Platja de la Nova Mar Bella is a sandy beach in Barcelona’s Sant Martí district, north of Bogatell and the city-centre beaches. Its more relaxed feel makes it a good choice for swimming, sunbathing or a walk by the water. You’ll find beach bars, restaurants, toilets, showers and sports facilities, with views back towards the city and the W Barcelona hotel. Walkways across the sand reach the sea, helping visitors with reduced mobility get closer to the water.
A beach shaped by the Olympic waterfront
Nova Mar Bella was created as part of the redevelopment of Barcelona’s waterfront for the 1992 Olympic Games. The project brought the city and coastline closer together, and the beach is backed by modern high-rise apartment buildings in the Diagonal Mar area. Its setting is more residential than the central beaches, and the shore is used largely by local residents.
The name Mar Bella refers to land reclaimed from the sea, the same kind of reclaimed ground on which Barceloneta was built. That history connects the beach to the changing shape of Barcelona’s waterfront.
Getting around the sand
Walkways cross the sand to the water, a useful feature for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. Facilities mentioned at the beach include showers, toilets, bars, restaurants and sports areas. Activities along the shore and promenade include beach volleyball, running, walking, skating and outdoor exercise.
Nova Mar Bella is separate from neighbouring Platja de la Mar Bella. The latter has a clothing-optional area, so check the beach name if you’re choosing where to swim or sunbathe. A promenade links the city’s beaches, and the route from Barceloneta towards Nova Icària is used by walkers, cyclists and skaters.
FAQ
Where is Platja de la Nova Mar Bella?
It is in Barcelona’s Sant Martí district, north of Bogatell and near the Diagonal Mar area.
Is Nova Mar Bella a clothing-optional beach?
The clothing-optional section is at neighbouring Platja de la Mar Bella. Nova Mar Bella is a separate beach.
Is Platja de la Nova Mar Bella accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Walkways cross the sand to the sea, helping people with disabilities or reduced mobility reach the water.
What can you do at Nova Mar Bella beach?
You can swim, sunbathe, walk, run, skate or play beach volleyball. Bars, restaurants, toilets and showers are also available.
