This summer, set out on a sun-soaked journey through Spain’s best beach destinations, where golden sands meet green blue waters. From the idyllic shores of Mallorca and the allure of Menorca to the vibrant energy of Ibiza, each locale promises an unforgettable summer escape. Venture along the rugged coastline of Costa Brava or bask in the Mediterranean splendor of Costa del Sol, where every corner reveals a new vista of natural beauty and coastal charm. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, these Spanish paradises call you, ready to elevate your summer to unparalleled heights.

Introduction

With over 5,000 km of coastline, Spain is a beach lover’s paradise. From the golden sands of the Costa del Sol to the secluded coves of the Balearic Islands, Spain offers summer beach destinations to satisfy every taste. The Mediterranean climate means you can count on sunny, warm weather for beach days any time from May to October. Whether you’re looking for lively resort towns, water sports, or just a place to relax under the sun, you’ll find your perfect stretch of Spanish sand. This summer, make Spain your go-to for an unforgettable beach vacation.

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Mallorca

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its breathtaking beaches, Mallorca has emerged as one of the most popular summer beach destinations in Spain. The island’s stunning coastline features over 200 beaches, from secluded coves to expansive stretches of golden sand.

Mallorca’s beaches cater to all tastes – head to the south for glamorous resorts or explore the quieter northern coast. Top beach picks include the white sands of Es Trenc, family-friendly Cala Major, picturesque Cala Deia, and lively El Arenal. Mallorca isn’t just about beaches though. Inland you’ll find charming villages, olive groves, and the spectacular Serra de Tramuntana mountains, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The island’s capital, Palma, offers a vibrant food scene, historic architecture, and hip boutiques. With mild weather nearly year-round, Mallorca provides an idyllic Mediterranean escape. Its convenient location, just a short flight from mainland Spain, makes it an easy addition to any Spanish beach bucket list.

Restaurants

• Can Arabí – Charming restaurant in the old town of Palma, serving innovative Mallorcan cuisine. Try the suckling pig or fish stew.
• Simply Fosh – Run by star chef Marc Fosh, this stylish eatery offers Mediterranean-fusion dishes. The tasting menu is a culinary journey.

Hotels

• Gran Hotel Son Net – Five-star luxury hotel located in a restored estate home in Puigpunyent. Period details blend with modern amenities.
• Hotel Tres – Boutique hotel in Palma’s old quarter, set in a historic 16th century building. Rooms feature stylish, modern decor. Rooftop pool and bar.
• Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa – Clifftop resort with panoramic bay views and a renowned spa. Rooms have a boho chic vibe. Excellent service.

Bars

• Abaco – Upscale cocktail bar in Palma with lush tropical garden decor. Creative mixology and live music at night.
• Sa Clastra – Artsy bar set in a 13th century manor house in Palma. Relaxed outdoor seating and weekly DJs.
• Cafe Lisboa – Lively beachfront bar in Port de Pollença with a happening nightlife scene. Outdoor seating and dancing.

Menorca

Menorca is the northernmost and second largest of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. It has become one of Spain’s top beach destinations, known for its pristine beaches and calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and sailing. This is a little known hidden gem of a summer beach destinations in Spain.

The island has over 200 kilometers of coastline, with many beaches tucked away in secluded coves, making it ideal for those looking to get away from the crowds. The most popular beaches include Son Bou, the longest beach on the island, Cala Galdana, known for its crescent shape and turquoise waters, and Cala Mitjana, a picturesque inlet surrounded by pine trees.

In addition to its beaches, Menorca is rich in history and culture. The island has over 1,000 prehistoric monuments, including navetas (ancient burial chambers) and taulas (T-shaped stone monuments), left behind by the Talayotic people who inhabited the island from 2000-123 BC. The capital, Maó, features Georgian architecture and a large natural harbor filled with yachts. Ciutadella, the old capital, has impressive medieval and baroque buildings.

