11 of the Best Beaches in Costa Brava, Catalonia
11 of the Best Beaches in
Costa Brava
The Costa Brava, or "wild coast," stretches for 200 kilometres (124 miles) along northeastern Catalonia, from Blanes to the French border. With 28 Blue Flag beaches and 10 Blue Flag marinas, this coastline is recognised for its exceptional water quality, beach cleanliness, and well-maintained lifeguard services.
This stunning region offers everything from bustling resort beaches with water sports and beachfront dining to hidden coves accessible only by hiking trails or boat. Some beaches sit at the heart of historic fishing villages, while others are surrounded by protected natural parks, offering a more untouched, rugged beauty.
Here, we explore 11 of the best beaches in Costa Brava that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
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1. Tamariu Beach, Tamariu
Tamariu Beach Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Tamariu, Girona
📏 Size
Approximately 200m long, 50m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, snorkelling, calm waters, relaxed beach atmosphere
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, beachfront restaurants and cafes, boat rental services
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking is available near the beach
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Palafrugell, take the GI-655 road heading east towards Tamariu.Continue straight into Tamariu, where the road leads directly to the beachfront; for further directions, use Google Maps.
By Foot: From Tamariu village center, the beach is easily accessible by walking eastward along any of the streets leading towards the sea.
Tamariu Beach is a crescent-shaped sandy beach located in Tamariu, Girona. It sits between the coastal towns of Begur, Llafranc, and Palafrugell, offering an authentic and traditional seaside atmosphere. The beach is backed by a small promenade with a selection of seafood restaurants and cafes, giving it a relaxed and welcoming feel.
The tamarisk trees that give the village its name add a unique character to the shoreline. Tamariu has remained well-preserved and retains its local character, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter alternative to busier beaches on the Costa Brava.
💡 Top Tip: For a quieter experience, explore the nearby Cala Pedrosa, a secluded cove just a short walk away.
2. Platja d'Aiguablava, Begur
Platja d'Aiguablava Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Begur, Girona.
📏 Size
Approximately 75m long, 25m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, snorkelling, calm waters, scenic beauty
🚻 Facilities
Showers, toilets, 3 or 4 beachfront cafés, small car park
🅿️ Parking
A small paid car park is available at the entrance to the beach.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Begur town center, take the GI-653 road heading southeast.Follow signs for "Aiguablava", turning onto Carrer de l'Om and then Carrer de Platja Fonda. For precise directions, use Google Maps.
By Foot: From Begur, it's a longer walk (approximately 4 km) and may take around an hour. Follow the same route as by car, ensuring to stay on pedestrian-friendly paths
Platja d'Aiguablava is one of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the area. Located just 2 km from the town of Begur, around 4 km from the coastal village of Tamariu, and near Fornells de Mar, it is easily accessible from several picturesque towns. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation, creating a dramatic yet peaceful setting.
What sets Aiguablava apart is its crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine golden sand, a contrast to the many pebbled or shingle beaches along the Costa Brava. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and families with young children. Thanks to its sheltered position, the sea remains relatively still, making it one of the safest and most inviting spots for a dip.
3. Santa Cristina Beach, Lloret de Mar
Tamariu Beach Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Santa Cristina, Lloret de Mar
📏 Size
Approximately 450m long, 50m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, swimming, a quieter beach experience close to Lloret de Mar
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, beachfront restaurant, sports area with a lawn
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking is available at the top of the hill; requires a steep walk down to the beach.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Lloret de Mar, take the GI-682 road heading southwest towards Blanes.Look for signs indicating "Ermita Santa Cristina" where there is car parking. For directions, use Google Maps.
By Foot: From Lloret de Mar centre, head southwest along the coastline. The walk is approximately 3 km and may take around 40 minutes.
Santa Cristina Beach is a small, scenic beach split into two coves, located between the popular coastal towns of Lloret de Mar and Blanes. Surrounded by lush green pine trees and offering crystal-clear waters, this beach provides a peaceful retreat.
