9 Best Beach Towns to Visit in Spain

Looking to dig your toes into the sand and play in the ocean from sunup to sundown? Then it’s time to book a trip to Spain. 

From the wild and rugged Atlantic shores of Galicia and Andalusia to the more tranquil coves along the Mediterranean, the country offers a spectacular variety of coastal landscapes that are ideal for every kind of traveler. Spain’s seaside towns are steeped in history, culture, and culinary traditions that add the perfect backdrop to any beach getaway. Whether you’re seeking a glamorous retreat, a surf break, a tapas-filled haven, or simply an easy breezy place to soak in the Spanish lifestyle, there’s a stretch of sand and a seaside town waiting for you. Here are 9 beach towns travel experts say you should explore on your next visit to Spain. 

San Sebastián

San Sebastián regularly tops lists of Europe’s best beach towns, and experts like Bryan Lewis, founder of Tenon Tours, say that’s for a good reason. 

“Playa de la Concha is one of Europe’s most iconic city beaches, framed by a gorgeous bay and surrounding mountains,” Lewis explained. “The old town buzzes with pintxo bars, Michelin-starred dining, and lively local festivals. It’s the kind of place where you get the relaxed seaside charm of a coastal escape, while also experiencing the Basque traditions and celebrated food culture that make it feel distinctly Spanish.”

And the food isn’t the only reason to visit. Emily Bowerson of Explore with Emily noted that it’s a place where “travelers get the best of both worlds: a sophisticated city break and a relaxing seaside escape.” As for when to visit, Bowerson noted that late spring (May to June) or early fall (September) are perfect as “you’ll still get warm, sunny weather but avoid the peak summer crowds.” 

Marbella

Anyone seeking a little glitz and glamor should head to Marbella. “Marbella stands out as one of the best beach towns. I love its old-school charm,” Tiffany Layne, owner of LaVon Private Luxury, said. “The beaches are stunning, and the old town offers beautiful strolls where you can experience fashion, cuisine, and nightlife.” 

Foodie influencer Rebecca Casserly added that it’s another delightful place to get a bite to eat. “You’ve got everything from the viral ‘sexy pasta’ in Puerto Banus, to four Michelin-starred restaurants, and four restaurants from the famous chef Dani Garcia,” Casserly said. “The old town of Marbella is home to some of the most authentic Spanish restaurants, like my personal favorite La Taberna el Nina del Pisto, where you have to text the owner to get a booking or queue outside before it opens, as this place will already be full of locals at lunchtime.” 

Deia 

The entire island of Mallorca is worth exploring, but Deia is a standout. On a recent trip to check out the brand-new Son Xotano Hotel, I made my way to the charming town of Deia on the recommendation of a few locals, and it did not disappoint. The coastal village looks like it’s carved out of a single stone, and its main street is lined with adorable boutiques and charming cafes, including De Moniö, which sells fantastic bites along with handmade jewelry and ceramics made by its barista. 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 Spain, says Estepona is an ideal choice. 

“Estepona has grown into a charming alternative to Marbella, with a revitalized old town, floral streets, and excellent beaches,” Woolley said. He praised its more down-to-earth feel, along with its uncrowded beaches, “while still providing great dining and accommodation options.” Here, visitors will find street after street lined with flowers, plenty of space on the wide, sandy beach, and a plethora of tasty dining spots, like Restaurante La Escollera Estepona.

Cadaqués

Miguel Angel Gongora Meza, the founder of Evolution Treks, wants you to slow down when you’re in Spain—especially when you’re visiting beach towns like Cadaqués. “The most unfortunate thing a tourist could do is to hurry to the most popular beaches of Spain and forget about the towns where culture, calm, and natural beauty unite,” Meza said. “I prefer Cadaqués, a fishing town on the Costa Brava that continues to bear the artistic legacy of Salvador Dalí. It is intimate and inspiring because of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and rugged cliffs.” He noted that the nearby Cap de Creus National Park is “pristine” and worth a visit.

Georgia Fowkes, travel advisor for Altezza Travel, praises the town’s mixture of nature and history. “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

Travelers to Spain have the unique opportunity to stand at the edge of Europe and spot Morocco on the horizon in the town of Tarifa. “The beaches run so wide that the sand looks endless,” Fowkes said. “No other beach town gives you that elemental sense of geography and freedom: the Atlantic crashing on one side, the Mediterranean breathing on the other. It feels wild compared to the polished resort towns elsewhere in Spain.” And thanks to strong winds flowing between the two continents, it’s a prime kite and windsurfing destination. Visit in May to June or September to October for pleasant temperatures and steady winds, so you can watch the pro athletes do their work. 

Tossa de Mar

Allison Sicking, founder of Splendidly Spain, calls Tossa de Mar the perfect place to slow down. “Inside the old town walls, you’ll find cobblestone streets, local restaurants, and little shops that make it feel like stepping back in time,” Sicking said. “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 noted that there are also plenty of opportunities to get out on the water through kayaking, snorkeling, and boat trips. “And unlike some of the more developed resort towns, Tossa de Mar has really kept its authenticity, with no big hotel chains in sight.” While it’s certainly a summer destination, Sicking noted that visiting in September for the shoulder season provides an easier and more affordable trip, while still getting to experience all that great weather. 

El Masnou

For those wanting a Barcelona beach trip without the usual hustle and bustle, Maria Olazabal, CEO and founder of Ownia Collection, recommended Ocata in El Masnou. As for a spot to stay, she said nothing beats Mas Salagros, where “guests can enjoy wellness, nature, and gastronomy” about 20 minutes inland from the beach.

Valencia

Kevin Schreck, founder of Abroad in Valencia, can’t stop singing the praises of Valencia. And really, why would he? “The beach itself is enormous. Almost 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) long and wide enough to include a bunch of tiki bars, volleyball nets, and still have tons of space to lay out,” he shared. “And while you get plenty of beach access, you also have the city, huge public gardens, and close access to mountains. So it’s got a little bit of everything.”