You can also snorkel in other parts of Catalonia, such as the Costa Brava, where they organise fantastic snorkelling routes. To see the best beaches on the Costa Brava for snorkelling, click here. And now, let’s dive into the top 7 beaches in Barcelona for this fantastic summer activity.
Top 7 Beaches in Barcelona for Snorkelling
1. Sitges Beach
Sitges is located in the Garraf region, with 18 kilometres of coastline and 26 beaches (some busier, others more natural). Thanks to its mix of coastal and mountainous landscapes, it’s one of Barcelona’s most visited towns by both national and international tourists.
The most famous beaches in Sitges are Aiguadolç, Sant Sebastià Beach, and Ribera.
It offers two snorkelling routes: the first starts at Anquines Beach and ends at Playa del Home Mort; the second begins at Garraf Beach and finishes at Cala de la Ginesta.
2. Vilanova i la Geltrú
This town boasts 6 kilometres of beaches perfect for snorkelling and other water sports. Highlights include Ribes Roges Beach, Faro de Sant Cristòfol, and Andarró.
These are spacious beaches with incredible seabeds, ideal for children to play in the sand and try snorkelling.
3. Castelldefels Beach
This well-known and popular beach is 18 kilometres from Barcelona and stretches 5 kilometres, featuring Playa de la Pineda, Playa de Lluminetes, and Playa del Apeadero.
It’s a prime spot for water sports like snorkelling and is classified as a sports tourism destination.
4. Mataró
On the Maresme Coast, north of Barcelona, lies the city of Mataró. It’s a popular destination for water sports, blending sea and mountain landscapes.
Notable beaches in Mataró include Varador Beach, which offers numerous water activities, Ponent Beach, Callao, and Sant Simó.
Snorkelling routes take place along the Maresme Coast, starting at Mataró’s harbour.
5. Calella Beach
North of Mataró is Calella, a 3-kilometre-long beach featuring Garbí Beach, Playa Gran, and Playa de Roques. Its golden sand, beachfront restaurants, and vibrant nightlife make it a standout.
6. Barceloneta Beach
One of Barcelona’s most famous beaches, located in the La Barceloneta neighbourhood. Nearby is San Sebastián Beach, another great spot for snorkelling.
The difficulty level is low to medium, making it suitable for families with children.
The route is shallow, taking you through gardens of starfish, gobies, and damselfish, alongside a variety of fish and anemones.
7. Pont de Petroli
A unique wetland in Badalona, this artificial reef for rockfish has become a biodiversity hotspot despite its man-made origins. Snorkellers here can spot diverse fish species and even seahorses.
