San Sebastià & Barceloneta

Sant Sebastià and Barceloneta are the city beaches running south from the Port Olímpic to the W hotel. They're mainstream public beaches, gay-friendly rather than gay. The far southern end of Sant Sebastià, near the breakwater by the W, is where gay men have traditionally gathered, and some nude sunbathing happens there. In summer the beach is crowded, and bag thefts are common, so don't leave phones or wallets unattended. Plenty of chiringuitos and showers line the promenade. Barceloneta metro is about 15 minutes' walk from the gay end. Sitges is the better choice if you want a full gay beach day.