The left side of the beach is known for its calmer waters, making it ideal for swimming, while the right side can have slightly rougher conditions. The shore is made up of small stones, so water shoes are recommended for comfort. Above the beach, a well-maintained lawn with sports equipment allows visitors to stay active while enjoying panoramic sea views. Santa Cristina Beach is reached via a steep downhill walk, but the effort is well rewarded with a stunning, tranquil setting. The beach also has a restaurant, making it easy to enjoy a full day by the sea.
💡 Top Tip: Stick to the left side of the beach for calmer waters, and bring water shoes due to the small stones along the shore.
4. Playas De Calella Coastline, Calella de Palafrugell
The Playas de Calella coastline is set in Calella de Palafrugell, a quaint and picturesque fishing village on the Costa Brava, located in the Baix Empordà region of Girona, Catalonia. Nestled along a rugged stretch of coastline, approximately 20 km east of Girona and 100 km northeast of Barcelona, this charming village retains its traditional Spanish seaside charm. With whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and a peaceful, small-town atmosphere, it’s a world away from the busier resorts of the Costa Brava. The town’s beachfront seafood restaurants, tapas bars, and cosy tavernas create an inviting, authentic experience. The area is immaculately clean and well-preserved.
Each of the town’s beaches offers something different, and with the Camí de Ronda coastal path linking them, visitors can easily explore them on foot.
Platja Gran
Platja Gran Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Palamos, Girona.
📏 Size
~400m long, 48m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, easy access, lively atmosphere
🚻 Facilities
Beachside restaurants, showers, toilets, rental sunbeds
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking near the beach
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Calella's town centre, head south on the N-II road. After passing the Calella Lighthouse, look for signs directing you to "Platja de les Roques" or "Roca Grossa." Parking is available near the beach area.
By Foot: From Calella town centre, walk east towards the sea.The beach is located along Passeig de Manuel Puigvert, a scenic promenade. Google Map Directions
Les Roques
Platja de les Roques Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Calella, Maresme, Girona
📏 Size
Small coves scattered along the coast
🏆 Best For
Snorkelling, scenic views, quiet retreats
🚻 Facilities
Showers, nearby restaurant
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking near the beach
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Calella's town centre, head south on the N-II road. After passing the Calella Lighthouse, look for signs directing you to "Platja de les Roques" or "Roca Grossa." Parking is available near the beach area.
By Foot: From Calella town centre, walk east towards the sea.The beach is located along Passeig de Manuel Puigvert, a scenic promenade. Google Map Directions
💡 Top Tip
Bring water shoes – the rocky seabed makes for excellent snorkelling but can be tough on bare feet.
Platja de Garbí
Platja de Garbí Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Calella, Maresme, Barcelona
📏 Size
500m long, 45m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, sports enthusiasts, and those looking for a well-equipped beach
🚻 Facilities
Beach football and volleyball courts, basketball area, showers, public toilets, beach bar, cycle path, accessibility services (amphibious chairs, accessible showers and toilets)
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking available nearby.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Calella town center, take the N-II road heading south.Turn onto Carrer de Sant Jaume and follow signs for "Platja de Garbí"; for precise directions, use Google Maps.
By Foot: From the town centre, head south towards the beach area.Follow signs or local maps leading to Platja de Garbí, located adjacent to Platja Gran.
5. Empúries Beach, L'Escala
Empúries Beach Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Sant Martí d'Empúries, L'Escala
📏 Size
Approximately 400 meters long, 40 meters wide
🏆 Best For
Families, history enthusiasts, swimming, cultural exploration
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, beachfront restaurant, sunbed rentals
🅿️ Parking
Free parking is available in shaded areas behind the beach.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: Accessible by car via the GI-623 road from L'Escala; for precise directions, use Google Maps.
By Foot: From L'Escala, walk northwest along the Passeig Marítim coastal path.The beach is approximately a 20-minute walk from the town centre.
Situated near the medieval village of Sant Martí d'Empúries, visitors can enhance their beach experience by exploring the ancient Greek and Roman ruins located just a short walk away. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the region's past, with remnants of ancient markets, temples, and mosaics.
