Surfing around Barcelona
A guide to 3 epic surf spots up and down the Catalan coast.
Surfing is a relatively new trend in Barcelona. Prior to the 1992 Summer Olympics, the city’s coastline was littered with abandoned factories and fishing communities. In preparation for the games, the government invested roughly $8 billion to revamp public infrastructure, adding lengthy stretches of golden beaches, their sand being imported all the way from Egypt.
But it wasn’t all about sports. 1992 was a pivotal moment for both Barcelona and the rest of Spain. Spain had spent the late 70s and 80s reemerging following the end of Francisco Franco’s dictatorship in 1975. As journalist José Sámano puts it, “A country that was still insecure about its 40-year dictatorship and international isolation was finally able to shake off its inferiority complex.”
Following the waterfront’s reinvention, little by little, surf shops began to pop up around town. Fast-forward to today and you’ll see that Barcelona has a thriving surf community. Did that little history lesson get you amped? Below are some of the best spots where you can carve out a wave:
(1) Barceloneta, Tyson, and Killers
These three areas can be found right in downtown Barcelona and are accessible from the L4 metro line. Barceloneta is known for being a good beach for beginners, as its waves break on a shallow, sandy floor. Tyson, located right beside it, has a publicly-owned lockerroom. To get to Barceloneta and Tyson hop off the L4 at the Barceloneta metro stop. Killers (aka Llevant Beach) is Barcelona’s newest and easternmost beach. It opened in 2006 and a short walk from the Selva del Mar metro station.
(2) Garraf
This quieter beach requires a little more legwork to get to, but with fewer crowds, it’s worth it. From Passeig de Gràcia take the regional rail (R2 South) 40 minutes to Garraf. The small bay full of fishermen’s huts is hard to miss as it’s just across the road from the train station. Surrounded by steep, rocky mountains and a cliffside village you’re sure to enjoy the natural landscape as you catch some sweet waves.
(3) Sitges
For a spookier surf experience, take the same train a bit further to the town of Sitges where you can surf what is known as “The Cemetary.” Sitges is a fairly large, artists’ town famous for its elaborate Carnival celebrations. I recommend hanging around afterward or taking a lunch break to explore the town and its food scene. You can also stop at the Casa Bacardí for a post-surf rum cocktail.
