Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Barcelona This Summer

Do you want to include some outdoor activities on your trip to Spain? When you have had enough of iconic landmarks, here are some of the best beaches in Barcelona for a breath of fresh air. These destinations offer a relaxed, youthful vibe filled with Mediterranean energy that can be found nowhere else. Just hop on the Rodalies R1 train line, and you can get to any beach from Badalona to Blanes. Now, let’s pack some swimwear and explore the best places to hit the waves in this sun-filled country.

1. Barceloneta Beach

So beautiful and Instagram-worthy. Photo byake1150 on stock.adobe.com

Barcelona Beach is one of the busiest beaches in Europe. During peak season (often from June to August), it’s filled with crowds of tourists, and even all the chiringuitos (beach bars) are packed. 

You can start with a breakfast picnic to enjoy the breathtaking view and take pictures without anyone behind. Or riding a bike to immerse in the sea breeze is another great idea. Make sure you join the beautiful road like Pg. Maritim de la.

For lunch, try Julieta’s, such an aesthetic spot here. Here is what you get: stunning beach views, beef ragu tagliatelle and spicy bravas, just the right stuff! 

CabinZero tips: Don’t leave your belongings unattended on the sand when you swim. Have someone take care of it, or at least put everything into a dry sack and take it with you.

2. Zona de Banys Fòrum (Fòrum bathing area)

If you don’t like crowds, the Zona de Banys Forum is a great place to visit. In fact, it has been a free hidden sea pool in Barcelona since the 2000s.

As a sea pool loved by locals, you can experience a smaller but enjoyable version of the beach. No wave, no sand, and you have plenty of space to relax. 

Take a refreshing dip in the bathing area or sunbathe on the wide concrete platforms. The water is usually clear and peaceful, so don’t worry about floating and swimming. There are lifeguards around, but be aware of sea urchins.

3. Nova Icaria Beach

A highly accessible beach near the city centre. Photo by Maxim Morales - stock.adobe.com

Among the best beaches in Barcelona, Nova Icaria is such a stunning and peaceful option. Its calm stretches of water draw families and casual swimmers seeking a more relaxed alternative to the busier city beaches.

It is also a great place for sports enthusiasts. There are at least 9 volleyball courts, along with an outdoor gym and kid playgrounds. Watching locals play or practice their daily workouts is a lively and authentic experience. 

There is an accessible area where you can rent a floating wheelchair. The area features adapted facilities (accessible paths and bathrooms etc.), life jackets, and staff to assist guests in entering the water safely. To use this service, simply make a quick reservation by phone or online before your visit.

4. Llevant Beach

There is a dog-friendly section, allowing your pet to run around safely. Photo by Sergey on stock.adobe.com

Just completed in 2006, Llevant is like a brand-new beach in Barcelona. Therefore, the water and air quality here feel refreshingly modern yet peaceful. On top of that, it’s a smoke-free beach.

The best way to enjoy the beach is to stroll along lively promenades and take in the coastal charm. During the summer, you can rent deckchairs and parasols or take advantage of the public Wi‑Fi to relax and enjoy the sun for hours. 

If you travel with your dog, there is even a dog-friendly section - a fenced area so your companion can run and enjoy the shore freely. During the summer season, this 1,500 m² space is open from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm and is strictly monitored. Only microchipped dogs are allowed, and there are information officers, drinking fountains, and showers for pets. Be sure to fly your furry friend with you to enjoy the waves.

5. Somorrostro Beach

A nice place to relax after days of walking. Nicolas Vigier from Spain, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you are fascinated with nightclubs, Somorrostro is one of the best beaches in Barcelona to visit. We claim that all of the city's iconic clubs are located here.

However, many travellers don’t know that this buzzing beachfront has a surprisingly deep story behind it. Somorrostro used to be a small seaside neighbourhood where thousands of families lived until the 1960s.  Today, the old neighbourhood is long gone, but there is a small plaque on the promenade to honour its history.

In summer, you can go to the Beach Centre and join small workshops or environmental activities.

Daytime here has a completely different rhythm. Locals gather for beach volleyball, use the outdoor gym, or lounge with books borrowed from the pop-up beach library. With sunbed and parasol rentals available, it’s easy to spend hours soaking up the calm Mediterranean light before the nightlife slowly takes over.

And if you want to experience the beach at its liveliest, Shôko is the perfect stop. This restaurant-lounge offers a stylish lunch by the sea and transforms into one of the area’s must-visit nightclubs after dark. 

