The Beaches of Barcelona: Guide to Barceloneta, Bogatell, and the Hidden Coves
Barcelona is one of the few European capitals with kilometers of urban beaches just a short walk from the city center. From the famous Barceloneta promenade to quieter, family-friendly beaches like Bogatell and Nova Icària, to the wild coves of the nearby Costa Brava, the city offers a wide range for those who want to combine culture, art, and relaxation by the sea. Check out the guide:vacation in Barcelona
The Beaches of Barcelona: Guide to Barceloneta, Bogatell, and the Hidden Coves
Barcelona is one of the few European capitals with kilometers of urban beaches just a short walk from the city center. From the famous Barceloneta promenade to quieter, family-friendly beaches like Bogatell and Nova Icària, to the wild coves of the nearby Costa Brava, the city offers a wide range for those who want to combine culture, art, and relaxation by the sea.
This guide will take you on a journey to discover all the beaches of Barcelona, with tips on which to choose based on your needs, how to reach them, the available services, and the best hidden coves nearby for an unforgettable day at the beach.
The Beaches of Barcelona: Overview
Barcelona has about 4.5 kilometers of urban beaches, all sandy and equipped, with free access. They were renovated for the 1992 Olympics and have since become a landmark for locals and tourists.
The main beaches, from southwest to northeast, are:
Sant Sebastià
Barceloneta
Somorrostro
Nova Icària
Bogatell
Mar Bella
Nova Mar Bella
Llevant
Every beach has its own personality, audience, and services. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose.
Barceloneta: The Most Famous Beach
La Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, the one that appears on all the postcards. It is located in front of the neighborhood of the same name, the old fishing village.
Features
Sand: fine and golden.
Length: about 1,100 meters.
Crowd: mixed, with many tourists and young people.
Atmosphere: lively, chaotic, international.
Services
La Barceloneta is the best-equipped beach. You will find:
Showers and public restrooms.
Rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (about 10-15 euros per day).
Chiringuitos (beach bars) where you can eat and drink.
Wooden walkways for access to the sea.
Children's play areas.
Changing rooms.
Strengths
Central location: reachable on foot from the center in 15-20 minutes.
Lively atmosphere: full of bars, music, and people.
Spectacular sunsets: the sun setting over the sea is a unique experience.
Weaknesses
Crowding: in summer it is extremely crowded, difficult to find space.
Pickpockets: the high concentration of tourists attracts pickpockets.
Water: not always crystal clear due to maritime traffic.
Tips
Arrive early in the morning (before 10:00) to find a good spot.
Keep an eye on your personal belongings.
To eat, move away from the beach and look for restaurants in the side streets of Barceloneta.
Bogatell: The Local's Beach
Bogatell is considered by Barcelonans to be the best beach in the city. Less touristy than Barceloneta, more spacious and tidy.
Features
Sand: fine and clean.
Length: about 600 meters.
Crowd: predominantly local, families and young people.
Atmosphere: relaxed, tidy, less chaotic.
Services
Showers, restrooms, walkways.
Umbrella and sunbed rentals.
Beach bars.
Beach volleyball and beach tennis courts.
Children's playground.
Strengths
Less crowded: especially in the side areas.
Cleanliness: considered the cleanest beach in Barcelona.
Popular with locals: more authentic atmosphere.
Weaknesses
Fewer dining servicescompared to Barceloneta.
Further from the center: 20-25 minutes on foot from Barceloneta.
Tips
Ideal for families with children.
Perfect for those looking for a quiet but well-equipped beach.
Accessible by subway (L4, stop Bogatell or Llacuna).
Nova Icària: The Family Beach
Nova Icària is located between Barceloneta and Bogatell, and is particularly appreciated by families.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 400 meters.
Crowd: families, children, couples.
Atmosphere: calm and family-friendly.
Services
All standard services (showers, restrooms, walkways).
Large play areas for children.
Umbrella and sunbed rentals.
