Sant Pol de Mar is the kind of beach town you only discover when a local finally lets you in on the secret. Just over an hour from Barcelona by train, this small Maresme fishing village feels worlds away from the high‑rise hotels and crowded promenades that dominate much of the coastline. Here, the railway runs right along the sea, and when you step off the platform you’re only a few footsteps from soft sand and clear, turquoise water.
The town grew around a 10th‑century Benedictine monastery, and that quiet, timeless character still lingers in its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and the gentle curve of its sheltered bay. Fishing boats rest on the sand, locals wander down for a morning swim, and the church bell tower watches over everything — a postcard scene that hasn’t been replaced by concrete towers or all‑inclusive resorts.
Sant Pol de Mar remains an authentic fishing community, and you’ll still see small wooden boats pulled up on the beach. It’s a reassuring sign that the seafood served in town is as local as it gets.
What makes Sant Pol de Mar truly special is what it doesn’t have: no pickpockets, no beach vendors, no towering hotels and no crowds. It’s not a major tourist destination — and that’s exactly why people love it. Barcelona residents come here to escape the city heat, spread out a towel and spend the day swimming, reading and enjoying long, lazy lunches by the sea.
If you’re looking for a beach day that feels relaxed, local and beautifully simple, Sant Pol de Mar is one of the best coastal towns you can reach by train. Bring a towel, a sun umbrella and a bottle of water — the rest takes care of itself.
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Sant Pol de Mar has several beaches, all within easy walking distance and many directly connected to the train station platform. Step off the train, walk a few metres, and you’re already on the sand — it doesn’t get more convenient than this.
Sant Pol de Mar is all about simple, stress‑free beach days, so you don’t need much — just the essentials that make a long, sunny day by the sea comfortable.
Bring a beach towel, sun umbrella if you want shade and Swimwear
Pack a bottle of water and maybe some snacks if you plan to stay out for a while. There are beach bars and restaurants nearby, but it’s always good to have something on hand, especially if you’re exploring the smaller coves.
Footwear can be simple — flip‑flops or sandals are perfect for the sandy and stony beaches, though some of the rocky coves are easier to access with light walking shoes.
For sun protection, bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. The Maresme coastline gets strong midday sun, and the sea breeze can make you forget how quickly you’re tanning.
Step‑free access to the Sant Pol de Mar Renfe station platforms is available via Carrer de Ferrocarril at the tunnel end of the platforms.
Address: Platja de Santa Pol, Santa Pol De Mar, 08395
Sant Pol de Mar is one of the easiest beach towns to reach from Barcelona — and that’s a huge part of its charm. No long transfers, no buses, no hassle. Just hop on a train, ride up the Maresme coastline, and step straight onto the sand.
Take a Renfe Rodalies R1 train from Barcelona‑Sants, Plaça Catalunya or El Clot‑Aragó in the direction of Blanes or Maçanet‑Massanes. The journey takes around 1 hour 10 minutes, with the final stretch running right along the sea.
When you arrive at Sant Pol de Mar, the station platform sits directly above the beach. Walk down the steps and you’re already on the sand — it’s one of the most convenient beach access points anywhere near Barcelona.
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