The Real List of Best Beaches Near Barcelona: Hidden Gems Away from Tourists
Cala Sa Conca, near Sant Feliu de Guíxols, about 1.5 hrs from Barcelona
Here’s the thing: most “best beaches in Barcelona” lists are like well-traveled highways—predictable and crowded. They send you straight to Barceloneta or Sitges, where you’ll share towel space with every other traveler that’s come through the international airport.
We prefer the back roads, the hidden gems, the off-the-beaten-trail experiences that make us feel like we’ve stumbled upon something undiscovered by anyone not local. Therefore, we look towards the north to Costa Brava for the best beaches near Barcelona.
Costa Brava beaches are poorly connected by public transportation, but are perfectly situated for access by motorcycle, with many having minimal parking space
The industry and manufacturing in Barcelona affects the sea. Ride just 30 minutes away from the city and you get the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean.
Barcelona’s beaches are man-made, a product of the ‘92 Olympics. With enough people, the sand gets shuffled around to expose the rock slate base.
Costa Brava beaches are impressive scenes of raw nature
Costa Brava is famous for its ‘Calas’, which translates to cove or bay. These secret little coves are carved into the coast line of jagged rock faces and offer a secluded experience. Some are bigger than others, some have a little coastal town behind it, others have just a patch of sand, crystal blue waters, and a rock stairwell etched into the side of the mountain providing access to the road above.
If you are following our self-guided motorcycle tour of Costa Brava, select from any of these calas or beaches as a supplemental activity to your ride. Here is the real list of the best beaches near Barcelona and Costa Brava
Cliffs of Cala Boadella, 1 hr ride from Barcelona
cala Boadella
Distance from Lloret de Mar: 5 km
After a twisty ride through pine forests, you’ll hit Boadella, a crescent-shaped cove that feels like a destination reward. Park your bike under the shade, grab your towel, and stroll into this sandy nook. Park your bike on the side of the street around here, it gives you best access to the cala. Best thing about traveling with the motorcycle, free parking and you can almost park anywhere as long as it doesn’t hinder traffic.
If freedom is your thing, walk a bit further down the cala for a quieter, clothing-optional vibe if that’s your style.
Insider tip: there’s a beautiful botanical garden adjacent to the beach, pop in before your beach day for unreal Mediterranean views.
Aiguablava
Distance from Begur: 4 km
If the road to Aiguablava doesn’t take your breath away, the view when you get there certainly will. Tucked into the cliffs, this cala is a pool of pure turquoise. Perfect for cooling off after miles on the saddle, it’s also a snorkeler’s dream. The nearby chiringuito serves cold drinks and fresh bites, making it an ideal stop to refuel—not just your bike, but your soul.
Sa Tuna
Distance from Begur: 3 km
Getting to Sa Tuna feels like riding into a postcard. Narrow, winding roads lead to this tiny fishing village perched by a pebbly cove. Sure, the sand’s not soft, but the charm? Off the charts. Park the bike, stretch your legs, and take in the colorful boats bobbing lazily. It’s a quiet escape where time slows, and you might just forget where you parked.
cala Futadora
Distance from Tossa de Mar: 7 km
Probably the most secluded cala on this list—there is no bar, no town, no shops, and accessed only by a small stairwell from a back country road 100 meters above. And this back country road, the GI-681, is our favorite coastal road in the region because of it Mediterranean views and is featured as one of the best rides on the Mediterranean coast outside Barcelona.
Cala Sa Conca
Distance from Sant Feliu de Guíxols: 3 km
Ride down the Costa Brava’s rolling roads, and you’ll find Cala Sa Conca—a mix of soft sand, smooth pebbles, and calm waters. It’s close enough to a town for post-beach refreshments, but far enough to keep the crowds at bay. This one feels like the kind of place where you could spend hours just watching the world drift by.
The chiringuito at Cala Sa Conca, one of the best examples of a beach bar you’ll find in Costa Brava
Codolar
Distance: located in the historical center of Tossa de Mar
How often can you park your bike next to a medieval castle and walk down to a beach? Codolar is small, yes, but it’s postcard-worthy. Perfect for a quick swim and some unforgettable photos, it’s one of those spots where history and natural beauty collide.
Platja de les Barques
Distance from Sant Pol de Mar: 1 km
This tiny beach, just off the beaten path, gives you a taste of authentic Catalunya. The fishing boats scattered on the shore feel like a nod to simpler times. Stop for fresh seafood at one of the nearby eateries, then kick back and soak up the laid-back vibe. It’s the kind of place where your biggest decision is whether to nap or swim.
Castelldefels
Distance: Just outside Barcelona (18 km)
This beach is just outside Barcelona, about a 25 minutes ride from Plaza Espana. It isn’t a beautiful cala as the other suggestions, but if you want to stay close to the city but want something that isn’t crawling with tourists, the beach at Castelldefels is your best bet.
Warning: Lloret de Mar
Do not go to the beachs in Lloret de Mar. Don’t make a stop in Lloret de Mar. There is nothing there for you. It’s cheap, boasrdwalk tourism. If you want better suggestions on which coastal towns you should visit, here are the must-see coastal towns in Costa Brava and just outside Barcelona.
Why Ride Beyond Barcelona?
Barcelona’s got culture, food, and nightlife for days. But when it comes to beaches? The real treasures are found on the open road. These hidden coves and quiet sands are where you’ll find the magic—the places that aren’t in the guidebooks but are etched into your memories forever. So go ahead, twist the throttle, take the scenic route, and let the Costa Brava be your next great adventure.