Over the past seven years of living in Spain, I’ve traveled across this beautiful country, both for leisure and during my solo journey along the Camino de Santiago. Along the way, I’ve discovered some incredible seaside cities and towns, each with its own unique charm.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful coastal retreat, a lively city by the sea, or a mix of both, Spain has something for everyone.

Based on my experiences, here are the best places to live by the sea in Spain—along with a few spots that, while popular, might not be all they’re cracked up to be.

My 9 Top Picks for Best Places to Live by the Sea in Spain

1. San Sebastián – Ideal for Expats Seeking Culture and Natural Beauty

San Sebastián, located in the Basque Country, offers expats a perfect blend of culture, stunning beaches, and a slower pace of life. The city is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and the breathtaking La Concha beach, making it a top destination for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

For expats, San Sebastián offers excellent public services, a well-connected transportation system, and a safe environment. Though the weather can be a bit cooler and rainy in the winter, the city’s charm, vibrant cultural scene, and scenic surroundings more than make up for it. If you enjoy hiking (this is actually where I started the Camino de Santiago del Norte), surfing, and experiencing rich local traditions, San Sebastián will feel like home.

2. Almería – Perfect for Expats Looking for Sunshine and Tranquility

Almería, located on the southeastern coast, is one of Spain’s sunniest cities, making it a great choice for expats who crave warmth and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s often overlooked by tourists, which means housing is more affordable, and you can enjoy the beaches without the crowds.

Expats will find Almería’s authentic Spanish atmosphere, excellent food scene, and proximity to the stunning Cabo de Gata Natural Park to be major draws. The relaxed pace of life and affordability make it a great option for retirees or those looking for a quieter, more traditional Spanish experience.

3. Cartagena – Ideal for Expats Who Love History and a Quiet Life

Cartagena, not to be confused with the Colombian city, is located in the Murcia region is a unique spot for expats who appreciate ancient architecture and a quieter coastal life.

For expats, Cartagena is more affordable than Spain’s larger cities, and you’ll find the pace of life to be much slower and less touristy. If you prefer a smaller city with easy access to beaches and a rich historical background, Cartagena could be your perfect seaside retreat.

4. Bilbao – Great for Expats Seeking a Mix of City and Coast

This is another spot I loved when doing the Camino de Santiago! Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, offers expats a fantastic mix of modern urban life and access to the sea. With nearby beaches like Sopelana, Bilbao is perfect for expats looking to balance work and relaxation.

What makes Bilbao stand out for expats is its excellent public transportation, high-quality healthcare, and international environment. The cooler climate might not be for everyone, but if you enjoy a more temperate climate with easy beach access and great food, Bilbao is a top pick.

5. Valencia – Ideal for Expats Seeking a Vibrant, Balanced Lifestyle

Although I have never been there, Valencia keeps popping as one of the best places for expats, and for good reason. I have heard it offers vibrant lifestyle, excellent beaches, and a lower cost of living compared to other big cities like Madrid or Barcelona.

There are more and more international community moving there, making it easy for expats to integrate. It also offers a lot international schools, and variety of activities make it ideal for families, young professionals, or retirees. If you’re looking for a city with a good balance of work, life, and leisure, Valencia is one of Spain’s top choices.

6. Las Palmas, Gran Canaria – Perfect for Expats Who Love Year-Round Sunshine

For expats dreaming of island life, Las Palmas in Gran Canaria offers warm weather all year round, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant local culture. The city provides a mix of laid-back island vibes and urban conveniences, making it a great spot for both digital nomads and retirees.

What stands out for expats is the relaxed lifestyle combined with a welcoming local and expat community. Plus, the Canary Islands’ tax incentives are a great benefit for those running a business or working remotely. If you’re after year-round sunshine and an island lifestyle with all the comforts of city living, Las Palmas should be high on your list.

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7. Alicante – Great for Expats Seeking a Balanced Cost of Living

Alicante is a fantastic city for expats who want an affordable cost of living with easy access to the beach. The city is well-known for its mild climate, beautiful coastline, and vibrant nightlife.

Expats in Alicante will appreciate the mix of modern amenities and traditional Spanish culture. It’s a great place to meet other expats, as it has a sizeable international community, yet still offers an authentic Spanish experience. Alicante is perfect if you want a relaxed lifestyle with the perks of urban living.

8. Cádiz – Perfect for Expats Who Want a Taste of Andalusian Charm

I discovered Cádiz whilst on my first solo trip in Andalusia, located in southern Spain, is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and stunning beaches. This ancient port city has a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for expats looking to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities while still enjoying the benefits of coastal living.

The expat community in Cádiz is smaller but growing, and the city offers a slower pace of life with affordable living costs. If you’re after Andalusian charm, beautiful beaches, and a more authentic Spanish experience, Cádiz is a great option.

9. Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife – A Haven for Nature-Loving Expats

Puerto de la Cruz, located in Tenerife, is ideal for expats who love nature and a quieter lifestyle. With its lush green surroundings, volcanic landscapes, and black sand beaches, it offers a completely different vibe compared to mainland Spain.

Expats looking for a peaceful, scenic place to live will find Puerto de la Cruz welcoming. It’s also more affordable than many other tourist hotspots on the island, making it a great choice for retirees or anyone looking to slow down and enjoy nature.

Overrated Places to Avoid

While many coastal cities in Spain are idyllic, there are a few that I’ve found to be overrated, especially for expats seeking a more authentic or relaxed lifestyle.

Benidorm: Known for its towering high-rise hotels and packed beaches, Benidorm is very tourist-centric. If you’re looking for an authentic Spanish experience or a quieter coastal life, this is not the place. It’s great for holiday-goers, but as a resident, it can feel overwhelming and lacking in genuine local culture.
Barcelona: Barcelona is an incredible city for many reasons, but living here comes with some challenges. The touristy areas like Barceloneta are always crowded, housing is expensive, and it can feel a bit chaotic. If you love the vibrant city life, it might be for you, but if you prefer a calmer coastal lifestyle, I’d suggest avoiding the popular spots and considering nearby towns or quieter neighborhoods.
Marbella: Marbella is often seen as the ultimate coastal hotspot, but unless you’re into the luxury lifestyle and nightlife, it might not be the best fit for expats. The cost of living is high, and while the beaches are nice, it’s overly commercialized and geared toward high-end tourism.
Torremolinos: Another heavily touristy area, Torremolinos can feel overcrowded, especially during the summer. It’s great for a quick beach getaway, but the constant influx of tourists makes it less appealing for long-term residents seeking a quieter or more authentic lifestyle.

Whether you want a busier city like Valencia or a quieter island life in Puerto de la Cruz, there’s a perfect coastal spot waiting for you. My advice? Take your time to visit these places and get a feel for the atmosphere before making the big move!