A quick guide to Spain’s coasts
Spain is known for its many coasts and each one is characterized by its geographic location and symbolic name, which can sometimes be a source of confusion. The following is a quick peek at some of Spain’s scenic coastlines.
Rías Gallegas
Not to be confused with Rías altas or Rías bajas, this area includes the entire coastline of Galicia. It used to be considered the end of the world –one look at its many cliffs and raging breakers and it’s easy to see why.
Costa Verde
This coast in Asturias extends 350 kilometers to occupy nearly the entire shoreline of the province. It features cliffs, immense beaches, and the vast areas of natural greenery that give the coast its name.
Costa de Cantabria and Costa vasca
Just as their names indicate, these coasts are located along the coasts of Cantabria and the Basque country.
Costa Brava
Despite this Catalonian coast’s name which suggests harsh conditions, its elegant blue waters are actually quite peaceful and the warm gold sand of its expansive beaches is beautiful.
Costa Dorada
Tarragona has one of the most visited coastal areas in all of Spain. It lies just beyond the small Costa del Maresme and the Costa del Garraf. It’s a preferred destination for golfers and lovers of nautical sports.
Costa del Azahar
The so-called Balear Sea bathes the Costa del Azahar along its 120 kilometers of coves and beaches. There is a bit of controversy however over whether it only covers the coast of Castellón or if it covers the coast of Valencia also, which many scientists say has its own name.
Costa Blanca
One of Spain’s most famous beaches is located in the area of Alicante, where a very saturated city of Benidorm stands out. Fruit trees, palms and 220 kilometers of sand attract visitors from all over the world.
Costa Cálida
The Murcia area (Cartagena in particular) lives up to its name as one of the warmest coasts throughout the year. It’s surrounded by both white sand beaches and cliffs.
Costa de Almería
The province of Almería has its own coastal area characterized by cliffs, coves, and beaches that are extremely warm since they are so close to the Murcia area.
Costa Tropical or Costa Granadina
This coastal area takes its name from its nearly year-round subtropical microclimate. It features a mix of cliffs and beaches that receive a nearly steady temperature of 20ºC (68º F).
Costa del Sol
Spain’s most famous coastal area extends along the entire coast of Malaga, where 160 kilometers of shoreline attract thousands of tourists from around the world every year.
Costa de la Luz
We’ll wrap up this round up of Spanish coasts by returning to the Atlantic Ocean. Cádiz and Huelva combine their rich cultural heritage with golden sands and mild weather; ideal for visitors looking to beat the summer heat.