Beach bars.
Strengths
Child-friendly: shallow water and fine sand.
Quiet: less chaotic than Barceloneta.
Close to Port Olímpic: after the beach, you can take a walk in the port.
Tips
Ideal for families with small children.
Nearby there are parks and green areas to play.
Mar Bella: The Alternative Beach
Mar Bella is the youngest and most alternative beach in Barcelona. It is the only officially nudist beach in the city.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 500 meters.
Audience: young people, LGBT community, nudists.
Atmosphere: free, alternative, inclusive.
Services
All standard services.
Designated nudist area.
Beach volleyball courts.
Chiringuitos with music.
Strengths
Free atmosphere: no taboos, inclusive.
Less touristy: frequented by locals.
Proximity to the Fòrum: interesting to visit.
Tips
Nudism is practiced but not mandatory.
Ideal for those looking for a less conventional beach.
Accessible by L4 metro (Poblenou or Selva de Mar stop).
Llevant: The Quietest Beach
Llevant is the last beach in Barcelona, the northernmost, and it is also the least crowded.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 400 meters.
Audience: few tourists, mostly locals.
Atmosphere: very quiet, almost isolated.
Services
Essential services (showers, restrooms).
Fewer chiringuitos compared to other beaches.
Strengths
Little crowd: even in summer you can find space.
Tranquility: ideal for those seeking relaxation.
Proximity to the Forum.
Tips
Perfect for those who want to escape the crowd.
Bring water and food as services are limited.
Sant Sebastià and Somorrostro
Sant Sebastià is the closest beach to the center, just after Port Vell. Somorrostro is located between Sant Sebastià and Barceloneta.
Features
Sant Sebastià: quieter than Barceloneta, also frequented by families.
Somorrostro: known for being the place where the dancer Carmen Amaya lived. Today it is popular with young people.
Both are valid alternatives if Barceloneta is too crowded.
Chiringuitos: Beach Bars
Chiringuitos are beach bars, perfect for a drink, a quick meal, or an aperitif at sunset. Most open from May to September.
The Best Chiringuitos
Chiringuito Escribà (Barceloneta)
Run by the famous pastry shop Escribà, it offers quality tapas and cocktails. The atmosphere is elegant, with designer sunbeds and umbrellas.
El Chiringuito de la Barceloneta
Historic chiringuito, frequented by locals. Great for fresh fish and tapas.
La Morera (Bogatell)
Modern chiringuito with quality cuisine. Perfect for lunch or an aperitif at sunset.
Vai Moana (Nova Icària)
Caribbean atmosphere, music, and cocktails. Ideal for those looking for a festive vibe.
Coves and Hidden Beaches Outside Barcelona
If you have time and want to discover wilder and less crowded beaches, the Costa Brava offers hidden coves of extraordinary beauty. Here are the best ones reachable in a day.
Costa Brava: Dream Coves
Cala del Golfet (Palamós)
A small cove of pebbles and sand, surrounded by pine trees. Crystal clear water. Accessible with a short walk from the parking lot.
Cala Estreta (Palamós)
One of the wildest coves on the Costa Brava. No services, ideal for those seeking peace and nature. Access requires a 20-minute walk.
Cala Sa Boadella (Lloret de Mar)
One of the few untouched coves near Lloret. Fine sand and clear water.
Cala del Senyor Ramon (Santa Cristina d'Aro)
Small and intimate, surrounded by vegetation. Perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowd.
Cala de l'Illa Roja (Begur)
Known for its red rock emerging from the sea. One of the most photographed coves on the Costa Brava.
How to Reach the Coves
By car: the best way to explore the Costa Brava. From Barcelona, take the AP-7 highway north and follow the signs to the Costa Brava (about 1-2 hours).
By train: the train goes as far as Blanes, but for the more hidden coves, you need your own transport.