Menorca’s peaceful atmosphere and mix of natural beauty, history, and culture make it one of the top beach destinations in Spain. Travelers can spend their days relaxing on perfect beaches, then explore charming towns and ancient sites on land. With its crystal clear waters and variety of coves and bays to discover, Menorca offers an idyllic and uncrowded Spanish island escape.

Top Restaurants

• Es Tast de Na Sílvia – Charming restaurant in an 18th-century house serving creative Mediterranean cuisine. Try the stuffed squid and the Menorcan cheese platter.
• S’Espígol – Elegant fine-dining restaurant with a Michelin star. The tasting menu showcases the best local ingredients. Book well in advance.
• El Faro – Seafood restaurant perched on a clifftop overlooking the port. The rice dishes and fresh fish are standouts. Nice views from the terrace.

Recommended Hotels

• Hotel Port Mahón – Historic waterfront hotel with a pool and spa. Rooms have balconies overlooking the harbor.
• Lluc Boutique Hotel – Adults-only boutique hotel set on a quiet cove. Stylish rooms, excellent service, and a top-notch spa.
• Hotel Artiem Capri – Chic adults-only hotel with a rooftop pool and bar. Contemporary rooms have balconies and rainfall showers. Near the beach.

Best Bars

• Ars Café – Laidback bar with live music and DJs at night. Fun atmosphere to grab a drink.
• Cova d’en Xoroi – Cliffside cave bar with incredible sunset views. DJs and events during summer. A must-visit.

Ibiza

Ibiza is one of Spain’s Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea, about 80 miles off the coast of Valencia. Known for its lively nightlife scene, Ibiza has become a top summer beach destinations in Spain for party-goers from around the world.

The island’s main city, also called Ibiza, is home to the legendary superclubs Ushuaïa Ibiza and Hï Ibiza, which attract world-famous DJs and see thousands of revelers flock to their dancefloors during the summer season. The compact UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila (Old Town) features medieval walls, cobbled alleys and attractions like the neogothic Catedral de Santa Maria d’Eivissa.

Outside of the city, Ibiza offers over 50 beaches to explore, from secluded coves to lively sandy strips lined with beach clubs. Popular spots include Platja d’en Bossa, lined with hotels, bars, and nightclubs, and the quieter Cala Comte on the west coast. The island also features family-friendly resorts like Portinatx and Cala Llonga.

With its idyllic setting, vibrant nightlife, and range of beaches, Ibiza offers an unforgettable summer experience for party animals and beach lovers alike. The island sees peak crowds from June through August.

Top Restaurants

• La Paloma – Mediterranean cuisine served al fresco overlooking the ocean in Sant Antoni. Try the fresh seafood and paella.
• El Chiringuito – Beachside restaurant in Es Cavallet known for its paella and chill Ibiza vibes. Go for sunset drinks and stay for dinner.
• La Gaia – Chic, romantic restaurant in Ibiza Town serving innovative takes on local flavors. The tuna tartare and lamb tagine are standouts.

Recommended Hotels

• Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel – Party hotel with infinity pool, nightclub, and rooms with ocean views. The place to stay for nightlife.
• 7 Pines Resort Ibiza – Luxurious clifftop resort with spa, private beach club, and 5 restaurants. Perfect for a relaxing getaway.
• The Giri Residence – Boutique hotel in Ibiza Town set in a 600 year old restored farmhouse. Quiet and charming.

Best Bars/Clubs

• Pacha – Legendary superclub hosting world-class DJs. Dance the night away at this Ibiza icon.
• Amnesia – Open-air club with pool parties and a terrace overlooking the island. Home to the famous Cream parties on Mondays.
• Café Mambo – Chill sunset spot to start your night before heading to the clubs. DJs play as patrons lounge on beach beds.

Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a picturesque region in northeastern Catalonia known for its beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns. Located along the Mediterranean Sea between Barcelona and the French border, it stretches across 160 miles of rocky coves, sandy bays, and hidden creeks. This is an incredible summer beach destination in Spain.

Some of the top beaches in Costa Brava include Platja de Castell, a family-friendly beach with soft golden sand and calm waters. Sa Tuna is a secluded inlet surrounded by pine trees and historic buildings. Cadaqués Beach boasts postcard views of the village’s whitewashed houses overlooking the sea. Cala del Pi is a pebble beach tucked within a protected cove, perfect for snorkeling.

