Vilassar de Mar Beaches

Overview

Vilassar de Mar, a charming coastal town in Catalonia, Spain, offers an appealing alternative to busier city beaches. Located on the Maresme coast and easily accessible from Barcelona, it's a destination known for its relaxed atmosphere. Visitors will discover a welcoming shoreline characterized by golden sands, making it an inviting spot for a seaside getaway.

Key beaches highlighted by our editors include the conveniently located Platja de l'Almadrava, perfect for a quick dip in town. For those seeking tranquility, Platja de Ponent is a local favorite, also offering a designated nudist area. Nearby Mataró boasts the scenic Platja de Sant Simó, while Platja de La Musclera offers a more secluded, natural coastal experience. The generally calm and clear waters at Vilassar de Mar's beaches are excellent for swimming, and the area is considered very suitable for family visits.

These featured spots provide a taste of what Vilassar de Mar's coastline has to offer. From easily accessible urban stretches to more hidden gems, there's a variety of experiences awaiting beachgoers. To discover more options and find the perfect stretch of sand for your visit, be sure to explore our guide's longer list of beaches.

Top Beaches

Platja de l'Astillero

The main, most visited, and easiest to reach beach in Vilassar de Mar, right by the train station and offering various amenities. This urban beach stretches along the town's coastline, characterized by its golden sand and generally calm waters, making it a popular spot for both residents and visitors. It runs parallel to the train tracks and the N-II highway, with a promenade that features interesting modernist-style summer homes. While it's centrally located, it often maintains a comfortable level of occupancy, even during the summer. The beach is quite long, offering ample space for a seaside stroll or simply relaxing by the Mediterranean.

FAQ

What are the main beaches in Vilassar de Mar and what are they like?

Vilassar de Mar's main beaches include Platja de l'Almadrava, known for its golden sand and generally calm waters, making it suitable for visits throughout the year. Astillero beach features a mix of sand and rocks with a promenade. Platja de Ponent, located to the south, is over a kilometer long and has a nudist area in its southern part. These beaches form part of a 2km coastline celebrated for its golden sands.

Platja de l'Almadrava

Platja de Ponent

How do I get to Vilassar de Mar beaches from Barcelona?

Vilassar de Mar is easily accessible from Barcelona. You can drive via the N-II highway, or take a suburban train (RENFE) from Barcelona city center, such as from Plaça Catalunya. The train station in Vilassar de Mar is conveniently located just a short 5-minute walk from some of the main beaches like Playa dels Pescadors.

Platja dels Pescadors

Are Vilassar de Mar beaches good for families with children?

Yes, Vilassar de Mar is considered an excellent destination for families. The main beach, Playa de Vilassar (often referring to the collective stretch), offers shallow waters safe for children. Some beach areas and nearby parks have playgrounds and family-friendly amenities. Accommodations in the area also cater to families.

What is the best time of year to visit Vilassar de Mar for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Vilassar de Mar is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, you'll experience warm temperatures, pleasant sea breezes, and ideal water temperatures for swimming. May and September (shoulder season) offer a good balance with warm weather and fewer crowds. Late June to late August is specifically highlighted for hot-weather activities.

Are there accommodations with direct beach access in Vilassar de Mar?

Yes, there are various accommodation options in Vilassar de Mar, including hotels and apartment rentals, that are located near the beach or offer sea views. Some properties are described as beachfront or being a very short walk from the sea, providing easy access to the coastal lifestyle.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Can you swim in the sea at Vilassar de Mar and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Vilassar de Mar. The waters are generally calm and clear, inviting for swimming. The main beaches have golden sand. Some areas, like Platja de Ponent, might have a sharper drop-off once you enter the water, so caution is advised, especially with young swimmers. The water temperature is ideal for swimming from June to September.

Platja de Ponent

What amenities are available at Vilassar de Mar beaches?

Vilassar de Mar beaches offer a range of amenities including restaurants and beach bars (chiringuitos), toilets, showers, and freshwater fountains. Some beaches have police surveillance, first-aid posts, and accessible ramps for wheelchairs. Specific beaches like Ponent Beach are noted for having beach bars, police surveillance, and Red Cross posts.

Platja de Ponent

Is parking available near the beaches in Vilassar de Mar?

Parking can be challenging, especially during summer. While there are some parking lots and street parking options, it's recommended to arrive early to find a spot. Some sources advise being cautious about where you park to avoid infractions, as police monitor parking near the beach closely. An alternative is to park in the town and use underground passages to reach the beach.

People Also Ask

Are there any nudist beaches in or near Vilassar de Mar?

Yes, there are nudist beach options. The southern part of Ponent beach in Vilassar de Mar is a designated nudist area. Nearby, Platja de Sant Simó (in Mataró) and Platja d'Ocata (in El Masnou) also have clothing-optional areas. Cala Nudista del Torn is specifically mentioned as a nudist cove in Vilassar de Mar.

Platja de Sant Simó

What kind of sand can I expect at Vilassar de Mar beaches?

The beaches in Vilassar de Mar, such as Platja de l'Almadrava, are generally characterized by golden sand. Some descriptions also mention granular sand. Astillero beach has a mix of sand and rocks.

Platja de l'Almadrava

Are there beach bars or restaurants (chiringuitos) in Vilassar de Mar?

Yes, numerous beach bars (chiringuitos) and restaurants line the promenade and are located on or near the beaches in Vilassar de Mar. You can find options for refreshing drinks, snacks, and full meals, including local seafood. Some beach bars offer views of spectacular sunsets.

Is Vilassar de Mar a good destination for a quiet beach holiday or is it very crowded?

Vilassar de Mar can offer a relatively relaxed beach experience, especially when compared to the main Barcelona city beaches. It's described as a residential district and a charming coastal town. While popular, particularly in peak summer (June-August), visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, September) can mean fewer crowds. Some specific beaches or coves might be quieter than others.

What water sports are available at Vilassar de Mar beaches?

Vilassar de Mar's beaches are suitable for various water sports. Activities like paddleboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing are available. Local rental shops often provide equipment and lessons. Some beaches are also noted as good for surfing.

How do Vilassar de Mar beaches compare to those in Sitges or other nearby towns?

Vilassar de Mar offers a more relaxed, residential atmosphere compared to the often busier and more tourist-focused Sitges, which is famous for its 17 beaches and vibrant scene. Vilassar's beaches are known for golden sand and calm waters, easily accessible from Barcelona by train, similar to other Maresme coast towns like Premià de Mar or El Masnou, each having their own charm and specific beach characteristics.

Are the beaches in Vilassar de Mar generally safe?

Vilassar de Mar is generally considered a safe town. In terms of beach safety, amenities like police surveillance and first-aid posts are available at some beaches. As with any beach, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas. Information on lifeguards is available for specific beaches, and some have received Blue Flag awards, indicating high environmental and safety standards.