Quiet Spanish Beaches You Will Love
I’ve spent quite some time exploring Spain’s coast. From Costa Brava’s cliffs to Andalusia’s sun-kissed shores, Spain has some amazing coastline and you can still find hidden gems to while your days away.
These secluded spots are perfect for a quick swim or a day of sunbathing, away from crowded beaches.
I’ve managed to find some real local treasures on my travels. Cala Bramant is a pristine paradise, but does require swim shoes. Playa El Portillu is easier to get to, with a 20-minute walk that shows off nature’s beauty, and the Costa Brava is awash with private coves and beaches.
Ready to find your own Spanish beach paradise? Let’s explore Spain’s secret coastal treasures together!
Discovering Hidden Coastal Gems Along Spain’s Shoreline
Spain’s coastline is full of hidden beaches. These spots are peaceful and away from the crowds. A secret beach is more than just hard to find. It strays off the beaten path so along with finding the beach it may involve heading to a more remote area of the coast.
Many are only reachable by foot or boat. For example, Cala Llentrisca on Ibiza needs a tough hike, while Cala Salada is mostly for locals.
The effort to get there tends to keep a lot of the people away, especially those with younger children so you can usually find that these beaches are more suited to relaxing in the quiet.
Best Times to Visit Spanish Hidden Beaches
Timing is everything for these hidden spots. Avoid busy times for a calm visit. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends and shoulder season is better than the main summer.
For example, Calo des Moro gets busy on weekends. But, beaches like Playa de Guayedra stay peaceful, even when busy.
Essential Tips for Beach Adventures
Be ready for your beach adventure. Most secret beaches lack facilities. Here’s what to bring:
- Sunscreen and hat
- Plenty of water – more than you think you will need!
- Sturdy shoes for rocky terrain
- Snacks and picnic supplies
- Snorkeling gear (for spots like Playa el Puertito)
Remember, a lot of these beaches are in protected areas, so be kind to the environment. Follow these tips for a memorable visit to Spain’s hidden beaches.
Secret Beaches in Spain: Northern Coast Edition
The hidden beaches of Northern Spain are pure magic. If you’re tired of crowded Mediterranean shores and the over populated islands, it’s time to head north. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Asturias is a goldmine for beach lovers. A region on the north coast between Santander and A Coruna, its has many secret coves waiting to be discovered.
Playa Del Silencio
Playa del Silencio is a stunning beach with stone casts in the water and towering cliffs that surround the sand. Not your typical sandy beach, but that’s what makes it special. Parking is around 3 Euro and the path down to the beach is constructed zig zag walkway now. The first time we went it was dirt but now there is a solid walkway for access.
Playa De Barayo
Next, let’s talk about Playa de Barayo near Puerto de Vega. It’s a beautiful spot only 4.5 km from town. We walked out early and back at the end of the day and it was a nice enough walk, however we were about to start the Camino de Santiago so we were in walking mode! Its a slice of paradise for nature lovers with steep stone cliffs and a wide open beach. The tide is quite important here as it gets quite flat on low tide.
Just be aware that it is also quite popular with the local nudist community. There is also a cave you can get into on low tide which is pretty cool.
Gulpiyuri Beach
Now, if you’re up for a real adventure, check out Gulpiyuri Beach near Villahormes. It’s an inland beach you can only reach on foot. Weird, right? But so cool! You feel like you’re swimming in the middle of a farmers paddock.
The best part? These hidden beaches in Northern Spain aren’t overrun with tourists. Even in peak season, you can find your own little spot. It’s like having your own private beach!
So pack your bags and head to Asturias. Its secret coves are calling your name. Just remember, keep these gems to yourself. We don’t want everyone knowing about our little secret!
Costa Brava’s Hidden Coves and Inlets
The Costa Brava stretches 160 kilometres along Spain’s north-eastern coast. It’s filled with hidden beaches and secluded coves. With around 100 hidden inlets, it offers a unique paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Cala Bramant: A Unique Swimming Spot
Cala Bramant is a standout among Costa Brava’s hidden beaches. You can reach it after a short, steep descent down a semi graded track. Its crystal-clear waters and untouched beauty make it perfect for those looking for peace away from crowds. However, it can get busy in summer with people looking to escape the crowds so I would recommend it on the shoulder season only.
To get there: If you head for Platja Canyelles, and find some parking along the ocean front streets, you can walk to Cala Bramant via a gravel path.
Calella de Palafrugell’s Secret Spots
Calella de Palafrugell is known for its stunning secluded coves in Catalonia. The town has four distinct beaches, with Golfet being the most private. Its rough sand and pebbles make it a true Costa Brava gem.
However, if you head off on the Cami de Ronda Calella (a walking path around the cliff tops), you can choose from many coves and bays along the path. If you find Platja del Golfet the path starts there and heads north.
Cala Estreta
The Cami de Ronda hiking trail covers nearly the entire Costa Brava coastline, about 130 kilometres, however you can jump in and out at many points. It leads to lots of hidden beaches and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean. For a unique adventure, visit Cala Estreta, accessible only by foot or canoe, keeping its beauty intact.
To find Cala Estreta: Get yourself to Platja de Castell and as you stand on the sand looking out to the ocean, head right onto the walking trail. Cala Estreta is only about 2km walk from here, but there are other paths down to the ocean all the way along this hike.
