Review: Sitges

Give us the wide-angle view: what kind of beach are we talking about?
Situated just 24 miles south of Barcelona, Sitges consists of 17 sandy beaches. Sant Sebastià is the locals’ choice; it's small, compact, and well serviced. Although everywhere in Sitges is LGBTQIA-friendly, Bassa Rodona is considered the main gay beach; located in the very center, it features clusters of umbrellas, multicolored towels, and the best physiques around. Fragata is great for families, thanks to its volleyball nets and pedal boats. As for Sitges town itself: It's a maze of idyllic cobbled streets, flower blooms, and white-walled villas with Juliet balconies.

Lovely. How accessible is it?
From Barcelona’s Sants or Passeig de Gràcia train stations, take the R2S route to Sitges (toward Sant Vicenç de Calders). The journey takes 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your starting point. Once in Sitges, a paved promenade (Passeig Maritim) makes beach-hopping easy.

Got it. Decent services and facilities, would you say?
The closer you are to the town center, the more facilities you’ll find. From June to September, it’s not uncommon to find water aerobics classes and children’s workshops alongside the usual xiringuitos bars and umbrella-rentals kiosks.

How’s the actual beach stuff—sand and surf?
For kayaks and stand-up paddle boarding, visit Nootka Kayak on Playa de las Anquines, an artificial beach that offers great conditions for both. Rentals start at $18 an hour for a kayak, or $22 for a board.

Anything special we should look for?
The terrace of El Vivero, a chic beach club and restaurant, has the best views in town. For food, walk three minutes inland from Fragata beach to Six Seis, a warm and soulful Mexican that will stuff your hands with tacos (including vegan and gluten-free ones) and craft beers. The most famous paella in town comes from La Zorra. Its name – arroz, or rice, spelled backwards – gives a sense of the topsy-turvy flavors that go way beyond rice and fish. Try zamburiñas (variegated scallops), or a surprising(ly good) combo of squid, sausage, apple and burrata. Booking essential.  

If we’re thinking about going, what—and who—is this beach best for?
Sitges is pretty and fun, with a super-relaxed vibe that makes it a draw for everyone.