Stanta Clara Island and lighthouse

The Best Beaches in Spain
By Michael Russell

We all want something different from a beach. Whether you prefer facilities, peace, privacy or entertainment here are a few Spanish beaches which come highly recommended.

.... to go with children

Look for beaches with fine sand, without stones or pebbles and with wooden walkways to the shore because these are easier to walk on. The best beaches for children are those which have shallow water and only very small waves. In addition, access should be easy and comfortable for buggies and it should have good facilities: foot washers, showers, easily visible danger signs, assistance points, play areas and shady places. If children are small, it is important to check out nearby toilet and changing facilities. To keep them amused, choose beaches with activity centres and supervised courses for windsurfing, swimming or fishing.

La Costilla y El Rompidillo on the Costa Ballena (Cádiz)

Situated between Rota and Chipiona, there are seven kilometres of fine sandy beaches, which are not dangerous and which have all sorts of facilities. The children can be kept amused for hours watching the corrals, small stone walls in the sea where fish, shrimps and crayfish are trapped at low tide.

....in the city

Do you prefer not to lose sight of civilization while you swim? Then city beaches are for you. The best thing is that you don't have to go far to find them - they are separated from the shops and offices by a promenade, from which you can access the sand by means of ramps and steps.