These Beautiful Beach Destinations in Spain Have Golden Sands, Dramatic Cliffs, and Turquoise Seas

When most people plan a trip to Spain, they dream of destinations like Barcelona and Madrid. In fact, Barcelona is the most visited tourist destination in the country. However, as appealing as the city is, Spain has much more to offer, including thousands of miles of beautiful beach destinations.

Surrounded by the Bay of Biscay, the Balearic Sea, and the Alboran Sea, Spain is the perfect place for a beach getaway. Spain has everything from charming beach towns and seaside cities to luxury resorts and affordable vacations.

To learn more, here are 12 beautiful beach destinations in Spain. These places were selected because of their picturesque coastlines, breathtaking beaches, and things to do.

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Nerja 1/5

Malaga 2/5

A Coruña 3/5

Best Places To Visit for Beaches Each Month July - Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza 4/5

Santander 5/5

Results

Nerja

5 10

Malaga

4 11

A Coruña

1 14

Ibiza

2 13

Santander

1 14

Table of Contents

Santander

We’ll start this list with Santander, one of our all-time favorite Spanish beach destinations. Santander is a gorgeous coastal city, not a bank, located along Spain’s scenic north coast. Capital of the Cantabria region, it’s loved for its golden sand beaches, Spanish charm, mountain views, and historic squares.

Your days in Santander will be filled with sun, sea, beautiful hikes, and plenty of paella. What’s not to like? At every turn, you’ll find another lovely sandy beach, turquoise waters, and somewhere to grab a refreshing beer. Significant points of interest in the city include Playa de Mataleñas, El Sardinero, Playa de la Magdalena, Palacio de la Magdalena, and Puertochico.

Try the Local Seafood at Mercado del Este – Santander is famous for its fresh seafood, and Mercado del Este is a great spot to sample local specialties like rabas (fried squid) or a traditional Cantabrian fish stew.
Take the “Los Reginas” Ferry to Somo for a Hidden Beach Escape – Instead of sticking to the city’s main beaches, hop on the Los Reginas ferry from Santander to Somo (about 10 minutes).

Malaga

Malaga is a fantastic place to visit if you love long sandy beaches, historic landmarks, Spanish culture, and impressive architecture. This popular destination has many things to see and do and plenty of beaches where you can escape the hustle and bustle. Better yet, Malaga has mild winters and hot summers, so you can expect good weather almost all year round.

The main draw to this lively city is its impressive 16 beaches, most of which have golden sand, turquoise waters, and easy access to bars and restaurants. Famous beaches in Malaga include La Malagueta, Playa Pedregalejo, and Playa de Huelin. Once you’ve had your fill of beaches, explore the pedestrian-only city center.

Here are two unique travel tips for Malaga:

Visit the Rooftop of the AC Hotel for a Secret Sunset Spot – While many tourists head to Gibralfaro Castle for sunset, skip the crowds and go to the AC Hotel Málaga Palacio rooftop instead. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and the Mediterranean Sea—plus, you can enjoy a drink while watching the sun go down.
Try Espetos at a Beachfront Chiringuito – Malaga is famous for espetos (sardines skewered and grilled over an open fire). For the most authentic experience, head to a beachfront chiringuito (small beach bar) in Pedregalejo or El Palo.

Nerja

If Malaga is too busy for you, visit Nerja instead. Nerja is a charming seaside town along southern Spain’s Costa del Sol. It’s only a short car journey from Malaga but offers a much different atmosphere. In Nerja, you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, relaxed walks, and quieter beaches.

The town’s waterfront promenade, Balcón de Europa, offers serene views of the Mediterranean and the best beaches, including Playa de la Calahonda, Playa el Salón, and Playa El Chorrillo. Along Nerja’s beaches, you’ll come across various cliffside coves. One cave, Cueva de Nerja, hosts summertime events. Other places you don’t want to miss in Nerja include Aqueduct Eagle, the Museum of the Village of Nerja, and the Rainbow Steps.

