Spain is one of the major European beach holiday spots for good reason. Travelers from every continent come to enjoy the warm weather and serene, sun-soaked scenery, whether that’s at wild spots on the north coast or private beaches on the Balearic Islands.
While the typical idea of a Spanish beach holiday conjures visions of expansive stretches of sand and deckchairs by the hundred, the best-traveled amongst us know to look beyond. The country’s coasts are home to a host of rocky coves, emerald waters and secluded bays that grant the simple pleasure of privacy to visitors who seek them out.
Whether you’re after a weekend to yourself away from the crowds or just looking to wander the path less traveled, you’ll find a secluded Spanish beach to suit your plans.
Spain’s most secluded beaches
Platja Cala El Golfet, Girona
Located on Spain’s far north west coastline, Platja Cala El Golfet is a delightfully secluded cove with turquoise blue waters, surrounded by jagged rocks and weather-beaten greenery. Tucked back away from the open sea, the cove remains protected from the strong northern winds, making it an idyllic bathing spot.
As with all of the best Spanish beaches, a little commitment is needed to enjoy Platja Cala El Golfet, with a small walk over the rocky headland required. However, it is this lack of easy access that has preserved the beach and protected it against the throngs of tourists that would otherwise descend upon it.
Calo des Moro, Mallorca
On the south coast of the island, tucked in between steep rock faces, is Calo des Moro: Mallorca’s worst-kept secret. The unspoilt beach is protected, ensuring that the white sliver of sand and aquamarine waters remain immaculate. Don’t be put off by the ‘Private Property’ signs as you enter; Calo des Moro is privately owned, but fully open to the public.
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Although Calo des Moro has become more well-known in recent years, this secluded Spanish beach remains quiet due to the challenging rock-face amble needed to access it. Visitors should also note that the cove is very small, with high tide ridding it of most of it’s sandy lounging space. To avoid the trek to access it and ensure you have plenty of room for sunbathing, hire a boat and access the beach via the water instead.
Platja des Coll Baix, Mallorca
Platja de Coll Baix is one of the most inaccessible spots on our round-up of the most secluded beaches in Spain, with a trek lasting upwards of 30 minutes to get there. We’d recommend against treating a trip to Platja de Coll as a standard beach trip; instead, pack lightly, wear proper shoes and be prepared to scramble across the rocks.
However, as you would expect, all your efforts are instantly rewarded the moment you glimpse this stunning beach. The jagged rock face is in stark contrast against the pristine blue waters of the Balearic Sea, which all but calls out for you to dive in. Being at the far tip of Mallorca means the ocean can a little rough on windy days, but, provided you’re a confident swimmer, this only adds to the fun of this spectacular beach.
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Playa del Silencio, Asturias
As you may have guessed, silencio is Spanish for silence, hinting at the level of serenity experienced at this secluded beach, hailed as one of the most beautiful in the country. 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 – just mind out for the hidden underwater rocks.
When planning a trip to Playa del Silencio, take note that the majority of the beach disappears at high tide, so choose your timings carefully. Unlike some of the other most secluded beaches in Spain, efforts have been made to make Playa del Silencio more accessible, with a staircase and handrail helping visitors access the beach safely.
Cala Mastella, Ibiza
Although most famous for it’s wild party scene, the island of Ibiza is also frequented by those looking for a quieter, more relaxed vacation. To appreciate the full beauty of the island, head to the northeast coast, where you will find the deserted Cala Mastella beach nestled into the rock face. Located way off the beaten track, the cove’s rocky ocean floor ensures that the water remains crystal clear, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling.
While picture-perfect Cala Mastella has seemingly slipped under the radar for most of Ibiza’s visitors, bear in mind that the beach is impressively tiny, so be sure to get there early for added privacy and seclusion. In terms of amenities, Cala Mastella is a world away from the overdeveloped beach fronts found in other parts of the island (which is exactly why we like it), but you will find a small kiosk selling snacks and refreshments.
Cala Sa Cova, Costa Brava
Tucked away from the main Platja d’Aro strip, Cala Sa Cova is a secluded little cove hugged by jagged rocks and lush greenery. Sa Cova’s close proximity to the town of Platja d’Aro can make it busy during peak season, but with most tourists heading to the larger town beach, this private cove tends to stay quiet most of the year.
The beach can be easily accessed via the coastal path, which leads on to some spectacular walks along the Costa Brava coastline, featuring a number of beautiful beaches and coves. Although Cala Sa Cova is a great spot to relax during the day, it is in the evening when the sun disappears below the horizon that the beach is at its most magical.
Cala d’en Serra, Ibiza
Another one of Ibiza’s most beautifully secluded beaches can be accessed by traveling to the north of the island. Here you will find Cala d’en Serra, where the only visitors are devoted locals and the savviest of tourists, who come to enjoy a quieter corner of the white island.
The beach’s calm emerald waters are completely irresistible, with the more adventurous of visitors diving in from the top of the many rocks that surround the cove. Despite being one of the most secluded beaches in Spain, Cala d’en Serra does have a few amenities, including an inviting bar and café serving fresh seafood and cocktails, as well as sun loungers for hire.
Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias
Situated on the northern coast, around two hours from Bilbao, Gulpiyuri is undoubtedly one of the most unique beaches in Spain. Set back over 300 feet from the sea, the “beach” is actually a flooded sinkhole, with the water itself shooting through ancient underground tunnels directly from the Cantabrian Sea.
The water levels at Gulpiyuri are dependent on the tide, and even at high tide, it rarely gets higher than waist height making it the perfect spot to enjoy a safe dip. Although impressively secluded, this natural phenomenon has been known to draw crowds, so we’d recommend visiting earlier in the day (if the tide allows) when you can enjoy the beach to yourself.
