Barcelona beaches Guide
There’s nothing better spending a hot, Barcelona summer day at the beach. The sandy strip along the Mediterranean is divided into seven beaches, each one with a distinct personality and appeal. All of the beaches offer well-kept public restrooms, showers, drinking fountains, disabled access, and numerous activities.
Llevant- The newest section, the Llevant beach, was created in the 2006 when the Prim Jetty was removed.
Nova Mar Bella- This beach was created in 1992 as part of city-wide restoration for the Olympic Games. Although the crowd that frequents Nova Mar Bella tends to be younger and predominately from outside of Barcelona, this section of the beach is known to be more peaceful than the others. This may be due, in part, to the fact that the majority of the guests at Nova Mar Bella are female.
Mar Bella- Along with Nova Mar Bella, this beach was also created in 1992 in preparation for the Olympic Games. A popular destination among both locals and foreigners, Mar Bell is the only naturist beach in Barcelona. Mar Bella has a children’s play area, a volleyball court, a skating area, and a designated nudist beach area. In July and August, a Beach Library is set up on the Bac de Roda breakwater.
Bogatell- Bordered by a stretch of pavement, this is a popular beach to walk, run, or cycle along. Bogatell has two ping-pong tables and a volleyball court and draws a more adult crowd.
Nova Icària- Although it is considered one of the quietest beaches in Barcelona, Nova Icària is always busy. Popular among families, Nova Icària, which has a game area and three volleyball courts, is always bustling with a variety of activities.
Barceloneta- One of the largest and oldest beaches in Barcelona, Barceloneta is also one of the most popular, especially with foreigners and students. Close to the Barceloneta metro and numerous buslines, this beach is also easily accessible. Barceloneta has volleyball, table soccer, skating, and a gym area. Surrounding the beach are numerous American-style restaurants and nightclubs. The Beach Centre is located on Barceloneta and offers information on all of the beaches, the beach activities going on throughout the year, and a Beach Library service.
Sant Sebastià- Like Barceloneta, Sant Sebastià is one of the largest and oldest beaches. Although it is popular with foreigners, the majority of the beachgoers at Sant Sebastià are Barcelona locals. Interestingly, the majority of the beachgoers are also male.
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