Platja de la Nova Mar Bella

Blue FlagAccessible

Platja de la Nova Mar Bella is one of the beaches constructed during the urban renewal of Barcelona's coastline for the 1992 Olympic Games. Located in the Sant Martí district, this stretch of golden sand has become a favorite among locals seeking a quieter alternative to the bustling Barceloneta. The beach is characterized by its peaceful atmosphere and is widely popular among young people and residents of the nearby Poble Nou neighborhood. The promenade running alongside the beach is a vibrant area favored by joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers, offering fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The fine golden sand and the relatively calm waters make it an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming right in the heart of the city. With excellent infrastructure, including showers, modern public restrooms, and accessible pathways, it represents the modern, well-equipped side of Barcelona's coastal offerings. Unlike the more tourist-heavy central beaches, Nova Mar Bella maintains a slightly more relaxed vibe while still offering all the amenities of an urban beach. At the nearby "chiringuitos" (beach bars), visitors can enjoy refreshing drinks and classic tapas with a sea view, perfectly bridging the gap between busy city life and a relaxing beach getaway.

Practical info

Beach typesandy

WaterExcellent water quality with a moderately sloping seabed. Entering the Mediterranean is comfortable and free of rocks.

Getting thereEasily accessible by metro (L4), bus, or bicycle using the well-developed cycle path along the beach promenade.

ParkingPaid parking is available in the surrounding streets and in nearby underground parking garages.

EntranceBeach access is free, while sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for a daily fee.

LifeguardProfessional lifeguards ensure safety during the high season (May to September).

ShadeThere is no natural shade from trees, so renting or bringing a parasol is highly recommended.

Best timeThe best months to visit are June and September, when the weather is ideal and the beach is less crowded.

NearbyThe Poble Nou neighborhood and Diagonal Mar shopping center are just a short walk away. The adjacent Bogatell and Mar Bella beaches are also easily reachable on foot.

Family-friendly & For kids

Very family-friendly due to the relaxed atmosphere, excellent sanitary facilities, and safe environment.

There is plenty of space in the soft sand for playing, and the beach is generally quieter, making it ideal for young children.

Food & drink

Paella and seafood — At the chiringuitos directly on the beach or restaurants in the nearby Poble Nou neighborhood.
Patatas Bravas — A classic tapas dish available at most beach bars along the promenade.
Refreshing Sangria — Perfect for hot summer days at the local beach pavilions.

Facilities

Beach bars
Sunbeds
Parasols
Showers
Toilets
Lifeguards
Wi-Fi

Events nearby

Nit de Sant Joan (Midsummer Night) annually on the night of 23-24 June; 2026 edition night of 23 June into 24 June · annual
Catalonia's summer solstice celebration with bonfires, firecrackers, fireworks, coca cake and cava. The nearby Mar Bella, Bogatell and Nova Icaria beaches fill with thousands of people partying through the night, making this one of the biggest events right on this stretch of coast. Source
Festa Major del Poblenou annually in mid-September; 2026 edition runs 5-14 September · annual
The main neighbourhood festival of Poblenou, the district immediately behind the beach, with hundreds of activities, concerts, popular culture, correfocs and street parties across many venues over about ten days. Source
Festes de Maig del Poblenou annually in May; 48th edition 15-17 May 2026 · annual
A long-running spring festival in the Poblenou neighbourhood featuring concerts, children's activities, popular Catalan culture, a wine festival and a fair of local associations and artisans. Source
Primavera Sound Barcelona annually in early June at Parc del Forum (about 2 km north of the beach); 2026 edition 4-6 June · annual
One of Europe's largest indie, rock and electronic music festivals, held at the Parc del Forum just up the coast from the beach. The 2026 edition features The Cure, Gorillaz, Massive Attack, Doja Cat and Skrillex among many others. Source
La Merce Festival annually around 24 September (city patron saint day); 2026 edition 23-27 September · annual
Barcelona's largest annual festival honouring the city's patron saint, the Mare de Deu de la Merce, with castellers (human towers), correfocs, giants, concerts and fireworks across the city. The 2026 guest city is Manchester. Source

Tips

Use the Selva de Mar or Poblenou metro stations for the easiest and most direct access.
Bring your rollerblades or bicycle to explore the wide coastal promenade.
Combine your beach day with a dinner at one of the excellent restaurants in Poble Nou.
Keep an eye on your valuables, even though this beach is generally quieter than the city center.

FAQ

Is there an entrance fee for the beach?

No, access to the beach is completely free of charge. You only pay if you want to rent sunbeds and umbrellas.

Are dogs allowed on the beach?

During the summer bathing season, dogs are generally not allowed on this stretch of beach.

Is the beach accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, the beach is well-equipped with wooden walkways, as well as accessible toilets and showers.

What is the best way to get there from the city center?

The easiest option is to take the L4 (yellow) metro line to either Poblenou or Selva de Mar stations.

Places nearby

Beaches nearby

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