Spain's popular beach destinations, including Benidorm, Barcelona, and Malaga, attracted a combined 47.5 million visitors in 2025. However, new research by travel booking platform Omio highlights quieter beach alternatives within 90 minutes of these hotspots, with public transport fares starting from just £3.

Omio's findings suggest that travellers can enjoy a more peaceful beach experience without venturing far from Spain's major tourist areas. For instance, Sant Pol de Mar, located just over an hour from Barcelona, offers a tranquil setting with its whitewashed buildings and uncrowded beaches. Similarly, Villajoyosa, a short tram ride from Benidorm, is known for its colourful seafront houses and relaxed atmosphere.

In Valencia, visitors can opt for Cullera, a town with broad sandy beaches and a hilltop castle, reachable in 40 minutes by train. Meanwhile, Playa de las Viborillas, near Malaga, provides a secluded cove surrounded by rocky cliffs, ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts.

For those near Alicante, Playa de la Coveta Fumà offers a local feel with its smaller coves and calm waters, just 35 minutes away by tram. These alternatives provide a quieter escape whilst remaining accessible from Spain's bustling coastal cities.

Omio's research underscores the potential for travellers to explore less crowded beaches without sacrificing convenience, enhancing their Spanish holiday experience

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