Beyond Barceloneta: 5 Stunning Beach Escapes Within an Hour of Barcelona

If there's one thing my years of stadium-hopping taught me, it's how to spot the sections with breathing room. Ocata Beach in El Masnou is the coastal equivalent of finding that perfect uncrowded bleacher section with a killer view.

Just 20 minutes on the R1 train from Barcelona's Plaça Catalunya, Ocata offers what Barceloneta can't: space. Lots of it. The wide, 2.5km stretch of fine golden sand means you're never playing elbow hockey with other beachgoers. The sand here is cleaner too – noticeably less cigarette butts and random trash than city beaches.

What makes Ocata perfect for couples is the laid-back vibe. Unlike the constant parade of vendors interrupting your sunbathing at Barceloneta, here you can actually hear the waves. There are enough chiringuitos (beach bars) to keep you hydrated and fed, but not so many that it feels commercial.

My favorite spot is toward the northern end where a few massive boulders create natural windbreaks. Last summer, my buddy Carlos and I spent a full day here after a Barcelona Barça match, and the sunset view with the city skyline in the distance was postcard-perfect. Just remember to bring a good beach umbrella since shade is limited.

When I first visited Castelldefels, I kept walking along the shore thinking, "This has to end soon, right?" Nope. This massive 5km stretch of beach just keeps going, which is exactly why it's perfect for couples who want options.

Just 25 minutes by train from Barcelona Sants station, Castelldefels feels worlds away from the city hustle. The beach is divided into different sections, each with its own personality. Want active vibes? Head to the northern zones with volleyball nets and paddleboard rentals. Seeking tranquility? The southern stretches are your jam.

What I love about Castelldefels is that it's a legitimate town, not just a beach destination. This means better food options at non-tourist prices. Skip the beachfront eateries and walk 5 minutes inland to find local spots where paella doesn't cost your firstborn child.

The water here is notably calmer than Barcelona's beaches, making it perfect for swimming together without fighting waves. On my last visit, I rented a kayak for €15/hour and paddled along the coastline for some killer photo ops of the mountains meeting the sea.

If you're planning to make a day of it (and you should), I recommend bringing a good insulated cooler bag for drinks and snacks. The beach has plenty of facilities, but having your own provisions saves serious cash for a budget weekend.

If Castelldefels is Barcelona's laid-back cousin, Sitges is its sophisticated, artsy sibling. This former fishing village turned beach town has a different energy that's perfect for couples seeking culture with their coastline.

About 35 minutes by train from Barcelona, Sitges boasts 17 different beaches spread across its coastline. My personal favorite is Platja de Sant Sebastià, which sits beneath the iconic church that dominates Sitges' skyline. The combination of historic architecture and Mediterranean blue creates a backdrop that's straight-up magical for couples photos.

What sets Sitges apart is the town itself. Narrow whitewashed streets wind between buildings draped in bougainvillea, creating a romantic atmosphere that feels more Greek island than Spanish mainland. After beach time, stroll the promenade (locals call it "the front porch of the Mediterranean") before ducking into one of the many tapas bars.

I've visited during both peak season and shoulder season, and I'll let you in on a correctional officer's best security tip: come in June or September instead of July/August. You'll get the same perfect weather with half the crowds and lower prices.

Sitges hosts multiple film festivals and cultural events throughout the year, so check the calendar before planning your visit. Catching an outdoor movie screening on the beach with your partner is one of those travel moments you'll talk about for years.

The town is LGBTQ+ friendly and has a vibrant nightlife, but also plenty of quiet corners for couples seeking romance. For the best sunset experience, grab a spot at one of the western beaches with a bottle of local cava (Spanish sparkling wine) – much cheaper and often better than French champagne.

If you're the type who appreciates finding that hidden gem restaurant in a city of tourist traps, Garraf Beach is your coastal equivalent. This small cove beach tucked between the Garraf mountains and the Mediterranean is my go-to recommendation for couples seeking seclusion without traveling far from Barcelona.

Just 25 minutes by train, Garraf feels like a secret the tourism board forgot to promote. The beach is relatively small, framed by green hills and dotted with distinctive white and green beach huts that look straight out of a Wes Anderson film. These casetas de baño date back to the early 20th century and give the beach a timeless, almost cinematic quality.

The water here is remarkably clear – I've spent hours snorkeling along the rocky edges of the cove spotting Mediterranean fish. If you're into underwater photography, bring your waterproof phone case because the visibility is excellent.

What makes Garraf perfect for couples is the intimate scale. Unlike Barcelona's sprawling beaches, this compact cove creates a natural amphitheater that feels designed for romance. The handful of beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood at prices that won't make you wince.

One insider tip from my last visit: arrive early (before noon) or later in the afternoon (after 4pm) to avoid the midday rush. Since the beach is small, it can feel crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends. But time it right, and you might feel like you've discovered your own private Mediterranean hideaway.

The village of Garraf itself is tiny but charming, with a handful of whitewashed buildings and a small marina. It's worth taking a short walk through town before heading back to Barcelona – the pace here is delightfully slow compared to the city.

When I want to experience a beach like a true Barcelonian, I head to Badalona. Just 15 minutes on the metro from central Barcelona, this urban beach offers the perfect balance: city convenience with a distinctly local vibe that tourists rarely discover.

Badalona isn't trying to impress anyone, and that's exactly its charm. The 4.5km of coastline feels like Barceloneta's more authentic cousin – similar urban beach setting but with actual Catalans enjoying it instead of sunburned tourists. The promenade (Passeig Marítim) runs the length of the beach and makes for a perfect sunset stroll with your partner.

What I appreciate most about Badalona is how it transitions from day to evening. Unlike many beaches that empty out as the sun sets, Badalona comes alive with locals enjoying after-work drinks at the chiringuitos or playing beach volleyball into the evening hours. The lighting at golden hour here is something special – photographers call it "magic hour" for a reason.

Food options abound, but skip the immediate beachfront for the best value. My go-to move is grabbing ingredients for a picnic from the Mercat Municipal (just 5 blocks inland), then enjoying dinner on the beach as the sun sets. Nothing says romance like sharing jamón ibérico and local cheese while watching Barcelona light up across the bay.

Badalona also has a fascinating Roman history – it was founded in 3rd century BC as "Baetulo." The beach sits near the remains of ancient Roman baths and a museum worth checking out if you need a break from the sun. I always pack my quick-dry travel towel for days like this when I'm mixing beach time with urban exploring.

For couples on a budget, Badalona offers the best value proposition of all the beaches on this list – great amenities, easy access, and significantly cheaper food and drink options than you'll find in Barcelona proper.