The best beach towns to visit in Spain

Want to play in the sand from sunrise to sunset? Book a vacation to Spain. 

The country has a wide range of coastlines, from the rugged and wild Atlantic coasts of Galicia or Andalusia, to the quieter coves on the Mediterranean. It offers something for everyone. Spain’s coastal towns are rich in culture, history and culinary traditions, making them the perfect backdrop for any beach vacation. There’s a beach town for everyone, whether you want a glamorous retreat or a place where you can enjoy tapas and the Spanish lifestyle. Here are nine beach towns that travel experts suggest you visit on your next Spain trip. 

San Sebastián

San Sebastián regularly tops lists of Europe’s best beach towns, and experts like Bryan Lewis, founder of Tenon ToursSay that it’s a good thing. 

Lewis explained that “Playa de la Concha” is Europe’s most famous city beach, with a stunning bay and surrounding mountains. “The old city buzzes with Pintxo Bars, Michelin starred dining and vibrant local festivals. The relaxed coastal charm is a great way to enjoy a relaxing getaway. You’ll also get accustomed to the Basque culture and food, which makes it feel distinctively Spanish.”

The food isn’t your only reason for visiting. Emily Bowerson Explore with Emily It’s also a place that “travelers can enjoy the best of both worlds, a sophisticated city getaway and a relaxing beach escape.” Bowerson suggested that the best time to visit is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September), as you’ll get warm weather and avoid summer crowds. 

Marbella

Marbella is the place to go for those who want a bit of glitz. “Marbella is one of the most beautiful beach towns. Tiffany Layne is the owner of LaVon Private Luxury, said. “The beaches and old town are beautiful, with a variety of fashion, food, and nightlife to experience.” 

Foodie influencer Rebecca Casserly Additionally, it is a delightful place to grab some food. Casserly stated that you can find everything from the’sexy’ pasta in Puerto Banus to the four Michelin-starred and four restaurants of the famous chef Dani Garcia. “The Old Town of Marbella has some of the best authentic Spanish restaurants like my favorite.” La Taberna el Nina del PistoThe place will be packed at lunchtime with locals. 

Deia 

Deia, a small town on the island of Mallorca, is well worth visiting. A recent trip to the brand-new Son Xotano HotelOn the advice of locals, I visited the charming town Deia, and was not disappointed. The small coastal town looks as if it was carved from a single block of stone. Its main street is lined by cute boutiques and charming coffee shops, including De MoniöThe barista makes ceramics and jewelry, as well as delicious bites. From here, you can head down to Cala de Deià for a swim in those gin-clear waters.

Estepona

For a quieter trip, Sean Woolley, CEO of Spanish real estate agency Cloud Nine SpainEstepona is a great choice, according to. 

Woolley noted that “Estepona” has become a charming, alternative to Marbella. It boasts a revitalized, old town with floral streets as well as excellent beaches. Woolley said that the town’s more laid-back feel and uncrowded beaches were appealing, while still offering “great dining and accommodation choices.” Visitors will enjoy the flower-lined streets, wide sandy beaches, and many dining options. Restaurante La Escollera Estepona.

Cadaqués

Miguel Angel Gongora Meza was the founder and creator of Evolution Treks, wants you to slow down when you’re in Spain—especially when you’re visiting beach towns like Cadaqués. Meza stated that the worst thing for a tourist to do would be to rush to the popular beaches in Spain, while ignoring the towns with culture, calm and natural beauty. “I prefer Cadaqués, a fishing town on the Costa Brava that continues to bear the artistic legacy of Salvador Dalí. The cobbled streets and whitewashed homes, as well as the rugged cliffs, make it a charming and inspiring place. He said that the Cap de Creus National Park, which is nearby, was “pristine” and well worth a trip.

Georgia Fowkes travel advisor for Altezza TravelThe combination of nature and historical significance is celebrated by. “You can swim in hidden pebble coves in the morning, wander narrow streets where art still hangs in every corner, visit Dalí’s eccentric house in nearby Portlligat, or take a boat to the headlands of Cap de Creus.”

Tarifa

In the town of Tarifa, travelers to Spain can stand on the edge of Europe to see Morocco in the distance. Fowkes stated that “the beaches are so long and wide, the sand seems to go on forever.” “No other town offers such a sense of geography and liberation: the Atlantic is crashing on one end, and the Mediterranean on the opposite. The wildness of the place is a stark contrast to other polished resorts in Spain. It’s also a top kite- and windsurfing spot thanks to the strong winds that flow between the two continents. You can enjoy pleasant temperatures in May, June, or September-October and watch pro athletes at work. 

Tossa de Mar

Allison Sicking founder of Splendidly SpainTossa de Mar, according to, is a great place to relax. Sicking says that inside the old town walls you will find cobblestones streets, small shops, and local restaurants. It’s like going back in time. “You can spend the day stretched out on the main beach, slip through the castle walls to discover hidden coves, or even hike part of the Camí de Ronda trail that runs along the coast.” Sicking also noted that kayaking, boat trips, and snorkeling are all great ways to enjoy the water. Tossa de Mar is a more authentic resort town than some other developed resorts. No big hotel chains are visible. Sicking said that while it is a great summer destination, he recommends visiting during the shoulder season in September to enjoy all of that wonderful weather. 

El Masnou

Those who want to know more about a Barcelona Maria Olazabal is the CEO and founder at Ownia CollectionOcata is located in El Masnou. Mas Salagros in El Masnou is her top recommendation for a place to stay. “Guests can enjoy wellness, natural beauty, and gastronomy,” she says.

Valencia

Kevin Schreck is the founder of Abroad in ValenciaValencia’s praises are endless. And why would he want to? The beach is huge. “The beach itself is enormous. It’s almost 20 kilometers long (12.4miles) and wide enough for tiki bar, volleyball nets and plenty of space to relax,” he said. “While you have plenty of access to the beach, you can also enjoy the city, large public gardens and mountains nearby. “It’s got something for everyone.”