Here are two unique travel tips for Nerja:

Explore the Hidden Beaches of Maro-Cerro Gordo – Just outside Nerja, the Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs Natural Area hides some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the Costa del Sol. Rent a kayak or take a boat tour from Burriana Beach to discover hidden coves, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters far from the usual tourist spots.
Visit the Nerja Caves After Hours for a Special Experience – While the Cueva de Nerja is a popular attraction, few people know about the special nighttime tours offered on select days. These tours allow you to experience the cave’s prehistoric paintings and massive rock formations without the daytime crowds, making it feel like an exclusive adventure.

A Coruña

A Coruña is similar to Santander because it has several long sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a beautiful landscape with excellent coastal walks. This port city is located on the northwest coast of Spain, so it’s not blessed with Mediterranean vibes, but it’s still a beautiful place to visit.

Aside from its picturesque beaches, A Coruña is renowned for its medieval Old Town, Roman lighthouse, and historic squares. Iconic landmarks include the Plaza de María Pita, the Tower of Hercules, and Estatua de María Pita. Meanwhile, the best beaches in the city include Playa de Riazor, Playa del Orzan, and Praia das Lapas.

Here are two unique travel tips for A Coruña:

Walk the Paseo Marítimo for a Coastal Adventure – A Coruña boasts one of Europe’s longest urban promenades, the Paseo Marítimo, stretching over 13 kilometers. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along this scenic route, passing by rugged cliffs, beaches, and the iconic Tower of Hercules. Stop at smaller, lesser-known beaches like Playa de San Amaro for a quiet escape.
Try the Local Seafood at Mercado de San Agustín – Skip the touristy restaurants and head to Mercado de San Agustín, a traditional market where locals buy fresh seafood. Some vendors will even cook your seafood on the spot, giving you an authentic Galician culinary experience. Be sure to try pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and percebes (goose barnacles), a regional delicacy.

Ibiza

Ibiza’s claim to fame is its status as one of the best party destinations in Europe, making it the perfect Spanish beach destination for partygoers seeking their fair share of sunshine and sea. However, this Balearic island offers much more than affordable alcohol and lively nightclubs.

When you’re not hitting the Ibiza Strip or soaking up the sun on Playa d’en Bossa, one of the main beaches, discover the island’s hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path beaches, and ancient architecture. In Ibiza Town, you’ll find the beautiful Dalt Vila, a fortified medieval Old Town that offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Other must-see locations include Las Dalias Night Market, Es Vedra, and Cala Xarraca.

Here are two unique travel tips for Ibiza:

Explore Ibiza’s Secret Coves by Kayak – Instead of sticking to the main beaches, rent a kayak and paddle along the coastline to discover hidden coves like Atlantis (Sa Pedrera), a mystical rock formation with natural pools, or Cala Llentrisca, a secluded beach rarely visited by tourists. Sunset kayaking tours are also a fantastic way to experience the island’s stunning coastline from a different perspective.
Visit Local Fincas for a True Taste of Ibiza – For an authentic dining experience, visit a finca (traditional farmhouse) that serves locally sourced, homemade Ibicenco dishes. Places like La Paloma in San Lorenzo or Can Muson near Santa Eulalia offer farm-to-table meals in a peaceful countryside setting, allowing you to savor traditional flavors away from the tourist crowds. Don’t miss trying sobrasada (a cured Balearic sausage) or flaó (a delicious local cheesecake).

San Sebastian

Next, we have San Sebastian, one of the best coastal towns in Spain. Located on the Bay of Biscay in the mountainous Basque Country, this town is best known for its pristine beaches, beautiful bayfront promenade, and upscale restaurants. You’ll spend most of your time in San Sebastian swimming in the sea, sunbathing, and strolling along the waterfront.

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The best beaches in the town are Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta. Both offer glorious stretches of golden sand, emerald waters, and plenty of amenities. There’s much to see in the San Sebastian town center, too. In Parte Vieja (Old Town), you’ll find a vibrant neighborhood offering high-end shops, traditional pintxo bars, and stunning architecture.

Go on a Pintxos Crawl Like a Local – Instead of settling for just one restaurant, do as the locals do and hop from bar to bar in Parte Vieja (Old Town), sampling different pintxos (small Basque tapas). Some must-visit spots include Bar Néstor for the legendary tortilla, La Cuchara de San Telmo for melt-in-your-mouth meats, and Gandarias for classic jamón ibérico. Pair each pintxo with a glass of txakoli, the region’s lightly sparkling white wine.
Take the Funicular Up Monte Igueldo for the Best Views – For a breathtaking panoramic view of La Concha Bay, take the historic Monte Igueldo Funicular to the top. Not only will you get postcard-worthy views, but you’ll also find an old-school amusement park with a charming, nostalgic vibe. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike back down to enjoy different vantage points along the way.

