Jun 05, 2025
Spain is a privileged country thanks to the diversity of its coastal landscapes. From unspoiled beaches to hidden coves, it offers ideal destinations for nature and nautical lovers. Below is a ranking of the best beaches in Spain, highlighting their natural beauty, accessibility, fauna, flora, and available services.
Located in the Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, Rodas Beach is a natural gem that connects the islands of Monteagudo and do Faro through a white, fine-sand isthmus. This Galician paradise has been recognized for its beauty and biodiversity, being home to species such as the yellow-legged gull and various seabirds.
The Cíes Islands have a rich history dating back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods, with settlements during the Bronze Age. During Roman times, they were known as the "islands of the gods", and it is believed that Julius Caesar may have been in the area during his military campaigns.
Access to the beach is only by boat from Vigo, Cangas, or Baiona, and is limited to a reduced number of daily visitors to preserve its ecosystem. There are no hotel constructions, which maintains its unspoiled condition.
At the tip of Es Trucadors, in northern Formentera, lies Ses Illetes, a white sand beach with turquoise waters that is part of the Ses Salines Natural Park. Its name comes from the small islets scattered in front of its coast, such as Illa de Tramuntana and Illa des Forn.
The beach is famous for its meadows of Posidonia oceanica, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which keep the water crystal clear and are essential for the marine ecosystem. In addition, Ses Illetes has been considered one of the best beaches in the world due to its natural beauty.
It can be reached by ferry from Ibiza or by private boat, and is also accessible by bicycle from La Savina. The beach features restaurants and water sports equipment rental services.
Located in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, Playa de los Muertos is known for its wild beauty and crystal-clear waters. Its name comes from the story that the bodies of shipwrecked sailors used to wash ashore here due to ocean currents.
The beach is hard to access, requiring a walk of about 20 minutes along a steep path, which keeps it less crowded and preserves its natural environment. There are no services, so it is advisable to bring water and food.
The nearby town of Carboneras offers accommodation and dining options and is a good starting point to explore the area.
In the Oyambre Natural Park, between the municipalities of Valdáliga and San Vicente de la Barquera, lies Oyambre Beach, a wide beach of golden sand and emerald waters. It is a dune and marshland environment that hosts rich biodiversity.
The beach is also known as the landing site of the "Yellow Bird", the first transatlantic flight to reach Spain in 1929. This historical event adds an extra appeal to the area.
The nearby town of Comillas, with its modernist architecture and the Sobrellano Palace, is an ideal destination to complement a visit to the beach.
On the southern coast of Menorca, near Ciutadella, are Cala Macarella and its smaller sister Macarelleta, two coves with turquoise waters surrounded by cliffs and pine forests. These unspoiled beaches are accessible on foot from Cala Galdana or by boat, and are connected by the Camí de Cavalls, an ancient trail that circles the island.
In the 1970s, a development project was proposed for the area but was eventually rejected, allowing the area to remain in its natural state. Today, they are among the most photographed and iconic coves in Menorca.
Ciutadella, with its historic center and charming harbor, is an excellent base for exploring these coves and enjoying the local cuisine.
In the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is Las Canteras Beach, an urban beach over 3 kilometers long, protected by a natural barrier known as "La Barra", which acts as a reef and hosts a wide variety of marine life.
Formerly known as "Playa del Arrecife", its history is linked to the urban development and tourism of the city. Additionally, it was the filming location for the movie "Moby Dick" in 1954, adding cultural interest to its visit.
The beach offers a wide range of services: restaurants, equipment rentals, showers, and access for people with reduced mobility. It is ideal for snorkeling and diving.
On the Atlantic coast of Cádiz, near Tarifa, lies Bolonia Beach, a wide beach of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, guarded by a large dune and the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Baelo Claudia.
Baelo Claudia was a city founded in the 2nd century BC that reached its peak as a seaport and center for the production of garum, a highly prized fish sauce in the Roman Empire. The ruins, in excellent condition, can be visited along with an interpretation center and museum.
The beach is accessible by car, with nearby parking, and can also be reached by boat. It is a semi-wild beach offering basic services and is ideal for those seeking to combine history and nature.
From the turquoise waters of Formentera to the wild beaches of Galicia, every coastal corner has its unique charm. For lovers of sailing and nature, these beaches are must-visit destinations.