The coolest beaches in Barcelona
Barcelona is home to miles of picturesque coastline and boasts some pretty cool summer weather – you will hate yourself if you leave without visiting one of the best beaches in this city! The best time to head to the beach is during the summer season. From May to July, during the hottest time of the year. While the queues may be longer and the prices a little higher, there’s nothing like hitting the beach on a warm, sunny day in Barcelona.
Sant Sebestia Beach: Sant Sebestia is situated in the eastern part of Barcelona and is the oldest and longest beach in the city. It’s part of Sitges – a relatively small town, home to over 17 beaches and one of the best places to visit on a weekend trip to Barcelona. While the beach does attract tourists in its numbers, you’ll also see many locals at this iconic spot.
Marbella Beach: Marbella Beach is known for its peaceful vibe and is a great beach to head to if you’re looking for some quiet from both crowds and sellers. This beach has plenty of opportunities to participate in watersports like windsurfing and kayaking. It’s also one of the more spacious beaches in Barcelona, so you’ve got plenty of room to sunbathe, rollerblade, and relax. If you’d like, you’re also welcome to go clothes-free at Mar Bella Beach as it’s a nudist beach.
Ocata Beach: North of Barcelona and just a half-hour by train out of the city, Ocata Beach is a quiet stretch of beautiful golden sand. Much calmer than other beaches, Ocata is a peaceful getaway and less of an entertainment area. Long and wide, the beach is spacious and attracts fewer tourists than those nearer to Barcelona, making it somewhat of a luxury in the summertime when you have to compete for towel space elsewhere. Much like any Barcelona beach, it also has its share of chiringuitos selling drinks and fresh seafood.
Barceloneta Beach: Barcelona’s most bustling and touristy stretch of sand and sea, making it one of the most crowded beaches. You will find a surplus of entertainment and seafood options. The most popular places to feast on fresh seafood are at the chiringuitos, or seaside huts. On the entertainment side of things, you can not only swim but also try water sports – with windsurfing and kitesurfing the most popular options. Lively and easily accessible, Barceloneta beach is perfect if you still want to be close to the city’s main attractions.
Nova Icària Beach: With more than 400 m (1,300 feet) of sun, sand, and sea, Nova Icària is the most peaceful beach in Barcelona, making it a perfect choice for families or if you’re looking to unwind and relax. Although quiet, Nova Icària beach still has a range of great restaurants and bars, making it a popular destination for foodies and vacationers. Nova Icaria boasts a complete game area with a ping-pong table, and volleyball courts, paying homage to its proximity to the Olympic Park. This is one of Barcelona’s most diversely equipped beaches for sure!
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