Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera
Often ranked among the world’s finest beaches, Playa de Ses Illetes on Formentera feels like a slice of the Caribbean transported to the Mediterranean. With soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear water, it’s the perfect place for swimming or lounging in tranquility. Protected as part of the Ses Salines Natural Park, the beach retains a wild charm despite its popularity. Its views of neighboring Ibiza add to the sense of island magic, and beach bars known as chiringuitos serve fresh seafood and cocktails right by the water.
Playa de las Catedrales, Galicia
Located near Ribadeo on Spain’s northern coast, Playa de las Catedrales (Cathedrals Beach) is a natural wonder carved by the Atlantic Ocean. Its name comes from the towering rock arches and caves that resemble the flying buttresses of a Gothic cathedral. At low tide, visitors can walk beneath these majestic formations and explore the hidden coves. The beach’s rugged beauty is best experienced early in the morning or at sunset when the light enhances the dramatic cliffs. Due to its popularity, visitor numbers are limited in summer, so it’s wise to reserve access in advance.
Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa
Playa de Bolonia in southern Andalusia remains one of Spain’s most unspoiled stretches of coastline. Its vast expanse of golden sand, backed by rolling dunes and pine forests, offers a sense of freedom and wilderness. The beach is part of the El Estrecho Natural Park, where windsurfers and kitesurfers take advantage of the strong Levante winds. History lovers will appreciate the nearby Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, an ancient city that once supplied fish sauce to the empire. Whether you’re sunbathing, hiking the dunes, or exploring the ruins, Bolonia feels like a timeless escape.
Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Famous for its iconic dunes, Playa de Maspalomas offers a desert-like landscape unlike anywhere else in Spain. Stretching over six kilometers on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, the beach transitions from lively resort areas to secluded naturist zones. The sweeping sand dunes, shaped by the wind, form part of a protected nature reserve that feels almost otherworldly. The nearby Maspalomas Lighthouse, standing since 1890, adds a touch of heritage to the modern luxury resorts surrounding it. Sunset here paints the sands in golden hues, creating an unforgettable view.
Playa de la Concha, San Sebastián
Few urban beaches are as elegant as Playa de la Concha, the sparkling jewel of San Sebastián in the Basque Country. Curving gracefully along the city’s bay, it combines the sophistication of a seaside promenade with the natural beauty of the Atlantic. The calm waters make it perfect for swimming, and the views of Santa Clara Island and the surrounding green hills are postcard-perfect. Locals and visitors alike gather here for sunbathing, volleyball, and evening strolls along the promenade. It’s a quintessential Spanish beach experience where culture and nature blend seamlessly.
Cala Macarella, Menorca
On the quieter island of Menorca lies Cala Macarella, a breathtaking cove framed by limestone cliffs and pine trees. The turquoise waters are almost impossibly clear, inviting you for a swim or snorkel among gentle waves. Accessible via a scenic coastal path or by car to a nearby parking area, Macarella has a remote feel while still being close to civilization. Its smaller neighbor, Cala Macarelleta, is a favorite for those seeking even more seclusion. Together, they represent the pristine Mediterranean beauty that Menorca is known for.
Playa de Cofete, Fuerteventura
Wild, remote, and awe-inspiring, Playa de Cofete is the definition of untamed beauty. Located on Fuerteventura’s southwestern coast, it stretches for over 12 kilometers with barely a building in sight.The mighty Atlantic waves crash against a backdrop of mountains, creating a dramatic scene that feels almost otherworldly. The journey to reach it—along a bumpy dirt road—adds to the sense of adventure. Cofete isn’t ideal for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s perfect for solitude seekers, photographers, and those who want to feel the raw force of nature.
Playa de los Genoveses, Almería
Hidden within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, Playa de los Genoveses offers a taste of pure Mediterranean wilderness. The beach is undeveloped, with no hotels or restaurants in sight, allowing the natural landscape of volcanic hills and golden sands to shine. It gets its name from a fleet of Genoese ships that landed here centuries ago. The calm, shallow waters are great for swimming, and the gentle curve of the bay provides a sense of seclusion. It’s a favorite among nature lovers and those looking to disconnect completely.
Playa de Rodas, Cíes Islands, Galicia
Once described by The Guardian as the “best beach in the world,” Playa de Rodas in the Cíes Islands is a true paradise within the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. The crescent-shaped beach connects two small islands with white powdery sand and emerald-green waters. Strict visitor limits preserve its fragile ecosystem, so it never feels crowded. The area is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, or simply lying in the sun surrounded by pristine nature. Accessible by ferry from Vigo during the summer, Rodas feels like an untouched Eden at Spain’s edge.
Playa de Aiguablava, Costa Brava