The beach itself boasts soft golden sands and clear waters, making it a favourite among families. Facilities are designed for comfort and convenience, including a beachfront restaurant offering local cuisine, and additional dining options in the nearby village square. Parking is readily available, with spaces positioned among the trees just behind the beach.
The proximity to the GR 92 long-distance footpath makes Empúries Beach an excellent stop for hikers looking to combine coastal walks with culture.
6. Castell Beach, Palamós
Empúries Beach Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Palamós, Girona
📏 Size
Approximately 300m long, 50m wide
🏆 Best For
Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, hikers, families seeking a peaceful beach experience
🚻 Facilities
Seasonal beach bar, sun lounger and parasol rentals, kayak school, lifeguard services, accessible walkways
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking available within a short walking distance of the beach (fees apply in summer).
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Palamós, take the C-31 road heading northwest. Take the exit for "Platja de Castell" and follow the signs. For directions, use Google Maps.
By Foot: From Palamós centre, it's approximately a 4 km walk, taking about an hour.Follow the GR-92 hiking trail, which leads directly to Castell Beach.
Castell Beach is a large, unspoiled sandy beach located just north of Palamós. One of the last undeveloped beaches on the Costa Brava, it offers a tranquil setting surrounded by pine forests and farmland. With no urban development, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a natural beach experience.
Beyond its scenic appeal, Castell Beach is home to the Iberian settlement of Castell, an archaeological site at one end of the beach, offering insight into the region’s ancient history. The area is also part of the Castell-Cap Roig natural space, featuring walking trails that lead to stunning coastal viewpoints.
7. Platja de Pals, Pals
Empúries Beach Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Pals, Girona
📏 Size
Approximately 3.5 km long
🏆 Best For
Windsurfing, kitesurfing, beach games, families seeking a spacious beach setting
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, beach bars, restaurants, water sports equipment rentals
🅿️ Parking
Paid parking available near the beach, with easy walking paths leading to the shore.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Pals village, head east on the GI-650 road. Turn onto Carrer del Golf, following signs for "Platja de Pals". Google Maps.
By Foot: From Pals village center, it's approximately a 4 km walk, taking about 1 hour.
Platja de Pals is a long, sandy beach located in Pals, Girona, stretching 3.5 km along the Costa Brava. The beach is known for its golden sand, surrounding dunes, and stunning natural landscape, providing a mix of developed areas with facilities and untouched sections ideal for nature walks and cycling.
Platja de Pals is popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its open exposure to waves and steady winds. The beach has a steep entry into the water, making it more suited for confident swimmers. It forms a continuous stretch with Grau (Pals) and Racó (Begur) beaches, offering plenty of space for relaxation and activities.
Along the promenade, visitors will find a selection of restaurants and snack bars serving fresh seafood and traditional paella made with locally grown rice.
8. Platja de Sa Riera, Begur
Platja de Pals Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Begur, Girona
📏 Size
Approximately 230m long, 75m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, swimming, coastal walks, scenic surroundings
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, bars, restaurants, lifeguard services, accessibility features
🅿️ Parking
Available near the beach, but spaces fill up quickly in high season.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Pals village, head east on the GI-650 road. Turn onto Carrer del Golf, following signs for "Platja de Pals". Google Maps.
By Foot: From Pals village center, it's approximately a 4 km walk, taking about 1 hour.
Platja de Sa Riera is the largest beach in Begur, Girona, located 2 km northeast of the town center. Stretching 230 meters in length and 75 meters in width, it offers plenty of space while maintaining a charming, unspoiled feel. The beach is named after the stream ("Riera") that divides it, with one side featuring traditional fishermen’s houses and the other an open expanse of golden sand.
Surrounded by rugged cliffs and pine forests, Sa Riera provides a scenic escape with opportunities for swimming and relaxation. The Camí de Ronda coastal path connects it to nearby beaches, including Illa Roja and Platja del Racó, making it a great spot for those who enjoy exploring the coastline on foot.
