Spain is the ultimate beach holiday destination in Europe, the mainland and islands stretch over 5000 km with endless breathtaking beaches. Whether you seek intimate, natural bays or kilometre-long sandy beaches with all the amenities, you will find shimmering, crystal clear water and clean beaches, with over 600 beaches in Spain awarded with Blue Flag quality status.
We have put together the most beautiful destinations for your beach holiday in Spain and what makes them so special.
Costa Brava
Cala Pola
Surrounded by rocks and pines, Cala Pola, near Tossa de Mar, is a haven for divers thanks to its crystal-clear turquoise waters and rich flora and fauna. You don't have to venture far into the water for it to get deep and the waves on here are moderate in size. The charming bay also offers golden sand and services such as showers, a chiringuito and a restaurant. A highlight of this beach are the round trips provided to the bays and caves on glass bottom boats, where you can marvel at the marine life. If you are staying at one of the holiday homes in Tossa de Mar, you are just a stone's throw from this dreamy beach.
Platja de Aiguablava
In the village of Begur, you will find Platja de Aiguablava - a true oasis of relaxation with fine white sand and turquoise waters. The shoreline has shallow water and calm waves, which makes it very popular for families with children. Despite the wide range of services and facilities, the beach seems untouched. In addition to the well-developed barrier-free access, Platja de Aiguablava offers many different ways to enjoy water sports. There is a car park near the beach, where you have to pay in the summer. Stay in one of the holiday apartments of Begur and enjoy an unforgettable beach holiday in Spain and discover more information about the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava.
Formentera
Platja de Ses Illetes
Platja de Ses Illetes has been named as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The turquoise water and pearly white sand give the impression that you are in the Caribbean. The water is so clear due to the amount of Posidonia Oceanica - a seagrass species endemic to the Mediterranean sea, this spot has established itself as a worldwide diver's paradise. It is not only visited by locals and tourists, but also a popular mooring location for people with luxury yachts. The prices in the surrounding restaurants and Chiringuitos are higher than others in the area.
In addition to the rental of umbrellas and sunbeds, there are a number of water sports activities available on Platja de Ses Illetes. Lifeguards always keep an eye on the bathers. Due to the dune protection project, access is only possible via a wooden pier and cars are not allowed. Barrier-free access to the beach is available from the Cavalld'en Borràs area.
Platja d'es Pujols
The area surrounding Es Pujols beach is the main tourist location on the island of Formentera. Despite many hotels, shops and restaurants along the beach promenade, the resort retains its charm thanks to the small fisherman's cabins and boats as well as a hippie market. The beach shines with fine sand and turquoise clear water. People with limited mobility have easy access to this beach via ramps that reach into the water. You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds, and there is also a water sports centre and a surfing school at Es Pujols.
Mallorca
Platja de Muro
In the northeast of Mallorca and in the southern part of Alcudia Bay is Platja de Muro. The fine, bright sandy beach and the flat, clear waters with a moderate swell create a true Caribbean flair in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is well developed touristically, there are countless bars, restaurants, shops and hotels on the beach promenade as well as Chiringuitos on the beach.
In addition, the rental of umbrellas and sunbeds is possible. The dunes and pine trees offer a stunning sense of nature. Majorca's beaches are popular for watersports and Platja de Muro will not disappoint. To be located just a stone's throw from this beach, rent a holiday apartment in Alcudia.
Platja des Trenc
Es Trenc beach is one of the most famous beaches in Spain, and one of Mallorca's most beautiful beaches. Laying between Sant Jordi and Sa Ràpita on the south coast, it is a fine white sandy beach and has crystal clear waters synonymous with beaches in the Caribbean. The water here is also very shallow, free from strong currents, therefore perfect for families with children. Both the beach and the surrounding land is protected.
To the east of the beach, you will find chiringuitos, umbrellas and sunbeds as well as a wide range of water sports and leisure activities. The western part is quieter - many locals come here and in some parts are for naturists. Barrier-free access is available via Ses Covetes.
Menorca
Platja de Son Bou
The most extensive stretch in Menorca is Platja de Son Bou. The western side of the beach is bordered by a protected dune system. Not only does the beach have numerous tourist service facilities, but offers fine, white sandy beach with crystal-clear water, make Son Bou very popular. Due to the high proportion of seagrass meadows, the water quality is outstanding.