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Cádiz

Beaches in Spain_Cádiz — © Luis / Adobe Stock

Cádiz is a big hit with beachgoers who love history, too. It’s an ancient port city teeming with historic architecture, national landmarks, and traditional Spanish charm. Oh, and you can expect spectacular coastal views. Old Town Cádiz and its narrow cobblestone streets are a joy to explore, while Playa de la Victoria and its golden sands are a pleasure to walk along.

In the Old Town, keep your eyes peeled for ancient churches, pastel-colored houses, and ancient plazas bursting with activity. After exploring the Old Town, cool off in the sea at Playa de la Victoria, admire the coastal views, and relax. If you’re feeling hungry, grab something to eat in a beachfront restaurant.

2 Travel Tips for Cádiz

Climb Torre Tavira for the Best City Views – Cádiz is full of stunning viewpoints, but Torre Tavira is the ultimate one. As the highest watchtower in the city, it offers panoramic views of Cádiz’s historic rooftops, coastline, and cathedral domes. Plus, it houses a Camera Obscura, a unique optical device that projects live images of the city onto a viewing surface, giving you a fascinating real-time tour.
Try Pescaíto Frito at Mercado Central – Cádiz is famous for pescaíto frito, a delicious dish of lightly fried fresh seafood. The best place to enjoy it is Mercado Central de Abastos, the city’s lively market. Grab a paper cone of churros de pescado (fish fritters) or calamares (squid rings) from a stall, pair it with a cold beer, and enjoy the authentic flavors of Cádiz like a local.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda

Beaches in Spain_Sanlúcar de Barrameda — © Barmalini / Shutterstock

Just north of Cádiz is another coastal city famed for its beautiful old buildings and breathtaking beaches. However, this city is also known for its waterfront horse races that take place on the beach. Therefore, you best time your visit well if you don’t want a horse jumping over you as you sunbathe.

Bajo de Guía and Playa de las Piletas are two of the most popular beaches in Sanlúcar de Barrameda. They both feature wide and long stretches of golden sand, calm waters, and plenty of space to sunbathe. You’ll find various attractions, squares, and architectural masterpieces in the city, including Castillo De Santiago, Bodegas Barbadillo, and Las Covachas. Doñana National Park can also be found just north of the city.

2 Travel Tips for Sanlúcar de Barrameda

Pair Your Seafood with Local Manzanilla Wine – Sanlúcar is world-famous for Manzanilla, a dry sherry-style wine that pairs perfectly with fresh seafood. Visit Bodegas Barbadillo for a tasting tour and learn about this unique wine, best enjoyed with gambas blancas (white prawns) or tortillitas de camarones (shrimp fritters) at a beachfront restaurant.
Take a Boat to Doñana National Park – Just across the Guadalquivir River, you’ll find Doñana National Park, a UNESCO-listed reserve with sand dunes, wetlands, and diverse wildlife like Iberian lynxes and flamingos. Hop on the Real Fernando boat from Bajo de Guía for a guided tour of this incredible natural wonder, only accessible by boat from Sanlúcar.

Marbella

If you’re looking for a more luxurious beach destination in Spain, look no further than Marbella. Marbella is a beautiful seaside resort along Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol. The resort is renowned worldwide for its glitz, glamor, and mesmerizing coastline. You can expect to spend your days in the resort drinking fine wines, eating world-class food, and swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters.

One of the most exclusive places to stay in Marbella is Puerto Banus. This breathtaking marina in the Nueva Andalucían neighborhood is home to luxury resorts, scenic coastal views, and tranquil stretches of beach. Make sure you visit Playa Río Verde, Playa Nueva Andalucía, and Playa de Cortijo Blanco.

