12 Beautiful Beach Towns to Visit in Spain

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Nicholas Shelton
August 21, 2024

Did you know that in Denmark, there’s a town called Middelfart? Its name might sound amusing in English, but it actually comes from the Old Danish words "midt" (middle) and "fart" (speed), referring to its location on the route between two other towns. So, it's a quirky reminder of how language can evolve and change meanings over time!

Today’s Itinerary:

  • Travel Question

  • 12 Best Beach Towns to Visit in Spain

  • 9 Items People Always Forget to Pack, According to Flight Attendants

  • All the Travel News You Need

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Travel Question

12 Beautiful Beach Towns to Visit in Spain

PHOTO: Rudolf Ernst/Getty Images

Spain boasts an incredible array of coastlines, each with its own unique charm.

From the southern Andalusian regions of Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol, to Alicante’s Costa Blanca, and the scenic coasts of Costa Brava and Costa Daurada near Barcelona, there’s no shortage of stunning beach destinations.

Beyond the Mediterranean, northern Spain offers the rugged beauty of Galicia’s Costa da Morte and the cultural allure of the Basque Coast. And don’t forget the Balearic and Canary Islands off the mainland.

We’ve compiled a selection of the top beach towns across Spain with insights from travel experts.

1. Cadaqués, Costa Brava Just three hours north of Barcelona and close to the French border, Cadaqués is a picturesque seaside village renowned for its whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. Nestled within the Cap de Creus Natural Park, this town is famously linked to Salvador Dalí. Visitors can explore Dalí’s former home and dine at Compartir, the sister restaurant to Barcelona’s top-rated Disfrutar. “The best way to experience Cadaqués and the surrounding coves is by boat,” advises Virgi Schiffino Kennedy, noting that some beautiful beaches are only accessible this way.

2. Cudillero, Costa Verde Often compared to Cinque Terre, Cudillero is a charming fishing town where pastel-colored houses cling to cliffs above a small harbor. Here, you can visit local churches, browse the fish market, or enjoy Asturian seafood at El Faro, located near the lighthouse. El Pescador is another must-visit for fresh shellfish. Cudillero also serves as a gateway to stunning beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs, including Playa del Silencio, a crescent-shaped beach encircled by high rock walls.

3. Sitges, Costa Daurada For a lively beach town with extensive sand, vibrant nightlife, and nearby wine tasting, Sitges is an ideal choice. Just under an hour by train from Barcelona, it’s a popular day trip destination, but it’s worth staying longer to explore the old town and museums like Museu del Cau Ferrat. Known as Spain’s unofficial LGBTQ+ holiday capital, Sitges features a long promenade that connects 17 beaches, ensuring you can find your perfect spot on the sand.

4. Xàbia, Costa Blanca Located between the bustling city of Valencia and the tourist hub of Alicante, Xàbia is a resort town situated at the foot of the Montgó Massif. While hiking trails are available in the nearby park, many visitors prefer to relax on the sunny Platja de l’Arenal. The town’s small old quarter and port offer a charming base for exploring, with plenty of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Briana Peterson highlights the beach’s accessibility features, including beach wheelchairs that allow for easy movement on sand and in water.

5. Comillas, Costa de Cantabria Known for its remarkable architecture, Comillas is home to Antoni Gaudí’s El Capricho, a striking building that’s worth the visit. “Comillas is a picturesque coastal town with significant historical and architectural interest,” says Virgi Schiffino Kennedy. After exploring El Capricho, you can relax at the town’s main beach or head to the expansive Playa Oyambre, located a few miles away in a nearby natural park.

For more details or to plan your visit, check out the travel consultancy sites or explore local tourism resources.

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9 Items People Always Forget to Pack, According to Flight Attendants

Photo: Lu ShaoJi/Moment/Getty Images

We've all experienced it: you’ve navigated through the airport, boarded the plane, and settled into your seat, only to realize you’ve forgotten something crucial at home.

While many forgotten items are minor and easily replaceable, such as a phone charger or toothbrush, it’s still frustrating to be missing essentials on your trip.

Even with a meticulous packing list or spreadsheet, some items tend to slip through the cracks.

To help you avoid common oversights, we consulted flight attendants with a combined 26 years of experience. Their insights are invaluable for ensuring your carry-on is fully stocked.

Here are their top recommendations for must-have items to pack:

1. Water Bottles “Water bottles are often overlooked but incredibly useful,” says Sarah McWilliams-Guerra, a former Delta Air Lines flight attendant. Bringing an empty water bottle through security allows you to fill it up at the airport and stay hydrated without relying on in-flight services. Since many budget airlines don’t offer complimentary drinks, having your own bottle can save you from additional costs and waiting. Look for collapsible options that save space in your bag.

2. Blankets & Pillows Comfort can be elusive on a plane, as temperatures vary and the air conditioning can be unpredictable. “Bringing your own blanket and pillow ensures you stay comfortable,” advises Steven Daniel from SkyWest Airlines. Opt for compact, travel-sized versions that are easy to pack. Many travel blankets fold into small pouches, and travel pillows offer neck support without taking up much room.

3. Disinfecting Wipes In the era of heightened hygiene awareness, disinfecting wipes are essential. “Airlines provide some hand wipes, but they’re often insufficient for the entire flight,” says Emily Kuhn, a Southwest Airlines flight attendant. Pack a few disinfecting wipes with at least 70% alcohol to clean armrests and tray tables. Choose individually wrapped options or a small container for convenience.

4. Umbrellas Weather can be unpredictable, and it’s easy to forget an umbrella. “I always pack an umbrella to be prepared for any weather changes,” says Daniel. A compact travel umbrella can be a lifesaver when you arrive in a rainy destination. While you can purchase one at the airport, prices are typically high.

5. Wired Headphones With the rise of wireless headphones, it’s easy to forget that many in-flight entertainment systems still require wired headphones. “Bringing a pair of headphones with a plug ensures you can enjoy the entertainment on board,” says McWilliams-Guerra. If you use wireless headphones, a Bluetooth adapter can connect your device to the plane’s audio system.

By keeping these items in mind and packing accordingly, you'll be better prepared for a smooth and comfortable flight experience.

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