While the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Costa Brava are widely recognized, Spain boasts numerous other coastal regions, often referred to as 'costas.' Travel writer Tom Chesshyre, author of "Slow Trains Around Spain," recommends exploring a dozen of these lesser-known stretches of coastline, which he argues provide quieter experiences with beautiful beaches and exceptional food.

Spain's official 'costas' list identifies 15 distinct coastal areas, some named after local towns or cities like Almeria or Valencia, while others, such as Costa Blanca, originated as marketing terms in the 1950s to boost tourism. Chesshyre's extensive travel around Spain, covering 3,000 miles by rail, led him to identify these hidden gems.

Costa del Azahar

Translating to 'Coast of Orange Blossom,' this approximately 80-mile stretch lies north of the Costa de Valencia and south of the Costa Dorada. The region is characterized by the pervasive scent of citrus groves and offers a tranquil alternative to more southern destinations. Notable towns and resorts include Peniscola, Alcossebre, and Oropesa, known for their sandy beaches and coves. IMAGE1

Costa de Almeria

This 135-mile coastline in the southeast of Spain is known for its heat and Moorish influences. The city of Almeria features an imposing Alcazaba fortress, a 16th-century cathedral, and the House of Cinema Museum, referencing the area's use as a filming location. IMAGE2

Costa Barcelona

Extending 60 miles between Vilanova i la Geltru and Malgrat de Mar, this region offers diverse attractions. Vilanova i la Geltru boasts a wide sandy beach and the Railway Museum of Catalonia, while Malgrat de Mar is recognized for its rolling dunes, tranquil walks, and birdlife.

Costa Calida

Located in the Murcia region, the 55-mile Costa Calida features Mar Menor, a saltwater lagoon with calm waters, and the historic town of Cartagena, home to a Roman amphitheatre and Byzantine wall. Charming fishing villages like Mazarron, San Pedro del Pinatar, and Águilas are also highlights, offering excellent seafood. IMAGE3

Costa de Cantabria

This 135-mile coastline on the Bay of Biscay in northern Spain includes over 90 beaches. The vibrant city of Santander offers ten urban beaches, while Oyambre features rolling dunes, and Laredo presents the long stretch of La Salve beach. The area is renowned for its seafood, including anchovies, tuna, clams, and langoustines. IMAGE4

Costa Dorada

Also known as Costa Daurada, this 50-mile coastline combines beaches with rugged cliffs. It includes picturesque fishing villages like Altafulla and Torredembarra, as well as the ancient city of Tarragona, which boasts a Roman amphitheatre and clifftop bars and restaurants.

Costa de la Luz

Situated in southwestern Spain, the 125-mile Costa de la Luz spans the provinces of Cadiz and Huelva. Cadiz is noted for its cathedral, a partially excavated Roman theatre, and its sherry. The Donana National Park, with its wetlands, dunes, and lagoons, is another significant attraction. IMAGE6 is an image of a beach on Costa Vasca.

Costa da Morte

West of Galicia, this 75-mile stretch is named for its history of shipwrecks. It features sweeping beaches such as Carnota, O Rostro, and Baldaio, along with headlands, cliffs, and estuaries. Corcubion, with its Romanesque churches, is a notable town.

Costa Tropical

South of Granada, this 65-mile region includes five main resorts: Almunecar, Motril, Castell de Ferro, La Rabita, and Salobrena. Salobrena has a Moorish castle, while Almunecar offers Roman remains and a beach. Coves like El Caleton and El Pargo are also found here. IMAGE7

Costa Verde

Running for 215 miles along Spain's northern coast in Asturias, the 'Green Coast' features remote sandy beaches and colorful fishing ports like Cudillero and Ribadesella. Penas cape, the Iberian Peninsula's northernmost point, is a prominent natural feature. IMAGE5

Costa de Valencia

This 75-mile coastal area in the province of Valencia is home to beaches such as Cullera, Gandía, and Sueca. Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, is at its center, featuring a 13th-century cathedral and notable city beaches like Playa de Las Arenas and Playa de la Malvarrosa.

Costa Vasca

The 109-mile Basque Coast offers fishing villages, sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and the city of San Sebastian. La Concha beach is a famous attraction, and Portugalete, west of Bilbao, features the Vizcaya Bridge, one of the world's oldest functioning ferry bridges. IMAGE6