Barcelona Beach
Best Of London. Feb 9th 23
Barcelona's beaches are the best in Spain. Whether you would like to spend an adrenaline-fueled day on the water in a motorboat or prefer sipping cocktails in one of the many beach bars in the city, beaches in Barcelona have something for everyone.
The Best Beaches in Barcelona
Not sure which beach is best? Here are just a few of the most popular beaches in Barcelona to explore:
Barceloneta beach
Barceloneta beach is the most popular beach in the city, named after the fishing quarter. You can enjoy tennis and volleyball, relax on the fine golden sand, or enjoy paella at one of the many seafood restaurants nearby.
The beach was supposedly the inspiration for Miguel de Cervantes as the spot where Don Quixote confronts the Knight of the White Moon, so it has some historical value as well.
Bogatell Beach
Bogatell Beach is located be tween Nova Icària and Mar Bella. It's been cleverly integrated into the surrounding neighborhoods, which means you can easily access the green spaces and trendy eateries around you.
Grab a beach umbrella or sun lounger and enjoy the free WiFi that's been made available to all sun worshippers in the area.
Sant Sebastià Beach
Sant Sebastià offers a relaxing break from the crowds. It's packed with amenities, including showers, kiosks, beach umbrellas, and shops.
You can also find amphibious chairs! It's a family-friendly beach, and there are several volunteers who will assist elderly beachgoers with reduced mobility.
Mar Bella Beach
Mar Bella is one of the best beaches for tourists that like to stay active. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including a tennis and volleyball court, a skatepark, and basketball hoops.
Mar Bella should be your first stop if you are interested in water sports, as there are dozens of sailing trips and kayak rentals available.
There is a sports complex on the beach with a running track and fitness rooms if you feel like working off some of the tapas. Mar Bella also features a popular nudist beach if you are an aspiring naturalist!
Llevant Beach
Llevant Beach opened in 2006, and it's a popular spot for locals and visitors to the eastern side of Barcelona. There are lifeguards on duty and plenty of amenities, including adapted showers, bike parking, and free WiFi.
Nova Icària Beach
Generally considered one of the most relaxed Barcelona beaches, Nova Icària is a peaceful beach for swimming and exploring the Mediterranean sea.
It's located on the western side of Espigó del Bogatell, where you will find plenty of sports centers along with dinghy sailing courses and kayaking and windsurfing businesses.
Nova Mar Bella Beach
Nova Mar Bella is one of the more tranquil beaches in Spain, with lounge chairs, beach volleyball, and bike hire facilities to enjoy. Located just south of Parc del Maresme, it's easy to access, and there are plenty of volunteers that can assist those with limited mobility.
Platja De Les Roques D'en Lluc
Platja De Les Roques D'en Lluc is the perfect beach if you want a little isolation. All you'll find here is a small sandy stretch at the bottom of beautiful cliffs on the edge of Urbanitzacio Les Villes. It's outside of the city center, which makes for a great escape from the hustle and bustle.
Ocata Beach
Ocata beach starts from the marina of El Masnou and stretches a luxurious 2500 meters. The water in the lagoon is very clean, although the coastline is a little steep.
Here you will find plenty of beach bars and restaurants, along with kayak rentals and popular hotels. It's also perfect for surfing.
Things to Do In and Around the Beaches
If you've had enough of sand and sunshine, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied in and around the beaches in Barcelona:
- Take a stroll along the Passeig de Joan de Borbó : This promenade near Barceloneta beach offers great views of the sea and the city center.
- Visit the W Hotel: This hotel offers a tiki-inspired barbeque restaurant and a popular rooftop bar where you sip cocktails to your heart's content.
- Visit the Mirador de Colom: Near the sea, close to Barcelona's Rambla, you'll find this iconic column built in 1888 in honor of Christopher Columbus. The views are spectacular.
- See the Parc de la Ciutadella: This beautiful park features boating activities, gardens, and a zoo you can enjoy with your whole family.
- Swing by the Picasso Museum : The Picasso Museum is located close to Barceloneta beach and features some of the most iconic artworks by Picasso.
- Eat lunch at the Gothic Quarter: This historic neighborhood is located just a short walk from the beach. You'll find amazing bars and eateries, as well as a number of boutiques and museums to keep you entertained.
Whether you like swimming, sunning, or shopping, Barcelona's beaches have something for everyone.
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