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What Are the Most Beautiful Resorts in Spain?

Have an intimate experience at the 14-room Hotel Villa Gala in Cadaqués, Spain
Have an intimate experience at the 14-room Hotel Villa Gala in Cadaqués, Spain | Courtesy of Hotel Villa Gala / Expedia

Spain is well known for its sun, sea and sand. But beyond the Costa del Sol, there are lesser-known beach towns just waiting to be uncovered. From a surfer’s paradise near San Sebastián to the historic town of Cadaqués near Barcelona, we’ve chosen the most beautiful seaside resorts for a beach holiday away from the crowds – and we’ve recommended the places to stay, bookable with Culture Trip.

Among Spain’s high-rise hotels and tourist hotspots are a host of untouched seaside havens. We’ve lined up the best resorts by the sea, including boutique hotels and quiet coastal towns on the south coast and colourful fishing villages on northern Spain’s rugged shores.

Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hotel

Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Courtesy of Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel / Expedia

Turn-of-the-century grandeur meets Hollywood glitz in San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most glamorous seaside resorts. Channel old-school luxury at the Hotel Maria Cristina, welcoming guests since 1912. Rooms and suites feel palatial with contemporary touches, such as feather duvets and luxury bath products. The hotel bar has a regal atmosphere, while the restaurant, Café Saigon, harks back to Southeast Asia with a pan-Asian menu. The Hotel Maria Cristina is also just a short walk to La Concha beach.

Arima Hotel

Boutique Hotel

Hotel Arima
Courtesy of Arima Hotel / Expedia

Just 20 minutes outside San Sebastián, in the Basque countryside, the Arima Hotel offers a tranquil stay. Panoramic windows highlight the natural landscape, while the rooftop pool makes you feel like you’re practically swimming among the treetops. The purpose-built hotel also boasts some seriously impressive green credentials. It’s heated geothermally and has water reuse systems in place, and there are also electric charging points for cars and bike hire.

Zenit San Sebastián

Hotel

Hotel Zenit San Sebastian
Courtesy of Zenit San Sebastián / Expedia

Any seaside resort worth its salt knows the importance of a warm welcome. The Zenit, set right in the centre of town, is an inviting base to stay as you explore San Sebastián. Contemporary guest rooms are comfortable with all the modern conveniences, while the hotel restaurant highlights local produce on its seasonal menu – think freshly caught calamari with spring greens. The jewel in the crown is the rooftop pool and solarium, an ideal place to soak up the Spanish sun.

Hotel Mazagonia

Boutique Hotel

Mazagonia Hotel
Courtesy of Hotel Mazagonia / Booking.com

On an unspoilt stretch of the Andalucian coast, the Hotel Mazagonia holds a privileged position, just a stone’s throw from the beaches of Mazagón. A fantastic budget-friendly option, it offers light-filled rooms that are simple and reasonably priced. Hire a bike from the hotel to explore the nearby Doñana National Park. When you get back, you can flop by the rooftop pool and admire the sea views.

Parador de Mazagón

Hotel

Parador De Mazagon Huelva
Courtesy of Parador de Mazagón / Expedia

Parador de Mazagón is a resort-style hotel with a distinctly Andalucian twist. The restaurant menu reflects the hotel’s position between land and sea – prawns and scallops are served alongside Iberian ham and cured meats. The pools and wellness centre are the perfect places to cool off and get some exercise, while the virgin beaches of Costa de la Luz are just a short walk from the hotel.

Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort

Hotel

Barcelo Punta Umbria Beach Resort
Courtesy of Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort / Expedia

A small fishing village on the banks of the Odiel River, Punta Umbría is an unassuming seaside resort with pristine beaches often named among the best in Spain. The Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort is a family-friendly property packed with a kids’ club, multiple pools and restaurants, and a spa. Interconnected rooms and an all-inclusive package option make this an excellent choice for a stress-free escape.

Hotel Horta d’en Rahola

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

Hotel Boutique Horta den Rahola
Courtesy of Hotel Horta d’en Rahola / Expedia

This 18th-century family farmhouse has been transformed into a charming boutique bolthole in the historic centre of Cadaqués, a whitewashed fishing village on the Catalan coast where Salvador Dali once lived. The adults-only Hotel Horta d’en Rahola houses rooms decorated in Mediterranean blue and white, and each one comes with town views. Take advantage of the outdoor pool surrounded by a pretty garden.

