Top 7 best beaches in Barcelona

Barcelona

Looking to escape the urban hustle and bustle of Barcelona and unwind by the Mediterranean Sea? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the seven most stunning beaches near Barcelona. From hidden coves to expansive stretches of golden sand, these beaches offer idyllic spots to relax, soak up the sun, and listen to the calming sound of the waves.

Visitors find that renting a car is the most convenient way to explore all these gems. A hire car allows you to roam along the coastline at your own pace, giving you the freedom to stop wherever you wish. Don’t wait any longer—book your hire car in Barcelona with DoYouSpain and embark on a seaside adventure!

What are the best beaches in Barcelona?

Regardless of whether you are looking for beaches to relax or to spend a nice day with your friends or family, Barcelona has plenty of beaches around that can adapt to all your needs. Our guide to the best beaches near Barcelona will help you decide which ones to visit, perfect to complete your road trip, so make a note of your favourites!

Barceloneta Beach

La Barceloneta is one of Barcelona’s largest, busiest, and oldest beaches. Situated in a traditional fishermen’s neighbourhood, it offers a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars specialising in fresh fish and seafood. If you are not staying in Barcelona for long and need to visit a beach, we highly recommend this one.

This beach is delightful to visit at any time of the year. During the winter months, you can take a leisurely stroll along its picturesque promenade, while in the summer, you can relax on the sandy shore and take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

Ciutat Vella, the district where Barceloneta Beach is located, underwent a significant transformation in 1982 as part of preparations for the Olympic Games. Interestingly, it’s believed that Miguel de Cervantes was inspired by this very beach when he wrote about the duel between Don Quixote and the Knight of the White Moon.

Mar Menuda, Tossa de Mar

For diving enthusiasts, Mar Menuda is an unmissable destination. Located in Tossa de Mar, this beach on the Costa Brava boasts coarse sand and warm, shallow waters, making it ideal for a tranquil escape.

One of its standout features is its breathtaking surroundings. Sunbathing here, with stunning views of the coastline, is a true pleasure. While Mar Menuda can get quite busy during the summer months, its beauty and serenity make it well worth a visit if you’re exploring the area.

Fragata Beach, Sitges

Just a short drive from Barcelona, Sitges—one of Catalonia’s most beautiful villages—offers La Fragata Beach, known for its spectacular views of the Church of San Bartolome and Santa Tecla. Located adjacent to the town’s promenade, it’s the perfect spot to combine a refreshing swim with a leisurely stroll through the charming town centre.

The beach is surrounded by a variety of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and quaint local shops where you can pick up souvenirs. If you’re seeking a tranquil day away from the bustle of Barcelona’s busier beaches, La Fragata Beach is undoubtedly an excellent choice.

Foradada Cove, Palamos

Cala Foradada, often considered one of Catalonia’s finest beaches, is famous for its rock formation. The cove’s pristine, undeveloped setting makes it particularly special, as construction is prohibited here.

Reaching this secluded paradise requires a challenging walk, as there is no direct path, but the effort is well worth it. Once there, you can snorkel or kayak, exploring the rich marine life in the crystal-clear waters. Cala Foradada is an absolute must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Les Casetes del Garraf

Located just half an hour from Barcelona, Les Casetes del Garraf offers a distinctive beach experience with its fine sand mixed with pebbles. The beach’s standout feature is the row of 33 fishermen’s huts lining the shore. Once used by sailors, these huts have been transformed into picturesque second homes and form an iconic part of the landscape.

This beach exudes a charm unlike any other along the Barcelona coastline, offering a more laid-back and unique atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a quiet retreat from the city.

Petroleum Bridge Beach, Badalona

This unique beach derives its name from the iconic Petroleum Bridge, a structure extending 250 metres into the sea. However, the bridge isn’t the only highlight here. At its entrance stands a quirky sculpture of a monkey clutching a bottle of anisette, a nod to Badalona’s historic anisette factory. Petroleum Bridge Beach also boasts an expansive stretch of sand, making it a comfortable and inviting spot for both locals and visitors.

Les Moreres Beach, Montgat

Though relatively small, Les Moreres Beach is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Its 218-metre stretch of fine golden sand is perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

Adjacent to the beach is a scenic pedestrian walkway that extends all the way to Premia de Mar. This promenade offers a leisurely stroll with spectacular views of the Mediterranean, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

The easiest way to explore Barcelona's beaches with DoYouSpain

What could be more convenient than exploring Barcelona’s stunning beaches by car? One of the benefits of hiring a car is that you can easily park next to the beach without the need for long walks. Plus, near beaches in Barcelona, you can find a lot of free parking spots.

While the city itself has an excellent public transport network, travelling to beaches outside the urban core can be challenging, as trains and buses often don’t reach more remote spots. Before you start your trip, don't forget to check for any tolls required to access these beaches.

Hiring a car with DoYouSpain allows you to visit these coastal gems at your own pace, saving time and enhancing your comfort. With convenient pick-up points across the city, including El Prat Airport and Sants Train Station, your seaside adventure begins effortlessly.