9. Llafranc Beach, Llafranc
Platja de Pals Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Llafranc, Palafrugell
📏 Size
Approximately 330 meters long and 40 meters wide
🏆 Best For
Families, swimming, dining, and scenic walks
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, accessible walkways, nearby restaurants, bars, and shops
🅿️ Parking
Available near the beach.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Palafrugell, take the GI-654 road heading east towards Llafranc. Continue straight into the town; the beach is located at the end of the main road. Google Maps.
By Foot: From Palafrugell, it's approximately a 4 km walk, taking about 1 hour. Follow the GI-654 road or the Camí de Llafranc trail for a more scenic route.
A small but elegant beach, Llafranc combines the charm of a traditional seaside town with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and modern conveniences. The beach is lined with chic restaurants and cafes, perfect for enjoying a meal or drink while taking in the sea views. In the evening, the area comes alive with a warm, romantic atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for couples.
At one end of the beach lies a small marina, while the other end connects to the Camí de Ronda, a scenic coastal path leading to the Sant Sebastià lighthouse, situated 169 meters above sea level and offering panoramic views of the Costa Brava.
💡Top Tip: Take the Camí de Ronda to the Sant Sebastià lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.
10. Cala Sa Tuna, Begur
Cala Sa Tuna Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Begur, Girona
📏 Size
Approximately 80 meters long and 25 meters wide
🏆 Best For
Swimming, snorkelling, scenic walks, and those seeking a quaint, less crowded beach experience
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, nearby restaurants, and a small promenade
🅿️ Parking
Limited parking available near the beach – it may be advisable to park in Begur and walk.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Begur town centre, take Carrer de Sa Tuna heading southeast.Follow signs for "Sa Tuna", descending towards the cove. Google Maps.
By Foot: From Begur, it's approximately a 4 km walk, taking about 1 hour.Follow Carrer de Sa Tuna or the Camí de Ronda coastal path for a picturesque hike.
Cala Sa Tuna is a beautiful cove located in Begur, approximately 3 km east of Begur's town centre. This small beach measures about 80 meters in length and 25 meters in width, featuring coarse sand and pebbles. The cove is framed by traditional whitewashed fishermen's houses, some of which have been remodelled.
The surrounding area boasts rugged cliffs and pine forests. Visitors can explore the Camí de Ronda, a coastal path offering views and leading to nearby coves such as s’Eixugador, accessible only by foot or boat.
11. Platja del Canadell, Calella de Palafrugell
Platja del Canadell Overview
Details
🗾 Location
Calella de Palafrugell, Palafrugell
📏 Size
Approximately 200m long, 30m wide
🏆 Best For
Families, swimming, snorkelling, coastal walks, history lovers
🚻 Facilities
Showers, public toilets, nearby restaurants, and bars
🅿️ Parking
Parking options include a paid "blue zone" area close to the beach and free street parking further up the road towards Canadell.
📍 How To Get There
By Car: From Palafrugell, take the GI-655 road heading east towards Calella de Palafrugell. Once in town, follow signs for "Platja del Canadell". Google Maps.
By Foot: From Palafrugell, it's approximately a 3 km walk, taking about 45 minutes.Follow the GI-655 road or take the Camí de Ronda coastal path.
Platja del Canadell is a historic beach located in Calella de Palafrugell. Measuring approximately 200 meters in length and 30 meters in width, it features coarse golden sand, calm waters, and a scenic seafront promenade. What makes Canadell unique is its rich maritime heritage, with traditional fishermen’s houses still standing along the beach, offering a glimpse into the town’s seafaring past.
The Cap Roig Botanical Gardens, noted as one of the best things to do in Costa Brava, is located just south of the beach, providing an opportunity to explore a vast collection of Mediterranean and tropical plants while enjoying panoramic coastal views. The Camí de Ronda coastal path also passes through Canadell, connecting it to other nearby beaches and offering a beautiful walking route along the rugged Costa Brava coastline.
Stay Close to the Coast
Why not stay in a villa just minutes from the shore to make the most of your beach getaway? We offer a wide selection of villas in Costa Brava with private pools, from large family-friendly properties to cosy retreats for couples, all designed to make your stay as relaxing as possible. After all, waking up just steps from the beach is the ultimate holiday luxury!
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