Charming, little-known coastal towns in Spain

Discover lesser-known coastal towns in Spain, where beautiful beaches, rich history and local charm offer a quieter seaside escape.
Coastal towns
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We take a journey along the Spanish coastline to discover a selection of coastal towns with plenty of character that may still be flying under the radar.

Leaving behind some of the country's busiest seaside destinations, we explore a collection of lesser-known villages often overshadowed by more famous neighbours, yet offering plenty of appeal for travellers in search of authentic charm.

Visit O Vicedo, in Lugo

O Vicedo
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This charming village in the A Mariña Occidental region is known for its fine sandy beaches, the Sor estuary and views of Coelleira Island, an important refuge for migratory birds.

Other attractions include the medieval Porto Bridge, the Church of Mosende and the Pazo Casa do Paisano.

Discover the colourful town of Lekeitio in Biscay

Lekeitio
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This colourful fishing village lies on the Biscay coast. Alongside a stroll through its picturesque historic centre, visitors should explore the Santa Catalina Lighthouse and the Basilica of the Assumption of Saint Mary.

Another of its standout attractions is the Island of San Nicolás, also known as Garraitz. Located just offshore from Karraspio Beach, it can be reached on foot at low tide. According to local tradition, the island was used during the Middle Ages to isolate people with leprosy, preventing the spread of the disease.

Discover a different town on the Alicante coast

Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa, in Alicante Creative commons

In Villajoyosa, visitors can explore the historic fishing quarter and wander through its colourful old town. Other highlights include the Renaissance walls and the Church-Fortress of l'Assumpció.

Beyond the town's central beach, it is worth discovering beautiful coves such as Cala Racó Conill, a naturist beach ideal for enjoying nature, diving and fishing.

Enjoy nature and the beach in Finestrat

Finestrat
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One of the most enchanting towns on the Costa Blanca is Finestrat, located just eight minutes from Benidorm. Although its historic centre is inland, the municipality boasts around 267 metres of coastline, stretching from Punta del Tossal to the mouth of the Barranco de la Cachola, where the Cala de Finestrat is located.

The charming historic centre of Finestrat sits atop a 238-metre hill, with traditional houses and narrow streets of Moorish origin cascading down its slopes. Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding natural landscapes and several hiking routes.

Escape to this picturesque fishing village in Huelva

El Rompido-Cartaya, Huelva
El Rompido-Cartaya, Huelva Wikimedia commons

El Rompido is a traditional fishing village that has retained its charm while offering a wide range of visitor services. It is an excellent destination for families, with attractions such as the nearby Aquópolis Water Park in Cartaya.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities including windsurfing, kitesurfing and hiking along the Laguna del Portil route, which follows the dunes bordering the Marismas del Odiel natural area.

A visit to Zúñiga Castle, declared a National Monument, is also highly recommended. The site regularly hosts exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events.

Visit the beautiful village of Agua Amarga in Almería

Bitter Water (Nijar, Almería)
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Part of the municipality of Níjar in Almería province, Agua Amarga is one of the most attractive villages within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, known for its whitewashed streets and carefully maintained gardens.

From Agua Amarga, visitors can walk to the spectacular Cala de Enmedio, an unspoilt beach with calm waters. Nearby, Mesa Roldán rises above the coastline, an ancient volcanic dome crowned by a watchtower and lighthouse. The views over Agua Amarga and its surrounding beaches and coves are spectacular.

Houses and flats in Agua Amarga, Almería

Explore the beautiful town of L'Ampolla in Tarragona

L'Ampolla (Tarragona)
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Located in the Gulf of Sant Jordi, L'Ampolla encompasses a small section of the Ebro Delta, stretching between Arenal Beach, Fangar Bay and the Olles Lagoon, with the Ebro River nearby. Its origins date back to the Iberian period.

A visit to the Laguna de les Olles is a must. Several walking routes circle the lagoon, offering excellent opportunities to appreciate the area's natural beauty. It also forms part of routes such as "Camins de la Mediterrània" and "Els Ocells i l'Arròs".

Its appeal lies in the remarkable variety of landscapes, where flat alluvial plains meet rugged coastline, mudflats merge with rocky shores, olive groves give way to rice fields, and riverbanks blend into lagoons.

Houses and flats in L'Ampolla, Tarragona

Be amazed by the seaside town of L'Ametlla de Mar

L'Ametlla de Mar
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Another charming Mediterranean fishing town is L'Ametlla de Mar, a destination with a strong local identity. Its main attractions include beautiful beaches such as Cala Estany.

In addition to water sports, visitors can explore historical and archaeological routes, enjoy trekking trails and, above all, savour one of the town's culinary specialities: bluefin tuna.

Houses and flats in L'Ametlla de Mar, Tarragona