Whether it’s wild spots on the north coast or private coves on the Balearics, these are the most secluded beaches in Spain.
There are a lot of images of beaches in Spain that conjure up images of expansive strips of yellow sand, crowded with tourists looking for sun. Even though these busy beaches might be enjoyable, discerning travelers know that Spanish beaches have another side as well, with rocky coves and emerald-colored waters, as well as the promise of privacy.
Discover our top picks of Spanish beaches that provide an extra level of seclusion, whether you are looking to socially distance yourself or just tread the road less traveled.
Platja Cala El Golfet, Girona
With turquoise blue waters and jagged rocks surrounded by weatherbeaten greenery, Platja Cala El Golfet is a delightfully secluded cove on Spain’s far north west coast. Despite being tucked away from the open sea, the cove remains protected from strong northern winds, making it an ideal swimming area.
You will have to walk over a rocky headland to enjoy Platja Cala El Golfet, as with all of the best Spanish beaches. As a result of this lack of easy access, the beach has been preserved, protected against throngs of tourists otherwise encroaching.
Calo des Moro, Mallorca
There is an unspoiled beach on the south coast of Mallorca called Calo des Moro, hidden between steep rock faces. The beach is protected, so the white sand and aquamarine water remain pristine. As you enter Calo des Moro, do not be deterred by the signs saying ‘Private Property’; it is a private property, but it is open to the public as well.
Although Calo des Moro has been well known in recent years, this secluded Spanish beach remains quiet due to the challenging rock-face hike needed to reach it. It is also important to note that the cove is very small, with most of its sandy lounging space being wiped out by high tide. Instead of trekking to the beach, hire a boat and access it by water so that you have plenty of sunbathing space.
Platja des Coll Baix, Mallorca
The trek to reach Platja de Coll Baix takes upwards of 30 minutes, making it one of the most inaccessible spots on our list of Spain’s most secluded beaches. If you plan a trip to Platja de Coll, you should pack lightly, wear proper shoes and be prepared to scramble across rocks.
As you might expect, the moment you see this gorgeous beach, all your efforts are immediately rewarded. The jagged rock face contrasts sharply with the pristine blue waters of the Balearic Sea, inviting you right in. During windy days, the ocean at the far end of Mallorca can get a little rough, but if you’re a confident swimmer, this only adds to the experience of visiting this incredible beach.
Playa del Silencio, Asturias
A secluded beach, hailed as one of the most beautiful in the country, is named Silencio, which means silence in Spanish. The horseshoe-shaped cove is flanked by jutting cliff faces, protecting it from harsher swells and currents. This added level of shelter makes the beach perfect for swimming – but watch out for hidden underwater rocks.
Take note that the majority of Playa del Silencio’s beach disappears during high tide, so be careful when planning your trip. Unlike some of the other most secluded beaches in Spain, Playa del Silencio has been made more accessible, with a staircase and handrail enabling visitors to access the beach safely.
Cala Mastella, Ibiza
Though Ibiza is famous for its wild party scene, it is also popular with vacationers looking for a quieter, more relaxed getaway. You can appreciate the island’s full beauty on the north east coast, where you can find a deserted beach nestled into a rock face called Cala Mastella. Due to its rocky ocean floor, the cove’s water remains crystal clear, making it an ideal snorkeling spot, despite being located far off the beaten track.
While picture-perfect Cala Mastella has appeared to slip under the radar for most Ibiza visitors, be aware that the beach is impressively tiny, so be sure to get there early for added seclusion and privacy. It is a world away from the overdeveloped beach fronts found elsewhere on the island (which is exactly why we like it), but there is a small kiosk with snacks and refreshments on hand.
Cala Sa Cova, Costa Brava
Cala Sa Cova is a secluded cove surrounded by jagged rocks and lush greenery hidden away from the main Platja d’Aro strip. Although Sa Cova is close to the town of Platja d’Aro, it is usually quiet most of the year because most tourists head to the larger town beach.
The beach can be easily accessed via the coastal path, which leads on to some spectacular walks along the Costa Brava coastline, which features a number of beautiful beaches and coves. The beach is truly beautiful in the evening, when the sun disappears below the horizon, even though it is a great place to relax during the day.
Cala d’en Serra, Ibiza
Cala d’en Serra is another beautiful secluded beach on Ibiza, located towards the north of the island, where the only visitors are devoted locals and savvier tourists who enjoy a quieter corner of the island.
As the calm, emerald waters surround the cove, visitors are attracted to diving into them from the top of the many rocks surrounding it. Cala d’en Serra, a secluded beach in Spain, does have some amenities, including a bar and café that serves fresh seafood and cocktails, as well as sun loungers for hire.
Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias
Located on the northern coast, around two hours from Bilbao, Gulpiyuri is undoubtedly one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches. In reality, the “beach” is actually a flooded sinkhole that shoots water directly from the Cantabrian Sea through ancient underground tunnels set back over 300 feet from the sea.
It rarely gets more than waist high at high tide at Gulpiyuri, making it a safe spot for a dip at any time of the year. Although impressively secluded, this natural phenomenon has been known to draw crowds, so we’d recommend visiting early in the day (if the tide allows) to enjoy the beach to yourself.
