The Best Beaches in Costa Brava to Enjoy Your Spain Holiday
If you’ve got a holiday in Spain planned on the horizon, here’s a breakdown of the best beaches in Costa Brava. As you might imagine, there are some stunning beaches in this region to be enjoyed.
The beauty of the Costa Brava is that everyone has a different opinion about best beaches on the Costa Brava, and they're all a little bit right. There's just no shortage of remarkable beaches on the Costa Brava, and the region represents this perfect middle ground between natural beauty and development.
This is a great part of Spain to come to relax. Whether you’re coming to the Costa Brava after visiting some of Spain’s most notable cities, or the South of Spain to enjoy the famous Flamenco dancing of Seville, or the quiet beauty of Huelva province, then coming to the Costa Brava will be a well-deserved beach holiday on your larger trip.
The views and beaches are out of this world on the Costa Brava, but the same can be said for the hotels. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into all of the ways to experience the best beaches of this region.
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Where is the Costa Brava, Anyhow?
Before we talk about the best beaches on the Costa Brava, we ought to talk about what the Costa Brava actually is, as well as where it is.
The Costa Brava is a little slice of paradise (not shockingly on the coast) that stretches roughly from 50 or so kilometres northeast of Barcelona all the way to the French border. Costa Brava roughly translates to “wild coast,” and it is characterized by picturesque rocky cliffs, charming fishing villages, and stunning beaches.
Essentially, about 70 years ago, the Spanish Government woke up to what they really had on their hands with the Costa Brava, and they decided it was development time. It was branded as the ideal holiday location for those living in the surrounding countries at first, but has since gained worldwide acclaim.
Cadaqués, Spain on the Costa Brava is not a bad place to rest those weary legs.
It's safe to say their plan worked in spades, but it certainly doesn't hurt that the Costa Brava is one of the top places to enjoy a holiday in Europe, especially a luxury holiday in Europe.
The Costa Brava is in Catalonia, so the locals speak Catalan, not Spanish. Outside of the Costa Brava beaches, it's the perfect place to learn about Catalan culture, traditions, and buildings. Most people understand Spanish too, so if you know some Spanish, you can still use it here, but learning a few words and phrases in Catalan will go a long way, and will really help you connect with the people here.
With the Costa Brava, you've got some top-notch amenities, but also brilliant nature and beaches galore, which is why I’m writing this post—to help you find the best beaches in Costa Brava. Most beaches, as it were, are connected to lovely towns or resorts, so there is really something for everyone.
All that to say, the best beaches of northern Spain are right at your fingertips.
Getting Into and Around Costa Brava
There are a few different ways to get to the Costa Brava. The first way is to take a bus from Barcelona to Girona, or other cities in northeastern Spain. This route can take two or three hours total, which isn’t a bad ride, and the buses in Spain are comfortable and well-organized.
If you don't want to take the bus ride from Barcelona, you can also fly directly to Girona Airport instead to reach the Costa Brava. Girona also happens to be a great place to stay for a few days before or after your trip to the Costa Brava. It has a lot of interesting old places to see, like a big cathedral, old monasteries, city walls, ancient Arabic Baths, and a medieval Jewish Quarter.
You can take a bus to some places in Costa Brava, but the bus routes don't go everywhere and the trips can take a long time because the buses stop in each small town along the way. Many of the tiny villages and hidden beaches can't be reached by bus at all.
So, if you really want to see the best parts of Costa Brava, it's a good idea to rent a car or hire a private driver.
Costa Brava Accommodation
There is no shortage of properties on the Costa Brava which services tourists, but it's important to find the right one for you. Frankly, deciding where to stay in Costa Brava can be overwhelming.
With so many types of accommodation, like Costa Brava villas, Costa Brava hotels, Costa Brava hostels, Costa Brava resorts, Costa Brava guesthouses, and more, it can be daunting to decide where to stay.
My top recommendations if you’re deciding on where to stay for your trip to the Costa Brava would include the towns and cities of Blanes, Cadaqués, Pals and Girona. But really, in an area like the Costa Brava, accommodation is best suited to the price point and vibe that you’re going for, since you can stay close to towns or in remote locations all to yourself.
Feel free to us the map below to find the right accommodation option for you on your trip:
What to Pack for the Costa Brava
Costa Brava Pocket Guide: These nifty pocket guides by Marco Polo are a life saver when you’re trying to figure out exactly where you are, and where you should be going. I almost always use apps and so forth to navigate, but this was really useful because I had a fair bit of information at my fingertips for the Costa Brava, and it definitely enhanced my experience.