2 Travel Tips for Marbella

Explore Marbella’s Old Town for Hidden Tapas Gems – While Puerto Banús is all about luxury, Marbella’s Casco Antiguo (Old Town) offers a charming escape with whitewashed buildings, flower-filled balconies, and hidden tapas bars. Head to Taberna La Niña del Pisto for authentic Andalusian cuisine or El Estrecho, a tiny but legendary tapas bar serving fresh seafood and Iberian ham.
Enjoy a Sunset Stroll on the Golden Mile – Marbella’s Golden Mile is a stunning 4-mile (6.4 km) stretch between the city center and Puerto Banús, lined with palm trees, beachfront mansions, and luxury hotels. Walk or cycle along the promenade at sunset for breathtaking Mediterranean views and stop for a cocktail at Trocadero Playa, a stylish beachfront bar with a relaxed, chic vibe.

Benidorm

To many, Benidorm is regarded as a cheap party destination overwhelmed by boozy Brits. While in some ways, that is true, Benidrom still has a lot to offer. There’s an argument to be made about it being one of the most affordable and beautiful beach destinations in Spain.

Aside from its tall skyrise buildings, lively beach bars, and English pubs, Benidorm is home to alluring beaches with soft white sand and gorgeous turquoise waters. Playa Levante is the main beach in the city, but you can enjoy a more peaceful and secluded experience at Racó del Conill and Playa de la Roda. Meanwhile, you can enjoy exceptional coastal views from Parc Natural de la Serra Gelada hiking trails.

Discover the Hidden Side of Benidorm at Cala del Tio Ximo – If you want to escape the crowded main beaches, head to Cala del Tio Ximo, a small cove tucked between rocky cliffs within Serra Gelada Natural Park. This secluded beach offers crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and a much quieter atmosphere compared to Playa Levante.
Visit Benidorm Island for a Unique Day Trip – Just off the coast, Benidorm Island is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. Take a short boat ride from the marina to the island, where you’ll find hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and an abundance of marine life. Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world around the island’s rocky shoreline.

Sitges

Sitges is a beautiful coastal town in Spain’s Catalonia region. Located southwest of Barcelona along the Mediterranean Sea coastline, this resort is loved for its lovely beaches, picturesque seafront promenade, and mountain scenery.

Sitges is a great place to sunbathe, swim, and admire historical landmarks. Points of interest in the town include San Sebastian Beach, Museo del Cau Ferrat, and Palau de Maricel. Don’t forget to explore Old Town Stiges and iconic landmarks like Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla Parish Church. Outdoor enthusiasts will also be pleased to hear that Parc Natural del Garraf is only 16 miles (26 kilometers) away. Hiking, cycling, and running are popular here.

Experience Sitges’ Legendary Nightlife at Carrer del Pecat – If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, head to Carrer del Pecat (Street of Sin). This iconic street is packed with bars and clubs, offering everything from laid-back tapas spots to high-energy dance floors. Sitges has a famously inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, making it one of Spain’s top LGBTQ+ party destinations.
Explore the Coves of Garraf for a Secluded Beach Day – While Sitges’ main beaches can get busy, you can find hidden coves just outside the town. Visit Cala Morisca or Platja de l’Home Mort, two secluded beaches surrounded by cliffs in Parc Natural del Garraf. These spots are perfect for a quiet day by the sea, away from the crowds.

Corralejo

The final beach destination on our list is located away from mainland Spain, at the northern tip of Fuerteventura. The Canary Islands are famed for their rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and water sports, and Fuerteventura is no different.

In Corralejo, you’ll find neverending white sand beaches framed by tall dunes and crystal-clear emerald waters, a natural park home to endangered wildlife and a volcano, and a small town with bars, restaurants, and vacation resorts. Playa la Clavellina is the most central beach in the town. It offers a small stretch of white sand, calm waters, and easy access to local amenities. Other notable attractions include Corralejo Natural Park, Playa del Moro, Montaña Roja (a volcano), and Lobos Island.

Try a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour to Lobos Island – Instead of just taking a standard ferry, book a glass-bottom boat tour to Lobos Island. You’ll get to see vibrant marine life beneath the waves as you cross the turquoise waters. Once on the island, hike to La Caldera volcano for stunning views or relax on the pristine beaches.
Surf or Kitesurf at Flag Beach – If you’re into water sports, don’t miss Flag Beach, one of the best spots in Fuerteventura for surfing and kitesurfing. The conditions here are ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, and there are plenty of surf schools offering lessons if you’re new to the sport.