Barcelona is, without a doubt, one of the busiest cities in Spain. It's a central business and finance hub in the country, as well as the capital city of the Catalonia region. With such a bustling metropolis, it's easy to forget that Barcelona is actually a coastal city, one that can rival the likes of Miami, Saint Tropez, and Ibiza. Sure, the most popular things to do here are within the city proper, however, going to the beach is one that both locals and tourists alike enjoy in the Catalonian capital. Among the many here, these five are arguably the best beaches in and near Barcelona.
Barceloneta Beach
Right off the bat, let's start with the city's most famous beach: Barceloneta Beach! The oldest public shoreline in Barcelona, it remains a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. It's definitely the most visited part of La Barceloneta, the seafaring
neighborhood of the city. Nowadays, the beach has become heavily commercialized, with a busy promenade area lined with seafood restaurants, cafes, and more. Though many deem this change as a hindrance to the area's natural beauty, it has helped draw more people due to its convenience. Nevertheless, the seaside fun here has remained the same for centuries.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bogatell Beach
702 meters of white sand make up Bogatell Beach, one of the more peaceful in Barcelona. Since the area isn't as commercialized as the others, it makes sense that the average age of beach-goers who visit here is the oldest out of all the beaches in Barcelona. If you want to simply relax and take the load off under the Mediterranean sun, this is your best bet. Unlike on other beaches, you'll rarely hear traffic jams, music from shops & restaurants, and the noises from
bars and nightclubs here. All you'll have is the sweet serenity of the seaside.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Carlos Cunh
Mar Bella Beach
You'll never find a more fascinating beach than Barcelona's Mar Bella Beach! Why? Because this shoreline is made up of two totally different areas. They're the complete opposite of each other in more ways than one. The first part is the nudist beach, where those who prefer to live life
au naturelle get to let it all hang out in their own centered space. The second part is the family-friendly area, packed with playgrounds, sports courts, and the like. You could probably already tell that both are on the opposite sides of the spectrum, but overall, the beach has remained peaceful and harmonious despite the differences.
Source: Flickr.com/ Praktyczny Przewodnik
Nova Mar Bella Beach
The reason why Nova Mar Bella Beach is considered one of the best in Barcelona is because it welcomes everyone. This isn't to say that the other beaches are more exclusive, but rather, the shoreline's famous consideration for the disabled makes it a more open space where everyone can enjoy a day under the sun. With volunteers on hand, the beach's famous walkway allows everyone to enjoy a cool dip or some sandy fun, no matter his/her disability. Do keep in mind, however, that the area's available help services require advance notice if needed.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Jordiferrer
Nova Icària Beach
Although Nova Icària Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Barcelona, ironically enough, it's also among the calmest and most peaceful. Just like Bogatell Beach, this 400-meter long stretch of white sands and clear waters is the best for rest and relaxation. It's also a fair distance away from the more urban areas of the city, making it more of an escape than a typical hotspot. Even when taking the most common
public transport systems, it will still take a while for you to get here. What made it so popular in the first place is the 1992 Olympics, where the shoreline hosted some of the sporting events at the time.
Source: Flickr.com/ OK Apartment
Just so you know, Barcelona is actually home to some incredible beaches! These shorelines may not be the most famous in the country, but they're worth checking out when you want some sunshine fun or a tinge of natural beauty in the bustling metropolis.
If you're bored of spending some leisure time in your
luxury home in Barcelona, going to any of these amazing beaches is a great alternative!
