The best coves in Spain to disconnect in summer: what are they and where are they?
Spain has some of the best bathing options in the world. We’ve highlighted some of the best hidden and paradisiacal coves with crystalline waters.
France, Italy, Greece, Turkey or Portugal, the main competitors in terms of tourism, have to continue to settle for looking at Spain from a lower echelon when speaking in terms of the quality of beaches is concerned. Fifteen percent of the nation’s beaches have received Blue Flag certification, which reflects the quality of the waters, the high level of services and the safety that exists at them.
But beyond a fact as objective as it is incontestable, the Spanish coastline, along its more than 8,000 kilometers, has true jewels that invite you to enjoy. Among these natural wonders we can highlight several hidden coves and paradises that offer endless possibilities to tourists. From the Balearic Islands, to Asturias, Galicia or Andalusia, there are a lot to choose from.
Macarella and Macarelleta (Menorca, Balearic Islands)
If a beach can only be accessed on foot or by boat, it is because nature is wise and knows how to hide treasures well. That happens in Menorca and in its cove Macarella and its neighbor Macarelleta. Crystalline waters, framed by cliffs full of vegetation, make this enclave one of the best places to swim if you are on the Balearic Islands.
Figueiras (Pontevedra, Galicia)
The Cíes Islands constitute an increasingly popular paradisiacal environment. Some international publications such as The Guardian assure that Rodas beach is the best in the world, but we must not lose sight of Figueiras, less known but just as attractive.
Covachos Beach (Cantabria)
Covachos Beach is located three kilometers from Soto de la Marina, on the coast near the city of Santander. It is a small but beautiful beach, characterized by the presence of a beautiful islet called El Castro de Covachos which, at low tide, is connected to the mainland. It is an isolated and nudist beach, where you can breathe in the tranquility and enjoy magnificent views.
San Antonio Beach (Asturias)
In a privileged location on the eastern coast of Asturias is San Antonio de Mar, a beautiful wild cove with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by warm rock cliffs and abundant vegetation, it is an idyllic place to forget about the rest of the world.
Cala del Pino (Nerja, Malaga)
Located between Playa de las Alberquillas and Torre del Pino, in the heart of the Acantilados de Maro Natural Park, Cala del Pino beach is made up of two sandy coves divided by a rocky outcrop. Located in a protected area, this pristine beach with crystalline waters is perfect for snorkeling or diving. Thanks to the difficult access, the beach has a low occupancy rate even in summer, which makes it perfect for those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. The beach is surrounded by pine trees and prickly pears, which can be reached via a steep path approximately 1 kilometer long. But without a doubt, it is worth it.
Roche Coves (Conil de la Frontera, Cadiz)
High cliffs provide shelter from the east wind for a large number of bathers, when it blows hard. Of all of them, only 4 have enabled accesses, but it is possible to access the others during low tide. At the top of the slope, a network of trails crosses a Mediterranean scrub with species such as sea fennel or maritime juniper. This path joins the coves and allows you to enjoy a walk with panoramic views of the entire beach. The beach is accessed through the CA-4202 road.
San Pedro Cove (Las Negras. Almería)
La Cala de San Pedro belongs to Las Negras beach and is a real attraction for those who love white sand beaches and turquoise waters. A hippie community has lived in the cove for several decades. Nudism is practiced.
Calò des Mort (Formentera, Balearic Islands)
We also could not fail to include the beautiful Calò des Mort cove (Formentera), a cove that is located in the easternmost part of the Migjorn bay and that can be considered almost a swimming pool. It is a real treat, but remember to bring water and food because there is nothing nearby.
Cala Fredosa – Cap de Creus (Catalonia)
Located in one of the most spectacular tourist towns on the Costa Brava, Cadaqués, in the Cap de Creus Natural Park, which guarantees that the surroundings are virgin and natural. The numerous rock formations that encompass the beach, which continue into its depths, along with reefs give us spectacular underwater landscapes rich with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Cala Granadella (Jávea, Valencian Community)
This rustic cove with crystal-clear waters, ideal for scuba diving, is located in the southernmost area of Xàbia. It is surrounded by pine trees and gravel sand, and is probably the most famous cove in the province of Alicante, which is why it can get quite crowded along its 160 meter length.
Cala Aiguablava (Girona, Catalonia)
Cliffs, pine forests, crystalline waters, golden sand... Sounds good, right? All this can be found in the Cala Aiguablava (blue water), in Begur, and for years it has been considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Catalonia. Although it is only 100 meters long, it deserves to be on this list for its beautiful views.
