Planning a beach day in Valencia can be tricky with so many options. You might find yourself overwhelmed by the variety of beaches, from urban hotspots like Malvarrosa Beach to the more serene natural settings like El Saler. Without a clear guide, you could miss out on the perfect beach for your needs. This article highlights the best beaches in Valencia, ensuring you find the perfect spot for relaxation, water sports, or family fun, making the most of your time in the sun.
Key Takeaways:
- Malvarrosa Beach is Valencia’s most popular urban beach, perfect for families and beach sports, with easy access and plenty of facilities.
- Playa de la Patacona offers a quieter beach experience with cafes, sunset views, and great spots for paddleboarding and cycling.
- El Saler Beach is a natural beauty located within the Albufera Natural Park, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- La Devesa Beach provides an unspoiled, peaceful environment for those seeking a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Family-friendly beaches like Port Saplaya and Playa de Pinedo offer calm waters, playgrounds, and convenient amenities for children.
What are the best beaches in Valencia?
The best beaches in Valencia include Malvarrosa Beach, the most popular urban beach with ample facilities and activities for families, and Playa de la Patacona, offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. For nature lovers, El Saler Beach within Albufera Natural Park is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while La Devesa Beach provides an unspoiled, peaceful retreat. Port Saplaya and Playa de Pinedo are great family-friendly options with calm waters and convenient amenities.
General Overview
Valencia is located on the eastern coast of Spain and is home to a variety of beautiful beaches, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Valencia beaches are really wonderful and the city is excellent for beachgoers.
The city has great golden sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. It also has 26 km. of beaches and they are one of the largest city beach areas in Europe. Popular golden sandy beaches in Valencia include;
- Malvarrosa beach
- El Cabanyal beach,
- Pinedo beach,
- L’Arbre del Gos beach,
- El Saler beach (half an hour by bus from Valencia),
- La Devesa beach (nudist, undeveloped, stunning and fairly quiet),
- Recatí-el Perellonet beach.
Valencia is located amongst these beaches. Trams regularly travel between the city and the closest beaches, the Playa de Malvarrosa, the Playa las Arenas and the Playa de Cabanyal in 5 mins. Also, buses run frequently to the other beaches.
Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal (Arenas) beaches are the city beaches that are located just few minutes from the Valencia city centre. You may find quality beach services and water sport activities at the Valencia beaches. A great day out at the Valencia beaches is also one of the top 10 things to do in Valencia.
Top Urban Beaches in Valencia
Malvarrosa Beach
No Regrets Booking Advice
One of the most famous and accessible beaches in Valencia, Malvarrosa Beach is located just a short distance from the city center. It offers a wide stretch of golden sand, a lively promenade, and plenty of amenities.
Whether you want to soak up the sun, play beach volleyball, or dine in the nearby restaurants, Malvarrosa caters to everyone. It’s especially popular with families thanks to its easy access and facilities like showers, bathrooms, and sunbeds for rent.
- Why visit?: Popular urban beach with plenty of restaurants, sports, and facilities.
- Great for: Families, tourists, and beach sports enthusiasts.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine golden sand
- Type of water: Calm and shallow
- How to get there: Take the tram (line 4 or 6) or bus (lines 19, 31, 32, or 92)
Playa de la Patacona
An extension of Malvarrosa, Playa de la Patacona offers a slightly quieter beach experience with the same beautiful sands and clear waters.
It’s known for its beach bars (chiringuitos) and laid-back vibe, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the sun without the busier atmosphere of Malvarrosa. Patacona also has excellent bike paths, making it a great spot to explore on two wheels.
No Regrets Booking Advice
- Why visit?: Quieter than Malvarrosa, with a relaxing atmosphere and beach bars.
- Great for: Couples, locals, and sunset views.
El Cabanyal beach (Las Arenas)
El Cabanyal (Arenas) beach is a blue flagged beach situated just a few minutes out of the city centre, on the south of Malvarrosa beach and it is 1,2 kilometres long and 135 metres wide with fine, golden sand.
Visitors may enjoy the authentic Valencian paella or some seafood tapas at the restaurants and cafes along the Paseo Marítimo of Arenas beach.The beach features a long expanse of soft sand and clear waters, as well as a variety of facilities, including showers, toilets, and restaurants.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine golden sand
- Type of water: Clear and calm
- How to get there: Take the tram (line 5 or 6) or bus (lines 19, 31, 32, or 92)
Best Natural Beaches Near Valencia
El Saler Beach
Located within the Albufera Natural Park, El Saler Beach is ideal for those who want to escape the city and reconnect with nature. Surrounded by sand dunes and pine forests, El Saler offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. The beach also has excellent wind conditions for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure.
- Why visit?: Natural beauty, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Great for: Nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine white sand
- Type of water: Clear and calm
- How to get there: Take the bus (line 25)
La Devesa Beach
For a truly unspoiled beach experience, La Devesa Beach is the place to go. Located further within Albufera Natural Park, this beach is surrounded by wetlands, lagoons, and wild vegetation. With no urban development nearby, it feels like a hidden gem. La Devesa is the perfect beach for anyone looking for peace, quiet, and pristine nature.
