The best gay beaches in Spain

There are so many gay meccas in Spain, including Sitges, Gran Canaria, and Barcelona. The flawless weather and long stretches of coastline make a vibrant gay beach scene all but inevitable. Here are the Spanish gay beaches that should be on your bucket list.

Playa de la Bassa Rodona - Sitges

This is the most popular gay beach in Sitges, situated right along the main promenade opposite Hotel Calipolis. The beach is particularly busy during peak season from July to September and during Sitges Pride in June. Some gay beaches are tricky to find but this one is right in the heart of the action. You’ll know you’re there when you’re surrounded by shirtless men who aren’t straight.

Playa del Muerto - Sitges

A more secluded option, Playa del Muerto is a nudist beach located a 45-minute walk from the town center. This beach is known for its natural beauty, making it ideal for those looking to escape the livelier main gay beach. If you’re traveling on foot, the journey involves a scenic walk past railway tracks and through wooded areas. If you’ve hired a car you can drive there in around 15 minutes. Further reading: The Best Gay Beaches in Europe

Maspalomas Sand Dunes - Gran Canaria

The gay beach in Maspalomas, located near the "Hut 7" beach bar in front of the Maspalomas Sand Dunes, is the place to be. This clothing-optional beach offers sun beds and shades for rent, and Hut 7 provides drinks and snacks, though it can be pricey. The beach can be accessed by either a taxi to Plaza del Faro, followed by a beach walk, or a walk across the dunes from Riu Palace Maspalomas. The dunes are also a known cruising area, particularly in the late afternoon.

Playa Es Cavallet - Ibiza

Located near Ibiza Town, Playa Es Cavallet is one of the island's most popular gay beaches. It features a section that is almost exclusively frequented by gay sunbathers, with Chiringay beach bar serving as the social hub. Further reading: Mykonos vs Ibiza vs Sitges - which is Europe's best gay destination?

Artola Beach - Marbella

Artola Beach, nestled within the protected natural landscape of the Artola dunes, is a naturist-friendly beach. There are no eyesore buildings ranged along the beach (urban sprawl can be an issue in other parts of the Costa del Sol). Cabopino Beach is the main beach but it’s more family-friendly. The gay nudist area is located towards the eastern end of the beach near the dunes. As they say in Essex, "No carbs before Marbs!"

Playa de l'Arbre del Gos - Valencia

Located between Pinedo village and El Saler in southern Valencia, offers a clothing-optional gay beach section near an abandoned factory behind the dunes. Accessible via routes 24 and 25 from Puerte Del Mar, and routes 14 and 15 from Estación Del Nord. The beach attracts a mixed crowd, with a popular nudist area and a small forest for cruising. Essential amenities like showers are available, but visitors should bring their own drinks and necessities as there are few nearby shops.