in northeastern Spain, meaning that it’s easier to get to from central Europe.
Bogatell Beach offers fantastic access for those with limited mobility. It’s also relatively easy to get to using public transportation, which is great for those visiting Europe without a car.
Read More: Where The Locals Go: Best Beaches in Antigua
Nerja
Head south to Spain’s Costa del Sol to find Nerja, a resort town with sandy beaches and cliffside coves. The El Playazo Beach is a fantastic place for water sports and it’s typically uncrowded.
According to Nerja Today, “If you are looking for English bars, Sky Sports, Internet cafés and sophisticated restaurants, then this isn’t the beach for you. If, on the other hand, you are looking to swim, sunbathe, play games on the beach and enjoy a good meal at a reasonable cost, then Playazo is the place to go.”
Playa de Papagayo
Located on the Canary Island of Lanzarote, Playa de Papagayo is a stunning beach and an example of nature at its finest (the area has been protected since the 1980s). The cliffs provide protection from high winds, and the waters are beautiful shades of turquoise and teal.
You can get to Playa de Papagayo by a water taxi, by taking a bus from Arrecife and then hiking for about 20-30 minutes, or by either renting a car or taking a taxi. Once you’re there, you won’t want to leave the stunningly beautiful beaches.
Read More: How To Plan an Affordable Beach Vacation
