Mar Bella Beach, located towards the north of Barcelona's coastline, has a small nudist strip, which is clearly marked, as well as a number of other amenities, including a skate park and some water sports.

With a wide selection of sports facilities, including table tennis and beach volleyball, lifeguards on patrol, and warm, shallow waters, Nova Icària Beach is the ideal place for parents to let their kids run down the tank.

Situation on southern end of La Barceloneta, is this wonderful slice of sun, surf and sand. Sant Sebastià Beach is a handy stretch of white-gold for those looking for a quick break from the city.

While there's no actual sand there, the bathing area at El Fòrum acts as a beach. With a number of diving pontoons, several shaded areas, and a groyne of solid concrete cubes, this beach-by-design is architecture you can use.

Located between Gas breakwater and the Moll de Marina pier, Somorrostro Beach is a local gem. This stretch of sand is where Frank Gehry’s El Peix (Golden Fish) sculpture dangles enticingly out-of-reach on the promenade above. Fair warning - it does get busy during the summer.

A 20kms journey by train from Barcelona city center will get you to this beautiful long sweep of golden-blonde sand beloved by kitesurfers.