Top Beaches in Barcelona

From ribbons of honey-colored coast that stretch 3.1 miles (5km) north from the Port of Barcelona to secret southern sands that – shh! – the locals want to keep quiet about, these are the best beaches in Barcelona.

1. Barceloneta Beach

This is it: the epicenter of Barcelona’s beaches; the most popular strip of sand in the city. Just east of its namesake neighborhood, Barceloneta Beach throngs with sun-seekers, mojito vendors, and sarong sellers during the height of summer.

Entirely manmade, its pharaonic gold sands were shipped over from Egypt, and the palm trees along the promenade once called Hawaii home. For some, it might feel like a circus; however, for many others, this iconic stretch of parasol-lined paradise epitomizes the energy of the city. We’re firmly in the latter camp.

2. Mar Bella Beach

Towards the north of Barcelona’s coastline is this wonderfully cosmopolitan stretch of soft blonde sand, which is ever-popular with an LGBTQI+ crowd. Mar Bella Beach has a small nudist strip, clearly marked, along with numerous amenities, including a skate park and various water sports.

3. Bogatell Beach

Fronting the hip El Poblenou neighborhood, the fluffy golden-white sands of Bogatell Beach host volleyball courts and a few seasonal xiringuitos (beach bars) featuring sun loungers and umbrellas.

There are a couple of excellent seafood restaurants on the promenade above, including the much-loved Xiringuito Escribà; consequently, this beach is quieter yet still vibrant in this part of Barcelona.

4. Nova Icària Beach

Arguably Barcelona’s best beach for families, the southernmost strip of golden sand above Port Olímpic often echoes with the excited squeals of young children. With a wide variety of sports facilities, including table tennis and beach volleyball, lifeguards on patrol, and warm, shallow waters, Nova Icària Beach is the ideal place for parents to let their kids run free.

5. Sant Sebastià Beach

Beneath the glass gaze of W Barcelona, the 26-story, sail-shaped beach hotel at the southern end of La Barceloneta, is this wonderful slice of sun, surf, and sand. Sant Sebastià Beach serves as a handy stretch of white-gold for those looking for a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

6. Nova Mar Bella Beach

This crescent of sparkling gold sand is where the locals tend to hang out. Located towards the north of the El Poblenou beaches, it’s usually adorned with brightly-colored beach umbrellas and sun loungers. Nova Mar Bella Beach still offers plenty of facilities, including showers and a couple of beach bars, yet provides a much more relaxed atmosphere compared to other beaches in this area.

7. Sant Miquel Beach

Taking its name from the 18th-century church in nearby Barceloneta, this stretch of soft honey-gold sand is one of the oldest beaches in Barcelona. Due to its proximity to the old city, Sant Miquel Beach often buzzes with activity, making it worthwhile to spread your towel and enjoy the view — particularly to see Rebecca Horn’s L’Estel ferit (The Wounded Shooting Star), a sculpture that captures attention.

8. Zona de Banys del Fòrum

Not a beach in the traditional sense – there’s no sand here – but for all intents and purposes, the bathing area at El Fòrum acts as an alternative beach. With a number of diving pontoons, shaded areas, and a series of solid concrete cubes, this innovative facility is designed for enjoyment.

Located at the most eastern point of the city’s shoreline, where the massive Pergola solar panel glints in the sunshine, this adapted swimming area offers easy access to the water.

9. Somorrostro Beach

Stretching out like a soft golden cat between Gas breakwater and the Moll de Marina pier, Somorrostro Beach delights locals with its scenic beauty. This stretch of sand features Frank Gehry’s El Peix (Golden Fish) sculpture hanging enticingly above, drawing visitors during the summer months.

10. Castelldefels Beach

Approximately 20km southwest of Barcelona city center, this beautiful long sweep of golden-blonde sand is favored by kitesurfers and easily accessible by train. Backed by impressive sand dunes, Castelldefels Beach serves as a blissful escape and rarely feels overcrowded. Its stunning pink-and-apricot sunsets are often exquisite and a sight worth seeing.

11. Ocata Beach – El Masnou

The beach town of El Masnou is only around 30 minutes from Barcelona by train; however, the journey is well worth it for this long stretch of burnished bronze sand. With ample space for spreading out and a healthy number of xiringuitos (beach bars), visitors can easily make a day out of their beach trip here.

Though more peaceful compared to city beaches, beware that the drop of the beach scarp—between the shoreline and the seafloor—is noticeably steeper than in Barcelona.