Hotel Villa Gala

Hotel

Boutique Hotel Villa Gala
Courtesy of Hotel Villa Gala / Expedia

This hotel brings barefoot chic to the heart of Cadaqués. Understated luxury reigns among the 14 rooms, decorated with soothing tones, exposed brick walls and quirky furnishings. Couples should book the Suite Gala with its large bathtub and balcony. Explore the town and the nearby Cap de Creus National Park on two wheels, thanks to the hotel’s complimentary bike hire. Too hot? Tuck into cold slices of watermelon by the outdoor pool.

Hotel Rec de Palau

Hotel

Hotel Rec de Palau
Courtesy of Hotel Rec de Palau / Expedia

The privileged hillside setting of Hotel Rec de Palau is the best vantage point to soak in views of Cadaqués and its dramatic coastline. Expansive gardens filled with olive trees, grapevines and outdoor pools give the hotel a secluded, tranquil feel. Opt for a private bungalow built in the typical whitewashed style of the area. Each one comes with a barbecue and a walled garden shaded by olive trees. The nearest beach is just a four-minute walk away.

Hotel La Piconera And Spa

Hotel

La Piconera And Spa
Courtesy of Hotel La Piconera And Spa / Expedia

On the eastern edge of the Asturian coast is the unpretentious seaside town of Ribadesella. It’s near the Picos de Europa National Park, making it a great location for those who like their beach holidays with a side of adventure. After a day hiking or cycling in the “peaks of Europe”, there’s no better place to rest up than the Hotel La Piconera and Spa. Recuperate in the wellness centre, then replenish at the hotel restaurant – a stunning terrace setting serving local Asturian produce.

Hotel Don Pepe

Hotel

Hotel Don Pepe
Courtesy of Hotel Don Pepe / Expedia

The Hotel Don Pepe knows what visitors want from a seaside resort – sea, sea and more sea. This beachfront hotel in Ribadesella has unbeatable views of the Cantabrian coast, and perks include 24-hour room service. Treat yourself to a sea-view room with a balcony. Afterwards, spend the day exploring the sandy beaches of Asturias or the Palaeolithic caves that dot the nearby landscape.

Hotel Villa Rosario II

Hotel

Hotel Villa Rosario II, Edificio Moderno
Courtesy of Hotel Villa Rosario II / Expedia

The Cantabrian coast is – to those in the know – one of the best places to surf in Spain. The Hotel Villa Rosario II near Ribadesella is a surfer’s dream, complete with direct beach access. The contemporary guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for checking the surf before you’ve even left your room. Rituals bath products and fluffy robes add a luxurious touch. The pet-friendly policy means you can also bring your furry friends along for the ride.

Hotel Boutique La Marquesina

Hotel

Hotel Boutique La Marquesina - Adults Only
Courtesy of Hotel Boutique La Marquesina / Expedia

On the northernmost tip of Fuerteventura – sandwiched between volcanoes and the sea – is the coastal resort of Corralejo, home to the adults-only Hotel Boutique La Marquesina. This bright, almost playful hotel is decked out with candles, fresh flowers and nautical touches. Start your day with a dip in the rooftop pool, then catch the boat to the Isla de Lobos, a now uninhabited island that has been transformed into a nature reserve.

Gran Hotel Bahía Real (Ex Atlantis)

Resort, Hotel

A light and spacious dining area at Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahia Real, with tables, chairs and large windows showing sea views
Courtesy of Gran Hotel Bahía Real (Ex Atlantis) / Expedia

If you prefer your seaside getaways with a serious dollop of luxury, the Gran Hotel Bahía Real (Ex Atlantis) in Corralejo is the place for you. Opulent interiors give way to uninterrupted views of the Isla de Lobos across the sea. Little ones will be delighted with the kids’ club and water sports on offer, while parents can choose to spend a day in the spa or relax at the Coco Bahía lounge. The hotel can also arrange excursions further afield, such as mountain bike trips or jeep hire to explore the island.

Alua Suites Fuerteventura

Hotel

Suite Hotel Atlantis Fuerteventura Resort - Alua Suites Fuerteventura
Courtesy of Alua Suites Fuerteventura / Expedia

This all-suite hotel in Corralejo is ideal for families looking for an activity-filled holiday by the sea. The Alua Suites Fuerteventura (formerly the Suite Hotel Atlantis Fuerteventura Resort) is set in lush, tropical gardens, with all rooms having a garden or pool view. The hotel boasts a plush wellness area, a kids’ club and five different restaurants. If you fancy something a bit more adrenaline-fuelled, the beach next to the hotel offers kitesurfing and windsurfing.

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