7 Hidden Beach Gems in Spain You Must Visit in 2026

There’s something magical about discovering a beach that feels like it was carved out just for you. No jostling for space, no umbrellas lined up like soldiers—just the sound of waves lapping at the shore and the sun warming your skin like a gentle embrace. Spain, with its 8,000 kilometers of coastline, is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. But beyond the well-trodden sands of Barcelona’s Barceloneta or the lively shores of Ibiza, there lies a treasure trove of hidden coves, secret bays, and pristine stretches of sand that remain blissfully untouched by mass tourism.

I’ve spent over a decade wandering Spain’s coastlines, chasing the kind of beaches that make you pinch yourself to believe they’re real. In 2026, as travel continues to evolve and the call for seclusion grows louder, these hidden gems in Spain are more precious than ever. So, pack your sunscreen, grab a hat, and let’s dive into seven of Spain’s best-kept beach secrets—places where the sand is softer, the water clearer, and the crowds nonexistent.

1. Cala Macarelleta, Menorca

Address: Cala Macarelleta, 07740, Illa de Menorca, Balearic Islands

Hours: Accessible all day, best visited early morning or late afternoon to avoid the rare crowds.

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a postcard, Cala Macarelleta is where that dream comes true. Tucked away on the southern coast of Menorca, this beach is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. The journey to reach it is part of the adventure—you’ll need to hike about 20 minutes from the nearest parking area, but every step is worth it.

As you descend the rocky path, the first glimpse of Macarelleta takes your breath away. The cove is framed by towering pine trees, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. The sand is powdery white, almost luminescent under the Mediterranean sun, and the water is a gradient of blues—from the palest aquamarine near the shore to deep sapphire further out. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours floating on your back, gazing up at the sky, and feeling utterly at peace.

What makes Macarelleta truly special is its sense of isolation. Even in peak season, the beach never feels crowded. The surrounding cliffs provide natural shade, and the lack of development means no beach bars or loud music—just the symphony of nature. Bring a picnic, a good book, and plenty of water. And if you’re feeling adventurous, follow the trail to the neighboring Cala Macarella, another stunning cove just a short walk away.

2. Playa de las Catedrales, Galicia

Address: Playa de las Catedrales, 27870, Ribadeo, Lugo, Galicia

Hours: Open all day, but access to the beach is restricted during high tide. Check tide tables before visiting.

Galicia’s Playa de las Catedrales (Beach of the Cathedrals) is a place of raw, dramatic beauty. Unlike the sun-drenched beaches of the south, this stretch of coastline is wild and untamed, shaped by the relentless power of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach gets its name from the towering sea stacks and arches that rise from the sand like the flying buttresses of a Gothic cathedral. It’s a place that feels ancient, as if time itself has paused to admire the view.

To visit, you’ll need to time your trip with low tide, when the full majesty of the rock formations is revealed. Walk beneath the arches, their surfaces worn smooth by centuries of wind and water, and listen to the echo of the waves crashing against the cliffs. The sand here is a golden hue, speckled with shells and seaweed, and the air carries the briny scent of the ocean.

While Playa de las Catedrales is not entirely unknown, its remote location in northern Spain means it’s often overlooked by international tourists. The nearby town of Ribadeo offers charming seafood restaurants where you can warm up with a bowl of Galician caldo (a hearty fish stew) after a day of exploring. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a lone bagpiper playing on the cliffs, adding a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to your visit.

3. Cala Varques, Mallorca

Address: Cala Varques, 07680, Porto Cristo, Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Hours: Accessible all day, but best visited in the morning before the heat sets in.

Mallorca is famous for its beaches, but Cala Varques is a hidden jewel that even many locals don’t know about. Located near the town of Porto Cristo, this secluded cove is accessible only by a 30-minute hike through a pine forest, which adds to its allure. The trail is well-marked but rugged, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

As you emerge from the trees, the sight of Cala Varques is nothing short of spectacular. The beach is a crescent of golden sand, flanked by limestone cliffs that glow in the sunlight. The water is so clear you can see fish darting around your feet as you wade in. Unlike the more touristy beaches of Mallorca, Cala Varques has no facilities—no sunbeds, no umbrellas, no vendors selling ice cream. It’s just you, the sand, and the sea.

One of the highlights of Cala Varques is the nearby caves, which you can explore if you’re feeling adventurous. Bring a flashlight and venture into the cool, dark interior, where stalactites hang like chandeliers and the sound of dripping water echoes off the walls. It’s a surreal experience, like stepping into another world.

4. Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias

Address: Playa de Gulpiyuri, 33343, Llanes, Asturias

Hours: Open all day, but best visited during low tide.

If you’ve ever wanted to visit a beach that’s also a natural swimming pool, Playa de Gulpiyuri is the place for you. Located in the lush, green region of Asturias, this tiny inland beach is one of the most unique coastal spots in Spain. Unlike traditional beaches, Gulpiyuri is landlocked, formed by the collapse of a sinkhole that allowed the sea to rush in and create a stunning, circular lagoon.

The beach itself is small—just 40 meters in diameter—but its beauty is immense. The water is calm and crystal clear, perfect for swimming or simply floating while you soak up the sun. The surrounding cliffs are covered in vibrant greenery, and the sound of birdsong fills the air. It’s a place that feels almost magical, like something out of a fairy tale.

Because of its size, Gulpiyuri can get crowded during peak hours, so arrive early to secure a spot. The nearby town of Llanes is a charming base for exploring the region, with its colorful fishing boats and delicious Asturian cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to try fabada, a rich bean stew that’s a local specialty.

5. Cala del Pino, Cabo de Gata, Andalusia

Address: Cala del Pino, 04115, Nijar, Almería, Andalusia

Hours: Accessible all day, but best visited in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views.

Cabo de Gata is one of Spain’s most underrated coastal regions, a rugged, volcanic landscape where the desert meets the sea. Within this wild and beautiful park lies Cala del Pino, a hidden beach that feels like the edge of the world. The journey to reach it is an adventure in itself—you’ll need to drive down a dirt road and then hike about 15 minutes to the shore, but the effort is more than rewarded.

Cala del Pino is a place of stark contrasts. The sand is dark, almost black, a reminder of the volcanic origins of the region. The water, however, is a brilliant turquoise, shimmering in the sunlight like a precious gem. The beach is flanked by dramatic cliffs, their surfaces dotted with hardy shrubs and cacti. It’s a landscape that feels otherworldly, like something you’d expect to find on Mars rather than in Spain.

One of the best things about Cala del Pino is its sense of solitude. Even in the height of summer, you’re likely to have the beach to yourself. Bring a picnic, a blanket, and a good book, and spend the day soaking up the sun and the silence. As the sun begins to set, the cliffs glow with a golden light, casting long shadows across the sand. It’s a moment of pure magic, one that you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left.

6. Playa de las Conchas, La Graciosa, Canary Islands

Address: Playa de las Conchas, 35540, La Graciosa, Canary Islands

Hours: Open all day, but best visited in the morning when the light is soft.

If you’re willing to venture a little further off the beaten path, Playa de las Conchas on the island of La Graciosa is a paradise waiting to be discovered. La Graciosa is part of the Chinijo Archipelago, a small group of islands off the coast of Lanzarote, and it’s one of the few places in Europe that remains largely untouched by tourism. There are no paved roads, no high-rise hotels, just a handful of tiny villages and some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see.

Playa de las Conchas is the crown jewel of La Graciosa. The beach is a sweeping curve of golden sand, dotted with seashells that give it its name (conchas means shells in Spanish). The water is a dazzling shade of blue, so clear you can see the sand rippling beneath the surface. The beach is backed by rolling sand dunes, their surfaces shifting and changing with the wind.

What makes Playa de las Conchas truly special is its sense of remoteness. To reach La Graciosa, you’ll need to take a ferry from Lanzarote, and once you arrive, the island is best explored by bike or on foot. The lack of development means there are no beach bars or restaurants, so bring plenty of water and snacks. But the reward is a beach that feels like it’s yours alone, a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.

7. Cala Sa Tuna, Costa Brava

Address: Cala Sa Tuna, 17220, Begur, Girona, Costa Brava

Hours: Open all day, but best visited in the late afternoon when the crowds thin out.

The Costa Brava is known for its dramatic coastline and charming fishing villages, and Cala Sa Tuna is one of its best-kept secrets. Located near the town of Begur, this small, crescent-shaped beach is nestled between pine-covered cliffs, giving it a sense of seclusion that’s rare on the mainland.

The sand at Cala Sa Tuna is golden and soft, perfect for sinking your toes into as you gaze out at the sparkling water. The beach is sheltered from the wind, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding cliffs provide plenty of shade, and the lack of high-rise hotels means the view is unspoiled.

One of the highlights of Cala Sa Tuna is the nearby Camí de Ronda, a coastal path that winds its way along the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The path is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great option for a leisurely hike. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden coves and rocky outcrops, each one more beautiful than the last.