9 Beaches Near Barcelona

Barcelona, renowned for its rich culture, architecture, and vibrant street life, also serves as a gateway to some of the Mediterranean's most picturesque beaches.

Just a stone's throw away from the bustling city center, a myriad of tranquil and mesmerizing beaches await, offering both locals and tourists a perfect escape.

Dive into this guide to uncover the top beaches near Barcelona and experience Catalonia's coastal charm at its finest.

The 9 Best Beaches Near Barcelona

1. Bogatell Beach

Bogatell Beach is quieter and more family-orientated than some of the other main beaches in the city.

Located conveniently between Nova Icària and Mar Bella Beach, opposite the trendy Poblenou neighborhood, this 702-meter-long beach is a dream for sun worshippers looking for calm waters and white sand. 

The beach was upgraded in the 1990s during the seafront redevelopment, and there are several recreational facilities to enjoy.

There are two ping pong tables, a football pitch, and a volleyball court.

You'll find several restaurants along the beach, easily accessible changing rooms with adapted toilets and showers, and wooden walkways for individuals with mobility issues. 

2. Nova Mar Bella Beach

Mar Bella is a long stretch of golden sand north of the city center and one of the best Barcelona beaches for adrenaline junkies.

Here you can spend some time at the volleyball nets, kayak, skateboard, rollerblade, swim, windsurf, or paddleboard on the sea. 

The beachfront was revamped as part of the Olympic Games beautification project and received a Blue Flag Award for its clean environment.

There is a nude beach, separated by a man-made hill on one side, and a children's playground on the other side. 

The crowd is the younger and more diverse group from the Sant Martí neighborhood.

You can rent umbrellas, enjoy concessions with delicious food and ice cream kiosks, and take advantage of the lockers, showers, and restrooms in the area. Lifeguards are on duty along the coast.

3. La Barceloneta Beach

Named after the 18th-century fishing quarter, Barceloneta is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the Catalan capital.

It's rich in history, with strong ties to the city's industrial past (as evidenced by the Gas breakwater in the center). 

The promenade connects the neighborhood to the Olympic port, and it's a short walk away from many of the city's top attractions.

Be warned; this popular beach isn't a good choice if you are looking for peace and quiet. Barceloneta is loud, rowdy, and fun.

Rent one of the sun loungers, enjoy the volleyball court, or explore the promenade on a bicycle with your family. 

After your swim, head out to the chiringuitos or seaside huts for fresh seafood like a true local.

4. Castelldefels Beach

Just 20 minutes south of the city, you'll find the shore Castelldefels, a sandy stretch of beach peppered with colorful beach umbrellas and kitesurfers catching the wind and the waves. 

Locals will tell you this is one of the best beaches near Barcelona (even though it's outside the city limits). 

It's a quiet place to relax on beach chairs or sip drinks at one of the many beach shacks and eateries. The promenade offers a stunning view over Parc Natural del Garraf.

5. Sant Sebastià Beach

Sant Sebastià is the closest beach to the southwestern side of Barcelona. It's also one of the longest beaches in Barcelona. 

Similar to La Barceloneta beach, you'll find a lively vibe here in the summer months, with extreme sports and exciting dining spots all around the large beach.

You'll find incredible views over Sant Bartomeu Church, and it's a great beach for visitors that want to see Sitge's Old Town.

6. Ocata Beach

Just twelve miles north of the city, you'll find the small town of El Masnou and Ocata beach, a family-friendly beach with flat, golden sands and calm waves.

Here you'll find fishermen, rugby players, and sun lovers alike. It will take you about 30 minutes to get there by train, but that doesn't mean you'll be missing out.

Ocata offers fabulous waterfront restaurants and plenty of arts and culture to enjoy, perfect for a day trip.

7. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is a perfect spot for tourists that want to explore Costa Brava.

On the North Coast of Spain, it's on the border with France and is renowned for its natural beauty, including a spectacular view over the Mediterranean Sea, the lighthouse, and the incredible historic fortified medieval village. 

This one of beaches near Barcelona is within walking distance of excellent restaurants and beach bars.

8. Jardines de la Torre de les Aigües

Technically, this beach in the city center isn't a beach at all, but it offers a great respite from the heat for families that don't want to head out of the city.

Here you'll find two shallow pools and some sand to set your beach umbrella on. 

While there isn't an actual sea, this man-made beach is a relaxing and quiet place to spend an afternoon, especially if you have kids with you.

9. Santa Pol de Mar

This beach is the stuff dreams are made of. Step off the train and onto fine golden sand and clear, blue water. It's just an hour away from the city of Barcelona, perfect for a short day trip with your family.

The coastline has a rural, holiday feeling, with old white buildings, grassy dunes and rolling hills to enjoy.

Spend your day exploring the small sandy coves, snap pictures of the hills, and have paella and wine at one of the local restaurants. 

While this beach isn't as busy as some of the more popular beaches closer to the city center, it's part of its charm. Santa Pol de Mar is perfect for romantic getaways or quiet contemplation.

Barcelona is home to some of the world's best beaches. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding your favorite.

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