Stunning scenery, wonderful weather and vibrant culture await you if you’re planning your Spain holidays at the minute however it’s the beaches that continue to attract holiday makers year after year. Whatever you’re looking for, there is a beach for everyone in Spain; here are some of the best.
1. Best wild beach: Las Islas Cíes, Galicia, Spain.
The Atlantic coast of Galicia is the wild sister to the Spanish Med. The coastline is stunning, untamed and deserted. For a true wilderness experience, take a 40-minute boat ride from Baiona to the national park of Las Islas Cíes. Here you can relax in the turquoise waters of Praia das Rodas and dream of the pirates that once plundered these shores.
2. Best surfers’ paradise: El Brusco, Noja, Cantabria.
Located in Spain’s most consistent surf region, Noja’s beaches offer the waves of Sans Sebastian or Zarautz but without the crowds. El Brusco is famous for its 1-2 metre break, perfect for intermediate surfers; it forms a hollow beach break as it gets bigger. Santander is only 25 minutes away but the sea remains un-crowded and the setting, amongst the Picos Mountains, is breath-taking.
3. Best for multi-activity water sports: Tarifa.
The village of Tarifa is located where the Med meets the Atlantic, meaning all water sports enthusiasts can be catered for, from kite surfers to divers, and with 14km of sand, there’s plenty of towel space for those who would rather spectate!
4. Best rock formations: Playa de Las Catedrales, Galicia.
The name pretty much gives this one away; the rock formations of ‘Cathedral’ Beach are truly spectacular.
5. Best for hippies: Cabo de Gata, Murcia.
If you like to be at one with nature during your holidays then the beaches around Cabo de Gata in the Murcia region of Spain are a perfect choice. This is the location of friendly hippies, nature parks and nudist enthusiasts. The sands of Media Luna and Cala del Barronal are particularly lovely.
6. Best for little peeps: Poo beach, Llanes, Asturias.
How can kids fail to be attracted by a beach named ‘Poo?!’ Moreover, this beach has a little bit of everything – waves, sheltered paddling, caves and streams. What’s not to love?
7. Best for foodies: Zahara de los Atunes, Cádiz.
This is a lovely little fishing village with unspoilt beaches and delicious food. The mojama (salt-cured tuna) is an absolute must.
8. Best for something a little bit different: Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Andalucía.
If you’ve had your fill of sandcastles, buckets and spades and boogie boards, then head to Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Already renowned for its Manzanilla sherry and seafood, in August the beach becomes a racecourse with horses stampeding through the surf. Place your bets with the local children in their hand built booths and if you back a winner, payout comes in the form of sweeties!
9. Best urban beach: La Concha, Bay of Biscay.
This is a seriously hip urban beach, edged by designer boutiques and uber cool bars. Watch the surfers, relax in comfort by hiring a lounger or beach tent and, as the sun goes down, sip a Kalimotxo – the beach’s very own cocktail!
10. Best beach according to the Spanish: La Barrosa, Chiclana de la Frontera, Costa de la Luz
Following the locals is often the best way to find excellent beaches and La Barrosa, with its 6km of white sand, is no exception. It is guaranteed to keep all members of the family happy: teenagers can hang out on the promenade with its tapas bars and restaurants, or perhaps test their sense of balance with a windsurfing lesson.
In contrast, the far end of the beach is idyllic for little ones wanting to build sandcastles and parents in need of relaxation.
The “top 10 Spanish beaches was written by Sam Bird, a freelance write, who loves to write on Hotels-Fairy.com