By bus: there are connections from Barcelona to Tossa de Mar, Lloret, and Palamós, but the coves must be reached on foot or by local buses.
Tip: leave early in the morning (7:00-8:00) to avoid traffic and find parking.
Services and Safety on the Beaches
General Services
All the beaches in Barcelona offer:
Showers and public restrooms (free).
Wooden walkways for access to the sea.
Rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (10-15 euros per day).
Beach bars.
Red Cross stations (from June to September).
Children's play areas (at some beaches).
Safety
Pickpockets: are active on crowded beaches. Do not leave valuables unattended on the sand.
Flags: respect the safety flags. Green: calm sea. Yellow: moderate waves, caution. Red: dangerous sea, swimming prohibited.
Waves: on some days the sea can be rough. Be careful if you are not an experienced swimmer.
How to Reach the Beaches
By Metro
Barceloneta: L4 (Barceloneta stop)
Bogatell: L4 (Bogatell or Llacuna stop)
Nova Icària: L4 (Ciutadella – Vila Olímpica stop)
Mar Bella: L4 (Poblenou or Selva de Mar stop)
Llevant: L4 (El Maresme – Fòrum stop)
By Bus
Numerous bus lines connect the city center to the beaches: V15, V19, H14, H16.
On Foot
From Plaça Catalunya, Barceloneta is about a 25-30 minute walk. Bogatell is about 40 minutes.
By Bicycle
The promenade has a bike path that connects all the beaches. You can rent a bike and reach the beach in 10-15 minutes from the center.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Beaches of Barcelona
What is the most beautiful beach in Barcelona?
Bogatell is considered by locals to be the most beautiful for its cleanliness and services. Mar Bella is the most alternative. Barceloneta is the most famous.
Is the water at the beaches of Barcelona clean?
Yes, the beaches of Barcelona undergo regular checks and meet European standards. After heavy rains, water quality may temporarily worsen due to runoff.
Can you swim in Barcelona all year round?
Technically yes, but the water is cold from November to May (12-17°C). The swimming season runs from June to September (20-25°C).
Are the beaches of Barcelona accessible for disabled people?
Yes, many beaches have facilities for disabled people: walkways to the sea, job chairs (amphibious wheelchairs), and accessible restrooms. The most accessible beaches are Bogatell, Nova Icària, and Llevant.
What are the least crowded beaches in Barcelona?
Llevant and the ends of Bogatell and Nova Mar Bella are the least crowded. Alternatively, the coves of the Costa Brava offer even more tranquility.
Are there nudist beaches in Barcelona?
Yes, Mar Bella has an official nudist area. At other beaches, nudism is tolerated but not officially allowed.
How much does a beach umbrella and a sunbed cost?
About 10-15 euros per day for an umbrella and two sunbeds. In some beach bars, the rental is free with a purchase.
What to do in case of bad weather?
If it rains or the sea is rough, visit the museums (MNAC, Picasso Museum, Miró Foundation) or the shopping centers (Maremagnum, Diagonal Mar). The Aquarium and CosmoCaixa are also great alternatives.
Revision date: April 2026
The Beaches of Barcelona: Guide to Barceloneta, Bogatell, and the Hidden Coves
Barcelona is one of the few European capitals with kilometers of urban beaches just a short walk from the city center. From the famous Barceloneta promenade to quieter, family-friendly beaches like Bogatell and Nova Icària, to the wild coves of the nearby Costa Brava, the city offers a wide range for those who want to combine culture, art, and relaxation by the sea.
This guide will take you on a journey to discover all the beaches of Barcelona, with tips on which to choose based on your needs, how to reach them, the available services, and the best hidden coves nearby for an unforgettable day at the beach.
The Beaches of Barcelona: Overview
Barcelona has about 4.5 kilometers of urban beaches, all sandy and equipped, with free access. They were renovated for the 1992 Olympics and have since become a landmark for locals and tourists.