- Why visit?: Unspoiled beach with stunning natural surroundings.
- Great for: Those seeking tranquility and privacy.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine golden sand
- Type of water: Clear and calm
- How to get there: Take the bus (line 25)
L’Estany Beach
L’Estany Beach is a secluded and unspoiled beach located in the Albufera Natural Park. The beach features a small expanse of soft sand and clear waters, as well as a variety of facilities, including showers, toilets, and restaurants. Be sure to explore the nearby wetlands and lagoons for a unique and unforgettable experience.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine golden sand
- Type of water: Clear and calm
- How to get there: Take the bus (line 25)
Family-Friendly and Water Sports Beaches
Port Saplaya Beach
Known as “Little Venice” because of its colorful houses and canals, Port Saplaya is a favorite family beach. The calm waters and nearby amenities, including restaurants and playgrounds, make it perfect for families with kids. You can enjoy a relaxed day by the sea while taking advantage of its charming village-like atmosphere.
- Why visit?: Picturesque setting, calm waters, and family-friendly facilities.
- Great for: Families and those looking for a unique beach setting.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine golden sand
- Type of water: Clear and calm
- How to get there: Take the tram (line 4)
Playa de Pinedo
Just south of the city, Playa de Pinedo is another great option for families. Its wide stretch of sand and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming. It’s a quieter alternative to Malvarrosa, offering a peaceful environment with fewer crowds. The beach is equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and restaurants, so everything you need is within reach.
- Why visit?: Calm and family-friendly with excellent facilities.
- Great for: Families, children, and those seeking a relaxed beach day.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, lifeguards
- Type of sand: Fine golden sand
- Type of water: Clear and calm
- How to get there: Take the bus (line 14)
Water Sports and Adventure Beaches
El Saler
With its strong, consistent winds, El Saler is one of the best spots in Valencia for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It’s a haven for adventure-seekers who enjoy challenging water sports. The beach has equipment rentals and schools where beginners can take lessons, making it a go-to destination for those wanting to try these activities.
- Why visit?: Ideal wind conditions for water sports.
- Great for: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and adventurous travelers.
Playa de la Patacona
For those who prefer something a little less extreme, Playa de la Patacona offers paddleboarding and beach volleyball. Its calm waters make it a favorite for paddleboarders, while the long stretch of sand is perfect for beach volleyball enthusiasts.
- Why visit?: Active beach with paddleboarding and beach volleyball options.
- Great for: Paddleboarding, volleyball, and a more laid-back adventure.
Practical Tips for Visiting Valencia Beaches
Valencia’s beaches are easily accessible and well-equipped, making them perfect for both locals and tourists. Here are a few tips to make the most of your beach day:
- Getting There: Most urban beaches like Malvarrosa and Patacona are accessible via public transport, including tram and bus. Beaches like El Saler are best reached by car or bus.
- Facilities: Popular beaches like Malvarrosa and Patacona offer showers, bathrooms, sunbed rentals, and beach bars. El Saler and La Devesa have fewer facilities but offer natural beauty and peace.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Valencia’s beaches is between May and September, when the weather is warm and perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for avoiding crowds.
FAQs
What is the best beach to visit in Valencia?
The best beach to visit in Valencia is Malvarrosa Beach for its proximity to the city center, wide range of facilities, and vibrant promenade. It’s ideal for families, tourists, and those seeking beach sports or seaside dining. For a quieter experience, Playa de la Patacona is a great alternative just next to Malvarrosa.
Where is El Saler Beach in Valencia?
El Saler Beach is located within the Albufera Natural Park, about 15 minutes south of the Valencia city center. It’s known for its natural beauty, with sand dunes and pine forests, making it a perfect spot for those looking to escape the city and enjoy windsurfing or relaxing in a more natural setting.
Why is Playa de la Patacona popular?
Playa de la Patacona is popular for its quieter vibe compared to Malvarrosa Beach, while still offering excellent amenities like beach bars and restaurants. It’s a favorite for both locals and tourists who enjoy a relaxing beach day, complete with paddleboarding and stunning sunset views.
How do I get to Valencia’s beaches from the city center?
Valencia’s urban beaches like Malvarrosa and Playa de la Patacona are easily accessible by public transport. You can take tram lines L4 and L6, or buses like 32, which run frequently from the city center. For more distant beaches like El Saler, a car or bus ride is necessary.
What beach in Valencia is best for families?
Port Saplaya Beach is great for families due to its calm waters, nearby playgrounds, and restaurants. Its picturesque canals and colorful houses give it the nickname "Little Venice." Alternatively, Playa de Pinedo offers a peaceful environment, perfect for swimming and sunbathing with children.
Where can I go windsurfing in Valencia?
The best spot for windsurfing in Valencia is El Saler Beach, thanks to its strong, consistent winds. The beach also offers equipment rentals and lessons for beginners, making it a top destination for both experienced and new windsurfers.
What beach in Valencia is best for paddleboarding?
Playa de la Patacona is popular for paddleboarding due to its calm waters and accessible rentals. It’s an ideal beach for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike. You can easily rent equipment along the beach or take lessons for an introduction to the sport.