An enormous beach bag: If you’ve got a rental car, this bad boy will be absolutely perfect. Although it fits a lot, it actually folds down pretty well, so you don’t have to worry about it taking up too much room in your luggage. It’s great for couples or families because you can fit your towels, sunscreen, water bottles, snacks and everything in between. You’ll be Costa Brava ready with this guy.
A Spain Lonely Planet: When you find yourself on the Costa Brava living it up, you might all of a sudden decide that you need to extend your trip to Spain, and that’s where a Spain Lonely Planet guidebook is going to come in handy. I always like to have a Lonely Planet to allow myself that extra room for spontaneity. I mean, why not just throw it in your new beach bag, right?
A water bottle that will actually stay cold: Make no mistake, Costa Brava is hot, and you’re going to want to stay hydrated. But who wants to drink lukewarm water that’s been in the bottle for far too long? Problem solved with these guys, they stay cold longer and they’re perfect for chasing beaches on the Costa Brava.
A large microfibre towel: A microfibre towel like this is a lifesaver on the Costa Brava or any beach trip, and that’s because they dry very quickly. There’s nothing worse than having to put a still wet towel in your luggage, but you really won’t have to worry about that with these towels. They’re great, seriously.
Snorkelling gear: The Costa Brava is an excellent place to go snorkelling, with crystal clear waters off the shore from many of its beaches. If you’re travelling with a family, or if you just enjoy snorkelling for yourself and can fit this in your luggage, it’s a good place to bring something.
A good appetite: There is no shortage of good food in the Costa Brava. Tapas are a popular choice and a fun way to try different local foods in small portions. You'll find all kinds of tapas, from olives and cheeses to meats and seafood. And on the subject of seafood, if you love seafood, you'll be very happy here. You can find lots of shellfish, lobster, squid, cuttlefish, tuna, and prawns served grilled, steamed, fried, or in a tasty stew called suquet.
The Best Beaches on the Costa Brava
For the same reason you've come to this article, you're going to Costa Brava for the beaches, so let's get to work!
Platja de Tamariu
With Platja de Tamariu, you've got one of the best beaches in Costa Brava, and that's largely because it's both family-friendly and beautiful. It's not a large beach that extends as far as the eye can see, complete with a multitude of tourists pouring out of Costa Brava villas. No, it's horseshoe shaped and relatively private, but still has restaurants and shops galore.
It's a solid bet, and nearby Tamariu is also a charming resort town.
Platja de l'Estartit
Platja de l'Estartit offers a 3.5 km long sandbank with gentle shelving access to the sea. It’s the perfect spot for families with small children, and a good place to learn how to scuba dive or snorkel. The beach is divided into three different sections:
Platja Larga o Central is the largest, and an urban portion of the beach nestled next to L’Estartitand. It offers plenty of places to eat and drink. This portion of the beach has watch towers, lounger and umbrella rentals, washroom amenities and access for people with disabilities.
Adjacent Platja Els Griells is 500 m long, and offers a nice break from the busy Platja Larga, while still offering parking and toilet facilities.
Platja de la Pletera is the quietest section of the strip, offering more natural beauty. Whether you choose to stay at one or hike all three, you’ll enjoy the stunning vistas from Platja de l’Estartit.
Platja de Treumal
Just think. This Costa Brava beach isn't all that far from bustling Barcelona!
What makes this beach so alluring is that it isn't all that far from the charming town of Blanes (in fact, it’s less than 5 minutes away), but it feels world's away from the stress of your everyday life. What makes Platja de Treumal so popular is that it checks all the standard boxes for a paradise beach.
Platja de Treumal has postcard blue waters for days.
Platja de Castell
You might gather that at this beach you won't be far from the Costa Brava's historic town of Castell. In fact, it's not all that many metres from town to beach, and this one is an absolute beauty.
What people are constantly wowed by with Platja de Castell (and what makes it one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava) is the sand, which is soft as warm butter.
Its shallow swim area also makes it worth the stop. This beach lives up to the hype, period.
Platja de l'Illa Roja
Platja de l'Illa Roja is named for a red island just off the coast. The beach is one of the smaller beaches on this list and has no amenities, but its natural beauty makes it worth a mention. This quiet cove beach is surrounded by rocks and pines and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
Located close to the road in the Girona region, it’s easy to get to, but be prepared—Platja de l'Illa Roja is clothing optional.
