For solo travellers or families seeking a sun-soaked holiday, Spain has an incredible coastline that stretches for more than 4,000 miles. Travellers have been attracted to the sandy shores of the Mediterranean since the mid-20th century and this trend sees no signs of waning with people keen to discover the lesser-known picturesque villages that line the coast.
Whether you’re stopping off on an island-hopping cruise, about to relocate to the Costa Brava as a digital nomad, or are an outdoor swimming enthusiast searching for hidden coves, Spain’s coastal gems provide the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic charm.
For a peaceful retreat or an active family-friendly adventure, here are some coastal locations that offer something magical for everyone.
1. Roses, Costa Brava
Meaning “wild coast” in Spanish, the rugged Costa Brava region runs from Blanes to the French border and has some of the most spectacular coastal scenery especially in Roses and L’Escala. According to location guides by local estate agents, Windsor Consultants, these areas boast dramatic cliffs and secluded coves yet retain their authentic charm as picturesque fishing villages.
Roses is a vibrant coastal town with lots going on and renowned for its beautiful bay. At its heart lies an impressive citadel overlooking a bustling harbour where fishing boats share sway side by side with luxury yachts. Roses also has superb watersports, such as sailing, windsurfing, paddle-boarding and diving.
Its culinary scene is equally impressive, with waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and local Empordà wines.
Top Tip: For a beachside lunch, head to El Pirata Club or one of the charming chiringuitos on the sand for tasty Mediterranean dishes and uninterrupted views of the bay.
2. Cudillero, Asturias
Situated in Asturias on Spain’s northern Atlantic coast, Cudillero presents one of the country’s most striking coastal villages. Built like a natural amphitheatre around a tiny harbour, the village’s multicoloured houses cascade down steep hillsides in a rainbow of pastels.
This former whaling port maintains its authentic fishing village character, with narrow streets too steep for cars and traditional sidrerías serving locally caught fish and Asturian cider. The village offers spectacular cliff-top walks and serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Asturias region.
Top Tip: Cudillero’s picturesque Plaza de la Marina, such as Casa Julio or Sidrería El Remo, are great for an unforgettable culinary experience with direct views over the harbour.
3. L’Escala, Costa Brava
Just south along this same stretch of coast you’ll find L’Escala with its dual personality. Rich with history it then doubles up as a bustling seaside resort. Home to the impressive Greek and Roman ruins of Empúries, this unique spot fuses its ancient past with an idyllic Mediterranean lifestyle.
The village’s narrow streets wind between decorative and colourful traditional homes, leading to small beaches that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. L’Escala is also famous for its anchovies, so allow time to sample this local delicacy at family-run taverns.
Top Tip: For eateries with a waterside view and authentic experience, try El Roser 2 or Restaurant L’Escull.
4. Combarro, Galicia
Relatively undiscovered, the impressive Galicia’s Rías Baixas region is home to Combarro which showcases Spain’s best-preserved maritime architecture. This remarkable village features traditional hórreos (raised stone granaries) perched on stilts over the water, creating one of Spain’s most photographed coastal scenes.
The village’s granite houses and narrow cobblestone streets reflect centuries of fishing tradition, while excellent marisquerías serve some of Spain’s finest seafood, including famous Galician octopus and locally harvested mussels.
Top Tip: For amazing sea views at a traditional restaurant in Combarro, head to Restaurante O Peirao or Tintanegra and book a table on their waterfront terraces for the best meal.
5. Cadaqués, Costa Brava – White-washed Dreams and Salvador Dalí
Perched on an imposing and striking headland near the French border, Cadaqués remains one of Spain’s most photogenic coastal villages. This pristine white-washed settlement captivated Salvador Dalí, who made it his home and had an affinity with this area for years. The village’s labyrinthine streets cascade down to a protected bay where traditional fishing boats bob alongside pleasure boats.
Art galleries, boutique shops, and excellent seafood restaurants straddle converted fishermen’s houses, creating an authentic bohemian atmosphere that attracts artists and creatives from around the world.
Top Tip: Immerse yourself in Salvador Dalí’s surreal world at his House-Museum in Portlligat for breathtaking sea views that may have inspired his masterpieces.
6. Frigiliana, Costa del Sol
Though slightly inland and in the much-loved province of Málaga, Frigiliana overlooks the Mediterranean from its dramatic mountain perch near the popular beaches of Nerja that the Costa del Sol is famed for. While this region is a cultural beauty, Frigiliana stands out thanks to its Moorish charm and pretty whitewashed houses. You can’t beat meandering through the village’s narrow streets and hidden patios, stopping for lunch, coffee, or a couple of beers.
Top Tip: This quaint maze of photogenic corners has plenty of eateries with panoramic terraces over stunning views of secluded coves and a glistening sea beneath.
7. Hondarribia, Basque Country
At Spain’s northern border with France, Hondarribia combines medieval charm with Basque Country coastal elegance. The fortified old town features impressive stone architecture and colourful wooden balconies typical of Basque design.
The fishing quarter of La Marina bustles with pintxos bars and traditional restaurants, while the long sandy beach offers excellent swimming and family-friendly activities. The village’s position at the mouth of the Bidasoa River creates unique estuary landscapes perfect for kayaking and birdwatching.
Top Tip: Head to Calle San Pedro in La Marina where you’ll find the award-winning Gran Sol or can try Sardara’s creative miniature dishes.
8. Altea, Costa Blanca
On the Costa Blanca, Altea’s distinctive blue-domed church crowns a hilltop old town of narrow streets and artist studios. This peaceful village offers a sophisticated alternative to busier coastal resorts, with art galleries, craft shops, and excellent restaurants occupying traditional houses.
The village’s pebble beaches and clear waters provide perfect swimming conditions, while the nearby Sierra de Bernia mountains offer hiking opportunities with spectacular coastal views.
Top Tip: With captivating sea views, walk along the promenade or visit rooftop terraces, such as Zero Zero Altea or Restaurante Casa Vital to enjoy delicious dishes.