The old town of Tossa de Mar contains medieval walls, towers, and cobblestone alleys leading down to the main beach. Further north, Begur is perched on a hilltop overlooking several pristine coves and beaches. The port village of Lloret de Mar offers lively nightlife and water activities.

With its beautiful scenery, charming villages, and fantastic beaches, the Costa Brava is an idyllic destination for a summer beach vacation in Spain.

Restaurants

• El Bulli – This 3-Michelin-star restaurant overlooking Cala Montjoi bay pioneered molecular gastronomy and avant-garde cuisine before closing in 2011. It reopened in 2022 as a creativity center.
• Les Cols – Run by the Roca brothers of El Celler de Can Roca fame, this 2-Michelin-star restaurant in Olot serves creative Catalan cuisine using local ingredients. The 7-course tasting menu is a must-try.
• Compartir – With its laidback vibe and shared plates, this restaurant in Cadaqués embodies the meaning of its name (“to share”). Fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients shine here.

Hotels

• Aiguaclara – This charming boutique hotel in Begur has beautiful views of the coastline. Its relaxing spa and rooftop pool are ideal after a day of exploring.
• Mas de Torrent – Nestled among vineyards in Torrent, this 5-star hotel has spacious, elegant rooms and an excellent restaurant. It’s surrounded by nature but still close to the beaches.
• Hotel Tamariu – Overlooking the beach in Tamariu, this hotel offers sea-view rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the Camino de Ronda hiking trail.

Bars

• La Vinya del Mar – Enjoy sangria and tapas on the terrace of this lively beach bar in Llafranc while taking in the Mediterranean views.
• La Sirena – Pull up a chair at this casual, bohemian bar in L’Estartit and enjoy live music many nights of the week. It gets quite lively during peak season.

Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol is one of the most popular summer beach destinations in Spain, located in the southern region of Andalusia. It stretches about 160 km along the Mediterranean coast from the cliffs of Marbella to Nerja. The Costa del Sol has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days per year, making it an ideal beach vacation spot.

Some of the top beaches on the Costa del Sol include:

• Playa La Carihuela – This beautiful sandy beach in Torremolinos has calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are beach bars, restaurants, and water sports available.
• Playa El Cristo – Located in Estepona, this small cove is surrounded by rocks and cliffs. The water is crystal clear with opportunities for snorkeling.
• Playa El Padrón – A peaceful, sandy beach in Estepona known for its natural surroundings. There are no hotels or resorts nearby so it doesn’t get too crowded.
• Playa La Rada – Voted one of Spain’s best urban beaches, this beach in Estepona has golden sand and calm waters. It’s located right off the Paseo Marítimo promenade.
• Playa El Castillo – This Marbella beach has a laidback vibe and gorgeous views of Gibraltar and Africa in the distance. It’s located near the historic El Castillo fort.
• Find more beaches here: Coastal Magic: The 9 Best Beaches Malaga Has to Offer

The Costa del Sol offers plenty of charming beach towns, water sports, sailing, golf courses, and nightlife in areas like Marbella and Puerto Banús. The mild climate makes it an ideal beach destination nearly year-round.

Top Restaurants

• Restaurante José Carlos García (Malaga) – This Michelin-starred restaurant serves creative Spanish cuisine overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Try the sea bass ceviche and oxtail cannelloni.
• Restaurante Calima  – Calima offers gourmet Mediterranean fusion dishes. The tasting menu is highly recommended.
• La Cosmopolita (Malaga) – This lively tapas restaurant in Malaga serves excellent traditional small plates like the Russian salad and fried anchovies.

Recommended Hotels

• Marbella Club Hotel (Marbella) – This iconic luxury hotel has a private beach club, 2 Michelin star restaurant, and lavish rooms.
• H10 Andalucía Plaza (Marbella) – A modern 4-star hotel located near Puerto Banús marina with beautiful sea views and family-friendly amenities.
• Hotel Molina Lario (Malaga) – Centrally located on Malaga’s promenade, this 4-star boutique hotel has a rooftop pool and terrace with panoramic city views.

