How many beaches to visit: Plan on
three to four beach days in a week. That is enough to compare a resort club, a public stretch and a quieter rocky cove without burning days on traffic. More than that and you are paying entry fees and sitting on highways to see variations on the same Mediterranean. You get a clear sense of the coast’s range and still have time for the mountains and cities.
Choosing the kind: For a social, comfortable day, pick one
resort club. You pay for sun beds, music, showers and food, and you can stay from late morning until sunset. Choose a
public beach if you want a local scene, where families set up with their own umbrellas and food. It costs little but can be crowded and less tidy. A
rocky cove or small harbor in the north or south is best if you want clear water …
read more 👉 How many beaches to visit: Plan on
three to four beach days in a week. That is enough to compare a resort club, a public stretch and a quieter rocky cove without burning days on traffic. More than that and you are paying entry fees and sitting on highways to see variations on the same Mediterranean. You get a clear sense of the coast’s range and still have time for the mountains and cities.
Choosing the kind: For a social, comfortable day, pick one
resort club. You pay for sun beds, music, showers and food, and you can stay from late morning until sunset. Choose a
public beach if you want a local scene, where families set up with their own umbrellas and food. It costs little but can be crowded and less tidy. A
rocky cove or small harbor in the north or south is best if you want clear water and space, and you swim from flat rock with sandals on. Mix one of each, and skip any beach that is only a roadside strip with no facilities.
What it costs: Budget about
US$30 to 60 a day for a backpacker mixing clubs and local spots, or US$20 to 35 on days with only public beaches. Club entry runs roughly US$15 to 40, often with a minimum spend credited against food and drinks. Public beaches cost little or nothing, though parking or umbrella rental may add US$3 to 10. Shared taxis between coastal towns cost roughly US$2 to 8 per ride. Lunch by the sea with a drink often comes to US$8 to 20. Carry cash in small notes, since card systems at smaller spots may be unreliable, and confirm prices before sitting down.
Safety and etiquette: Currents are usually mild, but rocky entries are slippery and
sea urchins are common, so wear water shoes. Lifeguards are not guaranteed outside the larger clubs, so swim near other people. Pollution varies, so avoid water that looks cloudy or has debris near river mouths and city outfalls. Keep valuables at your hotel or in the club lockers.
Cultural considerations: Swimwear is relaxed at upscale clubs, but in smaller or more conservative towns, cover up when walking to and from the water and avoid topless sunbathing. Ask before photographing people. Respect private property, since many beaches that look open are not. Check current travel advice before heading to the far south, as border-area conditions can change quickly.