¡No hay lugar como la playa! And Catalonia is a beach bum’s haven…

Catalonia is jam-packed with striking natural landscapes, salty turquoise waters and golden-sand beaches that will satisfy all your Southern European summer cravings. The scorching Mediterranean sunshine brings Catalonia into full splendour, attracting millions of tourists yearly.

But the beaches here aren’t just filled with big buns & bums baking in the sun… the most popular beachfront boasts intense beach volleyball matches, music to get ya groove on and, of course, your typically acclaimed chiringuitos (beach bars) that are stocked up with plenty of cerveza, vino and cocktails to get your feelin’ yourself.

Here’s what we cover:

Lloret de Mar
Sitges
Tarragona
Playa de Tamarit
Cala Fonda
Cala Roca Plana
Playa de Riumar
Tossa de Mar
Cala Giverola
El Portitxol
Aigua Blava

Here are the Best Beaches Near Barcelona, Spain. ¡Vamanos!

Best Beaches Near Barcelona

The most excellent beaches near Barcelona are Lloret de Mar, Sitges, Sant Pol de Mar, Montgat, Mataró and Garraf. All are easily accessible via public transport, with either trains or buses being your best options.

There are turquoise waters, lush vegetation and rocky cliffs all to be explored, and these spots are a better option than the inner city’s beaches.

Lloret de Mar

Lloret de Mar’s beachfront is bordered by a buzzing culinary and party scene, but beyond the tourist-targeted surface of this happening seaside city; there’s an ancient castle & an array of coastal hikes on offer.

If you’re looking for beach bars with killer cocktails, a trendy set up and pumping music, this is an excellent spot for both night and day.

Sitges

The heart of Sitges is lined with quaint townhouses and luxe mansions. Renowned for the gay bar scene and raging nightlife, this area also boasts an array of scenic calas (coves) to choose from.

One of the best picks is the sheltered rocky cove of Cala Morisca, which has some seriously stunning views. Oh, and it’s nude-friendly too. So if you want to let all of your junk hang out ye ol’ trunk, this is where you want to be.

If hanging loose isn’t your thing, check out Cala Vallcarca, which is more dog-friendly than balls-friendly. The Platja de la Marina d'Aiguadolç is close by, which is suitable for surf-feens and water sports enthusiasts.

The main beach in Sitges is the Platja de Sant Sebastià, but personally speaking, I recommend heading to the Platja de l'Home Mort and if you’re after something scenic, check out the Mirador Punta de les Coves. The Mirador Punta de les Coves is a lookout point showcasing Catalonia’s beautifully rugged coastline, perfectly fit for a sunrise or sunset mission.

Tarragona

Now, we’re going to head a little further down south. All the way down to locally-coined, ‘mini Barcelona’ itself, Tarragona. This top-notch Barcelona day trip makes for one of the best beaches on the Costa Dorada.

This Catalonian province proffers some seriously spectacular beaches, and it’s where I’m seamlessly drawn to spend my birthday, year after year.

Situated in the south of Catalonia, Tarragona is equipped with a plethora of trendy restaurants and bars, impressive Roman ruins, and an awe-worthy amphitheatre perched right on the beachfront. That’s right! Think Colosseum-style, but beachside!

Spanning the gleaming Costa Dorada, also known as ‘The Golden Coast’, the beaches are pinned for the finite golden sand pouring into crystal clear waters.

Playa de Tamarit (Tamarit Beach)

One of Tarragona’s most popular beaches is Playa de Tamarit, with a generously wide stretch of sand. The edge is fringed by towering palm trees, providing the perfect shade to shelter from scorching summer days.

Tamarit Beach is ideal for families with its calm waves, and there’s a wide range of amenities such as showers, toilets, sun beds and a first aid station in case things get a bit too hectic... because, let’s be honest, accidents do happen.

Conveniently, this beach is located right next to the Riu Gaià Nature Reserve, which is composed of rich riverside vegetation. Following the Gaià River out to the ocean, this nature reserve contrasts the dry terrain and built-up surrounding areas. Tarragona’s Tamarit Beach is a great way to get the best of both worlds if you're a nature lover.

How to get to Tamarit Beach from Tarragona:

By bus: 12
By train: Altafulla-Tamarit station
By car: Hop on the A-7 from Tarragona.