Best Bars

• Nikki Beach (Marbella) – Marbella’s most famous beach club with DJs, daybeds, and parties right on the sand.
• Plaza de la Merced (Malaga) – Historic square in Malaga filled with lively bars perfect for tapas and drinks.
• Pacha (Marbella) – One of the Costa del Sol’s best nightclubs located right next to Puerto Banús marina.

Malaga Where to Stay: The Best Neighborhoods and Hotels

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of Spain’s most popular summer beach destinations in Spain. Located on the northeastern coast of Spain along the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona offers a vibrant urban beach experience.

The city has over 4.2km of beaches right along the coastline, all easily accessible by public transportation. The beaches are divided into different zones, each with their own vibe and amenities.

The most popular beach is Barceloneta. This expansive stretch of golden sand gets crowded during peak season. Beachgoers flock here to soak up the sun, go for a swim, and enjoy seaside dining and nightlife. Barceloneta has a bit of everything – volleyball nets, showers, lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Nova Icària is another renowned beach in Barcelona. It has a lively, festive atmosphere and is popular with the LGBTQ community. Nova Icària hosts outdoor concerts and events during summer. The beach is equipped with playgrounds, making it family-friendly too.

Bogatell is a quieter option north of Nova Icària. Its calm waters make it ideal for swimming and standup paddleboarding. Beachside cafes line the promenade.

Overall, Barcelona’s beaches allow visitors to experience the city’s vibrant culture with sand and sea. The convenient locations, amenities, and unique vibes of each beach ensure an unforgettable urban beach getaway. For those interested in the nightlife in Barcelona check out this post: Unlock Hidden Gems: A Guide to the Best Nightlife in Barcelona

Top Restaurants

• Can Majó – Elegant beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and paellas. Try the grilled lobster.
• Tickets – Whimsical molecular gastronomy restaurant from famed chef Albert Adrià. Creative tasting menus.
• Quimet & Quimet – Charming tapas bar specializing in gourmet montaditos (small open-faced sandwiches).
• El Nacional – Huge converted warehouse filled with multiple restaurants and food stalls. Great for groups.

Recommended Hotels

• Hotel 1898 – Historic, upscale hotel situated near La Rambla. Elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.
• W Barcelona – Stunning luxury hotel right on Barceloneta Beach. Incredible views and amenities.
• Room Mate Anna – Trendy, design-focused boutique hotel in the Eixample district. Rooftop bar with city views.
• Hotel Primero Primera – Affordable 30-room hotel in a central location near Passeig de Gràcia. Rooftop terrace.

Best Bars

• Eclipse Bar at W Hotel – Upscale rooftop bar with 360-degree city and ocean views. Creative cocktails and DJs.
• La Caseta del Migdia – Open-air beachside bar great for sunsets. Relaxed, lively atmosphere.
• Old Fashioned Cocktail Bar – Sophisticated speakeasy-style bar specializing in classic cocktails. Intimate vibe.
• La Terrrazza – Rooftop lounge at Poble Espanyol with panoramic city views. House music and dancing.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Spain’s beaches depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.

• For warm sunny weather and swimming, late spring through early fall is ideal. July and August are the hottest and busiest months.
• For a more relaxed vibe with smaller crowds, visit in late May, June, September, or October. The weather is still pleasant for the beach, with highs in the 70s.
• Winter offers a quieter, local experience. However, many beach clubs and restaurants are closed. The weather is cooler and rainier.
• Peak season is mid-June through August when prices are highest and crowds are biggest. Travel costs drop substantially in the shoulder and low seasons.
• If you want to catch a festival, plan your visit around events like La Tomatina in August or Las Fallas in March.
• Avoid visiting during the busy Easter holiday week when crowds and prices surge.

Overall the best time is late spring through early fall for good weather combined with manageable crowds and costs. Shoulder seasons like September offer a nice balance.

