Calling all beach lovers! Check out this guide to the best Spanish seaside destinations to discover which you should explore this summer. From far-flung islands with striking scenery and a subtropical climate to lively beach resorts in popular Costas along the Spanish mainland, there’s a diverse range of options to suit all types of travellers.
Canary Islands
Positioned just off the northwest coast of Africa, “the Canaries” as they are fondly known is a collection of seven islands formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. They’re hailed for their striking black-sand beaches and mountainous interiors, and blessed with a subtropical climate for pleasant beach bathing almost year-round. Discover the two that should top your bucket list.
1. Gran Canaria
The third largest island in the collection, Gran Canaria is the destination for outdoor adventure.
Head inland for beautiful biking and hiking trails in the countryside. Discover panoramic views and lush pine forests in Tamadaba Natural Park and explore the centuries-old cave and temple complex Risco Caído, recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When it comes to your beach time, choose between sleepy towns and villages overflowing with charm or big resorts bursting with facilities and nightlife like Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas. Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria – not to be confused with the Caribbean island – on the southwestcoast is a prime spot for dolphin and whale watching tours.
2. Lanzarote
Experience environments with a unique beauty in Lanzarote, the fourth largest Canary Island.
Unspoiled landscapes abound here, and the entire island has World Biosphere Reserve status. Whether it’s the golden, red and black sand beaches lapped by clear turquoise waters or the strange rocky interiors that will make you feel you’ve landed on the moon, you’ll be transported.
Top tip: Lanzarote is fantastic for water sports, especially Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca. Try snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing – including kitesurfing and windsurfing – and jet skiing.
Balearic Islands
Closer to the mainland of Spain are the Balearic Islands, a four-part archipelago noted for its spectacular scenery and vibrant towns offering delicious traditional dishes and fantastic nightlife.
3. Mallorca
Celebrating local culture in the main cities and towns is one of the best things to do in Mallorca. The capital, Palma, has a historic cathedral and ancient Roman and Moorish remains that contrast with its buzzing bars and shops. Pollença is the destination for arts, with great galleries and an annual music festival.
The Mallorca beach resorts offer year-round water sports for travellers of all ages including sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving, kite surfing and wakeboarding. It’s also a great place for a road trip, as driving in Mallorca makes it much more accessible.
4. Ibiza
Known all over the world as a party destination, Ibiza is more than its strips with bars and clubs. Away from the main tourist trail, you’ll find near-deserted beaches with rustic cafés serving the catch of the day and sheltered coves where you can walk the shady cliffs and relax in mud baths.
Its Mediterranean climate makes Ibiza a great shoulder-season beach destination for those who prefer to visit between April and June and September and October rather than the busy summer holidays.
Spanish mainland
You don’t have to go to the islands to find fabulous beaches: stick to the south and east coast of the Spanish mainland and you’ll come across a range of amazing destinations you’ll never want to leave.
5. Valencia
Directly inland from Mallorca is the city of Valencia, noted for its rich culture and striking architecture. Modern museums praised for their engaging exhibitions sit alongside traditional temples and an art nouveau market selling fresh produce.
Away from the city, cycle peaceful paths through the Turia Gardens, visit traditional fishing towns to sample piping hot paella and explore the coastline beyond the promenade where tranquil beaches await.
6. Marbella
Looking to live a life of luxury for a week or two – or three? Head to Marbella, a beach town on the Costa del Sol where opulence knows no bounds. Stay in five-star accommodation, dine at one of the 17 Michelin-star restaurants in Marbella and play a round of golf at one of the 15 world-class courses.
The hotspot of the coastline is the Golden Mile. Flanked by upmarket shops, nightclubs and endless eateries, this stretchends at a marina where luxury yachts flock throughout the season.
7. Benidorm
Just 30 minutes from the airport if you take advantage of Alicante to Benidorm transfers in private vehicles, this beach town on the Costa Blanca is a popular choice for families seeking sun. As well as the easy logistics, there are lots of child-friendly things to do including water parks, an aquarium and swimming and sea-based sports by the beach.
Playa de Levante is adored by families due to its proximity to the shops and cafés of town and the long sandy strip begging for sandcastles to be built. Playa Mal Pas is equally exquisite but quieter, perfect for those seeking a peaceful holiday base.
Main Image – Photo by Riccardo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/group-of-people-on-blue-body-of-water-307007/
2nd Image – Photo by Attila Marosi: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-lighthouse-2353333/