The Beaches of Barcelona

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, odds are you’re packing your sunglasses and beach towel. This Catalonian capital is blessed with warm temperatures, mild waters, and a long, sandy coastline, making it a prime location for beach life. If you’re ready to hit the platja soon after landing, direct your Barcelona airport shuttle driver to one of these sandy getaways.

Barceloneta

Ready to dive into the deep end? Have your Barcelona airport shuttle driver drop you off at Barceloneta Beach, quite possibly the city’s most popular and crowded one – and the most lively! Only ten minutes from city centre, the beach is a hive of activity, buzzing with sand artists, seafood, and vendors hawking their wares. The long promenade is lovely place for a stroll. Don’t miss the giant, cube-shaped sculpture by German artist Rebecca Horn, or Frank Gehry’s Peix Olimpico at the northern end.

Nova Icaria

On the other side of the Port Olimpic from Barceloneta, you’ll find Nova Icaria, a quieter, less crowded beach. It is more likely to be frequented by families or groups of friends enjoying a session of pure relaxation. Showers, changing rooms, sun loungers, beach umbrellas, and volleyball are all available, and there are a number of bars and restaurants nearby if you fancy a post-swim snack.

Mar Bella

For the more adventurous, try Mar Bella beach, just north-east of the city centre off the Avenue del Litoral. Popular with gay men as well as the nudist community, this beach is both comfortable and discreet. If you’ve been looking to shed the buttoned-up Briton look, Mar Bella gives you the chance to do just that. The nearby Base Nàutica Municipal offers sailing, kayaking, and catamaran excursions along the coastline, so expect to see plenty of waterfront activity.

Ocata

If you’re looking for something slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the city beaches, direct your Barcelona airport shuttle driver to Ocata beach, about a 25-minute drive northeast of the city centre. Here, you can enjoy huge expanses of pristine sand and a quiet atmosphere. The flat terrain of the beach has made it popular for volleyball, with an annual tournament held each June.

Castelldefels

Southwest of the city, on the other side of the airport, Castelldefels beach offers five kilometres of stunning golden sand. Popular for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, it’s not uncommon to see dozens of multi-coloured sails filling the sky. The warm, shallow waters make this an excellent choice for families with children.

When it comes to beaches in Barcelona, you’re sure to be spoiled for choice. Whether you’re looking for a lively boardwalk or simply a quiet place to read a book, this seaside city can cater to you. Best of all, the surf and sand is only a short Barcelona airport shuttle ride away.