It has not been easy at all, but here you have our selection of the 10 best beaches in Catalonia for this summer. When it comes to beaches, Catalonia is simply irresistible. We firmly believe there is no need to take a transoceanic flight to find crystal clear waters, fine sand and hidden spots that seem taken from a beer commercial. From wild coves surrounded by pine trees to urban beaches with a great vibe, we have made the effort to choose the best.
1. Cala Taballera (Cap de Creus)

We're starting strong: a pristine, wild beach, with difficult access and with jaw-dropping charm. Cala Taballera is for the brave. You won't get there by car — even if some guides claim it's accessible by 4x4 — but if you're up for the hike from Port de la Selva or you arrive by boat, you'll be rewarded with crystal-clear waters, total peace, and the feeling of starring in a Discovery Channel documentary. Right in the middle of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, this cove is ideal to disconnect from everything, even your mobile phone.
2. Platja d'Aiguablava (Begur)

The Costa Brava can boast (and rightfully so!) of having some of the most beautiful coves in the Mediterranean, and Aiguablava is one of them. Turquoise waters, clear and fine sand, and mountainous and wooded surroundings that seem to be made with an Instagram filter. Don't go there looking for solitude, though: it's small, well-known and loved by locals and tourists. That said, its beauty makes it worth getting up early to lay down your towel.
3. Platja de Castell (Palamós)

Another star of the Costa Brava. Castell Beach is special because it has remained untouched thanks to the local fight against urban speculation. There are no hotels, no apartment blocks: only Mediterranean forest, dunes, and sea. In fact, it's one of the last extensive untouched beaches on the Costa Brava. It's perfect for children and, if you're up for it, from here you can take the coastal footpath to nearby coves like Cala s'Alguer or Cala Estreta. Don't miss our article where we talk about the best beaches and coves in Palamós.
4. Cala Fonda (Tarragona)

Also known as "Tarragona's Waikiki", Cala Fonda is a paradisiacal spot in the heart of the Marquesa forest and for us is one of the best beaches of the Costa Daurada. It does not have amenities, but that is precisely what makes it special. To get there, one must take a hike from the Platja Llarga of Tarragona. When you arrive, you are greeted by a beach of golden sand and clear waters. It is the ideal destination to escape the crowds.
5. Platja de Riumar (Deltebre)

A stop at the Ebro Delta is also a must. Riumar Beach, which is part of the Ebro Delta Natural Park, is an endless expanse of sand, dunes and open sky. It is a family-friendly beach, with a gentle slope and ideal for children, but also a paradise for lovers of water sports like windsurfing, paddle surfing and kitesurfing. Before you leave, don't forget to head to the viewpoint overlooking Garxal Lagoon and take a good photo.
6. Platja de la Marquesa (Deltebre)

Another wonder of the Delta. Less frequented than Riumar, La Marquesa, located to the south of the Fangar peninsula, is spectacular: pristine, with dunes, wild nature and the iconic Fangar lighthouse in sight. The sunsets are 100% Instagrammable. Don't forget water, sunscreen and a fully charged phone.
7. Cala Forn (L'Ametlla de Mar)

The Golden Coast is also spectacular. Cala Forn, located in the Tres Cales residential area, is proof: a small cove, with clear waters and surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. Perfect to spend the day with the book you've been meaning to read for the last six months.
8. Les Casetes del Garraf (Sitges)

A charming spot that combines history and landscape. Located in the town center of Garraf, this small beach is one of the region's hidden gem. Its iconic wooden houses painted in white and green, lined up on the sand, are a living testimony of the area's maritime past. These buildings, dating back to the 1920's, once served as shelters for local fishermen and have been recognized as cultural heritage of national interest. The beach, 380 meters long, has calm waters and is easily accessible by train or car.
9. Cala Sa Boadella (Lloret de Mar)

Lloret is known for its party atmosphere, but it hides coves with a charm to fall on your back. Sa Boadella is a small gem hidden among cliffs, surrounded by forest and with clean and transparent waters and next to the Santa Clotilde Gardens, one of the best botanical gardens on the Costa Brava. There is a calm that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the center. It has been recognized, and rightly so, as one of the best beaches in Spain.
10. Platja de la Llosa (Cambrils)

If you're looking for peace, fine sand and waves, La Llosa Beach is your place. This gem in Cambrils is ideal for families and those who want to dip without having to fight against the sea as if they were in a pirate movie. It has piers, lots of services (beach bars, sunbeds) and a seafront that invites you to cycle, stroll or take photos with the sea in the background. Relaxation and comfort are guaranteed.
So now you know: get your swimsuit, sunscreen, and the most summery playlist ready. Choose your favorite beach (or better yet, go on a tour!) and discover why Catalonia can boast about having some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. And if you want to make it perfect, look for a charming rural house nearby and turn the getaway into an unforgettable experience between sea, nature, and great food.