Spain’s extensive coastline and plentiful sunshine makes it the ideal destination for a truly fantastic beach holiday. Following are a few of the many Spanish beaches worth a visit, for their popularity or for their unique features. Whether you prefer quiet idyllic beaches with rocky outcrops, waters decked with coral reefs or a beach with a happening social scene, Spain is the right place to look.

Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol offers a vibrant beach life for those who are looking for an energetic, non-stop social holiday. The area spans the South coast of Spain and boasts of fine sand and warm seas. The beaches are usually busy, as the Costa del Sol is one of the most popular beach destinations in Spain, especially with visitors from the UK. Some of the most well known and well developed resorts are Marbella, Málaga and Torremolinos, and though these areas are quite built up and prone to traffic, the volume of accommodation available makes it easy to find a place to stay and one can often benefit from last minute specials.

Costa Blanca

This stretch of coastline is named for its beaches of white sand. The sea is clear and a fantastic hue of true sea green. The Costa Blanca is adjacent to the city of Valencia, not one of Spain’s most scenic destinations due to its industrial focus. The year round sun more than makes up for this though; with its dry, hot climate, the South Eastern coast of Spain can practically promise beach weather every day of your holiday. Two of the well known resorts are Alicante and Benidorm.

Costa de la Luz

Situated in South west Andalucia, the Costa de la Luz translates to "the Coast of Light "; perhaps a reference to the abundance of sun in this part of Spain. Costa de la Luz offers long sandy beaches and deep blue Atlantic Sea. The beaches here offer a quieter alternative to the Costa del Sol and are within easy reach of Seville and Cadiz, two Spanish cities with a rich heritage and historical sites to visit.

Costa Verde

The Costa Verde or green coast, situated within the province of Asturia, offers a different climate to the more arid regions of Spain with cooler temperatures year round and higher rainfall, which contributes to the lush surroundings and gives the Costa Verde its name. Its dramatic, rocky beaches and proximity to historical architecture and sights make it a must for a visit from those who prefer to holiday a little off the beaten track.