Cala Turqueta
In the south of the island, is the untouched bay of Cala Turqueta, one of the most beautiful beaches in Menorca. Surrounded by pine trees, it has fine white sand, crystal clear, shallow waters and the best spot for sunsets. There are no restaurants, kiosks or bars, but there is a small bar and toilets in the car park, which is about a 10-minute walk away. There are no water sports activities available here but Cala Turqueta is ideal for diving and lifeguards ensure the safety of bathers. To have an unforgettable beach holiday in Spain, rent a holiday home Menorca.
Ibiza
Cala Sant Vicent
Hilly land surrounds the beach of Sant Vicent, with beautiful pine trees. Located in the southeast of Ibiza, 200 metres above the bay you will find the most important archaeological cave on the island, Cova des Culleram, which can be visited. Above all, Cala de Sant Vicent attracts people to its shores with bright fine sandy beach and crystal clear, shallow water, which shimmers in many shades of turquoise.
Umbrellas and loungers are available for rent on the beach and there is barrier-free access, showers and toilets. Sports fans can enjoy numerous water sports and a volleyball court. A promenade lined with palm trees extends behind the beach and offers all the tourist facilities such as restaurants, bars and shops. To be close to such a dreamy beach, rent a villa in Ibiza.
Platges de Comte
Platges de Comte is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ibiza with a breathtaking view of the offshore islands, a spectacular sunset, fine sand and of course crystal clear, shallow water, perfect for children. Despite lifeguards being present, one should be careful of venturing far out into the water, as the current here can be strong. Platges de Comte is well-frequented and offers all sorts of tourist services - from restaurants and bars to umbrellas, loungers and barrier-free access.
Lanzarote
Playa de Papagayo
On the south side of Lanzarote is Playa de Papagayo, the last beach of the Playas de Papagayos. Surrounded by rocks, it is easy to reach from the holiday apartments in Costa Papagayo. On this beach, you will find bright sand amidst a beautiful backdrop of blue shimmering crystal clear water and dark rocky coves - a perfect spot for snorkelling enthusiasts.
On the hilltop, there is a restaurant and a few small bars. From here you have a fabulous view of the neighbouring islands Fuerteventura and Lobos. Since it is a natural beach, there are no toilets. Nudism is possible in a designated section. Since the Playas de Papagayo are under protection, the beach can only be visited for a fee of 3 euros.
Playa El Reducto
Fuerteventura
Playa de Corralejo
In the northeast of Fuerteventura in the resort of Corralejo, there are a series of five beautiful dune beaches. Every one of them has its advantages, some with the best conditions for various water sports and others provide a calm sea for families with toddlers. However, all have light fine sand and clear turquoise waters with shallow shorelines. Since the beaches extend over several kilometres it is never crowded here.
In addition, the beaches are well developed and provide all necessary service facilities. A highlight is the breathtaking scenery of the dunes, which extend into the ocean reminiscent of the Sahara. To discover the stunning beaches in this area, rent a holiday apartment in Corralejo.
Playa La Concha
In the west of the island is the popular beach of La Concha, due to its horseshoe-shaped natural reef has calm waves - perfect for families with children. The beach attracts visitors with its fine white sand and clear turquoise waters. La Concha offers all the necessary service facilities such as parking, showers, toilets and the rental of umbrellas and sunbeds. In addition, lifeguards ensure the safety of bathers. From the terrace of the restaurant located in the car park, you have a beautiful view of the sea. Stay in one of Fuerteventura's villas for the ultimate beach holiday in Spain and discover more of Fuerteventura's beautiful beaches.
Gran Canaria
Playa de Amadores
Playa de Amadores is a special feature among these best beach destinations in Spain as it was created artificially. Nevertheless, it features the same natural beauty as the other beaches. Golden sand, turquoise shallow water and shallow waves characterise this relaxing oasis. In addition, the beach offers showers, cabins, parking and the possibility to rent umbrellas and sunbeds.
Thanks to the playground and the Aqua Park, children will be entertained and always under the supervision of the lifeguards. After a day at the beach, the whole family can relax at the beach bar. For an unforgettable beach holiday in Spain stay in Gran Canaria.
Playa de Maspalomas
A true attraction in the south of Gran Canaria is the sand dunes of Maspalomas, which form the beach. With fine soft sand and clear shallow waters, beware as it can be very windy here. This beach can be divided into three different areas; a nudist zone, a gay beach and a section ideal for families. It offers all the necessary services for an exciting day at the beach including water sports and fun activities as well as numerous restaurants, shops and chiringuitos. To be in immediate proximity to this oasis, spend your holidays in one of the apartments in Maspalomas.
