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Beach day in/near Barcelona

Looking for beach day recommendation in or near Barcelona. My daughter & I will be in Barcelona 5 days in July while waiting to meet up up with her sister finishing a summer abroad program before heading to Budapest. Would like one day of beach & relaxation. I see mixed reviews re: the beaches in Barcelona. Is there one you would recommend or do you think it would it be worth it to head over to Costa Brava for the day? Need shade (umbrella rentals) and would like water sports, not necessarily motorized, enjoy kayaking, snorkeling and minimal crowds (yes I know its summer, just don't want to have to fight for a spot).

Thank you.

Posted by
3874 posts

A few option near Barcelona:

Garraf - just a short 20 min train ride south of Barcelona. You will find only locals at this small but quaint beach community. There are also many good chiringuitos to eat nearby and even a beach house designed by Antoni Gaudí. A very authentic place.

Sitges - the quintessential posh beach town, 30 min train ride south from Barcelona. Has multiple small sandy beaches. Known for its gay scene, Sitges also has nice historic centre lined with boutique restaurants and shops.

Tossa de Mar - a very atmospheric coastal town on the Costa Brava, north of Barcelona. Tossa has an idyllic medieval setting as it is dominated by a clifftop castle and a small cobblestone old town. Many restaurants and hotels around here, can get quite packed during the high summer months.

Calella de Palafrugell - a smaller beach town also on the Costa Brava. More laid back then Tossa de Mar. The town has twisting narrow whitewashed streets the lead up to the small craggy beaches, that are lined with the typical wooden fisherman boats of the Costa Brava. This is the farthest away from Barcelona.

Posted by
364 posts

Thank you Carlos. Garraf looks more like my speed, but I like the looks of Tossa de Mar too. The town looks very pretty. I am assuming you can get there by train or bus as well?

Thank you.

Posted by
3874 posts

Hello, both Garraf and Tossa are accessible via public transport, train (R2S via Sants) for the former and bus (Estacio del Nord) for the latter. I think that for a quick "no hassle" day-at-the-beach I would lean more towards Garraf. Tossa is good for even spending a night or two there.

Posted by
364 posts

Thank you both. I can see this is not going to be such an easy decision!