Cala Fonda (Waikiki Beach)

If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, check out the isolated, pristine cove of Cala Fonda, situated nearby. Keep in mind that it is a bit more challenging to access. You can reach Cala Fonda walking via Playa de la Mora (from the north) or Playa Larga (from the south).

This beach is enclosed by soaring cliffs and pine-lined forests, giving it a more naturalistic feel than other beaches in the region.

Due to its fine sand and turquoise waters, locals typically refer to Cala Fonda as Catalonia’s ‘Waikiki Beach’. Cala Fonda’s well-preserved beachfront is more than fit for those seeking privacy amongst the bustling summer crowds. And to add to the experience, it’s also nudism-friendly.

I recommend packing plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and beach supplies before heading to this hidden gem. As Cala Fonda remains untouched, there are no amenities, so you should prepare accordingly beforehand.

How to get to Cala Fonda from Tarragona:

By bus: 12

Cala Roca Plana (Roca Plana Beach)

Just a short ten-minute walk from Cala Fonda, there’s also Cala Roca Plana, which can be reached via a lushly-lined, wooded trail. The hike leads down to a secluded cove with some seriously sublime water. I’m talking 50 shades of blue, people. With a beachfront rich in verdant vegetation, Cala Roca Plana is a nature enthusiast’s oasis. Plus, it’s nudism-friendly too. Free the nipple!

How to get to Cala Roca Plana from Tarragona:

By bus: 12
By train: RT2

Playa de Riumar (Riumar Beach)

Playa de Riumar stretches over a long 4km, with finite golden sand, shallow blue water, and undulating sand dunes. This is one of the few sites in Catalonia to find sand dunes.

The beach itself does not get too crowded. However, it does tend to reel in avid windsurfers and water sports lovers due to the shallow water and strong gushes of wind that frequent the beachfront.

There are showers, boat rentals, beach bars and a few restaurants dotted throughout Riumar Beach.

Nestled within the vivid Delta del Ebro Reserve, a myriad of gardens and rice fields bring life to the area.

For all my bird fanatics out there, this protected nature reserve is even home to flocks of migrating birds. If you do, however, want to catch them (not literally), you’ll have to head here at the right time of the year. So if you do fancy a bird-watching experience, it’s advised to aim for either dusk or dawn.

How to get to Riumar Beach:

By car: Get on the TV-3451 road. On the A-7 motorway, take exit 39 to L´Ampolla-Deltrebre.
By train: l´Aldea, l´Ampolla and Camarles-Deltebre stations.
By local bus (Hife company).

The Costa Dorada’s abundance of beaches could take up another three pages, so I will break it down and give it to you straight.

Other hot spots that are well worth checking out are listed below. All, of course, are perfectly fit for swimming, sun-baking and soaking in the Mediterranean lifestyle in her full summer splendour.

Cala Romana
Platja dels Capellans
Platja de Altafulla
Platja del Fangar

Best Beaches on the Costa Brava

Millennia-old, medieval Girona is an excellent base for day trips to the Costa Brava.

Tossa de Mar

Located in the north of Catalonia in the province of Girona lies the famed fishing town Tossa de Mar.

As part of the Costa Brava ‘The Rough Coast’, it’s known for its pine-fringed cliffs, rocky coves, sandy beaches and charming seaside towns. I’m not going to lie; the calas (coves) here are pretty damn sensational, to say the very least. The Vila Vella is home to a hilltop castle, centuries-old ancient ruins, phenomenal views and turquoise waters. Tossa de Mar has a literal line-up of alluring coves to choose from.

There’s the picturesque Cala Llevado, which features a campground with a swimming pool. The hiking trails and watersports make it the perfect location for families and couples.

Cala Giverola

Cala Giverola is an intimate bay with fine golden sand, turquoise waters and plummeting cliffs fringed by verdantly lush pine trees. It has many facilities, including showers, chiringuitos, umbrella and sun bed rentals, and restaurants.

Plenty of scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking opportunities and boat rentals are also available. Avid water-sport enthusiasts look no further!

Platja d’es Codolar is a small cove in Tossa de Mar’s old town. Due to its location, it tends to reel in hordes of tourists year-round.

Another charming cove is the Cala del Senyor Ramon, which can only be accessed by trail, thus leaving it relatively empty for you to enjoy the more low-key vibes on offer. It’s fitted for those who love snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing.

If you’ve got the time whilst in Tossa de Mar, check out Cala Pola, Platja Mar Menuda and Cala Futadera too.

