Barcelona Gay Beaches

Whilst known as Barcelona's only nudist beach, Mar Bella attracts as many gay sunbathers who prefer to keep that tackle undercover as those who are happy to let it all hang out.

The beach season starts around the beginning of May, with peak season being in August. This is the most popular 'gay' beach in Barcelona, but it is also the furthest from the city centre.

Take the metro to Poble Nou (Yellow Line - L4), from which it is about 10 minutes' walk to the beach. Or catch Bus 41 and alight at Parc esportiu de la Mar Bella. A taxi from Eixample will cost around 10€.

Tip:  There's an excellent choice of very good cafés and restaurants in the nearby Rambla del Poblenou - about a 5-minute walk from the beach.

Gay bar & restaurant Chiringuito has become internationally renowned as the focal point of gay beach life in Barcelona, located right on the Mar Bella nudist beach.

The restaurant offers a decent range of light dishes, salads, hot baguettes and a selection of more substantial main dishes. The bar offers a great choice of cocktails, beer, protein shakes, juices and coffee.

BeGay also rents out sun beds and umbrellas. Popular from May onwards and exceptionally busy during August. Book in advance if you want a table for lunch during peak season.

Chiringuito hosts special events throughout the summer months - check their website for agenda.

San Sebastià and Barceloneta together form one long beach stretching for more than 1 km from the W Hotel towards the Olympic Marina.

Both are popular with gay sunbathers and have a good choice of cafés and restaurants. Great if you like to party. San Sebastià, in particular, is well-known for its happy crowd.

The 400-metre-long Nova Icària Beach is located close to the Marina and is a popular beach with both gay and straight sunbathers.

This is one of the quietest beaches in Barcelona. The peaceful setting allows for privacy, so sit back and top up that tan. There is a good choice of restaurants and cafés on the promenade behind the beach.