10 Best Barcelona Beaches & Resort Areas for the Perfect R&R

In Barcelona, luxury can be found amid the lapping waves.

Meditating by the Mediterranean

Stepping onto the soft sands of this Mediterranean city’s coastline, one can’t help but feel a soothing sense of calm wash over them. And it comes as no surprise, what with the best beaches in or near Barcelona teeming with azure waters, golden landscapes, and an atmosphere that beckons for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Interestingly, the rich, sandy hues that make Barcelona’s beaches so inviting are not purely natural. After the 1992 Olympics, much of the sand was imported from Egypt to create the perfect beach experience we cherish today.

Be it the hustle and bustle of a lively resort or the serene whisper of a secluded cove, Barcelona’s diverse beachscape offers something for everyone. As we delve into this list of the best Barcelona beaches, remember, each one holds a unique promise of rest and relaxation, waiting just for you.

The 10 Best Beaches In Barcelona

From bustling coastal hotspots to quiet havens of tranquility, the best beaches in and near Barcelona offer a variety of experiences. Get ready to dip your toes into the water as we journey through ten of the most stunning beaches in the heart of Catalonia.

1. ZONA DE BANYS DEL FÒRUM

Departing from the conventional idea of a beach, Zona de Banys del Fòrum boasts a unique, sandless bathing area with a large, shallow, saltwater pool. It’s also a site of historical importance, as a memorial honoring the victims of Franco’s dictatorship can be found along the esplanade leading to the beach.

2. MAR BELLA BEACH

Revived after the 1992 Olympic Games, Mar Bella Beach is a unique blend of two worlds. At one end, it’s a nudist beach, a place for liberating self-expression. On the other end, it’s a family-friendly area, bubbling with youthful energy. This beach also sees enthusiastic games of basketball, volleyball, and ping pong, infusing it with a youthful spirit. 

3. BARCELONETA BEACH

As the city’s most famed beach, Barceloneta Beach carries an air of tradition and fame. Its Gas breakwater, a name reminiscent of the beach’s industrial past, splits the beach into two distinct areas. Nowadays, it’s a bustling spot buzzing with life, a plethora of restaurants, and ample facilities.

4. NOVA MAR BELLA BEACH

Nova Mar Bella Beach is a testament to inclusivity and accessibility. Particularly popular among women and younger visitors, its main draw is the extensive pathways that stretch across the sand up to the sea, making it a suitable option for individuals with mobility impairments.

5. LLEVANT BEACH

As one of the newest additions to Barcelona’s best beaches, Llevant Beach’s primary allure is its relaxed and peaceful ambiance. It may have fewer amenities than its counterparts, but this only means that there are lesser people, making it perfect for those seeking quietude. Apart from a large parking lot, Llevant Beach also has WiFi services, bathroom and showers, and beach umbrella and lounge chair rentals. 

6. SANT SEBASTIÀ BEACH

Located within walking distance from the city center, Sant Sebastià Beach appeals to both locals and visitors. It has unofficial nudist and LGBTQ+-friendly areas and provides a kilometer-long sand bar that’s perfect for leisurely, barefoot walks. Fun fact: Sant Sebastià Beach’s territory actually includes what was once called Sant Miquel Beach. 

7. LES ROQUES BEACH

We recommend this destination if you’re after something that’s a little beyond the city. Situated an hour north of Barcelona, Les Roques is a bewitching amalgam of a palm-lined promenade and secluded coves. Travel south of the lighthouse, and you’ll find yourself amidst an enchanting landscape brimming with pines, cacti, and yellow wildflowers — an oasis of natural beauty. 

8. CASTELLDEFELS

Castelldefels Beach is a spacious, dreamy stretch of sand loved by all — from kite-surfers enjoying the spring months to locals seeking an after-work retreat. Even during peak season, it never feels overcrowded, maintaining its serene and inviting atmosphere. 

9. NOVA ICÀRIA BEACH

Evoking the utopian dream of city planner Ildefons Cerdà, Nova Icària Beach is a haven of calm along Barcelona’s bustling coastline. Rich in services and leisure options, it also commemorates its past life as a shanty town, Somorrostro, through a nearby street honoring the Somorrostro-born dancer Carmen Amaya.

10. BOGATELL BEACH

Popular and pulsating with energy, Bogatell Beach owes its existence to an old stream that once connected the city to the sea. Its transformation during the 1980s has resulted in it becoming one of the best beaches in Barcelona, attracting the city’s visitors and an older local demographic who appreciate its vibrant atmosphere.

Where to Find the Best Barcelona Beach Resorts

After exploring the best beaches in or near Barcelona, why not immerse yourself in the city’s coastal living by staying at one of its stunning beach resorts? Each district neighboring these beaches offers unique charms and attractions to amplify your Barcelona beach experience.

• POBLENOU: Adjacent to Mar Bella Beach, Poblenou is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Rambla del Poblenou is a hub of local cafes and restaurants. The Parc del Poblenou, a green urban oasis, and the nearby Torre Glòries, a contemporary architectural icon, are also worth a visit.

• BARCELONETA: The iconic neighborhood for Barcelona’s best beach resorts, Barceloneta boasts a thriving culinary scene with seafood restaurants like Can Solé. Here, you can visit the Catalonia History Museum and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Passeig de Joan de Borbó.

• SANT MARTÍ: Right by Nova Mar Bella Beach, Sant Martí is a fast-evolving district with attractions such as the Torre Glòries and the Design Museum of Barcelona. Foodies will love the local offerings at Restaurant Sant Marti, El Cubano “MACHIN”, and Restaurante Santutxo.

• SANT ADRIÀ DE BESÒS: Bordering Zona de Banys del Fòrum, this town is famous for the Parc del Fòrum, a massive climbing park and recreational space. We highly recommend La Garchetta for scoring the best tapas or 365 Rambla Prim for an afternoon coffee or tea.

Find Your Oceanfront Oasis with Rent By Owner

With an array of stunning beaches waiting for you, Barcelona is the perfect destination for sun-seekers and ocean lovers. Each beach offers its own unique charm, allowing you to explore Barcelona’s diverse coastal scene. 

To fully enjoy the best beaches in or near Barcelona, consider looking for vacation rentals through Rent By Owner. We curate thousands of holiday stays that provide not just breathtaking ocean views but also easy access to the beach. Plus, our travel guides enable you to make the most of your trip and maximize your itinerary. Chase the sun with Rent By Owner today!

TLDR

Barcelona is a beach lover’s paradise, offering a variety of beach experiences from the bustling Barceloneta Beach to the serene Les Roques. The city boasts ten beautiful beaches, each with unique characteristics and services. Furthermore, Barcelona offers fantastic beach resorts in districts like Poblenou, Barceloneta, Sant Martí, and Sant Adrià de Besòs, enhancing your beach experience. Plan your trip, discover the best beaches near Barcelona, and find the perfect accommodation with Rent By Owner. Explore our travel guides for further inspiration and tips. Embark on your dream Barcelona beach vacation today!

Feature Image Photo Credit: Linus Ekenstam