Barcelona is famous for its stunning architecture and bustling urban life. But sometimes, even the most dedicated city dweller needs a break from the hustle and bustle. Fortunately, Barcelona’s prime location on the Mediterranean coast opens the door to discovering some of Spain’s most unique beaches.

Whether you prefer a quick escape by train or are more tempted by a road trip along the most spectacular coastal road, there’s a perfect beach waiting for you. Here is our selection of the best beaches for a day trip from Barcelona, catering to all types of travelers.

1. Platja de la Ribera, Sitges

Just a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona, Sitges is a charming coastal town known for its lively cultural scene and beautiful beaches. The main beach, Platja de la Ribera, with its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Along the beach, you’ll find many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a good meal.

2. Castelldefels Beach

Located about 30 minutes by train from Barcelona, Castelldefels is famous for its long beach, stretching nearly 5000 meters. Ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts, Castelldefels Beach offers plenty of space to enjoy the Mediterranean. The town itself has a relaxed vibe, with many restaurants and bars along the seafront.

3. Platja del Canadell, Calella de Palafrugell

If you’re willing to venture a bit further, approximately an hour and a half by car from Barcelona, you’ll find Calella de Palafrugell, a picturesque village on the Costa Brava. The beaches here are smaller and dotted with rocks, offering a tranquil atmosphere and incredible scenery.

Platja del Canadell is one of the most representative and attractive beaches. It is a beach with golden sand and rocks, bathed by crystal-clear waters, and surrounded by summer houses and old fishermen’s buildings. Its serene and family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal option for families or couples looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.

4. Platja Gran, Tossa de Mar

Also about an hour and a half from Barcelona, you’ll find Tossa de Mar, one of the most iconic towns on the Costa Brava. Platja Gran is the main beach: wide, with coarse golden sand, at the foot of the medieval wall of Vila Vella, and very close to many bars and restaurants. It’s a beach with a lively atmosphere.

You can reach it by bus from Barcelona Nord or by car. If you drive, you can continue a couple of kilometers along the coastal road to visit the Mirador de Tossa de Mar, offering beautiful views of the town and coast. It’s a sneak peek of another adventure we highly recommend and already proposed in our article “The South of Costa Brava. The GI-682 from Tossa to Sant Feliu”.

5. Blanes Beach

Blanes is known as the gateway to the Costa Brava. It is located an hour from Barcelona and offers a mix of long sandy beaches and small coves. The main beach takes the name of the town; it is a long beach with all the amenities needed for a relaxing day at the beach.

About a 15-minute walk away, there is a beautiful botanical garden located by the coast, featuring several spectacular viewpoints. You can book tickets for the botanical garden here:

A bit further away (and up a steep incline) is the Castell de Sant Joan, offering incredible views of the Blanes coastline.

6. Platja de l’Estació, Badalona

If you’re looking for a quick urban escape, Badalona is your destination. Just 20 minutes by train from Barcelona, Platja de l’Estació offers a perfect balance of comfort, accessibility, and a relaxed atmosphere. The beach is fully equipped with services, has a good seafront promenade, and provides an urban yet more relaxed and less crowded ambiance than the beaches in Barcelona.

7. Platja de Sant Pol, Sant Pol de Mar

Sant Pol de Mar is a charming village located less than an hour from Barcelona. It is perfect for a quiet and convenient getaway since it is possible to reach it by train. Platja de Sant Pol, with its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, is right in the center and next to the train station, making it ideal for a hassle-free beach day trip.

We hope this selection of beaches inspires you to disconnect for a day and explore the Mediterranean coast a little more in-depth. But if you still don’t want to stray far from the city, Barcelona has plenty of beaches where you can enjoy the sea without having to travel, such as:

If you visit any of these beaches, remember to share your experience and photos in the app. We love reading your comments, and we believe they make iPlaya GREAT.