Platja del Canadell
The sand might be a bit more coarse, but my oh my is Platja del Canadell ever picturesque. On the beach you've also got kayaks for rent and a sailing school.
It's not far from Calella de Palafrugell (in fact, it's just a short walk), and what's unique about Platja del Canadell is the striking array of pine trees that just tend to spruce things up a bit—see what I did there?
Platja de Sant Pol
This is probably the most kid-friendly beach, as there is a children's play area, as well as a kid's club at Platja de Sant Pol. You've also got all the amenities you could need nearby including rentals and cabins galore.
You've got that crystal clear blue that you're looking for, and its shallow waters make it very appealing to swimmers and bathers alike - especially if you’ve got kids with you.
Platja Sa Tuna
Platja Sa Tuna is located near Begur, a tiny town in the Girona Region. This rugged, natural pebble beach is home to some of the most beautiful coves in Costa Brava Spain. The water is so beautifully clear in this secluded spot, and the wildlife is so diverse, it's a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers alike.
This beach offers a wonderful view of the beachside whitewashed cottages, with splashes of colour on their terraces and doors. The winding road to get there might be a bit intimidating, but it’s definitely worth the trip.
Platja Fonda
This is one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava, largely because many people don't know about it. It's a secluded cove not far from Aiguablava, and it's perfect for people who aren't keen to be on crowded beaches which only have shallow waters to offer.
If you're more about the beach than the water, you should know the water is just as pretty here, but it's much deeper. Strong swimmers will love it here.
Platja Cala Senyor Ramón
This secluded beach is a hidden gem for those who enjoy a quieter vibe. It is a popular spot with nudists and couples. It isn’t as easy to get to as some other beaches in the Costa Brava, but the upside is that it is seldom overcrowded, even in summer.
Cala Senyor Ramón is about 11km from the towns of Santa Cristina d'Aro and Sant Feliu de Guíxols.
Platja Cala Pola
Platja Cala Pola is located between two cliffs, 4 km from the town of Tossa de Mar. There is a beautiful coral reef for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Amenities include showers, a beach bar, and a restaurant. Parking is a bit of a distance, but it’s worth the walk to see the crystal-clear water and golden sand.
Platja Cala Aiguablava
Aiguablava is a great beach for families in Costa Brava. Its fine sand and shallow, clear waters are suitable for the whole family, and its convenient location ensures that restaurants, shops, and other services are just steps away.
Platja d’es Codolar
A lovely little cove, this stunning beach is near the old town of Tossa de Mar. Es Codolar is a great place for a refreshing dip while sightseeing, or a leisurely laze in the sunshine for the day.
There’s a snack bar if you get the munchies, or restaurants serving more substantial meals just up the hill from the beach. Bring snorkelling gear so that you can view the abundance of fish up close.
Platja de Llafranc
Popular with film stars and jet-setters throughout the 20th century, Llafrance is a charming resort town where you can easily while away a week.
The splendid beach is perfect for a coastal hike, or the proverbial long walk on a beach.
Platja de Pals
Two miles of golden sand await you at Pals. Once the site of radio towers during the Cold War, Pals now boasts loads of seaside activities.
It can be a terrific beach for surfing, windsurfing or kiteboarding in Costa Brava if the winds are blowing. Pals has loads of room for beach sports like volleyball and any other game you fancy.
Platja Cala del Crit
You can only reach Cala del Crit by foot or by boat, and there are no amenities, but if you prefer quiet nature instead of a busy urban beach, this is a good bet.
Located in the town of Mont-ras, between Palamós and Calella de Palafrugell, this beach’s scenic surroundings are stunning, and far away from any urban centre. The cove is only about 150 metres long and is mainly gravel and coarse sand.
It bears mentioning that given the secluded nature of the beach, it’s also clothing optional.
Other Things to Do in The Costa Brava
If you tire of the beaches or happen upon a rainy day, there are plenty of other activities to take up your time.
If you're a history buff, you will love the narrow cobblestone streets and medieval castles of so many of the towns in the region. If you're an art lover, make sure to visit the Salvador Dalí House in Portlligat, or the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, which highlight the surreal creations of this famous Catalan artist.
If you like to keep your hands busy, join a local workshop to learn about and create traditional handmade pottery. Game of Thrones fans can even tour Girona and walk through the streets of Braavos and King's Landing.
There's really no end to the cultural experiences you can soak up during your time here on the Costa Brava.
Wherever you end up, I can only hope it’s a wonderful visit. The best part about Costa Brava beach hopping is that it’s very unlikely you’ll be unhappy anywhere. Enjoy!