One of the best things about Barcelona is that you don’t have to choose between city buzz and beach bliss—you get both. But we’re not just talking about one stretch of sand. Sure, Barceloneta Beach is the classic choice—vibrant, energetic, and always buzzing—but there’s a whole coastline waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re after family-friendly waves, a quiet spot to read with the sea as your soundtrack, or a hidden cove that feels like your own secret escape, Barcelona Spain beaches offer something for everyone. From lively city shores to peaceful getaways just a short train ride away, these Barcelona beaches are about more than just sunbathing—they’re part of the city’s soul.
Ready to kick off your shoes and dive in? Let’s explore the best beaches close to Barcelona that locals love and travelers remember long after the tan fades.
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1. Sitges
Sitges, just 24 miles south of the city, offers a delightful mix of 17 sun-kissed beaches. Sant Sebastià is a local favorite—intimate, easy to access, and well-equipped. Bassa Rodona, located right in the heart of town, is known for its lively, inclusive vibe and beachgoers flaunting colorful towels and confident style. Fragata, on the other hand, is a top pick for families, with its volleyball courts and pedal boats providing fun for all ages. Beyond the shoreline, the town charms with its cobbled lanes, vibrant blossoms, and whitewashed villas adorned with Juliet balconies.
2. Nova Icària and Bogatell
Nova Icària and Bogatell sit side by side, and honestly, it just makes sense to talk about them together—they blend seamlessly, both in location and laid-back energy. Step away from the buzz of the more touristy spots and head down the shore with Gehry’s shimmering golden fish to your left. As you stroll past it, the crowds thin out, and suddenly there’s actual room to breathe, stretch out, and relax. These beaches offer generous open space, sports courts for a bit of action, and—perhaps the biggest perk—nobody’s tried to give you an unsolicited massage in a while.
3. Barceloneta
Barceloneta Beach is the high-school jock of the coast—bold, brash, and always the center of attention. Its version of a flex? A broad strip of golden sand flanked by two icons: the sail-shaped silhouette of the W Hotel on one end, and Frank Gehry’s gleaming gold fish sculpture on the other. When you arrive, there’s no mistaking it—you’ve hit one of the best beaches close to Barcelona.
Yes, it’s busy. Yes, it’s chaotic. But that’s part of the charm. Beyond its carnival energy, Barceloneta Beach is fast becoming a hotspot for outdoor living with a West Coast vibe. The promenade leading toward the W Hotel is alive with joggers, rollerbladers, and cyclists. There’s a proper lap pool—not just for lounging—and outdoor gyms packed with fitness fanatics putting on a show of strength for amused onlookers. At the far end of the walkway, a new elevated platform (opened in 2022) offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean and the city skyline. Welcome to Barceloneta—revamped, recharged, and impossible to ignore.
4. Les Roques, Calella
Les Roques, in Calella, sits just an hour north of the city and offers a refreshing change of pace from the usual Barcelona Spain beaches. Step off the R1 train and you’ll be greeted by a breezy promenade lined with palms and a wide, sandy stretch perfect for soaking up the sun. If beach clubs and Aperol spritzes are your thing, you’re covered. But for something more special, head south toward the lighthouse. Follow the trail, and you’ll discover four hidden coves framed by pines, cacti, and wildflowers—a side of Barcelona beaches that feels truly secret.
5. Castelldefels
As the sun dips low, Castelldefels transforms into one of those golden stretches of shoreline that stirs up fantasies of coastal living—complete with a dog and long evening walks. Its soft, pale sand curves gracefully along the coast, offering endless space even during peak summer weekends. It’s a favorite among kite-surfers in spring, after-work locals year-round, and in-the-know travelers who prefer a laid-back vibe to the busier Barcelona beaches. This spot captures that rare mix of serenity and energy that makes Barcelona Spain beaches so beloved.
7. Canet de Mar
Roughly 40 kilometres northeast of the city, Canet de Mar feels like a step into the wild. The moment you leave the train station, the shoreline starts to change. Rock formations emerge from the sand like natural sculptures, giving cover to patient fishermen, while coastal plants—sea fennel, horned-poppies, and tough aloes—dot the dunes. As you get closer to town, the ruggedness gives way to a more active beach scene, where the sand plays host to volleyball matches, soccer games, and basketball pick-up rounds. It’s an untamed gem along the line of Barcelona beaches, perfect for those craving both nature and a bit of action.
8. Montgat
Just 20 minutes from Plaça Catalunya by train, Montgat is one of the best beaches close to Barcelona for a quick escape. Hop off at Montgat Nord station and you’re practically on the sand. A short walk brings you to a wide, white beach with calm waves and a relaxed atmosphere. For water sports lovers, Escola de Mar offers paddle boards, surfboards, and sailing rentals—making this spot ideal for both lazy lounging and seaside adventure.
9. Arenys de Mar
Arenys de Mar blends old-school fishing charm with scenic coastline, earning its place among the best beaches close to Barcelona. Located to the northeast, it features working boats, weathered sheds, and a long curve of sand. Head right from the port and follow the shore to La Musclera, where the beach gets quieter—and clothing becomes optional. Whether you stay suited or not, this spot offers laid-back vibes with a side of authenticity.
10. Platja de Garraf
Nestled beneath a rail line and backed by a national park, Platja de Garraf is a charming 380-metre stretch of golden sand. What makes it unforgettable is the row of white beach huts lining the shore—once fishermen’s storage units, now stylish cabanas with green roofs and shutters, complete with white picket fences. These photogenic spots are often seen in fashion shoots and are available to rent during summer. The beach’s nostalgic appeal even caught the attention of Soho House, which transformed a worn 1950s hotel into the exclusive and stylish Little Beach House Barcelona.
11. Platja de la Mar Bella
Mar Bella, meaning ‘beautiful sea’, lives up to its name with shimmering turquoise waters that feel like a Mediterranean dream. What truly sets this beach apart is its large clothing-optional section, discreetly tucked behind sculptural rocks just off the promenade. You might stumble upon it by surprise, but there’s no pressure—whether you bare or wear is entirely your choice. The atmosphere is open-minded, calm, and welcoming, especially to the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s a place where sunbathers do their thing without judgment or raised eyebrows. Prefer to avoid accidental photobombs in your beach selfies? Head to Nova Mar next door, where swimsuits stay firmly in place.
12. Ocata Playa
Just a 30-minute train ride from the city, Ocata offers all the perks of an urban beach—minus the crowding and towel turf wars. The sand is wide, clean, and astonishingly flat, making it perfect for beach sports like volleyball or rugby, and even better for those who’d rather lie back and do absolutely nothing. Catch the R1 train from Plaça Catalunya heading toward Mataró, Blanes, or Maçanet-Massanes, and you’ll find the beach waiting right outside the station—so close, you could almost drop a fishing line from the platform. Easygoing and spacious, Ocata is ideal for a fuss-free beach day.
13. Platja de Llevant
Platja de Llevant is where the city’s edge meets the sea, offering a more peaceful vibe than its headline-grabbing neighbors. It’s the last stop on the shoreline, making it less crowded yet still full of life—especially in summer, when colorful umbrellas and sunbeds pop up in full force. Behind you, futuristic towers glint in the sun, creating a surreal city-meets-surf backdrop. Down one end, dogs rule the sand at a dedicated beach section, chasing waves and cooling off with full-body splashes. Elsewhere, people relax on the soft sand or perch along the seawall, watching the horizon—and paddle-boarders—float by.
