When people think of Spain’s beaches, they usually picture the Mediterranean or Atlantic coasts. But not everyone lives near the sea, and for many people in inland towns and cities, getting to the coast can take hours. Luckily, Spain has a wide range of inland beaches, found on rivers, reservoirs, and lakes, that offer the same chance to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports.

These playas de interior are often cleaner, quieter, and surrounded by countryside, making them a great choice for families, couples, and anyone who wants to relax outdoors without needing the sea. Here are five of the best inland beaches in Spain, each with something different to offer.

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Playa de Orellana, Extremadura

Playa de Orellana, in Badajoz, Extremadura, made history as the first inland beach in Spain to be awarded a Blue Flag. This recognition is usually given to coastal beaches, but Orellana earned it thanks to its excellent water quality, services, and safety standards.

The beach stretches across the Orellana Reservoir, offering soft golden sand and calm, fresh water. Facilities include showers, toilets, picnic areas, and lifeguards during the summer months, making it very family-friendly.

Besides swimming, visitors can try sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, or simply enjoy a day under the sun. The wetlands around the reservoir are also home to herons, storks, and other bird species, so it’s popular with birdwatchers. Many visitors combine a beach day with a walk in nature or a visit to nearby villages.

Playa del Pantano de San Juan, Madrid

Known as ‘Madrid’s beach,’ Playa del Pantano de San Juan is the capital’s main escape from the summer heat. Around an hour’s drive from Madrid, this reservoir covers more than 14 kilometers of shoreline, so there’s space for both quiet family areas and more active zones.

The sandy stretches are great for swimming and sunbathing, but the reservoir is also one of the few places near Madrid where motorised water sports are allowed. Jet skiing, sailing, paddleboarding, and boat rides are all available, making it a good choice for people who like a more active day out.

There are several access points around the reservoir, some with beach bars and restaurants, and others with picnic areas shaded by trees. For city residents who don’t live near the sea, this beach offers the next best thing, and without the long drive to the coast.

Playa de La Arena, Soria

Playa de La Arena is located on the Cuerda del Pozo Reservoir in the Urbión mountains of Soria, Castilla y León. It feels like a mix between a mountain retreat and a traditional beach, with pine forests surrounding the sandy shore and fresh, clear water for swimming.

This beach is popular with families who want a calm place to spend the day, but it also attracts people who enjoy fishing, hiking, and camping. The reservoir has several access points, and Playa de La Arena is one of the best equipped, with parking and areas for sunbathing.

The nearby Picos de Urbión mountains offer hiking trails, and there are campsites for those who want to stay overnight. For anyone living in northern Spain, this is a chance to enjoy a beach holiday without travelling to the Mediterranean or Cantabrian coasts.

Playa de A Cova, Galicia

Playa de A Cova is in the Ribeira Sacra region of Galicia, on the banks of the Miño River near the Belesar Reservoir. It has fine sand, shaded areas, and calm waters that make it a safe place for swimming and kayaking.

The scenery here is impressive. Hills covered in vineyards rise up from the riverbanks, and the winding river creates peaceful spots for swimming or simply sitting on the sand. Many visitors combine a day at the beach with visits to local wineries, river cruises, or short hikes along the river canyons.

Unlike coastal beaches, A Cova feels more rural and personal, perfect for those who enjoy quiet surroundings. It is especially attractive to people living inland in Galicia or nearby provinces who want a refreshing summer escape without driving all the way to the Atlantic.

Playa de Garaio, Basque Country

Playa de Garaio is part of the Ullíbarri-Gamboa Reservoir in Álava, Basque Country — one of the largest reservoirs in Spain. Instead of a single sandy stretch, the beach is spread across several small areas with sand, grass, and shaded picnic zones.

The beach has excellent facilities including showers, lifeguards in summer, cycle paths, and walking trails. It’s especially popular with families because the waters are calm and shallow in many areas, making it safe for children to swim.

Visitors can rent canoes, go cycling around the reservoir, or explore the natural park where the beach is located. The birdlife here is also a highlight, with species like grebes and cormorants often seen near the water. For people living in the Basque Country, Playa de Garaio is a convenient and enjoyable alternative to the coast.

Why Choose an Inland Beach?

Not everyone in Spain lives close to the sea, and travelling to the coast can mean long drives, crowded beaches, and high costs in summer. Inland beaches give people the chance to enjoy the same activities, swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, without leaving their own region.

They are often cleaner, less crowded, and surrounded by natural scenery like forests, rivers, and mountains. Many also have good facilities, making them suitable for families, groups of friends, or solo visitors. Whether you want a quick escape from city life or a different type of holiday, inland beaches in Spain are an option worth considering.

Main image: Shutterstock/l.glz.ttlphotos

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