Beaches in Spain
Including Cala Agulla, Cala Macarella, and Caló des Moro. On the map.
The vibe
Sprawling golden sands and dramatic rocky coves trade the stark isolation found elsewhere in Europe for a vibrant shore life humming with boardwalk chatter and afternoon sun. Late spring through early autumn brings the quintessential warmth for long days by the waves, though the shoulder months offer quieter strolls. The atmosphere shifts effortlessly from buzzy, umbrella-lined resorts with packed social dens to wilder, windswept stretches where you share the salt air mostly with local walkers.
Cala Agulla, Mallorca
Balearic Islands
Jürgen Schneider / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A beautiful, wide beach surrounded by pine trees and mountains, offering clear, clean water. It is a favorite for those looking for a more natural, scenic setting than the typical resort beaches.
Access. Easy access via a short walk from the nearby resort town of Cala Ratjada.
Notes. Can get busy in July and August; offers basic amenities like sunbeds and a small beach bar.
Cala Macarella, Menorca
Balearic Islands
Paul Stephenson / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
A postcard-perfect cove surrounded by pine forests and limestone cliffs. Its calm, azure waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling in a serene environment.
Access. Reached via a scenic forest trail from the nearby parking or by boat from Ciutadella.
Notes. Limited parking; the adjacent Cala Macarelleta is a smaller, often nudist-friendly alternative.
Caló des Moro, Mallorca
Balearic Islands
Olaf Tausch / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A stunning, narrow cove framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and exceptionally clear turquoise water. It offers a quintessential Mediterranean swimming experience in a breathtaking, natural setting.
Access. Accessible via a short hike from the parking area; can get very crowded during peak summer months.
Notes. No facilities on-site; the beach area is very small and fills up quickly.
Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa
Andalusia
Gerardo Almeida / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A vast, pristine beach backed by a massive sand dune and the ancient Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia. The Atlantic winds keep the water refreshing and the atmosphere wild and unspoiled.
Access. Reached by car; offers plenty of space even in peak season due to its significant length.
Notes. Strong winds are common, making it a favorite for wind-based water sports.
Playa de Cofete, Fuerteventura
Canary Islands
dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
A wild, massive stretch of golden sand backed by the dramatic, rugged peaks of the Jandía massif. It offers a sense of isolation and raw natural beauty rarely found in more developed areas.
Access. Requires a long drive on a rough, unpaved road; 4x4 recommended.
Notes. Swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents and heavy surf; caution is advised.
Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias
Asturias
Fernando Vázquez / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A unique inland beach formed by a sinkhole connected to the sea through underground caves. It is a geological marvel where the tide flows in to create a small, sheltered sandy pool.
Access. Accessible via a short walk through meadows from the main road.
Notes. The beach is small and disappears at high tide; best visited during mid-tide.
Playa de Rodas, Cíes Islands
Galicia
xusepeto / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Often called the 'Galician Caribbean,' this crescent-shaped beach connects two of the Cíes Islands with fine, pale sand. The water is cool and incredibly clear, set within a protected national park.
Access. Accessible only by ferry from Vigo, Cangas, or Baiona; visitor numbers are strictly limited daily.
Notes. Requires a permit to visit; no trash bins on the island, so all waste must be carried out.
Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera
Formentera
MrPepanos / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Renowned for its long, narrow stretch of pale sand and shallow, crystalline waters that resemble the Caribbean. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Balearic Islands.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Ibiza followed by a short bus or bike ride; popular with yachting crowds.
Notes. Part of a protected natural area; entry fees apply for vehicles during high season.