Tenerife
Playa del Duque
Located in the south of Tenerife, Playa El Duque is an artificially landscaped beach that boasts soft golden sand, shallow shores and calm waves. In addition to an extensive range of water sports, there is also a beach promenade with luxury shops, bars and restaurants. You can also rent umbrellas and sunbeds here. Described as one the cleanest beach in Tenerife, lifeguards ensure the safety of the bathers. In addition, all necessary service facilities such as showers, toilets and cabins are also available.
Playa las Teresitas
Costa Blanca
Cala Granadella
For almost 30 years, this small natural bay near Javea has been awarded the Blue Flag and is one of the most famous beach destinations in Spain, and not without reason. Surrounded by rocks it is an absolute gem thanks to its crystal clear, turquoise waters and impressive nature. A paradise, which is also very popular with divers and tourists. Cala Granadella offers all sorts of services despite its charming size, with parking, toilets, a restaurant and lifeguards. Rent a holiday home in Javea and don't leave without visiting this beach.
Playa de la Fosa or de Levante
Playa de la Fosa is located in Calpe is one of the best beaches in the Costa Blanca, attracting visitors with fine, golden sand and beautiful crystal clear water, perfect for snorkelling and diving. Stay in one of the holiday apartments in Calpe to be just a few minutes away from this bathing oasis. You will find a beautiful wide bay with numerous service facilities such as barrier-free access, showers, toilets, cabins and a car park. Lifeguards make sure the bathers are safe.
The pubs, restaurants and snacks of the well-kept beach promenade invite you for a stroll and sample the local cuisine. Children can let off steam in the playground or watch free shows at the improvised outdoor cinema while parents enjoy a delicious dinner by the sea.
Costa Dorada
Platja de Altafulla
Thanks to the warm Mediterranean climate and the fine golden sandy beaches, visitors are lured to Platja de Altafulla all year round. Stay in a holiday home in Altafulla to be located near to this beach. The waves here are fairly calm and lifeguards pay attention to the safety of bathers, which makes it attractive for families with children. Water sports are varied and sailing is especially popular here. The beach is usually quiet, even though there are many bars and Chiringuitos on the beach promenade. All the necessary service facilities such as toilets, showers, umbrellas and sunbeds are also available here.
Playa de Calafell
Asturias
Playa de Cuevas del Mar
This beach was formed by the sea washing away part of the sea cliff. Playa de Cuevas del Mar is one of the most beautiful beaches in Asturias. Located in the east of the region, at low tide, bathers can marvel at the impressive caves and tunnels that frame the beach. Its fine, bright sand invites you to sunbathe. All necessary service facilities such as showers, toilets, a car park and a restaurant can be found. Lifeguards pay attention to the safety of bathers.
Playa de Rodiles
Playa de Rodiles is a dream for surfers as the Atlantic Ocean brings constant and strong waves. Surrounded by forests and cliffs, a great contrast to the bright sandy beach. Bathers have all the necessary service facilities available from bars and restaurants, showers and toilets to parking and barrier-free access. Lifeguards pay attention to the safety of visitors. The beach is located in the nature reserve of the Ría de Villaviciosa. While staying in Asturias, do not miss a day out on this beach.
Galicia
Praia das Rodas, Illas Cíes
Praia das Rodas on the Illas Cíes is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and has been named the Caribbean of Galicia. Only 15 km from Vigo, find soft white sand and turquoise shallow waters. The islands are completely protected, Praia das Rodas is preserved and its natural beauty remains untouched. You can reach this beach via a ferry trip from Vigo, but be aware there is a limit of the number of visitors daily.
Praia das Catedrais
The breathtaking Praia das Catedrais, near Ribadeo, is known worldwide for its impressive wind and water shaped rock formations. As soon as the tide goes out they resemble gothic cathedrals and it is possible to walk barefoot between the caves and rocks. The beach is under protection and therefore you need to make a reservation online to visit in the months of July, August and September as well as Easter. Whilst on holiday on the coast of Galicia, do not miss the opportunity to see this special beach.
San Sebastián
Playa de la Concha
Located in the centre of San Sebastián you will find Playa de la Concha, with fine golden sand and breathtaking views of Santa Clara island. One of the best beaches in Basque country, the natural surroundings are spectacular as the beach is framed by two mountains, Urgull and Igeldo. A variety of water sports are on offer as well as beach volleyball and beach football. Throughout the summer months, slides and springboards are positioned in the water for children's entertainment.
All the necessary services such as showers, toilets, beach chairs, parking, changing rooms and snack bars are available at the beach. Lifeguards pay attention to the safety of bathers. Rent an apartment in San Sebastián and enjoy an unforgettable beach holiday in this beautiful part of Spain.
Playa Zarauz
