Any discussion surrounding the world’s best destinations for a beach holiday is not complete without mentioning the diversity of rocky coves, sandy stretches and crystalline waters to be found in and around sunny Spain. Such is the beauty of the country’s vast coastline and scattering of islands that it is nigh-on impossible to narrow it down to just ten.
At Villanovo we have put together a selection of some of our favourites, many off the beaten track, to inspire you for your next holiday in Spain.
Where better to begin than with this gorgeous stretch of white sand located not far from Tarifa? This secluded paradise is surrounded by sand dunes and has no through-road, lending it a special feeling of remoteness. Meanwhile, it’s backdrop of hills and even the presence of both wild cows and ancient Roman ruins only add to the feeling that you’ve escaped reality. Oh, and on a clear day (most are in these parts!) you can even see Africa.
Travellers in search of peace and quiet will be thrilled to discover Cala Escorxada, one of the most secluded coves on the island of Menorca. Here, nature is king, tourists can be counted on the fingers of one hand, and the island’s myriad watersports facilities give way to flourishing vegetation. Despite a few obstacles, getting to Cala Escorxada is well worth it: it can be reached by a 4 km path with little shade, by kayak from Galdana beach or by a 3.5 hour horseback ride. Recently, a taxi-boat from the port of Galdana connects the beach and the town on a regular basis - but be sure to check the timetable.
Since many of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations are scattered along its Mediterranean islands and coastline, it’s easy to forget the magnificent beaches and destinations waiting for you along its extensive Atlantic coast. There are few more paradisical than The Playa de Rodas, on the Islas de Cies, just a short boat ride from mainland Santiago de Compostela. While the northwest cannot guarantee predictably dry weather most of the year round, it does offer a welcome escape the crowds. To catch this gorgeous, white-sand, tree-lined haven on a good day is as close to paradise as you can find anywhere in Spain.
Although less well known and smaller, Formentera has nothing to envy its neighbours. Less popular with tourists during the summer season, the Spanish island is an ideal destination for families looking for peace and relaxation. Its natural areas are breathtaking. Located in the north of the island, Es Arenals beach is a testament to Formentera's charm. Access to this beach is via a footbridge that highlights the beauty of the place. There are picnic areas and green spaces, ideal for a walk in the forest or a shady meal.
The Balearic archipelago is home to beaches that are sometimes popular, often wild, but always dazzling. Whether in high or low season, with family or friends, the beaches of the Balearic Islands will never cease to surprise those who choose to venture there.
More famous for its nightlife than its natural surroundings, Ibiza is still a unique location with many natural treasures, such as Cala d'Hort. Located in the municipality of Sant Josep de Sa Taiala, it is divided into two distinct parts. On the one hand, there is a beach with fine white sand, and on the other, a much rockier cove. Cala d'Hort is perfectly suited to families, with its numerous water sports facilities and beach equipment for hire. Its crystal-clear waters are home to a rich and diverse fauna, much to the delight of snorkelers.
This hidden gem of a beach can be found just along the coast from the fascinating Roman city of Tarragona. Tucked away and only reachable via a sandy trail that winds through and down from the nearby pine forest, this unspoilt little nudist beach offers soft golden sands and crystalline waters. There are no amenities on the beach, so it is advisable to bring a picnic.
Although the Costa Brava offers no end of delightful rocky coves that descend into secluded beach paradises (see: Begur and Cadaques), the bay of Tamariu, a natural refuge that welcomes the Platja Gran, is one not to miss. Located within view of the whitewashed hosues of this old fishing village, the main beach of Tamariu is surrounded by a particular type of tree called tamarius in Catalan, that have given the area its name.
It is a family beach, with thick sand and crystal-clear waters, and it also has a small promenade with bars and restaurants.
For a truly unique experience, the volcanic sands of the island of Tenerife offer something quite out of the ordinary. The Playa Benijo – with its rugged, elemental beauty - can be found in the north of the island in an enclave near the Anaga mountains. The image of its magnificent rock formations emerging from its crystalline waters offers some of the best sunset vistas you will see anywhere in Spain.
Not so much a beach as a series of beaches and coves that truly have something for everyone; from one of Alicante’s prettiest town beaches with its backdrop of multicoloured seafront taverns and houses of its main beach to the secluded cala of Racó de Conill (that’s Rabbit Corner to you and I) and long stretches of white sand that make up the blue flag, Bol Nou and other beaches surrounding the town, Villajoyosa is a truly remarkable destination for a beach holiday.
Those looking to escape the glitzier side of the Costa del Sol might want to pay a visit to this shingle beach not far from Nerja. Sitting inside a sheltered cove, within a natural park, this splendid little haven is a favourite among hippies, and offers excellent snorkelling. As with many of the more secluded beaches in the region, swimwear is optional!