The main beaches, from southwest to northeast, are:
Sant Sebastià
Barceloneta
Somorrostro
Nova Icària
Bogatell
Mar Bella
Nova Mar Bella
Llevant
Every beach has its own personality, audience, and services. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose.
Barceloneta: The Most Famous Beach
La Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, the one that appears on all the postcards. It is located in front of the neighborhood of the same name, the old fishing village.
Features
Sand: fine and golden.
Length: about 1,100 meters.
Crowd: mixed, with many tourists and young people.
Atmosphere: lively, chaotic, international.
Services
La Barceloneta is the best-equipped beach. You will find:
Showers and public restrooms.
Rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (about 10-15 euros per day).
Chiringuitos (beach bars) where you can eat and drink.
Wooden walkways for access to the sea.
Children's play areas.
Changing rooms.
Strengths
Central location: reachable on foot from the center in 15-20 minutes.
Lively atmosphere: full of bars, music, and people.
Spectacular sunsets: the sun setting over the sea is a unique experience.
Weaknesses
Crowding: in summer it is extremely crowded, difficult to find space.
Pickpockets: the high concentration of tourists attracts pickpockets.
Water: not always crystal clear due to maritime traffic.
Tips
Arrive early in the morning (before 10:00) to find a good spot.
Keep an eye on your personal belongings.
To eat, move away from the beach and look for restaurants in the side streets of Barceloneta.
Bogatell: The Local's Beach
Bogatell is considered by Barcelonans to be the best beach in the city. Less touristy than Barceloneta, more spacious and tidy.
Features
Sand: fine and clean.
Length: about 600 meters.
Crowd: predominantly local, families and young people.
Atmosphere: relaxed, tidy, less chaotic.
Services
Showers, restrooms, walkways.
Umbrella and sunbed rentals.
Beach bars.
Beach volleyball and beach tennis courts.
Children's playground.
Strengths
Less crowded: especially in the side areas.
Cleanliness: considered the cleanest beach in Barcelona.
Popular with locals: more authentic atmosphere.
Weaknesses
Fewer dining servicescompared to Barceloneta.
Further from the center: 20-25 minutes on foot from Barceloneta.
Tips
Ideal for families with children.
Perfect for those looking for a quiet but well-equipped beach.
Accessible by subway (L4, stop Bogatell or Llacuna).
Nova Icària: The Family Beach
Nova Icària is located between Barceloneta and Bogatell, and is particularly appreciated by families.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 400 meters.
Crowd: families, children, couples.
Atmosphere: calm and family-friendly.
Services
All standard services (showers, restrooms, walkways).
Large play areas for children.
Umbrella and sunbed rentals.
Beach bars.
Strengths
Child-friendly: shallow water and fine sand.
Quiet: less chaotic than Barceloneta.
Close to Port Olímpic: after the beach, you can take a walk in the port.
Tips
Ideal for families with small children.
Nearby there are parks and green areas to play.
Mar Bella: The Alternative Beach
Mar Bella is the youngest and most alternative beach in Barcelona. It is the only officially nudist beach in the city.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 500 meters.
Audience: young people, LGBT community, nudists.
Atmosphere: free, alternative, inclusive.
Services
All standard services.
Designated nudist area.
Beach volleyball courts.
Chiringuitos with music.
Strengths
Free atmosphere: no taboos, inclusive.
Less touristy: frequented by locals.
Proximity to the Fòrum: interesting to visit.
Tips
Nudism is practiced but not mandatory.
Ideal for those looking for a less conventional beach.
Accessible by L4 metro (Poblenou or Selva de Mar stop).
Llevant: The Quietest Beach
Llevant is the last beach in Barcelona, the northernmost, and it is also the least crowded.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 400 meters.
Audience: few tourists, mostly locals.
Atmosphere: very quiet, almost isolated.
Services
Essential services (showers, restrooms).
Fewer chiringuitos compared to other beaches.
Strengths
Little crowd: even in summer you can find space.
