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Barcelona has it all: culture, gastronomy… and yes, beaches too. With over 5 km of coastline and a wide variety of beaches, the city offers something for everyone — from lively spots with a youthful vibe to quieter corners perfect for switching off and relaxing.

If you’re planning a sunny day by the Mediterranean, here’s a complete guide to the best beaches in Barcelona, what to expect from each one and which beach suits your plans best. 

Sant Sebastià Beach

Sant Sebastià Beach used to be a nudist beach and sits right next to Barcelona’s famous W Hotel, making it especially popular with tourists. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of excellent restaurants, perfect for combining a beach day with great food. There are also several beach bars, locally known as chiringuitos, where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a light snack overlooking the Mediterranean. Whether you’re after a peaceful spot to sunbathe or a lively social atmosphere, Sant Sebastià Beach has something for everyone.

Subway: Barceloneta (L4)

Sant Miquel

Sant Miquel is one of the busiest beaches in Barcelona and is the first beach after the metro station of Barceloneta neighborhood. Here, you can enjoy additional services such as beach sun loungers, beach umbrellas, beachfront bars, seaside restaurants and ice cream kiosks.

Subway: Barceloneta (L4)

Barceloneta

The most famous beach in Barcelona, thanks to its “sister” metro station, Barceloneta, is usually packed with tourists. However, it is also very close to the Barceloneta neighbourhood, which is a great spot if you’re looking to eat at authentic seafood restaurants in the city. Here you can also enjoy fresh fish, paella, and traditional Catalan dishes while soaking up the local culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore its hidden gems and charming beachfront cafés before heading back to the waves.

Tip: be careful with your belongings, this is one of the areas with the most pickpockets.
Subway: Barceloneta (L4)

Somorrostro

Located next to many of the city’s clubs, Somorrostro Beach is also popular among tourists. It is a smaller beach, less crowded than Barceloneta, and it is usually busy at all hours of the day with people coming and going from the clubs. This beach has been specially adapted for wheelchair users, making it a great option for those who need extra accessibility.

Subway: Ciutadella | Villa Olímpica (L4)

Nova Icària

Smaller than its neighbours, this beach is a good option for those looking for a quiet place to sunbathe. Like Somorrostro, Nova Icària is also wheelchair accessible and has volunteers available during the day to assist wheelchair users.

Subway: Ciutadella | Villa Olímpica (L4)

Bogatell

La playa de Bogatell es una de las playas con menos turistas de la ciudad, está frecuentada normalmente por locales. Es probable que se una de las playas más tranquilas de Barcelona. Aquí, tienes acceso a actividades recreativas, por ejemplo, hay mesas de ping-pong, una pista de fútbol, y una cancha de voleibol, asegurándote un día de mucha diversión.

Subway: Llacuna (L4)

Mar Bella

Es la playa nudista y la más popular dentro de la comunidad LGTBQ+ de Barcelona, Mar Bella, está dividida en dos partes: una para aquellos que les gusta desnudarse, y otro para aquellos que les guste dejárse el bañador puesto.

Subway:Poblenou (L4)

Llevant

The last beach along the metro coastline, Llevant, is also the newest in the city. It is located next to the Diagonal Mar shopping center and is surrounded by luxury apartment complexes. Thanks to its location, it is probably the quietest beach in the city.

Subway: Selva de Mar (L4)

Banys del Fòrum

An outdoor seawater pool, these natural baths are the perfect place to go if you don’t like having sand between your toes, but still want to experience the waters of the Mediterranean.

Subway: El Maresme | Forum (L4)

Other beaches

It’s quite common for locals to leave Barcelona when they’re looking for a beach day, using Renfe trains or bus connections. If you’d prefer to head out of the city for a day to soak up some sun, why not go to:

• Sitges
• Vilanova I la Geltrú
• Badalona
• Costa Brava: Vilassar de Mar, Arenys de Mar, Canet de Mar and Malgrat de Mar

Barcelona’s beaches offer something for every style: from the lively atmosphere of Barceloneta to quieter spots like Bogatell or Llevant, as well as more unique options such as the Banys del Fòrum. Whether you’re looking to relax or enjoy the city’s more social side, you’ll always find a beach that suits you.

And if you’re planning your trip, this is just the first step. On our website you’ll find apartments near the beach, complete city guides, and recommendations to help you make the most of your stay in Barcelona.