The best times to explore these hidden spots are in May-June and September-October. You’ll enjoy the secluded coves of Catalonia without the summer crowds. This makes your Costa Brava beach experience unforgettable.
Andalusian Coast’s Secluded Treasures
I’ve explored some of Spain’s most breathtaking hidden beaches Andalusia. They’re worth every step off the beaten path. The Andalusian coast is full of secluded spots that feel like your own private paradise.
Playa de Arenillas: Where Africa Meets Europe
Playa de Arenillas is a hidden gem near the Strait of Gibraltar. On a clear day, you can see Africa from this secluded Andalusian cove. It’s like standing at the crossroads of two continents! Close to Santandar you will need a car to access this beach because you have to go out around the bay and back to the coast.
Cala de Enmedio’s Natural Beauty
Cala de Enmedio is a slice of Spains amazing coast in Almería’s Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. This pristine beach is part of a biosphere reserve since 1997. With its crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, it’s one of the most stunning hidden beaches Andalusia has to offer.
I’ve been there and the tide is low enough that you have great sandy beach and I’ve been there when the weather isn’t as great, and you find yourself laying your towel out on the limestone rocks. I’m not actually sure they are limestone but the look like it.
Local Guidelines and Conservation
When visiting these secluded Andalusian coves, tread lightly. The park is home to over 600 plant species, some critically endangered. Pack out what you pack in, and stick to marked trails to protect this fragile ecosystem.
| Beach | Unique Feature | Conservation Note |
|---|---|---|
| Playa de Arenillas | Views of Africa | Minimize impact on local wildlife |
| Cala de Enmedio | Part of biosphere reserve | Stick to marked trails |
| Playa de los Muertos | Black sand, turquoise waters | Leave no trace behind |
Remember, these hidden beaches Andalusia offers are special because they’re untouched. Let’s keep them that way for future adventurers to enjoy!
Island Escapes: Balearic Hidden Beaches
I’ve explored many secret beaches in the Balearic Islands. They’re truly worth the journey! These hidden spots offer a peaceful escape from the busy tourist areas.
Cala Varques in Mallorca is a great example. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Palma, then a few minute hike through greenery down to the cove. The water is crystal clear, and the cove is secluded. Just don’t forget sturdy shoes for the rocky path!
Parking can be tricky on the main road as there are little stone walls that don’t give you enough room to park, however if you turn down the street near the Torre do Son Forteza you can usually park along there. Don’t block any access though.
Arenalet Aubarca is perfect for those who love adventure. It’s a 1.5-hour hike to this hidden cove in Mallorca. It’s a secret beach that feels like your own private paradise. The beach is stunning and there is a Refuge there where you can stay. You do need everything to sleep and cook though.
The cove is inside the Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant and is only accessible on foot via the trails or by boat.
Cala Magraner is another must-see for hidden coves in Mallorca. A 600 meter walk in from the road gets you to this one of three secluded bays. Cala Pilota and Cala Virgili are the other 2. Its a rocky beach but the water is amazing and don’t forget your snorkeling gear to see the marine life.
| Beach | Access Time | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Cala Varques | 5 min walk | Crystal-clear water |
| Arenalet Aubarca | 1.5 hour hike | Untouched beauty |
| Cala Magraner | 10 min walk | Three secluded bays |
Keep in mind, these secret spots lack amenities. So, bring everything you need. The effort is worth it for the pristine beaches, fewer crowds, and memories that last a lifetime. Happy exploring!
Costa da Morte’s Wild Beach Sanctuaries
I’ve seen many beaches, but Costa da Morte’s are unique. This part of the Galician coast, from Muxia to Malpica, is full of hidden spots. It’s a mix of rugged beauty and secret coves.
The name “Coast of Death” might sound scary, but it’s a sign of the area’s rich history. Now, it’s a place where nature lovers and adventurers find joy. I’ve found some of the most stunning beaches here, each with its own special appeal.
Praia de Nemiña beach is a great beach frequented by the locals and offers amazing sunsets. Praia de Rebordelo near Laxe is great for families with its calm waters. There is parking but its limited. These hidden spots in Galicia are waiting for you to explore.
Costa da Morte is committed to sustainable tourism. Beaches like Praia de Carnota show great care for the environment, with boardwalk access and restored dunes. So, when you visit, be sure to respect the natural beauty of these wild beach sanctuaries.
Essential Planning Tips for Beach Exploration
Ready to explore Spain’s hidden coastal gems? Here are some key planning tips for your secret beach adventure. With the right preparation, you’ll have an unforgettable time along Spain’s beautiful shores.
What to Pack
Packing smart is crucial for exploring hidden beaches. Make sure to bring these essentials and remember that a lot of these beaches have no services.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Water bottle & more water than you think you might need.
- Sturdy walking shoes or swim shoes
- Snacks
- Beach towel & hat
- First-aid kit
- Book or something to read
- Tissues for those loo emergencies.
Navigation and Access Information
Many secret coves need careful navigation. Research your route and download offline maps. Some beaches, like those in Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, might require a 4×4 vehicle or a short hike. Remember, the journey is part of the adventure!
Local Regulations and Respect
Respecting local rules is key to preserving these pristine spots. Stay on marked paths to protect the ecosystem. Some areas might have restrictions or require permits, so check before you go.
By following these tips, you’ll be ready for your Spanish coastal adventure. Remember to leave no trace and help keep these beaches special for years to come.
FAQ
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Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She’s always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.