Tranquility: ideal for those seeking relaxation.
Proximity to the Forum.
Tips
Perfect for those who want to escape the crowd.
Bring water and food as services are limited.
Sant Sebastià and Somorrostro
Sant Sebastià is the closest beach to the center, just after Port Vell. Somorrostro is located between Sant Sebastià and Barceloneta.
Features
Sant Sebastià: quieter than Barceloneta, also frequented by families.
Somorrostro: known for being the place where the dancer Carmen Amaya lived. Today it is popular with young people.
Both are valid alternatives if Barceloneta is too crowded.
Chiringuitos: Beach Bars
Chiringuitos are beach bars, perfect for a drink, a quick meal, or an aperitif at sunset. Most open from May to September.
The Best Chiringuitos
Chiringuito Escribà (Barceloneta)
Run by the famous pastry shop Escribà, it offers quality tapas and cocktails. The atmosphere is elegant, with designer sunbeds and umbrellas.
El Chiringuito de la Barceloneta
Historic chiringuito, frequented by locals. Great for fresh fish and tapas.
La Morera (Bogatell)
Modern chiringuito with quality cuisine. Perfect for lunch or an aperitif at sunset.
Vai Moana (Nova Icària)
Caribbean atmosphere, music, and cocktails. Ideal for those looking for a festive vibe.
Coves and Hidden Beaches Outside Barcelona
If you have time and want to discover wilder and less crowded beaches, the Costa Brava offers hidden coves of extraordinary beauty. Here are the best ones reachable in a day.
Costa Brava: Dream Coves
Cala del Golfet (Palamós)
A small cove of pebbles and sand, surrounded by pine trees. Crystal clear water. Accessible with a short walk from the parking lot.
Cala Estreta (Palamós)
One of the wildest coves on the Costa Brava. No services, ideal for those seeking peace and nature. Access requires a 20-minute walk.
Cala Sa Boadella (Lloret de Mar)
One of the few untouched coves near Lloret. Fine sand and clear water.
Cala del Senyor Ramon (Santa Cristina d'Aro)
Small and intimate, surrounded by vegetation. Perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowd.
Cala de l'Illa Roja (Begur)
Known for its red rock emerging from the sea. One of the most photographed coves on the Costa Brava.
How to Reach the Coves
By car: the best way to explore the Costa Brava. From Barcelona, take the AP-7 highway north and follow the signs to the Costa Brava (about 1-2 hours).
By train: the train goes as far as Blanes, but for the more hidden coves, you need your own transport.
By bus: there are connections from Barcelona to Tossa de Mar, Lloret, and Palamós, but the coves must be reached on foot or by local buses.
Tip: leave early in the morning (7:00-8:00) to avoid traffic and find parking.
Services and Safety on the Beaches
General Services
All the beaches in Barcelona offer:
Showers and public restrooms (free).
Wooden walkways for access to the sea.
Rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (10-15 euros per day).
Beach bars.
Red Cross stations (from June to September).
Children's play areas (at some beaches).
Safety
Pickpockets: are active on crowded beaches. Do not leave valuables unattended on the sand.
Flags: respect the safety flags. Green: calm sea. Yellow: moderate waves, caution. Red: dangerous sea, swimming prohibited.
Waves: on some days the sea can be rough. Be careful if you are not an experienced swimmer.
How to Reach the Beaches
By Metro
Barceloneta: L4 (Barceloneta stop)
Bogatell: L4 (Bogatell or Llacuna stop)
Nova Icària: L4 (Ciutadella – Vila Olímpica stop)
Mar Bella: L4 (Poblenou or Selva de Mar stop)
Llevant: L4 (El Maresme – Fòrum stop)
By Bus
Numerous bus lines connect the city center to the beaches: V15, V19, H14, H16.
On Foot
From Plaça Catalunya, Barceloneta is about a 25-30 minute walk. Bogatell is about 40 minutes.
