Nancy Daum Dailey

One of Barcelona’s greatest pleasures is that you can spend the morning exploring Gaudí, wandering the Gothic Quarter or visiting a museum, and then be on the sand by lunchtime. Barcelona’s Mediterranean beachfront stretches for roughly three miles. These are urban beaches: lively, easy to reach and very convenient for families when you choose the right section and time of day. If you are looking at the sea, the beaches run from right to left, or southwest to northeast.

More often than not, when families think of traveling to Spain, they think of the Mediterranean and the idyllic Balearic Islands, or the stunning, sunshine-filled cities of Barcelona and Valencia. Or perhaps they think about descending upon the vibrant and cosmopolitan capital of Madrid, or historic Seville and its flamenco dancers.

In the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca is perhaps the best-known of Spain’s sun-soaked Balearic Islands, brimming with natural beauty, rich history and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.