Apart from the illustrious Tossa de Mar, Girona has many beautiful beaches and celebrated coastlines to satisfy just about everyone’s desires.

El Portitxol

El Portitxol is a sandy cove noted for its unique arch and rock formations, and it’s packed with plenty of facilities like showers, toilets and lifeguards.

There’s even a boat rental here, which is definitely something I’d definitely recommend looking into!

Close by is the Pineda Sant Martí d'Empúries and the Cala Montgó, which is located near the Montgrí National Park.

The waves here are small, and the beachfront is spacious, making it a suitable beach destination for families with small children.

Platja de l'Illa Roja is fringed with greenery and trees peaking down on the red-rock island below. Nearby are the Playas de Begur, which link the more natural side of the region with the Mediterranean’s eclectic beaches. This is one that simply should not be missed.

Aigua Blava (Aiguablava)

One of my favourites, the Aigua Blava (Aiguablava), has some of the most turquoise water I’ve ever seen.

I’m talking about Balearic Island-style waters exemplified in Mallorca and Ibiza. Oh, so blue! There are also many seafood restaurants around serving a fresh catch of the day. If the above-listed beaches just don’t seem to do it for you, then I’m sure that the following will tick all your boxes. Be sure to head to one of the following:

Platja de Canyelles Petites
Poblat Iberic Cala Del Castell
Platja de Sa Riera.

Platja d'Aro
Castell de la Fosca
Platja de la Fonollera (Mas Pinell)

Travel Tips

Watch your valuables when you jump in for a swim. This is Europe, people. A pick-pocket paradise!
If you plan on ordering a drink from the chiringuitos, skip the sangria and opt for a vermouth (‘’vermut’’) or a Catalonian cava.
If you’re anything like me and froth a good beer, order an Estrella Damm or a Moritz.
Ladies, don’t forget, this is Spain; you can get ya tits out! Free the nipple. ¡Viva España!
Avoid purchasing dirt-cheap drinks from those mysteriously ‘ambitious entrepreneurs’; they are neither made nor stored in the most sanitary of conditions. Gutters, to be specific.
Please try and refrain from discussing Catalonian politics here. It’s a tricky subject considering the current independence movement. Take it from me; you don’t want to get into a sticky situation with the locals.
If you plan on hiring electric scooters, please avoid riding them like a bloody maniac, especially if it’s on the footpath. Locals will show no mercy and rip into you as a toddler rips into a cake.
If you’re feeling hungry, some places in the main town offer a Menu del dia, which often includes a three-course meal and a beer or wine.
As with most hot spots here in Spain, the beaches can get very crowded during summer. If you’re not a fan of battling for beach space, I’d suggest avoiding Saturday and Sunday beach trips at all costs.

If you’re planning a trip to Catalonia and want more info on Barcelona, you can check out my post here. From the trendy, tapas-lined beachfront of the Costa Brava to the lush pine forests of the Costa Dorada, there’s much more on offer here on Spain’s northeast coast.

Catalonia’s pouring golden sands, turquoise waters, vibrant beach bars and adrenaline-fuelled water sports will leave you crawling back for more.

FAQS

Are there nice beaches next to Barcelona?

Barcelona’s main tourist beach, La Barceloneta, isn’t all that enjoyable. With swarms of tourists packed up like sardines, it’s hard to find serenity. The more excellent beaches near La Barceloneta are Mar Bella, Bogatell and Nova Icaria.

What is the best beach in north Barcelona?

Towns like Badalona, Mataró and Sant Pol de Mar are close to Barcelona and have great beaches. Otherwise, you can head further up north to the Costa Brava.

What is the cleanest beach in Barcelona?

Mar Bella or Nova Icaria are probably the cleanest beaches in Barcelona. La Barceloneta is sometimes clean, but litter’s often scattered around after the weekend.

What beautiful beaches are south of Barcelona?

Barcelona’s south straddles stunning beaches, including Garraf, Castelldefels, Gavamar and Sitges.

This compilation of the best beaches in Catalonia has all been tried and tested by yours truly, and I can assure you they won’t disappoint! If you have any questions about your trip to Catalonia, hit me up in the comments below!

After spending five years living in the Catalan capital of Barcelona, it’s safe to say that I’ve explored some of the best beach spots going ‘round. These are easily the Best Beaches near Barcelona, Catalonia.

Which beach do you plan to spend your summer vacation at?