What makes a beach happy? Smiles, sun, and a sense of belonging.
According to a recent international study led by UK-based travel company CV Villas, Sitges tops the list as the happiest beach in the world.
Using AI facial recognition software to analyze over 1,000 Instagram photos taken at 103 beaches worldwide, the study ranked each destination based on the number of visible smiles. Sitges scored an incredible 98.42 out of 100, beating out icons like Praia da Falésia in Portugal and Port de Sóller in Mallorca.
Behind the numbers lies something locals and regular visitors already know: Sitges radiates joy — not just from its natural beauty, but from its spirit.
What Makes Sitges So Special?
Situated just 35 km southwest of Barcelona, Sitges has long been cherished for its welcoming vibe, Mediterranean charm, and cultural richness.
Visitors consistently highlight its calm, swimmable sea, beautiful promenade, sunny weather, lively festivals, and vibrant food and art scenes.
But Sitges is more than a postcard-perfect town. It’s a feeling. A warm breeze. A freedom to be yourself. A smile you didn’t know you needed.
It’s no wonder it’s now officially the happiest beach in the world.
A Gallery at the Heart of the World’s Happiest Beach Town
At Myretroposter, we’re not just inspired by Sitges — we’re rooted in it. Our gallery sits just a few steps from the iconic Sant Bartomeu church, in the heart of the old town where sunlight, sea breeze, and creativity flow freely.
Over the years, we’ve captured the spirit of Sitges in several limited-edition posters that pay tribute to its most iconic shores. Among them, three stand out for how vividly they reflect the joyful, carefree essence that this new title confirms:
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Estiu – Sitges Summer Poster by Alecse
Released in 2023, Estiu already said it all: “L’estiu és més especial aquí” — summer is more special here. With its sea of umbrellas, smiling beachgoers, and the golden light of the Mediterranean, it’s a postcard of pure joy that now feels almost prophetic.
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Balmins – Cala Balmins Poster by Alecse
A retro-modern tribute to one of Sitges’ most relaxed and inclusive beaches, Balmins captures a spirit of openness and barefoot happiness — where freedom and sunshine go hand in hand.
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Sant Sebastià – Sant Sebastià Beach Poster by Alecse
Peaceful and elegant, this artwork reflects the beauty of Sant Sebastià beach below the white façades of the old fishermen’s quarter — a serene escape just moments from the buzz.
Each poster is part of a limited edition of 300, available in 8 sizes, and printed with care. Whether you’ve walked these beaches or dream of discovering them, our prints are a way to keep a little piece of Sitges’ sunshine with you — wherever you are.
Want to Feel the Joy from Afar?
Can’t make it to Sitges this year? Let our posters transport you. Whether you’re decorating a beach house, your living room, or just your state of mind — they’ll remind you of the Mediterranean magic that’s made Sitges world-famous.
Sources
- Travel + Leisure – Happiest Beach in the World
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National Geographic Spain – Sitges es la playa más feliz del mundo
