12 Coastal Towns in Spain That Feel Like a Secret Mediterranean Escape
Not every beach destination in Spain comes with loud clubs or souvenir shops.
Some towns still feel calm and local, with quiet coves, old fishing ports, and long lunches that stretch into the afternoon.
These are the kinds of places you remember because of how they made you feel, not just the view.
If you’re looking for a low-key escape by the sea, start with these 12 coastal towns.
1. Cadaqués, Costa Brava
Cadaqués is one of the prettiest towns on the Costa Brava, with whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and rocky beaches where the water stays crystal clear.
Artists like Salvador Dalí and Picasso spent time here, and it still feels creative and peaceful.
There’s not a lot of noise, just cafés by the water, small galleries, and boats bobbing in the bay.
It’s a bit hard to get to without a car, which helps keep things relaxed even in summer.
2. Villajoyosa, Alicante
Known for its rows of colorful houses by the sea, Villajoyosa feels cheerful without trying too hard. Its name literally means “The Joyful Town”.
It’s a former fishing village just north of Alicante, with a much slower pace and fewer crowds.
The beach is wide and calm, perfect for an afternoon swim or a quiet stroll.
You can also visit the Valor chocolate factory while you’re here, which has been around since the 1800s.
3. Llafranc, Costa Brava
Located on the Costa Brava, Llafranc is small, polished, and just the right amount of lively.
The beach curves gently around the bay, and pine trees frame the edges of the water.
You can walk along the coastal path to neighboring Calella de Palafrugell, another beautiful spot with a more rustic feel.
It’s popular with Catalan families but rarely feels overrun.
4. Altea, Costa Blanca
Altea’s old town sits on a hill above the sea, with white buildings, cobbled streets, and a blue-domed church that catches the light.
From the top, you can see the coastline stretch out for miles.
Down by the water, there’s a long promenade lined with restaurants and stone beaches that stay calm even in high season.
It’s the contrast between hilltop stillness and the lively seafront that makes this place stand out.
5. Tossa de Mar, Costa Brava
Just north of Barcelona, Tossa de Mar has something most beach towns don’t: a medieval castle overlooking the bay.
The old walled town is full of cobblestone streets and sea views, and you can walk the mountaintop trails for a different perspective of the coast.
There are beaches right below, where you’ll find both secluded coves and widespread areas to relax.
It’s a medieval town that feels like a postcard, in the best possible way.
6. Sitges, Catalonia
Sitges is just 30-40 minutes by train from Barcelona but feels like its own world.
It’s known for its art scene, annual film festival, and open-minded energy, but there’s also a quieter side.
Stroll along the seafront promenade, explore the old town, or grab tapas or a sangria on a terrace overlooking the beach.
It’s a very cute mix of culture, sun, and calm that’s hard to find so close to a major city.
7. Marbella, Andalusia
Marbella has a reputation for luxury, but if you skip the flashy beach clubs, there’s another side to it.
The old town is full of flower-filled streets, whitewashed buildings, and quiet corners where you can sip coffee under an orange tree.
The beach stretches for miles, and there are areas that still feel relaxed and local.
It’s not just about yachts and nightlife, there’s charm in Marbella too.
8. Nerja, Andalusia
Nerja sits between cliffs and sea, with white buildings and beaches that feel just hidden enough.
The Balcón de Europa viewpoint gives you a sweeping look over the coast, and below are coves you can reach on foot.
The town still has a local feel, with family-run restaurants and no pressure to rush.
Don’t miss the caves nearby, they go on for miles underground.
9. Calella de Palafrugell, Costa Brava
Calella de Palafrugell is the definition of laid-back.
Small fishing boats line the beach, the buildings are low and white, and there’s a rhythm to the day that feels slower than anywhere else.
In the summer, you might hear live music drifting across the bay from a local concert, especially during the Cap Roig music festival.
People come here to do less, and that’s exactly what makes it memorable.
10. Moraira, Costa Blanca
Moraira feels more like a small seaside village than a resort town.
It has sandy beaches, a little marina, and a handful of waterfront restaurants that fill up in the evenings.
There’s also a small castle near the water and walking paths that curve along the cliffs.
Instead of trying to impress, Moraira quietly draws you in.
11. Peñíscola, Valencian Community
Peñíscola rises above the sea with a stone castle at the edge of the old town and long beaches on either side.
The old town is wrapped in medieval walls and filled with narrow streets that lead to quiet viewpoints over the coast.
Down below, long sandy beaches stretch out on both sides, and the water stays warm well into fall.
The town does a great job of combining medieval architecture with easy access to the beach and waterfront promenades.
12. Xàbia (Jávea), Costa Blanca
Xàbia has a little bit of everything: a walkable old town, a relaxed marina, and crystal-clear coves framed by cliffs.
The water here is some of the clearest along the Costa Blanca, especially in spots like Cala Granadella or Cala Portixol.
It’s popular with locals and expats, but the vibe stays easygoing.
You could spend the morning snorkeling and still be back in town for a late lunch in the square.
