Barcelona Beaches

This is a guest post by Only Apartments

Barcelona beach was listed as number one in a list of the top ten beach cities in the world according to National Geographic and Discovery Channel. A lot of effort goes into maintaining the cleanliness of the sand and the sea, which are tested daily. But Barcelona beaches also have disabled access, lifeguards (in season), sun beds and showers. There are a lot of beaches in the city of Barcelona and its surroundings, and all of them are different, so if you’re staying in Barcelona apartments this summer no doubt you’ll find your favourite one among them.

Barceloneta Beach

Sant Sebastià and Barceloneta beaches, both 1,100 m (3,610 ft) in length, are the largest, oldest and the most-frequented beaches in Barcelona. The Olympic Harbour separates them from the other city beaches. It may be Barcelona’s most crowded and most touristy stretch of sand, but it’s also the most entertaining. It also has some great seafood eateries, apart from some American-style places along the shore.

Bogatell Beach

Bogatell Beach is cleaner and calmer than the Barceloneta one. Fringed by a stretch of stone walkway it’s perfect for jogging, rollerblading and cycling. There aren’t beach bars here, but you’ll find three large informal restaurants on the promenade.

Nova Icária Beach

Closest to the Olympic marina and observatory, Nova Icária beach attracts a young crowd. There are three spotless beach bars, some of them very popular. And it also has many restaurants and bars off the Port Olímpic, just a short stroll away.

Mar Bella Beach

Mar Bella has a nudist stretch, which is partitioned off by a big dune beside the windsurfing centre. Nearby is a peaceful park, good for a picnic or to give a break to the sun with a nap under the trees. This beach it’s also a favourite hang-out for gays and lesbians.

But if you’re in search of cleaner waters and more space, you better get a train for a short trip out of the city. It doesn’t matter if you go to the north or the south, there you will find the nicest beaches. The main difference is that the beaches to the south are wider and longer and their shallow water makes them safer for children, while the ones to the north are usually prettier and deeper with bigger waves.

In the south, the first beach of any note is Casteldefells, 15 minutes train ride from town.  It is easy to get there, as the walk from the nearby station (Platja de Casteldefells) to the beach is just 50 meters. It’s great for kids and has good facilities, bars and restaurants, all within easy reach. Although it reaches the five kilometres it can get very busy, mostly downside.

A bit further down you’ll find El Garraf beach, which is considerably quieter. With good facilities, is easily accessed from the station (Baixador del Garraf).

To the north, just after Masnou, you’ll find the Ocata beach. Quiet, pristine, very flat and with lots of space it’s just a half-hour trip on the train out of the city. Totally worth it. Further up the line is Caldetes Beach. Although it’s only a short ride north of the city centre, Caldetes is comparatively deserted.

So if you’re staying in the apartments in Barcelona and you have a bit of time it’s worth it to get to know these beaches. Explore which one is your favourite!