Ah, Valencia. The sunny seaside city is known for its oranges, warm Mediterranean climate, stunning architecture, and for being the birthplace of paella, arguably Spain’s most famous culinary creation. What it’s perhaps less well known for, however, is its abundance of glorious sandy beaches within the city limits. Easily accessible by car, bike, or even foot, many of the best beaches in Valencia stretch along the unspoiled shore of the Albufera Natural Park and are fringed by pine-forested dunes and paddy fields where the famous paella rice is grown. From lively stretches lined with bustling bars and restaurants to secluded shores perfect for sunbathing in peace, Valencia’s sun-drenched coastline offers a sandy strip to suit every preference. Read on for our list of the best beaches in Valencia.
1
La Malvarrosa
One of the best beaches in Valencia for its central location is La Malvarrosa, a honey-hued stretch of sand lined with palm trees and surrounded by a plethora of restaurants and bars, making it an ideal location for a beach day feast. Whether you're in the mood for some paella, ice-cold sangria, or a refreshing horchata, La Malvarrosa has something for all tastes. In fact, this beach is so good, it should come with a warning label: ‘Caution! May cause excessive relaxation, vitamin D overdose, and severe beach envy from friends back home.’ If you’re after some beach-side action, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding are all available. And there’s even an artificial reef to explore (only 600ft from shore) which has been designed to support the area’s natural marine biodiversity. Keep a look out for its abundance of colonised sea creatures including octopus, starfish, seahorses, and schools of fish.
2
El Saler
Located at the southern end of the city, El Saler is one of the most popular beaches in Valencia, and for good reason. Its crystal-clear waters, fine golden sand and large natural dunes make it a tranquil place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun. It has even been awarded a Blue Flag from the European Union, given to beaches for their cleanliness and quality of their water. While you’re in the area, why not visit the coastal wetlands of Albufera Natural Park and explore one of the guided walking trails to discover more of the local birdlife? When hunger kicks in, sample a hearty plate of local paella from one of the nearby bars or restaurants while drinking in the stunning views.
3
La Garrofera
If you're looking for a beach in Valencia that feels like a true escape from the city, look no further than La Garrofera. This tranquil and natural beach, located just a short drive from Valencia, is the perfect spot to unwind. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and azure waters, giving it a serene and almost tropical vibe. And if you're a nature lover, you're in for a treat. The beach is home to a protected dune system, so you'll see a variety of unique flora and fauna. Plus, the beach is less crowded than some of the other beaches in Valencia, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea. There are also a number of hiking trails in the area, so you can explore the Albufera Natural Park while you're here.
4
De Gandia
This lively and vibrant beach, located just a short drive from Valencia, is the place to be for those who want to soak up the sun, sea, and sangria. With its long sweep of golden sand and bustling boardwalk, De Gandia is the ultimate beach destination for those who love to have a good time. You'll find plenty of beach bars and clubs where you can dance the night away, and there are even water sports available for the more adventurous beachgoers. Plus, the atmosphere is electric, with locals and tourists alike coming together to enjoy the sun, sea, and fun, making it a must-see beach in Valencia.
5
La Devesa
Are you ready to get lost in nature's beauty? Then head on over to La Devesa, a hidden gem located just outside of Valencia. This three-mile beach is a nature lover's dream come true, with its long stretch of untouched sand dunes and warm waters. It's an idyllic spot for a peaceful and rejuvenating day by the sea and if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife, including herons and ducks. Just make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, because there's not much shade to be found on this secluded beach. Follow one of the self-guided walking routes through Albufera Natural Park to admire the lagoon, Spain’s largest freshwater lake, and after working up an appetite, stop by the charming town of El Palmar nearby where you’ll find a cluster of fabulous restaurants.
6
Las Arenas
If you’re looking for hustle and bustle, this is your go-to beach in Valencia. Las Arenas, also known as El Cabanyal Beach, is bordered by a long promenade with numerous restaurants and bars, and it's also just a stone's throw from the Marina de Valencia and a short distance from The City of Arts and Sciences, one of the most famous landmarks in Spain. The beach is also perfect for families with children, as there's a playground for the little ones and beach volleyball courts for the grown-ups. Directly behind the beach is the fisherman’s quarter — a historic neighbourhood boasting a wonderful melange of places to eat and drink, including the long-standing Casa Montaña, which opened its doors in 1836.