Spain is a beach lover’s paradise, offering some of the most stunning shorelines in Europe. Whether you’re after a lively party scene or a secluded retreat, Spain’s coastline has it all. Below is a guide to 15 of the best beaches across Spain, complete with tips on the best times to visit, essential items to bring, and hidden gems to explore nearby.

The 15 Best Beaches in Spain

1. Playa de la Concha, San Sebastián

  • Address: La Concha Bay, San Sebastián
  • Best Time to Visit: June to September for warm weather and vibrant local events.
  • Highlights: Playa de la Concha is iconic for its beautiful crescent shape and surrounding scenic mountains. Perfect for a mix of city and beach vibes.
  • Travel Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot, and pack for a relaxed beach day—sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel will be all you need.

2. Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera

  • Address: Formentera, Balearic Islands
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October when the Balearic Islands’ weather is warm and inviting.
  • Highlights: Known for its Caribbean-like waters, this beach offers clear blue sea perfect for snorkeling.
  • Travel Tips: Bring snorkeling gear and arrive by ferry from Ibiza for a full-day adventure.

Best Beaches in Spain - Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera

3. Cala Comte, Ibiza

  • Address: Cala Comte, Ibiza
  • Best Time to Visit: Sunset hours between June and September are simply unforgettable here.
  • Highlights: Cala Comte is famous for stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets.
  • Travel Tips: Bring a picnic and find a cozy spot on the rocks for sunset viewing.

4. Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa

  • Address: Bolonia, Cádiz, Costa de la Luz
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and early fall for milder weather.
  • Highlights: One of the best natural beaches, surrounded by sand dunes and Roman ruins.
  • Travel Tips: This beach is often windy, so bring a windbreaker if you plan to visit during the cooler months.


5. Playa de las Catedrales, Galicia

  • Address: Ribadeo, Galicia
  • Best Time to Visit: Low tide to explore the unique rock formations up close.
  • Highlights: Known as the “Cathedrals Beach” due to its magnificent rock arches.
  • Travel Tips: Check tide times before going, and bring a camera for scenic photos of the formations.

6. Cala Macarella, Menorca

  • Address: Menorca, Balearic Islands
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning during the summer for fewer crowds.
  • Highlights: Crystal-clear waters and pine-tree-covered cliffs make this beach a stunning escape.
  • Travel Tips: This beach can get crowded, so pack light and consider exploring nearby Cala Macarelleta as well.

Best Beaches in Spain - Cala Macarella, Menorca

7. Playa de Mónsul, Almería

  • Address: Cabo de Gata Natural Park, Almería
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer months for warm weather, though spring is less crowded.
  • Highlights: Known for its unique volcanic rock formations and clear, shallow waters.
  • Travel Tips: Access is limited, so consider renting a car and packing water and snacks for the day.

8. Cala Saona, Formentera

  • Address: Formentera, Balearic Islands
  • Best Time to Visit: June through September.
  • Highlights: A small, hidden gem known for soft sands and striking red cliffs.
  • Travel Tips: Bring snorkeling equipment to explore the beautiful marine life.

9. Playa de la Malagueta, Málaga

  • Address: Málaga City, Costa del Sol
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October for warm, sunny days.
  • Highlights: An urban beach with plenty of amenities nearby, perfect for families.
  • Travel Tips: Pack a beach umbrella and grab a bite at a local “chiringuito” (beach bar) for a traditional seafood lunch.


10. Cala Fonda (Waikiki Beach), Tarragona

  • Address: Tarragona, Catalonia
  • Best Time to Visit: Early autumn for quieter, warmer days.
  • Highlights: Secluded with golden sands, it’s known for a tranquil and naturist-friendly environment.
  • Travel Tips: This beach is isolated, so bring all the essentials with you.

11. Playa de Zahara de los Atunes, Cádiz

  • Address: Zahara de los Atunes, Cádiz
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall to avoid peak season crowds.
  • Highlights: This beach is ideal for a peaceful day on the sand, away from city life.
  • Travel Tips: Consider bringing a picnic and beach games for a family-friendly day out.

12. Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria

  • Address: Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round due to the island’s mild climate.
  • Highlights: A popular destination with extensive dunes, perfect for long walks and beach sports.
  • Travel Tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the dunes and sunscreen for protection.

13. Playa del Silencio, Asturias

  • Address: Cudillero, Asturias
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for pleasant weather, though early mornings are best for tranquility.
  • Highlights: Aptly named the “Beach of Silence,” it’s a secluded spot with dramatic cliffs and peaceful waves.
  • Travel Tips: The beach has no amenities, so bring your own food and water.

Best Beaches in Spain - Playa del Silencio, Asturias

14. Playa de los Genoveses, Almería

  • Address: Cabo de Gata Natural Park, Almería
  • Best Time to Visit: Early summer or late fall.
  • Highlights: Natural, undeveloped beauty with soft sands and scenic landscapes.
  • Travel Tips: This is a remote location, so pack essentials and enjoy the beach’s untouched feel.

15. Es Trenc, Mallorca

  • Address: Mallorca, Balearic Islands
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October for peak weather and clear skies.
  • Highlights: Known for clear turquoise water and sandy stretches, it’s often compared to Caribbean beaches.
  • Travel Tips: Pack lightly and bring cash for the beach amenities and snack stalls.

Quick Packing Tips for a Day on the Best Beaches in Spain

  1. Sun Protection: The Spanish sun is strong, so sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essentials.
  2. Water and Snacks: Not all beaches have facilities, so bringing water and light snacks is a good idea.
  3. Beach Shoes: Some beaches have rocky shores or dunes, so comfortable beach shoes can be a lifesaver.
  4. Light Layers: In coastal areas, breezes can make evenings cooler than expected. A light jacket or cover-up is ideal.


Best Time to Visit the Best Beaches in Spain

For most of Spain, beach weather is best from late May through early October. However, the Canary Islands offer a warm beach climate year-round. To avoid crowds and enjoy milder weather, early June or late September are ideal times to visit most Spanish beaches.

Spain’s beaches are among the best in Europe, each offering unique beauty and a slice of paradise. Whether it’s for a laid-back family trip or a solo adventure, these 15 beaches provide diverse experiences that can cater to any traveler’s dream getaway.