The beach has a legion of xiringuitos or bars right on the sand and restaurants on the raised walkway along the shore. They are lively but often pricey and in my opinion the music is too loud - we all have different tastes I guess. The other problem is that most only open for the summer season only. For me, however, the beach is a year-round affair, and that’s where Base Nautica comes in.
This bar and restaurant is easy to walk past as it’s part of a small sailing club which is right next to the waterline. I came across it when I enrolled my son in a sailing course and found this very chilled spot to read my book, sip a beer and breathe in the sea air. Oh and the music is just the right volume.
The demographic seated at the tables shows a healthy mix of visitors, resident expats and locals. The bar does serve food but the selection and quality are unremarkable, the venue is best kept as a great place to enjoy the beach with a drink and some olives. Should you want to rent a paddle surf or a sailing dingy, then you’re at the right place.
In winter, when dogs are allowed on the beach, I often meet my friend Guillem and his dog Negret for a walk. Inevitably, we do an extended stop at Base Nautica and philosophise on life and admire the fine Mediterranean skies as twilight sets in.
Find your way with 178 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Maison Carne" has become one of my favorites in Barcelona. The concept is simple: a 1kg of ribeye steak for two, with fries & salad. Simple. Perfect.
by
"Albé" in Barcelona is a restaurant that offers the best of Catalunya together with a genuine Lebanese touch. In Arabic, it means 'my heart' - no wonder...
by
Here, classic bar snacks like croquettes, bravas, and potato salad coexist harmoniously with more substantial, stew-based dishes.
by
"CCCB", or the Center of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona has a lot of temporary exhibitions. I love going there on Sundays, when it's free to enter...
by
"Contracorrent Bar" is one of those spots in Barcelona you should not miss if you are a natural wine fan, especially since it's at a very central spot!
by
The "Coros de Barceloneta" in Barcelona is one of the oldest and by definition most authentic festivities you can find.
by
"Blu Bar" in Barcelona is close enough to Rambla Poblenou that it's not far away from the buzz, but I love that it's a spot I can read the newspaper...
by
"Lasun" in Barcelona is a Nepalese restaurant - I never thought I would be eating Nepalese, but I can't recommend it enough! Super-enjoyable experience...
by
"Pit Stop Pizza" in Barcelona is amazing. You have to try their unique creations, like the panceta or portobello pizza - or their cheesecake pizza.,,
by
"Otra Cosa Taberna" in Barcelona has good food with artisanal ingredients and focuses on natural wines. You have to try the orgasmic 'tres leches'...
by
"Bar Mendizabal" in Barcelona also known as 'barra del Raval' for its location, is a sandwich heaven. My favorite is their 'onion black pudding'...
by
178 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 178 Insider Tips