Spain’s Best Beaches

Spaniards argue for hours about which is their district’s finest beach, so picking favourites from 5000km of coastline is a controversial, albeit mighty pleasurable, task. The Mediterranean’s gentle strands and pretty coves contrast with the rougher beauty of the Atlantic coasts.

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Playa de la Concha, San Sebastián | ALBERTO LOYO / SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Illas Cíes A protected archipelago off Galicia, with beaches so stunning you’ll gasp in disbelief.

Aiguablava/Fornells Neighbouring Costa Brava coves near Begur, so divine that we couldn’t choose between them.

Cabo de Gata A series of stunning beaches, all distinct, on this memorable peninsula in Almería province.

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La Isleta del Moro, Cabo de Gata | VENTURA CARMONA / SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Playa del Silencio Backed by a natural rock amphitheatre, this Asturian jewel between Cudillero and Luarca is hard to beat.

Playa de la Concha A scallop-shaped stretch of sand in the heart of San Sebastián, and possibly Europe’s finest city beach.

Praia As Catedrais The unearthly rock formations at this Galician strand near Ribadeo are such a drawcard that daily numbers are limited.

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Praia As Catedrais, near Ribadeo | SILVIA GREGORIO ESCOBAR / SHUTTERSTOCK ©