Food

Spain is renowned for its delicious and diverse cuisine. The Mediterranean diet of fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, olive oil and tapas is perfect for leisurely beachside dining.

Seafood features heavily in coastal Spanish cuisine. Look for freshly caught fish like red mullet, sea bass and monkfish grilled simply with olive oil, garlic and herbs. Don’t miss the chance to try zesty dishes like Galician-style octopus, shrimp fritters and paella loaded with mussels, clams and squid.

The chiringuitos, or beachside restaurants, offer an idyllic setting to sample local specialties. Sip sangria or tinto de verano while dining on grilled sardines, empanadas stuffed with tuna, or classic Spanish tortilla. For dessert, try crema catalana custard or churros with chocolate dipping sauce.

Markets overflow with gorgeous produce like juicy tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and artichokes. Be sure to try gazpacho, the chilled tomato soup, or refreshing salmorejo, a thick tomato puree. Fruit lovers will enjoy mounds of fresh figs, peaches, melons, oranges and strawberries.

With so much delicious seafood, fresh produce and classic Spanish dishes, the cuisine perfectly complements sunny days spent relaxing on the beach.

Transportation

Spain offers a variety of transportation options for getting around to the different beach regions.

Trains

Spain has an extensive railway network, making train travel convenient and affordable. High-speed AVE trains connect major cities like Madrid and Barcelona in just a few hours. From Barcelona, you can take trains along the coast to beach destinations like Sitges, Calella de Palafrugell, and Blanes. Regional trains also go from Barcelona to Valencia, Alicante, and other coastal spots.

Buses

Buses are another economical transportation choice within Spain. ALSA runs coaches between main cities and to smaller towns along the coasts. From Madrid, there are direct ALSA buses to destinations like Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola, and other beaches in the Costa del Sol region.

Flights

For covering longer distances between beach regions, flying can save travel time. There are many short, affordable domestic flights within Spain on carriers like Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa. You can fly from Madrid or Barcelona to Palma Mallorca or Ibiza in about an hour. Flights also connect to beach airports like Malaga, Alicante, Valencia, Girona, and more.

Rental Cars

Renting a car provides maximum flexibility for beach-hopping along the coasts. Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and AutoEurope have offices in cities and at airports throughout Spain. Just be aware that parking can be challenging in some old town areas. Consider parking the rental car and using public transportation in congested cities.

With various transportation options to choose from, getting around to Spain’s spectacular beaches is half the fun!

The Ultimate Guide to Europe’s Summer Destinations

FAQ’s

Q: Which part of Spain has the best beaches?

A: Determining the “best” beaches in Spain is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, some highly acclaimed beach destinations include the Balearic Islands (such as Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza), the Costa Brava in Catalonia, and the Costa del Sol in Andalusia.

Q: Where to go on the coastal in Spain?

A: Spain boasts an extensive coastline with numerous exceptional coastal destinations. Some popular areas to visit include the Balearic Islands for their picturesque coves and vibrant nightlife, Catalonia’s Costa Brava for its rugged beauty and charming fishing villages, Andalusia’s Costa del Sol for its golden beaches and cultural attractions, and the Canary Islands for their diverse landscapes and year-round warm weather.

Q: Which beach in Spain has the clearest water?

A: While many beaches in Spain boast clear waters, one particularly renowned destination for its crystal-clear waters is the beach of Playa de Ses Illetes in Formentera, part of the Balearic Islands. Its pristine sands and turquoise waters make it a paradise for sun-seekers and swimmers alike.

Q: Are there warm beaches in Spain?

A: Yes, Spain is blessed with warm beaches, particularly along its southern coast and on the Canary Islands. Destinations such as the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and the Canary Islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making them ideal for beach holidays throughout much of the year.

Further Reading

• Amazing Rooftop Pools and Bars to Visit in Madrid this Summer
• Hit the Beach: Spain’s Ultimate Summer Bucket List
• Your Sizzling Spain Summer Bucket List in 2024
• The Ultimate Guide to Europe’s Summer Destinations
• Stay Cool and Stylish: What to Wear in Madrid in June