Chiringuitos: A Guide to Beach Bars for Sunset Aperitifs
There is a magical moment in Barcelona, just before the sun disappears on the horizon, when the sky is painted orange, pink, and purple, and the sea reflects a thousand colors. It’s sunset time, and the best place to experience it is sitting on a wooden terrace with your feet (almost) in the sand, a cocktail in hand, and the music blending with the sound of the waves.
This place is called a chiringuito. Chiringuitos are the beach bars of Barcelona, true temples of the summer aperitif. During the day, they offer refreshment with tapas and drinks, but at sunset, they transform into lounge bars with a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic aperitif or a night out with friends.
This guide will take you to discover the best chiringuitos in Barcelona, with tips on where to go, what to order, and how to make the most of the sunset aperitif experience.
What Are Chiringuitos
The word "chiringuito" is of Andalusian origin and refers to a small beach bar, often built with simple materials like wood and straw. In Barcelona, chiringuitos have become an integral part of beach culture and summer nightlife.
What they offer:
Drinks: cocktails, beer, wine, cava, sangria (although locals prefer vermouth).
Food: tapas, fresh grilled fish, salads, paella, fideuà.
Music: from chill-out to house, often with DJs on weekends.
Atmosphere: informal, relaxed, festive.
When to go:
Morning and afternoon: for a quick lunch or a refreshing drink.
Sunset (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM in summer): the magical moment for an aperitif.
Night: some chiringuitos transform into nightclubs with music and dancing.
The Best Chiringuitos in Barcelona
Chiringuito Escribà (Barceloneta)
Chiringuito Escribà is perhaps the most famous and glamorous in Barcelona. Managed by the renowned pastry shop Escribà (known for its artistic desserts), it combines the tradition of seafood cuisine with elegant design.
Features:
Elegant location with designer sunbeds and umbrellas.
Quality cuisine: tapas, fresh fish, paella.
Well-made cocktails and careful presentation.
Chic yet informal atmosphere.
What to order:
Their sangria (made with cava, not red wine).
Fish tapas (shrimp, octopus, anchovies).
Escribà desserts to finish.
When to go:at sunset, for a romantic aperitif. Reservation recommended for tables with a sea view.
Prices:higher than average (cocktails 12-15 euros, tapas 10-20 euros), but the quality is excellent.
La Morera (Bogatell)
La Morera is one of the most beloved beach bars by Barcelonans. Located on Bogatell beach, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and quality cuisine at fair prices.
Features:
Modern location with spacious wooden terraces.
Fresh fish cuisine and tapas.
Classic and creative cocktails.
Chill-out music during the day, DJ on weekends.
What to order:
The fideuà (excellent).
The bravas (potatoes with spicy sauce and aioli).
A vermouth or a house cocktail.
When to go:ideal for sunset, but also for a beach lunch. Less crowded than Escribà.
Prices:medium (cocktails 8-12 euros, tapas 6-15 euros).
Vai Moana (Nova Icària)
Vai Moana is the perfect beach bar for those looking for a festive and international atmosphere. Inspired by Polynesian culture, it offers tropical cocktails and Caribbean music.
Features:
Wooden decor, thatched roofs, dim lighting.
Latin music, reggae, house.
Colorful cocktails decorated with fruit.
Young and fun atmosphere.
What to order:
Tropical cocktails: Piña Colada, Mojito, Caipirinha.
International tapas (nachos, guacamole, curry chicken).
When to go:from sunset to late at night. Ideal for groups of friends.
Prices:medium (cocktails 9-12 euros).
Chiringuito de la Barceloneta (Barceloneta)
Historic beach bar in Barceloneta, frequented by locals and aware tourists. No frills, but with fresh fish and an authentic atmosphere.
Features:
Simple location, with plastic tables and umbrellas.
Traditional seafood cuisine.
Fair prices.
Authentic and informal atmosphere.
What to order:
Grilled sardines.
Paella (good and at a fair price).
A well-chilled beer (Estrella Damm).
When to go:for a beach lunch or a casual aperitif.
Prices:low (paella 12-15 euros, beer 4-5 euros).
Xiringuito Escribà (Llevant)
The second beach bar of the Escribà family, located on the quieter and less crowded Llevant beach.
Features:
Elegant location like the "brother" of Barceloneta.
Similar menu, with fresh fish and quality tapas.
More relaxed atmosphere because the beach is less frequented.
What to order:
Fish tapas.
House cocktails.
Escribà desserts.
When to go:ideal for those seeking Escribà quality in a more tranquil atmosphere.
Prices:medium-high.
Beach House (Barceloneta)
Beach House is a large beach bar with a restaurant, lounge bar, and relaxation area. Perfect for spending the whole day at the beach.
Features:
Large terrace with sun loungers and umbrellas.
Restaurant with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
Cocktail bar.