By Bicycle
The promenade has a bike path that connects all the beaches. You can rent a bike and reach the beach in 10-15 minutes from the center.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Beaches of Barcelona
What is the most beautiful beach in Barcelona?
Bogatell is considered by locals to be the most beautiful for its cleanliness and services. Mar Bella is the most alternative. Barceloneta is the most famous.
Is the water at the beaches of Barcelona clean?
Yes, the beaches of Barcelona undergo regular checks and meet European standards. After heavy rains, water quality may temporarily worsen due to runoff.
Can you swim in Barcelona all year round?
Technically yes, but the water is cold from November to May (12-17°C). The swimming season runs from June to September (20-25°C).
Are the beaches of Barcelona accessible for disabled people?
Yes, many beaches have facilities for disabled people: walkways to the sea, job chairs (amphibious wheelchairs), and accessible restrooms. The most accessible beaches are Bogatell, Nova Icària, and Llevant.
What are the least crowded beaches in Barcelona?
Llevant and the ends of Bogatell and Nova Mar Bella are the least crowded. Alternatively, the coves of the Costa Brava offer even more tranquility.
Are there nudist beaches in Barcelona?
Yes, Mar Bella has an official nudist area. At other beaches, nudism is tolerated but not officially allowed.
How much does a beach umbrella and a sunbed cost?
About 10-15 euros per day for an umbrella and two sunbeds. In some beach bars, the rental is free with a purchase.
What to do in case of bad weather?
If it rains or the sea is rough, visit the museums (MNAC, Picasso Museum, Miró Foundation) or the shopping centers (Maremagnum, Diagonal Mar). The Aquarium and CosmoCaixa are also great alternatives.
Revision date: April 2026
This guide will take you on a journey to discover all the beaches of Barcelona, with tips on which to choose based on your needs, how to reach them, the available services, and the best hidden coves nearby for an unforgettable day at the beach.
The Beaches of Barcelona: Overview
Barcelona has about 4.5 kilometers of urban beaches, all sandy and equipped, with free access. They were renovated for the 1992 Olympics and have since become a landmark for locals and tourists.
The main beaches, from southwest to northeast, are:
Sant Sebastià
Barceloneta
Somorrostro
Nova Icària
Bogatell
Mar Bella
Nova Mar Bella
Llevant
Every beach has its own personality, audience, and services. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose.
Barceloneta: The Most Famous Beach
La Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, the one that appears on all the postcards. It is located in front of the neighborhood of the same name, the old fishing village.
Features
Sand: fine and golden.
Length: about 1,100 meters.
Crowd: mixed, with many tourists and young people.
Atmosphere: lively, chaotic, international.
Services
La Barceloneta is the best-equipped beach. You will find:
Showers and public restrooms.
Rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (about 10-15 euros per day).
Chiringuitos (beach bars) where you can eat and drink.
Wooden walkways for access to the sea.
Children's play areas.
Changing rooms.
Strengths
Central location: reachable on foot from the center in 15-20 minutes.
Lively atmosphere: full of bars, music, and people.
Spectacular sunsets: the sun setting over the sea is a unique experience.
Weaknesses
Crowding: in summer it is extremely crowded, difficult to find space.
Pickpockets: the high concentration of tourists attracts pickpockets.
Water: not always crystal clear due to maritime traffic.
Tips
Arrive early in the morning (before 10:00) to find a good spot.
Keep an eye on your personal belongings.
To eat, move away from the beach and look for restaurants in the side streets of Barceloneta.
Bogatell: The Local's Beach
Bogatell is considered by Barcelonans to be the best beach in the city. Less touristy than Barceloneta, more spacious and tidy.
Features
Sand: fine and clean.
Length: about 600 meters.
Crowd: predominantly local, families and young people.
Atmosphere: relaxed, tidy, less chaotic.
Services
Showers, restrooms, walkways.
Umbrella and sunbed rentals.
