If you’re looking for the perfect self-drive holiday, you might be surprised to know that you can get to some truly amazing beaches in Spain in 15 hours or less by car. Here, we look at some of the best beaches to drive to in Spain so you can start planning your exciting road trip.
Playa Tamarit – Santa Pola
Drive 14 hours from Calais and you’ll reach the Blue Flag beach of Playa Tamarit. Sat below a striking 11th century castle, Playa Tamarit is an attractive beach that doesn’t get as busy as some of its nearby tourist favourites, giving it a chilled-out atmosphere that is sure to be welcome after your drive. The water here is fairly shallow and warm which makes it suitable for children, and there are lifeguards present during the high season for added peace of mind. On quieter days you’ll easily be able to find a spot to rest on the sand, but there’s the opportunity to hire umbrellas and sun loungers too.
As one of the most popular kitesurfing spots on the Costa Blanca, you’ll be able to watch people taking part in this water sport as you relax. Fancy giving it a go? You can rent the necessary equipment and try it for yourself if you prefer a more active beach day. Kayaks and windsurfing equipment are also available to hire in addition to sailing boats and catamarans. There’s a small selection of restaurants along the front of Playa Tamarit but there are very few shops, so you might want to take some drinks and snacks with you when you visit. There are toilets, showers, and changing rooms for your convenience, and the beach has wheelchair access too.
Ondarreta – San Sebastián
Another of the best beaches to drive to in Spain is Ondaretta, San Sebastián. Playa de Ondaretta is situated at the bottom of the Igueldo Mountain, to the west of Playa de la Concha, and is a popular choice among wealthy tourists and residents alike. With the opportunity to try water sports, and the option to indulge in Michelin star dining, Ondarreta is the perfect beach for those seeking both adventure and luxury. A popular activity during a visit to Ondaretta is swimming out to the island of Santa Clara. Thanks to low tides and calm waters, this swim isn’t too strenuous, and you’ll be greeted with a terrace bar and natural saltwater pool when you reach your destination.
During low tide, it’s possible to take a walk along the rocky path that leads to the Miramar Palace – a former residence of the royal family, or you might like to head to the top of the Igueldo Mountain for views across Santa Clara, the port, and the city centre. If you’d rather explore the bay from the water, you can rent a rowing boat, kayak, or paddle board and set off out to sea at your leisure. In addition to this array of activities, you’ll find changing rooms, showers, and toilets at Ondaretta beach, providing all of the facilities you need for a day out – plus there’s convenient parking nearby too.
Playa del Regueral – Cambrils
Located 15 hours from Calais by car, Playa del Regueral is one of a number of stunning beaches belonging to the Spanish town of Cambrils on the Costa Dorada. Cambrils is the perfect holiday destination for families, couples, and solo travellers alike thanks to its 9km of golden sand, and the bustling beach of Playa del Regueral is the place to be.
Boasting a whole variety of facilities and things to do, Playa del Regueral is ideal for anyone who loves vibrant beaches and fun-packed days. With a range of water sports to try, such as water skiing and banana boats, adrenaline junkies will be in their element, and avid sun worshippers can sit back and relax on a rented sun lounger. Other facilities at Playa del Regueral include restaurants and showers, so you’re guaranteed to have everything you need for a great visit.
If you’d prefer a quieter day in the sun, the nearby Playa de Cavet is a smaller beach with plenty of charm. Here, you can rent surf and paddle boards if you’d like to get out onto the sea, and its calm waters make it the perfect option for snorkelling too.
Now you know where to find some of the best beaches to drive to in Spain, you can start planning your self-drive holiday. From Calais, you’ll journey right down to the bottom of France where you’ll cross the border into Spain, and there are plenty of awesome highlights, such as Paris and Toulouse, to take in along the way too.
To help your journey to Spain go as smoothly as possible, make sure to plan your Dover-Calais ferry crossing in advance. Remember, with P&O Ferries you can bring your car and bikes onto the ferry, and dogs are also welcome!
Read more about how to drive to Spain from the UK and book your ferry crossing to France today!
Read more about how to drive to Spain from the UK and book your ferry crossing to France today! And don’t forget to stock up for your day at the beach in our duty-free store, where you can make the most of great prices on drinks and confectionary.
