The Catalonian capital boasts some appetizing looking beaches, notably around the Olympic Village, but they are often overcrowded, not particularly clean and prone to bag-snatchers. So if you're in search of cleaner waters and more space, hop a train for a short trip out of town.

The first decision is north or south? While local lore has it that the beaches to the north attract a better class of person, the main difference is that the beaches to the south are wider and longer whose shallow water makes them safer for children, while the ones to the north are usually prettier and deeper with bigger waves. Temperature differences can be quite marked and a lukewarm sea holds little appeal when what you really fancy is a refreshing dip.

In the south, the first beach of any note is Casteldefells - five kilometers of wide unbroken sand within 15 minutes' train ride from town. It is great for the kids and easy to get to, as the walk from the nearby station of Platja de Casteldefells to the beach is just 50 meters. It has good facilities, bars and restaurants, all within easy reach. The downside is that its very accessibility means it is also noisy and very busy.

Much better are the myriad beaches a bit further down the tracks around Sitges. El Garraf has good facilities, is not usually overcrowded and is an easy walk from the station (Baixador del Garraf). The pretty resort of Sitges, which is only half an hour away from the city, offers over 10 beaches complete with ice-cream parlors, rent able sun-loungers and jet-skis.

A popular gay resort, the town has a relaxed atmosphere and a couple of nudist beaches. The main sandy areas in front of the town, Fragata and Ribera, are high-pose zones with trendy bar kiosks where the Barcelona crowds compare swimsuits and thongs. If that isn't your scene there is a quieter beach just behind the pretty pink church set in pleasant cove, which is less hectic and better protected from the wind. The only disadvantage of Sitges is that the walk from the station is longer than most other beaches, though the parking facilities are good, so long as you arrive early.

Just along the coast is the lesser-known Vilanova, a mainly family beach favored by locals. The facilities for children are excellent, especially the great park right next to the beach.