Spain’s Sandy Shores - Find the most beloved beaches

Ah, Spain! The land of flamenco, fiestas, and, most importantly, fabulous playas. But not all beaches are created equal, and today, we’re taking a tongue-in-cheek tour of some of the most popular sandy spots where sunburns are a badge of honor and sand finds its way into your sandwiches.

La Concha Beach, San Sebastian

The Urban Retreat Nestled in the heart of San Sebastián, La Concha Beach is a harmonious blend of city life and seaside serenity. The beach’s golden sands serve as a canvas for the vibrant hues of beach umbrellas, while the calm, blue waters reflect the city’s elegant silhouette. The surrounding landscape is a picturesque postcard, with the Urgull and Igueldo mountains cradling the bay, offering a natural shield from the Atlantic’s whims.

The Social Tapestry of La Concha is a melting pot of locals and tourists, families and friends, all drawn to its urban charm. The promenade buzzes with the chatter of the Donostiarras, while children build sandcastles, and couples stroll hand in hand. It’s a beach that dresses up in the day and sparkles by night, a true jewel in the city’s crown.

Coordinates

43°19’12.0″N 1°59’38.4″W

Get there by car

La Concha is located in the city center of San Sebastian. You can easily reach it by following the city’s signage to the beach area.

Get there by public transport

The city buses in San Sebastian have stops near the beach. Look for lines 8, 9, 13, 14, 29, 33, 36, 37, 40, and 42.

Playa de Las Catedrales, Galicia

The Sculpted Marvel On the shores of Galicia, Playa de Las Catedrales stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. The majestic arches and caves, sculpted by the relentless sea, create a cathedral-like grandeur that leaves visitors in awe. The beach stretches out with fine white sand, inviting you to explore its natural wonders or simply bask in the sun’s embrace.

This beach attracts the curious and the adventurous. Photographers capture the dance of light through the arches, while explorers wander through the caves. It’s a place where every tide reveals new secrets, and every visit feels like the first.

Coordinates

43°33’17.6″N 7°09’34.8″W

Get there by car

Accessible via the A-8 motorway, take the exit for Ribadeo and follow the signs to the beach.

Get there by public transport

There is a direct ALSA bus from Santiago de Compostela to Ribadeo, and from there, you can take a local taxi or a seasonal shuttle to the beach.

Es Pujols, Formentera

The Azure Oasis Es Pujols is a vibrant beach that boasts crystal clear waters and a lively atmosphere. The white sandy beach is adorned with rocky formations and tiny islands, creating a mosaic of natural beauty. The surroundings transition from the beach’s clarity to the wild scenery of Migjorn and the rural charm of inland pathways. It is also a trendsetter’s paradise as he beach is a hotspot for the chic and trendy, where the latest swimwear fashions meet the timeless allure of the sea. It’s a place where the day’s heat is cooled by the splash of water sports and the evening brings a parade of stylish diners to the waterfront restaurants.

Coordinates

38°42’48.0″N 1°27’00.0″E

Get there by car

From the port of La Savina in Formentera, follow the signs to Es Pujols.

Get there by public transport

Buses L1, L2, and L7 connect La Savina, Sant Francesc, and Es Pujols. There’s also a tourist circuit bus (L3) that covers these areas.

Caló des Moro, Mallorca

Calo des Moro. Image: Fabian Schneidereit

The Hidden Cove Caló des Moro, a secluded paradise on Mallorca’s southern coast, is a cove where turquoise waters meet an intimate beach feel. The surrounding cliffs offer a dramatic backdrop to the serene beach, creating a secluded haven for those looking to escape the bustle of everyday life.

Despite its popularity, Caló des Moro retains a youthful vibe, with a crowd that brings a lively party atmosphere without the noise. It’s a place where laughter echoes against the cliffs and the sea becomes a playground for the young and the young at heart.

Coordinates

39°20’24.0″N 3°10’48.0″E

Get there by car

Located in southeast Mallorca, near Cala Llombards. Park at the large parking lot on Camí de Cala Llombards and follow the path to the beach.

Get there by public transport

Buses from Palma to Santanyí are available, and from there, you can take a taxi or a stroll to the beach.

Playa de Mónsul, Almería

The Cinematic Landscape Playa de Mónsul, set within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, is a beach that feels like a movie set. The central rock stack, known from Indiana Jones’ adventures, stands as a sentinel amidst the sharply eroded lava rocks and towering dune. The landscape is a rugged masterpiece, with volcanic features that tell tales of the earth’s fiery past. Mónsul is a beach that welcomes all – from the solitary wanderer to the bustling family. Its unspoiled nature makes it a canvas for the imagination, where every visit feels like a discovery. It’s a place where the past meets the present, and the natural world greets every guest with open arms.