Playa del Muerto: Sitges’ Legendary Gay Nude Beach (2026)
Sexy, social, and steeped in history, Playa del Muerto is Sitges’ most iconic gay nude beach — and one of the most famous in the world. Often referred to as the world’s first gay beach, dating back to the 1930s, this hidden stretch of Mediterranean coastline has been drawing queer travelers for nearly a century.
What awaits you today is a beach that’s unapologetically free: crystal-clear water, sun-warmed rocks, an international crowd, and an energy that slowly (and deliciously) builds throughout the afternoon.
Below is your complete guide to Playa del Muerto — how to get here, what to expect, when to go, and where to stay.
What awaits you today is a beach that’s unapologetically free: crystal-clear water, sun-warmed rocks, an international crowd, and an energy that slowly (and deliciously) builds throughout the afternoon.
Below is your complete guide to Playa del Muerto — how to get here, what to expect, when to go, and where to stay.
What Makes Playa del Muerto So Special?
Playa del Muerto isn’t just another nude beach — it’s a rite of passage.
What sets it apart:
- One of the oldest gay beaches in the world
- Fully clothing-optional with an exclusive gay presence
- Dramatic rocky coves and turquoise Mediterranean water
- Social, flirty, and effortlessly international
- A late-afternoon transformation that locals know well
This is not a resort beach. It’s raw, real, and legendary — the kind of place where you instantly feel part of something bigger than just a day at the sea.
SITGES TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Sitges? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
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🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. By booking services or shopping through these links, you’ll save money AND help keep our blog posts and videos coming your way. Thanks for the support!
How to Get to Playa del Muerto (Read This!)
Playa del Muerto makes you earn it — and that’s part of the charm.
Important:
❌ Do NOT follow Google Maps (MUCH longer)
❌ Do NOT walk the beachfront promenade all the way south (unless you want to wade through waist deep water)
The Correct Route
1. From Sitges town center, head back toward the main road (Passeig de Vilanova)
2. Walk around the Terramar Golf Club (Carrer Joan de la Cierva to Camp de Golf)
3. Follow the narrow service road toward the coast
4. You’ll hike with:
- The sea on your left
- The train tracks on your right (trains move fast — keep distance!)
Total walk: 45–50 minutes
Wear proper shoes — this is not flip-flop friendly
🌟 Pro tip – When you see signs for Platja de l’Home Mort, keep going. Playa del Muerto is the next beach.
How to Find the Gay Section
Playa del Muerto is fully nude-friendly and fully gay. It's a small beach, but here's the set-up if you're looking for the most "fun":
- Spread out toward the rocky west end of the beach
- Near the hidden cove and cave
By 4–5 PM, expect movement — groups drifting, conversations flowing, and a distinctly playful energy settling in. Guys head around the rocks over to the infamous cave and across the railroad tracks to the Magic Forest.
🌟 Pro tip – Water shoes are a lifesaver for navigating rocks to the cave and getting in and out of the sea.
What's the Vibe?
Few beaches compare.
Expect:
- Solo travelers, couples, friend groups
- A truly global crowd
- Relaxed daytime lounging that slowly turns flirtier
- An atmosphere that feels secret, safe, and wildly free
Playa del Muerto has a rhythm all its own — quiet mornings, social afternoons, and a buzz that lingers well into the evening.
🌟 Pro tip – We share behind-the-scenes photos and videos as well as the spicier details from Playa del Muerto (and all our nudist travels) over on Patreon.
Amenities
At the eastern end of the beach:
- A casual bar/restaurant sits above the sand (convenient, but pricey)
- Loungers are available (arrive early in peak season)
Most regulars:
-
Stock up in town first
There’s a large grocery store opposite Sitges train station with drinks, snacks, sunscreen, towels — everything you’ll need.
No bathrooms. No natural shade.
Pack accordingly.
What to Bring (Essential!)
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or lunch
- Sunscreen
- Towel or beach blanket
- Umbrella (limited natural shade)
- Water shoes (optional)
Being prepared is the key to an unforgettable day at Playa del Muerto.
🌟 Pro tip – Stop at Mercat de Sitges, directly opposite the train station. Upstairs you’ll find affordable beach chairs, towels, umbrellas, and coolers; downstairs is a full supermarket for snacks, drinks, and sunscreen at local prices.
When to Go
Playa del Muerto is best in late spring to early fall.
- Best season: May – September
- Peak months: June – August
- Best time of day: Mid-afternoon into early evening
Weekdays are calmer; weekends are packed and ultra-social.
Where to Stay in Sitges
Elite Hotel Sitges — Best Gay Men-Only Hotel
⭐ Best for: Gay-only stays, rooftop vibes & easy beach access
📍 Location: Sitges historic center
Why We Love It:
- 100% gay men-only, adults-only boutique hotel
- Clothing-optional rooftop spa & sundeck (plus stream room!)
- Walking distance to Sitges beaches and nightlife
- Social but relaxed vibe — never chaotic
Elite Hotel Sitges is our favorite base for Playa del Muerto days. After the long beach walk, nothing beats soaking in the rooftop spa, grabbing a sunset cocktail, and swapping stories with other guests before heading out.
Final Thoughts
Playa del Muerto is more than a gay nude beach — it’s living LGBTQ+ history. Between the scenic walk, the open-minded crowd, and the unmistakable energy that builds each afternoon, it delivers an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re visiting Sitges or Barcelona, this beach is a must — whether you come for a few hours or make it a full-day, week-end, or week-long adventure.
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip to Sitges? From the best LGBTQ+ hotels to must-visit attractions, dining, and travel tips, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to Sitges.
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