You don't need to fly to the Balearic or Canary Islands to enjoy an island in Spain. Along the country's coastline, there are small islands surrounded by sea that can be reached by boat and, in some cases, even on foot or by swimming.

Buying a second home by the beach remains a popular choice in Spain’s property market – with the coastline offering diverse options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. From well-known regions such as the Costa Blanca to emerging coastal hotspots, choosing the right location involves considering amenities, accessibility and long-term value. Here are 10 destinations to enjoy a summer home by the sea.

The Costa Brava is once again set to be one of Spain’s leading coastal destinations in 2026. This year, almost 30 beaches have retained their Blue Flag status – the international award recognising water quality, safety, services and environmental management.

Lanzarote has several designated areas for those who want to enjoy the sea without leaving their dog at home. In recent years, several municipalities have adapted sections of their coastline to accommodate dogs.

Toledo is one of Spain’s most historically significant cities. Its strategic position on a hill overlooking the River Tagus made it a key stronghold for controlling the Iberian Peninsula from ancient times.

The province of Almería has one of the most extensive defensive networks in Spain. This is no coincidence, as it was one of the last territories of the Kingdom of Granada to be incorporated into the Crown of Castile and remained vulnerable to pirate attacks for centuries.

Kylian Mbappé is experiencing one of the most intense periods of his career.

When summer arrives, many people assume they need to travel to the coast to enjoy a day at the beach. However, despite having no coastline, the Community of Madrid is home to several inland bathing areas where visitors can cool off without leaving the region.

Formentera is the smallest inhabited island in the Balearics and one of the Mediterranean’s most unique destinations. Its limited size and strong tourist appeal mean the population varies significantly throughout the year, particularly during the summer season.

Cantabria is undoubtedly one of Spain's top surfing destinations. Its more than 200 kilometres of coastline, open to the Cantabrian Sea, offering consistent waves, stunning natural landscapes and beaches for all skill levels.