Beach bars.
Beach volleyball and beach tennis courts.
Children's playground.
Strengths
Less crowded: especially in the side areas.
Cleanliness: considered the cleanest beach in Barcelona.
Popular with locals: more authentic atmosphere.
Weaknesses
Fewer dining servicescompared to Barceloneta.
Further from the center: 20-25 minutes on foot from Barceloneta.
Tips
Ideal for families with children.
Perfect for those looking for a quiet but well-equipped beach.
Accessible by subway (L4, stop Bogatell or Llacuna).
Nova Icària: The Family Beach
Nova Icària is located between Barceloneta and Bogatell, and is particularly appreciated by families.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 400 meters.
Crowd: families, children, couples.
Atmosphere: calm and family-friendly.
Services
All standard services (showers, restrooms, walkways).
Large play areas for children.
Umbrella and sunbed rentals.
Beach bars.
Strengths
Child-friendly: shallow water and fine sand.
Quiet: less chaotic than Barceloneta.
Close to Port Olímpic: after the beach, you can take a walk in the port.
Tips
Ideal for families with small children.
Nearby there are parks and green areas to play.
Mar Bella: The Alternative Beach
Mar Bella is the youngest and most alternative beach in Barcelona. It is the only officially nudist beach in the city.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 500 meters.
Audience: young people, LGBT community, nudists.
Atmosphere: free, alternative, inclusive.
Services
All standard services.
Designated nudist area.
Beach volleyball courts.
Chiringuitos with music.
Strengths
Free atmosphere: no taboos, inclusive.
Less touristy: frequented by locals.
Proximity to the Fòrum: interesting to visit.
Tips
Nudism is practiced but not mandatory.
Ideal for those looking for a less conventional beach.
Accessible by L4 metro (Poblenou or Selva de Mar stop).
Llevant: The Quietest Beach
Llevant is the last beach in Barcelona, the northernmost, and it is also the least crowded.
Features
Sand: fine.
Length: about 400 meters.
Audience: few tourists, mostly locals.
Atmosphere: very quiet, almost isolated.
Services
Essential services (showers, restrooms).
Fewer chiringuitos compared to other beaches.
Strengths
Little crowd: even in summer you can find space.
Tranquility: ideal for those seeking relaxation.
Proximity to the Forum.
Tips
Perfect for those who want to escape the crowd.
Bring water and food as services are limited.
Sant Sebastià and Somorrostro
Sant Sebastià is the closest beach to the center, just after Port Vell. Somorrostro is located between Sant Sebastià and Barceloneta.
Features
Sant Sebastià: quieter than Barceloneta, also frequented by families.
Somorrostro: known for being the place where the dancer Carmen Amaya lived. Today it is popular with young people.
Both are valid alternatives if Barceloneta is too crowded.
Chiringuitos: Beach Bars
Chiringuitos are beach bars, perfect for a drink, a quick meal, or an aperitif at sunset. Most open from May to September.
The Best Chiringuitos
Chiringuito Escribà (Barceloneta)
Run by the famous pastry shop Escribà, it offers quality tapas and cocktails. The atmosphere is elegant, with designer sunbeds and umbrellas.
El Chiringuito de la Barceloneta
Historic chiringuito, frequented by locals. Great for fresh fish and tapas.
La Morera (Bogatell)
Modern chiringuito with quality cuisine. Perfect for lunch or an aperitif at sunset.
Vai Moana (Nova Icària)
Caribbean atmosphere, music, and cocktails. Ideal for those looking for a festive vibe.
Coves and Hidden Beaches Outside Barcelona
If you have time and want to discover wilder and less crowded beaches, the Costa Brava offers hidden coves of extraordinary beauty. Here are the best ones reachable in a day.
Costa Brava: Dream Coves
Cala del Golfet (Palamós)
A small cove of pebbles and sand, surrounded by pine trees. Crystal clear water. Accessible with a short walk from the parking lot.