Live music on weekends.
What to order:
Fish tapas.
Classic cocktails.
Sunday brunch.
When to go:from morning (for brunch) to sunset (for aperitif).
Prices:medium.
Opium Mar (Port Olímpic)
More than a beach bar, Opium Mar is a true beach venue, with a restaurant, cocktail bar, and nightclub.
Features:
Spacious and modern location.
Seafood restaurant.
Cocktail bar with DJ.
Nightclub after midnight.
What to order:
Signature cocktails.
Fish tapas.
When to go:from aperitif (7:00 PM) until late at night.
Prices:high (cocktails 15-20 euros).
What to Order at the Beach Bar
Cocktails to Try
Vermouth: the quintessential Catalan aperitif. Served with ice, a slice of orange, and an olive. Perfect for sunset.
Cava Cocktail: cava (Catalan sparkling wine) with a splash of vermouth or bitters. Fresh and light.
Sangria: it's a tourist drink, but beach bars often make it with cava instead of red wine. Fresher and less sweet.
Mojito: a classic of tropical beach bars, made with rum, lime, mint, sugar, and soda.
Piña Colada: perfect for Caribbean-themed beach bars.
Gin Tonic: the Spaniards are masters of gin and tonic, served in huge glasses with botanicals and fruit.
Tapas to Pair
Patatas bravas: the classic.
Gambas al ajillo: garlic shrimp.
Pulpo a la gallega: Galician-style octopus.
Esqueixada: cod salad.
Paella or fideuà: for a complete meal.
The Sunset Aperitif Experience
The sunset aperitif is a ritual in Barcelona. Here’s how to enjoy it to the fullest.
Times
Summer (June-August): sunset is between 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM. Arrive at the beach bar around 7:30-8:00 PM to find a good spot.
Spring and Fall: sunset is between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM. Arrive 30-60 minutes early.
What to Bring
Sunglasses: until the last minute, the sun is low and blinding.
A light sweater: after sunset, the temperature drops.
Mosquito repellent: near the sea, mosquitoes can be bothersome.
How to Choose Your Spot
Front row: tables with a direct sea view are the most sought after. Arrive early or make a reservation.
Second row: if you can't find a spot in the front row, even the slightly back tables offer a nice view.
Counter: if you're alone or with a partner, the counter is a great option.
Day Chiringuitos vs Night Chiringuitos
During the day (11:00-18:00)
Relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a beach lunch.
Low music, families and couples.
Full menu: tapas, paella, fish.
Sunset (19:00-21:00)
The magical moment: dim lights, music, cocktails.
Mixed crowd: couples, groups of friends.
Ideal for an aperitif.
Night (from 22:00)
Some chiringuitos turn into nightclubs.
Loud music, DJ, dancing.
Young crowd.
Not all chiringuitos stay open late. Check in advance.
Practical Tips
Book: for the most famous chiringuitos (Escribà, La Morera), book in advance, especially for sunset.
Bring cash: some small chiringuitos may not accept cards.
Dress comfortably: the atmosphere is casual. Flip-flops, shorts, and a t-shirt are perfect.
Don't rush: the sunset aperitif is a moment of relaxation. Take your time.
Beware of pickpockets: even at chiringuitos, don't leave bags or phones unattended on the table.
Closing times: many chiringuitos close at the end of September and reopen in May. In winter, only a few remain open.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chiringuitos
What does chiringuito mean?
It is a Spanish term that refers to a beach bar, often built with simple materials like wood and straw. In Barcelona, they have become trendy spots for drinks and casual dinners.
What is the best chiringuito in Barcelona for sunset?
Chiringuito Escribà (Barceloneta) is the most famous and glamorous. La Morera (Bogatell) is a local favorite. Vai Moana (Nova Icària) is perfect for a festive atmosphere.
Are chiringuitos open all year round?
No, most open from May to September. Some (like Escribà) also open in spring and autumn on weekends. In winter, only a few remain open.
How much does a cocktail cost in a chiringuito?
Prices vary: 8-12 euros in average chiringuitos, 12-18 euros in more exclusive ones like Escribà. Beer costs 4-7 euros.
Is it necessary to make a reservation?
For the most famous chiringuitos, especially for sunset on weekends, yes. For others, you can just show up, but arrive early.
Do chiringuitos serve only drinks or also food?
Most also serve food: tapas, grilled fish, paella, salads. Some have full-fledged restaurants.
Are chiringuitos kid-friendly?
Yes, many chiringuitos are frequented by families during the day. In the evening, the atmosphere becomes more adult.
What do people typically drink in a chiringuito?
Vermouth (the Catalan aperitif), cava, beer (Estrella Damm), cocktails like mojito, piña colada, and gin and tonic.
Discover every aspect of the trip in our complete guide:holidays in Barcelona.
Review date: April 2026