Join us on a journey along the Spanish coast, where we'll uncover hidden treasures nestled in charming seaside towns that often escape the tourist radar. As we veer away from the bustling coastal hubs, we stumble upon lesser-known villages, overlooked perhaps due to the popularity of their neighbours. Yet, these hidden gems hold immense appeal for travellers in search of untouched beauty and tranquil retreats. These are our top picks of charming (little-known) coastal towns in Spain.
- Small towns in Spain near the beach
- Visit O Vicedo in Lugo
- Discover the colourful town of Lekeitio in Biscay
- Explore a different kind of village on the coast of Alicante
- Enjoy Finestrat's nature and beach
- Visit a picturesque fishermen's village in Huelva
- Visit the beautiful town Agua Amarga in Almeria
- Visit the beautiful town L'Ampolla in Tarragona
- Be amazed by the coastal town of l'Ametlla de Mar
- Less touristy beach towns in Spain
- Affordable Spanish beach towns
Small towns in Spain near the beach
Spain boasts a plethora of small towns along its sun-kissed coastline, each offering a unique blend of charm, culture, and natural beauty. From the whitewashed villages of Andalusia to the rugged shores of the Basque Country, these coastal hamlets exude a laid-back vibe that beckons travellers seeking relaxation and authentic experiences.
With their quaint cobblestone streets, vibrant local markets, and fresh seafood eateries overlooking the azure Mediterranean or Atlantic, these towns provide an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it's lounging on pristine beaches, exploring ancient fortresses, or savouring traditional tapas by the sea, the small towns of Spain near the beach promise unforgettable moments and a true taste of Spanish coastal living.
Visit O Vicedo in Lugo
When it comes to unspoilt Spanish coastal towns, look no further than the charming village of O Vicedo in the region of A Mariña Occidental where you can enjoy fine sandy beaches, the river Sor estuary and views over the island of Coelleira, a refuge for migratory birds. Other places of interest are do Porto's medieval bridge, the church of Mosende, and the Pazo Casa do Paisano.
Discover the colourful town of Lekeitio in Biscay
A colourful fishing village on the coast of Biscay is Lekeitio. In addition to a pleasant stroll through its beautiful old quarter, we recommend visiting the Santa Catalina lighthouse and the Basilica of the Assumption of Santa Maria.
Another of its great attractions is the Isle of San Nicolas, also called Garraitz. Located near the shore of Karraspio beach, it is accessible by foot at low tide. It is said that during the Middle Ages, the island was used to transfer leprosy patients to avoid contagion.
Explore a different kind of village on the coast of Alicante
Enjoy Villajoyosa's seaside neighbourhood and stroll through its colourful old quarter to enjoy one of the best beach towns in Spain. We also recommend visiting the Renaissance walls and the church fortress of l'Assumpció.Besides the beach in the centre, you can enjoy fantastic coves such as Cala Racó Conill, a nudist beach ideal for exploring nature, snorkelling and fishing.
Enjoy Finestrat's nature and beach
One of the most magical villages on the Costa Blanca is Finestrat, located only eight minutes from Benidorm. Although the old town is inland, the municipality has some 267 metres of coastline, from the Punta del Tossal to the mouth of the Barranco de la Cachola ravine, where the so-called Cala de Finestrat is located.
Perched atop a 238-meter-high hill, the picturesque old town of Finestrat boasts a rich tapestry of traditional houses and narrow streets steeped in Moorish heritage. Beyond its charming cobblestone lanes, Finestrat offers enchanting vistas of its natural surroundings, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to explore the area's scenic trails, perfect for hiking and discovering the hidden treasures of this historic Spanish gem.
Visit a picturesque fishermen's village in Huelva
Nestled along the Spanish coast, El Rompido exudes the timeless charm of a traditional fishing village while seamlessly blending modern amenities. Offering a plethora of services, yet retaining its authentic allure, El Rompido presents an ideal destination for families, especially with its proximity to the Acuópolis Water Park in Cartaya, promising endless fun for children.
