Holidays in Spain: 5 best beach destinations

With its endless beaches, generous climate and friendly atmosphere, Spain remains one of the favourite holiday destinations for Europeans.

From the Basque Country to the Balearic Islands, each region is unique and has its own charms. But which seaside destination is right for you? And where should you rent your holiday home in Spain?

Dreaming of relaxation, tapas at sunset and turquoise sea? Here's a roundup of the best beach destinations for an unforgettable holiday in Spain.
 

1. Costa Brava: between turquoise coves and authentic villages
2. Costa Blanca: sun, beaches and white villages
3. The Balearic Islands: island getaway between nature and nightlife
4. Costa del Sol: guaranteed sunshine and Andalusian charm
5. The Spanish Basque Country: a wild coast with strong character
6. Where to go on holiday in Spain this summer?

1. Costa Brava: between turquoise coves and authentic villages

Located in northeastern Catalonia, the Costa Brava is famous for its spectacular landscapes of cliffs, umbrella pines and crystal-clear waters. From Cadaqués to Tossa de Mar, this coastline offers picturesque villages, hidden beaches and lively seaside resorts, perfect for a relaxing holiday in Spain.

The region also attracts art and history lovers, with museums dedicated to Salvador Dalí and the Greco-Roman ruins of Empúries. Thanks to its diversity of landscapes and activities, the Costa Brava appeals to families, couples and adventurers alike. It’s the perfect place to rent a sea-view house or a villa nestled in the hills.

The +: Hidden coves and picturesque villages bathed by a turquoise Mediterranean.
 

Holiday rentals on the Costa Brava

 

2. Costa Blanca: sun, beaches and white villages

With over 240 km of coastline, the Costa Blanca is one of the most popular destinations for holidays in Spain. With its fine sandy beaches and rocky coves, it is home to lively cities like Alicante. You’ll also find typical villages such as Altea and Jávea, full of white facades and flowered balconies.

Besides swimming and seaside walks, the region offers many attractions: the Montgó Natural Park, the thermal springs of Fortuna, and traditional craft markets. Easy to reach and enjoying a mild climate all year round, Costa Blanca is ideal for renting a villa or apartment by the sea.

The +: Mild weather all year and a great variety of beaches for every taste.
 

Holiday rentals on the Costa Blanca

3. The Balearic Islands: island getaway between nature and nightlife

Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza or Formentera: the Balearics offer a wide range of atmospheres for holidays in Spain, between nature, relaxation and discovery.

Ibiza is known for its nightlife and world-famous clubs, but it also hides wild coves and traditional villages.

Majorca, the largest island, features mountains, family beaches and rich historical heritage.

Quieter Minorca is ideal for nature lovers, while Formentera’s beaches — only accessible by boat — rival those of the Caribbean.

The +: An archipelago of many faces, from legendary parties to preserved nature.
 

Holiday rentals in the Balearics

4. Costa del Sol: guaranteed sunshine and Andalusian charm

The Costa del Sol, in southern Andalusia, lives up to its name: it enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. From Málaga to Marbella, via Nerja and Estepona, the Andalusian coast offers a mix of lively beaches, white hilltop villages and modern resorts. It’s also popular for golf courses, marinas and Mediterranean cuisine.

Easily accessible from abroad via Málaga’s international airport, it’s a dream destination for renting a beachfront house, enjoying golden beaches, tapas by the sea and cultural visits inland (Ronda, Granada, Córdoba…).

The +: Over 300 days of sunshine a year and a perfect balance between sea, culture and a laid-back lifestyle.
 

Holiday rentals on the Costa del Sol

5. The Spanish Basque Country: a wild coast with strong character

Between green cliffs and wild coves, the Spanish Basque Country appeals to travellers seeking authenticity. San Sebastian (Donostia), the capital of the region, is known for its shell-shaped bay and La Concha beach, refined Belle Époque architecture, baths and spas, international film festival and Michelin-starred cuisine.

Further west, coastal villages like Getaria and Hondarribia offer a peaceful setting for holidays between sea and mountains.

Facing the Atlantic, this region boasts strong culture, unique architecture and raw coastal charm. It’s also a hotspot for water sports like surfing, with renowned spots such as Zarautz and Sopelana. For a Spanish holiday rooted in tradition and nature, the Basque coast is a unique and characterful option.

The +: A wild and elegant coast, where Basque traditions, surfing and gourmet cuisine meet.
 

Holiday rentals in the Basque Country

 

6. Where to go on holiday in Spain this summer?

Whether you're dreaming of wild beaches, hidden coves, fishing villages or lively resorts, Spain offers an exceptional variety of seaside destinations. From the Costa Brava to the Costa del Sol, via the Balearic Islands, the Costa Blanca and the Basque Country, each region has its own atmosphere and treasures to discover. This diversity makes Spain a sure bet for a summer holiday full of sunshine, relaxation and exploration.

To make the most of your stay, consider booking a vacation rental by the sea: a house with a view, a villa with pool, or an apartment in a coastal village… Whether for a week of sunbathing, a family road trip or a romantic getaway, Spain awaits.

 

Find all holiday rental listings in Spain on Mer et Demeures:

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