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What are the best beaches in Barcelona ?

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Barcelona, in addition to the pleasure of partying, is also the pleasure of enjoying the Mediterranean Sea! Indeed, the Catalan capital is directly facing it.

As a result, there are many beaches, both private and public, where you can have fun all day long and even at night.

Would you like to discover a little more? In the following article, we suggest you discover our selection of the best beaches in Barcelona!

WHAT ARE THE BEST BEACHES IN BARCELONA?

Barcelona has a multitude of beaches. Some of them are not very popular, while others are much more popular. The reason? The sand, the sea bed and the general atmosphere.

Rest assured, in the following article, you will discover 10 of the best beaches in the city, in order to fully enjoy your stay in Barcelona.

1. BARCELONETA

Barceloneta is the most famous (and traditional) beach in Barcelona. It was named after the locals expelled from La Ribera in 1714, who founded the maritime district. The seafront promenade dates from the late 20th century and connects the city center.

Its construction led to the disappearance of many typical bars and restaurants that, of course, have since been replaced. Whether on the beach, facing the sea or hidden in the alleys of the city, you will always find an establishment that will welcome you! In short, the most iconic beach in Barcelona!

2. BOGATELL

Bogatell beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Barcelona and has been awarded the Blue Flag. Located between Mar Bella and Nova Icària, it attracts mostly families. There is plenty of fun to be had here, including beach volleyball courts and ping-pong tables.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing lessons are available, and sea kayaking trips can be arranged. The beach is 600 meters long, so you can find the best spot possible (although it is recommended that you stay as far away as possible from Frank Gehry’s giant golden fish statue).

3. SANT SEBASTIÀ

The beach of Sant Sebastià in Barcelona also deserves to be on our list. Less known than the other two mentioned above, it is more frequented by a slightly older population.

In fact, it is one of the few beaches in Barcelona that is easily accessible and, above all, equipped for people with reduced mobility. Some swimming areas are reserved for these people. In short, it’s a nice, quiet place, but it doesn’t really have any activities to offer.

4. MAR BELLA

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This semi-urban beach on the Barcelona coast is located between the beaches of Bogatell and Nova Mar Bella. It is one of the best equipped beaches in the city: showers and toilets, volleyball and bowling courts, ping-pong tables, children’s playground…

It is also one of the most interesting beaches for everything related to bars and restaurants. In fact, there are many establishments along it, offering the possibility of having a well-deserved break.

5. PLAYA DE LES ROQUES

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Playa de les Roques is a slightly out-of-the-way beach located about an hour north of Barcelona. It is located on the side of Calella. You have two choices:

  • Tanning: once you arrive in Calella, you don’t have to do anything else. Just find a place to rest.
  • Walk and swim: continue south towards the hill and the lighthouse and you’ll find yourself at a series of coves flanked by pine trees, cacti and yellow wildflowers. Pure magic.

If it’s not a Barcelona beach, it’s probably one of our favorite places in Catalonia…

6. LLEVANT

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The beach of Llevant, in Barcelona, came into being after blocks of cement / stone broke off from the Prim dyke. This beach is quite new and not yet very well developed. Thus, you will not find anything on the spot, which can push you to expand yourself, like volleyball courts or other.

You will be alone in front of nature, sandbanks and a blue sea, always so warm and welcoming. Relaxed, quiet, it is easily accessible. An option not to be overlooked if all the other beaches in Barcelona seem a bit too crowded.

7. SOMORROSTRO

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A former neighborhood that fell into disrepair, Somorrostro has been given a makeover. Today, it is clearly one of, if not the most beautiful beach in Barcelona. A beach surrounded by many bars, restaurants, but especially, many luxury stores. A real renaissance for this part of the city which, it is true, was a bit of a pain.

A 520 meters long beach, located near the pier Moll de Marina. Perfectly maintained, it has many premium facilities, such as changing rooms, numerous games and activities, toilets and showers. In short, we highly recommend it.

8. NOVA MAR BELLA

Nova Mar Bella beach is best known for its accessibility and relaxed atmosphere.

It is the perfect place for families. There are several services and facilities available here, including bike rentals, beach volleyball, beach chairs and supervised swimming.

Honestly, you won’t find a better place if you’re there with your kids. One of the few beaches in Barcelona that is accessible for people with reduced mobility.

9. OCATA PLAYA

Ocata Playa (Ocata beach) is not really in Barcelona either. However, it is only about 30 minutes from the city center. There are often outdoor sports tournaments held there, such as soccer, rugby and volleyball.

Getting there is easy. Take the R1 train from Plaça Catalunya (direction Mataró, Blanes or Maçanet-Massanes). Once you get off the train, you’ll be practically facing the sea.

10. NOVA ICARIA

The last outstanding beach in Barcelona, Nova Icària. A place that is appreciated by tourists and locals alike, although it is mostly families that go there, especially because it is a Blue Flag beach.

In addition to being one of the quietest beaches in Barcelona, Nova Icària is also one of the beaches where you will be less bored. Playgrounds, beach volleyball courts… On site, you will always find something to do. In addition, the beach is located next to the Port Olímpic, which offers many water activities.

Finally, for anything related to food, the Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, which is not far away, will offer you a wide choice. Restaurants, beach bars… You will find everything you need to eat!

BARCELONA’S BEACHES, IN BRIEF

You will find in Barcelona and in Catalonia, a great number of beaches. Here, our selection is only based on public beaches, open to everyone. Some beaches, however, are private, especially those of hotels.

They require a reservation or even payment if you do not have a room on site. In any case, you should have no trouble finding a nice, quiet and relaxed place to enjoy the sand, the sea and the sun.