6. Canet de Mar Beach

Compared to other beach holidays in Spain, Canet de Mar Beach is considered an affordable choice. Based in the small, picturesque town of Canet de Mar, you can expect a laid-back atmosphere - totally different from other, bigger beach destinations. It’s dog-friendly and even has a shower for pets, too.

The beach itself is one of the cleanest in the region, boasting clear water and golden sand composed of small pebbles. Simply walking along the beach and taking in the scent of the ocean will leave you feeling refreshed.  

In terms of budget beach restaurants and chiringuitos here, we recommend La Graella for yummy Mediterranean dishes and an authentic local vibe. Other ways to enjoy the beach include shopping at local markets and having a picnic.

7. Blanes Beach

A train from Barcelona to Blanes, the first town in Costa Brava, costs around €15 and take around one hour. The train view en route is super chill. When you arrive, stroll onto Platja de Blanes, the town’s main beach, which stretches a long 625 meters from the dramatic Sa Palomera rock to the marina.

Then, for a little coastal adventure, you can walk the Camí Blanes to Lloret (the red route). This coastal path is easy to follow and offers stunning views of the sea. Keep walking until you reach Cala Treumal, a small and quiet cove with clear water. Along the way, you’ll pass several viewpoints and enjoy the calm, natural side of Blanes.

8. San Sebastian Beach

The beach has gained a Blue Flag for its clean and safe water. Photo by carballo on stock.adobe.com

San Sebastian Beach is, in fact, one of the oldest and largest beaches in Barcelona. The beach is well set up for families: you’ll find lifeguard towers, public toilets, showers, deckchairs and parasol hire, and free Wi-Fi, so it’s easy to stay comfortable all day. There’s also an outdoor gym and volleyball courts nearby for anyone wanting a bit of activity between swims.

Plus, on Sant Sebastià Beach, you can join a SUP-Yoga class with SUPYOGA.cat, starting your day slowly and peacefully. Instead of standing on land, you’ll do yoga postures on a paddleboard, gently floating on the calm early-morning Mediterranean waves. For about €25, you get the board, a paddle, a life jacket if needed, and even a few photos to remember the moment. 

9. Bogatell Beach

Bogatell is one of the best beaches in Barcelona, with almost no tourists! You can experience all you need for a summer trip: a wide white-sand shore, plenty of green spaces, and a clean, open coastline. The beach is also packed with casual activities: beach volleyball courts, outdoor gym areas, and ping-pong tables.

Moreover, the beach is easy to reach, even though it feels calm and local. You can take Metro Line 4 and be there in minutes. The nearby Poblenou neighbourhood is trendy, with cosy cafés, art studios, and creative spaces. This makes it simple to combine a relaxing beach day with exploring Barcelona’s urban culture. The only downside is things can be a bit pricey. A sunbed rent is around €30, for example.

10. Sant Miquel Beach

Sant Miquel Beach is a classic spot right in the heart of the city, nestled between Barceloneta and Sant Sebastià. It’s one of the oldest beaches in Barcelona and takes its name from the charming Baroque Church of Sant Miquel del Port, built in 1755. 

You can rent sun‑loungers or umbrellas, relax with sea views, and then walk up to the nearby promenade full of cafés and restaurants for some fresh seafood. After your beach time, a visit to the Church of Sant Miquel del Port offers a glimpse into local history and architecture. 

11. Nova Mar Bella Beach

Nova Mar Bella Beach is a serene spot where you can enjoy sunbathing without the crowds.

You should not miss joining a friendly beach volleyball game, which is both fun and a great way to meet locals. After playing, taking a refreshing swim in the clear water will help you cool off and feel energised.

Next, you can rent a bike and ride along the Poblenou promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and lively atmosphere. In addition, stopping at a small chiringuito for a cold drink or light snack makes your day even more relaxing.

For a calm afternoon, you might spread a blanket on the sand and read a book while listening to gentle waves. Finally, you can enjoy the night by exploring the nearby streets of Poblenou to discover local cafés and creative spaces.

Your Perfect Barcelona Beach Awaits

Whether you're drawn to the lively atmosphere of Barceloneta, the tranquil waters of Bogatell, or the natural beauty of Mar Bella, the best beaches in Barcelona offer something special for every traveller. Which Barcelona beach are you most excited to visit? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to share this guide with your fellow beach lovers planning their Barcelona adventure.

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