Review of Playa de Badalona 🏖️ Barcelona's Local Beach Escape
Just 10 minutes by train from Barcelona, Playa de Badalona offers a more authentic and relaxed coastal experience compared to the city's busier beaches. With its golden sand, clean waters, and vibrant promenade, it's a favorite among locals and in-the-know visitors.
🌊 Beach & Water Sand & Layout: A 1.2 km stretch of soft golden sand, wider and less crowded than Barceloneta.
Water Quality: Consistently earns Blue Flag status for cleanliness.
Swimming Conditions: Gentle waves, ideal for families (lifeguards in summer).
🌟 Highlights Passeig Marítim – A lively seafront promenade lined with:
Chiringuitos (beach bars): Try fresh seafood at Xiringuito Escribà or cocktails at El Balneario.
Sports & Activities: Bike rentals, volleyball nets, and workout stations.
Water Sports – Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling rentals available.
Family-Friendly – Playgrounds, shallow waters, and Parc del Mar (green space with picnic areas).
Cultural Touch – Nearby Badalona Museum (Roman ruins) and the iconic Badalona sign for photos.
💰 Costs & Amenities Free access (no entry fee).
Sunbeds/umbrellas: ~€12-18/day (June-Sept).
Public showers/toilets: Available (seasonal).
Budget eats: Menú del día from €12-15 at local bars.
🚆 Getting There By Train (R1): 20 min from Barcelona El Clot or Arc de Triomf (stop: Badalona).
By Metro (L2): 30 min from Barcelona (stop: Badalona Pompeu Fabra) + 10-min walk.
By Car: 15-min drive (parking ~€2/hour near the beach).
👍 Pros ✔ Less touristy than Barceloneta or Sitges. ✔ Excellent transport links from Barcelona. ✔ Lively yet relaxed atmosphere. ✔ Great dining with sea views.
👎 Cons ✖ Can get busy on summer weekends. ✖ Some areas have pebbles near the shoreline.
⏳ Best Time to Visit Morning: Peaceful, ideal for swimming.
Sunset: Magic hour with fewer crowds.
Avoid: Midday summer weekends (peak local traffic).
🍽️ Nearby Eats Can Fisher: Classic seafood paella by the sand.
La Salsa: Affordable tapas with terrace seating.
⭐ Final Verdict: 4.3/5 Playa de Badalona is the perfect blend of convenience and local charm—a top pick for a quick beach day from Barcelona without the masses.
Ideal for: Families, couples, and sun-seekers wanting a taste of Catalan beach life. Skip if: You prefer ultra-luxury beach clubs (this is all about simple,...
Read moreThe beach in Badalona is a fantastic spot for a relaxing day by the sea. It's clean, well-maintained, and offers a beautiful stretch of sand with clear, inviting water. One of the best things about this beach is that it's less crowded compared to others in the area, allowing you to enjoy the sun and sea without feeling overwhelmed by people. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or take a peaceful stroll along the shore, Badalona’s beach is an...
Read moreGreat visit to Badalona beach on our first day in Barcelona. The water was clean and at a perfect temperature (visiting at the end of July). Sandy beach. On our visit there were waves, but nothing my 8 year old couldn't cope with. The bus stop is a 10 minute walk away. Showers available adjacent to the boulevard. We say a cafe on our portion of the beach, no restaurants or loungers, so bring...
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