The massive clean-up operation of the beach and nearby Olympic marina and village undertaken for the 1992 Olympics has led to this area becoming a magnet for Barcelonans and visitors alike. A lot of effort goes into maintaining the cleanliness of both sand and sea, which is tested daily, and all beaches have disabled access, lifeguards, sun beds and showers.

The main beaches in Barcelona start at Barceloneta and go towards Port Olympic. A little further and one can find a nude beach as well. The most obvious choice to any newcomer in Barcelona might be the Barceloneta beach. The Casteldefels Playa a short ride away on the train or bus will lead to sandy beach. On the beach one will also come across the Chiringuitos of Casteldefels. These little huts serve cold drinks and food. The food tends to be basic but some of the bars have hidden treasures on their menu to be explored by the hungry. The second benefit to the chiringuitos is their shaded “terraces" allowing one to enjoy the breeze while not being melted by the glaring sun.

Barcelona now offers a fantastic beach scene in addition to its many other sights. Barcelona’s beaches offer something for everyone, from access for people with disabilities to equipment rentals to beachside bars and restaurants.Most of the areas have lifeguards and Red Cross stations in the summer and offer a beautiful place to relax with friends and loved ones in the winter. In the summer, many of the bars and restaurants are open from morning until night. During the day one can sip sangria and munch on tapas, or take advantage of the multiple sea sports, then as evening comes, get cleaned up in the bathrooms and showers open to the public and get ready for Barcelona’s famous hip, lounge scene at night.

Playa de Sant Sebastiá is a beach located next to the industrial dock. The next beach, Playa de la Barceloneta is the most popular, drawing crowds of both locals and tourists. Along the beach runs a walkway full of bars and restaurants that are busying serving beachgoers during the day and then cater to the lounge seekers in the evening. Here, along with almost of all of the other sections, people enjoy beach sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, waterskiing and sailing. Playa de la Nova Icária is a beach which is close to Port Olympic and also has small bars and restaurants that run along the beach. This beach is not as ideal for families or spending a day on the sand though volley ball is very popular. Playa del Bogatell is next to the Port Olympic Marina and is less commercial. Playa de la Mar Bella is also very popular for beach sports and also offers beachside bars and restaurants. Playa de la Nova Mar Bella is the final beach on Barcelona’s stretch of coast and has good access for people with disabilities.

There are plenty of things to do on the beach besides swim. Windsurfing and kite surfing are well-liked. One can also enjoy a refreshing drink from one of the many beach huts. Or just lie down and soak up the warmth of the Spanish sun with a good book.