Cala Estreta (Palamós)
One of the wildest coves on the Costa Brava. No services, ideal for those seeking peace and nature. Access requires a 20-minute walk.
Cala Sa Boadella (Lloret de Mar)
One of the few untouched coves near Lloret. Fine sand and clear water.
Cala del Senyor Ramon (Santa Cristina d'Aro)
Small and intimate, surrounded by vegetation. Perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowd.
Cala de l'Illa Roja (Begur)
Known for its red rock emerging from the sea. One of the most photographed coves on the Costa Brava.
How to Reach the Coves
By car: the best way to explore the Costa Brava. From Barcelona, take the AP-7 highway north and follow the signs to the Costa Brava (about 1-2 hours).
By train: the train goes as far as Blanes, but for the more hidden coves, you need your own transport.
By bus: there are connections from Barcelona to Tossa de Mar, Lloret, and Palamós, but the coves must be reached on foot or by local buses.
Tip: leave early in the morning (7:00-8:00) to avoid traffic and find parking.
Services and Safety on the Beaches
General Services
All the beaches in Barcelona offer:
Showers and public restrooms (free).
Wooden walkways for access to the sea.
Rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (10-15 euros per day).
Beach bars.
Red Cross stations (from June to September).
Children's play areas (at some beaches).
Safety
Pickpockets: are active on crowded beaches. Do not leave valuables unattended on the sand.
Flags: respect the safety flags. Green: calm sea. Yellow: moderate waves, caution. Red: dangerous sea, swimming prohibited.
Waves: on some days the sea can be rough. Be careful if you are not an experienced swimmer.
How to Reach the Beaches
By Metro
Barceloneta: L4 (Barceloneta stop)
Bogatell: L4 (Bogatell or Llacuna stop)
Nova Icària: L4 (Ciutadella – Vila Olímpica stop)
Mar Bella: L4 (Poblenou or Selva de Mar stop)
Llevant: L4 (El Maresme – Fòrum stop)
By Bus
Numerous bus lines connect the city center to the beaches: V15, V19, H14, H16.
On Foot
From Plaça Catalunya, Barceloneta is about a 25-30 minute walk. Bogatell is about 40 minutes.
By Bicycle
The promenade has a bike path that connects all the beaches. You can rent a bike and reach the beach in 10-15 minutes from the center.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Beaches of Barcelona
What is the most beautiful beach in Barcelona?
Bogatell is considered by locals to be the most beautiful for its cleanliness and services. Mar Bella is the most alternative. Barceloneta is the most famous.
Is the water at the beaches of Barcelona clean?
Yes, the beaches of Barcelona undergo regular checks and meet European standards. After heavy rains, water quality may temporarily worsen due to runoff.
Can you swim in Barcelona all year round?
Technically yes, but the water is cold from November to May (12-17°C). The swimming season runs from June to September (20-25°C).
Are the beaches of Barcelona accessible for disabled people?
Yes, many beaches have facilities for disabled people: walkways to the sea, job chairs (amphibious wheelchairs), and accessible restrooms. The most accessible beaches are Bogatell, Nova Icària, and Llevant.
What are the least crowded beaches in Barcelona?
Llevant and the ends of Bogatell and Nova Mar Bella are the least crowded. Alternatively, the coves of the Costa Brava offer even more tranquility.
Are there nudist beaches in Barcelona?
Yes, Mar Bella has an official nudist area. At other beaches, nudism is tolerated but not officially allowed.
How much does a beach umbrella and a sunbed cost?
About 10-15 euros per day for an umbrella and two sunbeds. In some beach bars, the rental is free with a purchase.
What to do in case of bad weather?
If it rains or the sea is rough, visit the museums (MNAC, Picasso Museum, Miró Foundation) or the shopping centers (Maremagnum, Diagonal Mar). The Aquarium and CosmoCaixa are also great alternatives.
Revision date: April 2026