In celebration of World Beach Day, we’ve picked out six incredible beaches in Spain that you could purchase a home near and get to visit every day. Discover a beach with rocks that are reminiscent of a cathedral, the best nudist beach in Málaga and more…
On September 1st, it is World Beach Day. A day designed to raise awareness about the environmental challenges facing beaches, to celebrate them as cultural landmarks and a source of joy. So, in recognition of World Beach Day, we thought we’d take our pick of the most fascinating beaches in Spain – and where to buy a home to be close by.
Beaches in Spain: what to except
Spain has long had a reputation as the top beach destination of locals and international sea-seekers alike. The country has an incredible 8,000 kilometres of coastline. In Spain, 639 beaches have been awarded a Blue Flag, more than any other country (Greece is next with 603). Additionally, 102 marinas and 7 boats have also been awarded the Blue Flag. The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches that reach a high standard of cleanliness, safety and accessibility.
1. Playa del Albir, Alicante
If cleanliness is a priority for you, Playa del Albir could suit you perfectly. It has been awarded the Blue Flag ever since the award was created, over 30 years ago. It has pretty, white rounded stones which contrast with the turquoise waters. The beach has a beautiful, palm-tree lined marble promenade – it is well-lit at night, making it ideal for a romantic stroll or a late night jog.
Albir: Just 15 minutes from Benidorm, Albir offers a calmer atmosphere, preferred by second homeowners and retirees. For a bit of summertime fun, you can attend the international film festival and see the Hollywood-style names on the promenade.
2. Playa el Puertito, Tenerife
Away from Tenerife’s most tourist-heavy beaches, Playa el Puertito is filled with a different species from the sun-drenched tourist, the turtle. It is an opportune spot for snorkelling alongside sea turtles. Plus, the shallow waters make it very kid friendly.
Tenerife: The largest and most populous of the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers all-year-round fun in the sun. It is naturally beautiful and perfect for hikers, as it is home to the UNSECO Biosphere Reserve of Anaga Rural Park. Tenerife’s capital, Santa de Cruz, is lively place to be. Property buyers have caught on to the perks of Tenerife, so prices have started to climb, but you can still find affordable property in the less sought-after areas.
Check out homes for sale in Tenerife.
3. Praia das Catedrais (Cathedral’s Beach), Galicia
The wind and the sea have done some of their most interesting work at this beach – together, they have carved rocky formations that resemble cathedrals.
When the tide is out, you can walk through under the huge caves and discover arches within arches.
So in-demand is this beach that you have to book in July, August, September and Easter weekend.
Galicia: Located in far west Spain, Galicia (and its beaches) offers a radically distinct vibe to that of the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol. It is made up of extensive green forests, wooded valleys, cool cities like Vigo and Pontevedra, and wild beaches. The seafood is exquisite.
Discover properties for sale in Galicia.
4. Playa de Mónsul, Almería
This beach is a movie star! It has a unique central rock stack, which may have caught your attention when it featured in Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade (1989). Many have called it the most beautiful beach in all of Spain for its lava-formed rocks, Stephen Spielberg among them (you can definitely use that as a boast if you own a home nearby).
Almería: Located in the southeast, Almería is ideal for sun-seekers and rain-avoiders. It has a rich and curious history as a film set for spaghetti westerns (cough cough Playa de Mónsul). It also boasts of affordable property, less tourism and a more traditional feel than its neighbour, the Costa del Sol.
Browse properties for sale in Almería.
5. Guadalmar Beach, Málaga
An idyllic spot for seeing birds migrating between Africa and Europe, Guadalmar Beach stretches for over 400 metres on the far western side of Málaga city. It is known for being LGBQTI+ friendly but it is best known for being the only authorised nudist beach in Málaga – so abandon swimmers and take a dip.
Málaga city: The capital of the Costa del Sol benefits from an effortlessly cool artistic atmosphere, a delectable foodie scene, galleries, museums and an abundance of shops. It is a hip place to be, and property prices reflect that.
Check out properties in Málaga here.
6. Playa de Boloina, Cádiz
This beach is spectacular for its sand dunes, Duna de Bolonia, which tower up to 30 metres in height. Climb them for the best sunset views. It’s not just nature that makes an impression here – it is home to the ruins of the ancient Roman city, Baelo Claudia, once a bustling port city. So, you can switch up lying on soft golden sands, a swim, taking a tour through a Roman theatre, temples and bath, and finishing up the day by watching the sunset.
Cádiz: Located Andalucía, Cádiz is a sun-kissed province with a fascinating city of the same name. Playa de Boloina is located near Tarifa, a charming town at the southernmost point of Spain, famous for being where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic Ocean.
Browse properties for sale in Cádiz here.