For sports enthusiasts, the options are plentiful, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to embarking on the scenic Laguna del Portil route. Here, you'll traverse along dunes that flank the Marismas del Odiel natural park, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the landscape.
A highlight not to be missed is the Zúñiga Castle, a revered National Monument. Immerse yourself in its rich history as you explore its ancient walls, and indulge in various cultural activities such as exhibitions and concerts, adding depth to your El Rompido experience.
Visit the beautiful town Agua Amarga in Almeria
This town belongs to the municipality of Nijar in the province of Almeria. It is one of the most beautiful villages in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, with its whitewashed streets and well-kept gardens.
From Agua Amarga, you can walk to the spectacular cove of Enmedio, a stunning unspoilt beach with calm waters. Near Agua Amarga, we can visit Mesa Roldan, an ancient volcanic dome on the top of which there is a watchtower and a lighthouse, boasting impressive views of Agua Amarga, beaches and coves.
Visit the beautiful town L'Ampolla in Tarragona
Nestled in the Gulf of Sant Jordi, L'Ampolla is a coastal gem that embraces a small segment of the Ebro delta, stretching from Arenal Beach to the Fangar Bay and the Ollas reservoir, with the majestic river as its backdrop. With roots tracing back to Iberian times, L'Ampolla exudes a rich historical heritage.
A journey to the Olles Lagoon is an absolute must, offering an immersive experience into the natural splendour of this remarkable locale. Numerous trails meander around the lagoon, inviting visitors to witness its diverse ecosystem firsthand. Explore routes such as "Camins de la Mediterrània" or "Els Ocells i l'arrós" to delve deeper into the area's ecological wonders.
The allure of L'Ampolla lies in its captivating blend of landscape elements, where the flat alluvial plains seamlessly transition into the rugged coastline. From the serene mudflats to the rugged rocks, from olive groves to lush rice fields, and from the sandy shores to the tranquil lagoons, L'Ampolla's beauty lies in its harmonious juxtaposition of nature's diverse elements.
Be amazed by the coastal town of l'Ametlla de Mar
Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, L'Ametlla de Mar emerges as a captivating fishing village brimming with character and charm. Its allure is undeniable, with one of its main draws being the stunning beaches, notably the picturesque Cala Estany Beach.
Beyond the allure of its pristine shores, L'Ametlla de Mar offers a wealth of experiences to indulge in. Delve into the village's rich history and embark on captivating archaeological tours, or lace up your hiking boots and explore the scenic trekking trails that meander through its rugged terrain.
But perhaps the crowning jewel of L'Ametlla de Mar is its culinary scene. Don't miss the opportunity to savor one of its delicacies: the renowned red tuna, a culinary delight that embodies the essence of the village's maritime heritage.
Less touristy beach towns in Spain
As we've seen, Spain is home to numerous beautiful coastal towns, many of which remain under the radar of the typical tourist. For those looking to escape the crowds and head specifically to the beach, towns like Zarautz in the Basque Country offer a laid-back vibe with stunning beaches and a rich cultural scene. The charming village of Isla, nestled in the northern region of Cantabria, boasts unspoiled sandy shores and a quaint old town with narrow cobblestone streets.
Further south, Cabo de Gata, in Almería, is a natural park offering dramatic coastal landscapes and hidden coves, perfect for those seeking tranquillity away from the bustling Mediterranean coast. These towns provide a peaceful alternative, where visitors can enjoy authentic local life alongside breathtaking seascapes.
Affordable Spanish beach towns
Spain offers a wealth of stunning beach destinations that don't break the bank. For those seeking an affordable coastal getaway, Mazarrón on the Costa Cálida provides a charming atmosphere with beautiful beaches and low-cost accommodations. The quiet town of Vera in Almería is another hidden gem, where visitors can enjoy long, golden beaches and a variety of affordable dining options.
Oropesa del Mar on the Costa Azahar offers a mix of sandy shores, quaint streets, and budget-friendly hotels. These towns combine sun, sea, and sand without the steep prices typically associated with Spain's more famous coastal resorts, making them perfect for a budget-conscious escape.
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