Posted on Tuesday, 17 August 2021

Millions make the pilgrimage to Spain's beaches each year, so having a quiet strip of sand to yourself might seem impossible. But with a little planning and effort, you'll find a plethora of secluded coves to spend the day.

Here are ten of the most inviting and quiet beaches in the country - but don't tell anyone we told you!

Calo des Moro, Mallorca

Mallorca may not sound like the kind of place you'd find a quiet beach, but Calo des Moro proves otherwise.

This tiny south-coast beach is flanked by rocks and involves a hike over rugged ground to reach - but the tricky access means fewer people make the journey. 

Ignore the Private Property signs - this beach is privately-owned but open to the public. It’s easier to reach if you hire a boat and access from the sea.

There isn’t much space to lounge in the sun, so an early start will help you bag your spot.

Playa del Silencio, Asturias

As the name 'Silencio' suggests, this secluded beach is ideal for peace-seekers. The horse-shoe cove is regarded as one of Spain's most beautiful, surrounded by high rock faces that protect swimmers from the strong currents.

High tide covers the sand, so time your visit well. And mind out for sharp rocks under the water's surface. Access has been improved recently with new steps and a handrail.

Platja Cala El Golfet, Girona

Secreted on the north west coastline and accessed over challenging rocky ground, Platja Cala El Golfet is hardly a tourist hotspot. But protected as it is from the northern winds by the high-sided cove, it’s perfect for a day of beach lounging and swimming.

Cala Mastella, Ibiza

Ibiza isn't just about beach parties; plenty of people visit the island for a quieter break. And for those seeking a tranquil day of tanning and swimming, Cala Mastella, nestled in the rocky coastline, is a great option.

As with many of Spain's best beaches, it's not easy to access - but that ensures it keeps that 'deserted' feel. And with a rocky seafloor, the water remains clean and clear - making it ideal for snorkelling.

Cala d’en Serra, Ibiza

Reaching the emerald-green waters of Cala d’en Serra on Ibiza's north coast is not easy - but this means only locals and in-the-know tourists ever enjoy it.

Thrill seekers may be tempted to jump into the inviting water from the high rocks (although we don't recommend it!), while the more laidback can hire sun loungers and enjoy a cocktail or seafood at the beach bar (even though it’s secluded, the beach does have a few amenities!). 

Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias

Located just two hours from Bilbao in the Basque Country, Playa de Gulpiyuri is actually a flooded sinkhole fed by tunnels connected to the sea, 300m away.

The water rises or falls depending on the tide, but it's usually ideal for a safe and tranquil swim.

Gulpiyuri is surely one of Spain's most unique beaches, but as such it can occasionally draw big crowds.

We recommend visiting early in the day to have it to yourself for an hour or two. 

Platja des Coll Baix, Mallorca

A little planning is needed to reach Platja des Coll Baix, Mallorca, which involves a 30-minute scramble over rough ground to reach. Suitable footwear and plenty of water are a must - and you might want to leave the pop-up tent and lilo in your hotel!

The difficult access means few make the journey, but those who do are rewarded by a majestic, high-sided rocky cove and crystalline gas-blue waters.

The water can get rough on windy days but strong swimmers will have no problem.

Xgrau, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cala Sa Cova, Costa Brava

Embraced by high-sided cliffs and wild vegetation, Cala Sa Cova is a must for chill-seekers.

While the main Platja d’Aro strip isn’t far away, most visitors stick to the main town beach, so there's a good chance you'll enjoy some peace and quiet. However, peak season means more people make the effort, so an early morning (or off-season) visit has its merits.

Access from the coastal path (a joy in itself) is easy, and there are other little coves to explore nearby.

Cala Llentrisca, Ibiza

Surrounded by cedars, wild and rocky Cala Llentrisca is tricky to locate and facility-free, so you won't find scores of people making the trip.

This east facing beach is best enjoyed in the morning to soak up the early sunshine, and is perfect for snorkelling and swimming since the beach drops off quite sharply.

Playa de Guayedra, Gran Canaria

This isolated beach is found in the Tamadaba Natural Park, far away from the island's tourist traps.

With little protection from the cliffs, the winds can pick up here, so it might not be ideal for long tanning sessions.

Enter the sea between the rocks rather than beside them, as it can get quite choppy. And watch out for the bold lizards with an eye on your lunch!

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