The best beaches in Barcelona
The Barcelona city beaches offer something for every beach-lover. Here we present five options for different types of visitors
By Fabiola Chirinos
06/07/2017
Some people say that once you visit a beach, you know them all. But each of Barcelona’s beaches has its own particular charm. From calm areas to enjoy days of relaxation, to popular spaces with bars with DJs and youthful energy. Among all the options that we offer here you will for sure find a beach where you will want to enjoy and get your feet wet!
Barceloneta. Barceloneta is the most popular beach in the city. It often fill up with visitors during the summer. The reason is simple: it is located closer to the center of Barcelona and its emblematic buildings. So you could stop and enjoy it and then continue your cultural tour if you wish. In addition, it is the beach with the most lively atmosphere. It has restaurants, bars and beach bars where you can try tapas or try sea food. You can also practice water sports such as kayaking or windsurfing. It is preferred by young visitors looking for entertainment during their visit.
Nova Icaria. Nova Icaria has an extension of 400 m of quiet and safe beach. It is perfect for families traveling together. You can also practice water sports there, so there is also a young crowd who is attracted to this area, but it is usually less frequented than Barceloneta. Its restaurants and bars stand out. It has a play area, with table tennis and volleyball court. And, for your shopping needs, you will have the Mall Icaria, which has VO cinema, where you can find a movie in your native language in the vicinity. It is located next to the Olympic marina and the observatory.
Mar Bella. Mar Bella is highly frequented by young people. The first thing you hear about it is that it has a nudist area, one of the two beaches of this style in the city. It was restored during the Olympic Games that took place in Barcelona, and in it you will find several options for cafes and restaurants. Here you will not find as many bars as in Barceloneta, but it is usually very lively during summer Sundays. It is one of the most gay friendly beaches.
Bogatell. Bogatell is one of the smallest beaches, only 600 meters in length. But it offers one of the most beautiful and clean spaces in Barcelona. The calm and security that characterizes it, makes it the favorite of locals during the summer. It is much less frequented than the other beaches in this listing, which makes it attractive for travelers looking for a relaxing experience. It has a lifeguard service and showers, and is located in the district of Sant Martí.
Castelldefels. The last beach in this list is located outside of the city. You can reach it by 20 minutes by train. It is very popular for those who enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing. Along its five kilometers you will find several options where to eat. Restaurants and “chiringuitos” (small “beach huts”) offer you tapas, snacks or simple meals with sea view. It is often visited and is located south of the center of Barcelona.