Top 10 Costa Brava Beaches You Have to Visit

Does Costa Brava have nice beaches? Without a doubt! In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Spain. Home to over 300 miles of coastline, there’s a beach to suit every beachgoer. Whether you’re looking for a convenient beach with amenities or a wild and secluded beach experience, at Civitatis we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the top 7 Costa Brava beaches!

1. Spend A Day at Platja de Roses

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, Platja de Roses (or Roses Beach in English) is a perfect option! With its fine sand beaches and overall calm waters, it’s an ideal destination for grown-ups and kids alike. Let the kids swim to their heart’s content while you relax on the sand, as lifeguards are on duty to ensure everyone’s safety.

Plus, Platja de Roses offers a range of amenities, including changing rooms, showers, and rental services for sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports equipment. With this one-stop-shop vibe, the beach has everything you need for a perfect day by the sea.

As the sun sets over the horizon, your day of fun doesn’t have to end! Make the most of your stay along Costa Brava by enjoying a sunset catamaran cruise in the calm Bay of Roses. It’s the perfect way to cap off any day!

If you find yourself with a little extra time, check out a day trip to Cadaques, a nearby town just a short drive away. This stunning seaside town is famous for being the favorite vacation spot of Spanish painter Salvador Dali. You’ll see why as the white-washed village comes into view!

2. Dive Into Platja de la Gola del Ter, L’Estartit

A short distance south of the town of Roses, you’ll find L’Estartit. The town has three main beaches that offer all the things you may need for a day at the beach. But our recommendation is Platja La Gola del Ter for its unique location. Found at the mouth of the Ter River, you’ll have stunning views of the river as it meets the Mediterranean Sea.

What’s really cool about this spot is how close it is to the Medes Islands. Those islands are famous for their incredible marine life, which is why people keep coming back year after year. If you find yourself jonesing to see what lives below the surface, check out this Medes Islands Snorkeling activity!

3. Enjoy Platja de l’Illa Roja, Begur

Illa Roja stands out on Costa Brava with its reddish sand and prominent rock at the heart of the cove. Quietly tucked away in the Begur area, which offers plenty of different beaches to choose from, Illa Roja stands out for its serene atmosphere. While it may lack amenities, it more than makes up for it with its peaceful setting, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Plus, the crystal clear waters that bathe the coast of Illa Roja make it one of the best places for snorkeling or diving.

4. Splash into Cala Sa Tuna, Begur

Begur may be a small town, but it’s just full of some of the best beaches in Costa Brava. Cala Sa Tuna (or Sa Tuna Cove, in English) is quaint, full of charm, and just a short 17-minute drive from Illa Roja beach. Surrounded by fishermen’s homes, this wild cove is a must if you’re in Begur.

Pro tip: Cala Sa Tuna is known for its fishing village vibes, which naturally, means there’s plenty of fresh fish available! So be sure to indulge in local flavors at the restaurants nearby for some of the freshest seafood eats.

5. Soak Up the Sun at Platja d’Aiguablava, Begur

Moving our way down the coast, again in the town of Begur, you’ll find Aiguablava Cove. This gorgeous inlet is perfect for families with children! Let the kids have fun at the beach without compromising on dreamlike landscapes, offering a break from day-to-day life.

Aiguablava, like all the best beaches in Costa Brava, boasts crystalline waters, a calm tide, a comfortable shoreline, and beautiful natural surroundings you can’t put into words.

During the high season (summer months), it can get pretty crowded, but it’s well worth a visit thanks to the many local restaurants nearby offering local cuisine. Plus, with all of the kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle-boarding rentals available, there can be fun in the sun for everybody!

6. Relax at Cala d’Aigua Xelida, Palafrugell

Leaving the Begur area, we’ll continue working our way down the coast, arriving at Aigua-Xelida Cove in Palafrugell. Not even a 10-minute drive from its sister cove, Aiguablava, this cove offers visitors a more secluded beach experience, ideal for couples.

With only about 20 meters (65 feet) of surface area, this beach may be small, but it packs a big punch! At Aigua-Xelida, count on various amenities like showers, changing rooms, and snorkeling equipment for rent.

Pro tip: Aigua-Xelida roughly translates to “frozen water” making the beach aptly named. The waters here are quite brisk year-round, but don’t let that stop you from uncovering an amazing underwater world! Take advantage of the snorkel equipment available for rent and have some fun under the sea.

7. Visit the Small but Idyllic Platja de Castell, Palamós

Es Castell Beach is particularly special. Having almost fallen victim to urban developers looking to commercialize the area, thanks to a massive effort from the locals, this beach remains one of the purest and untouched pockets of nature along the coast.

You can also find the ruins of an ancient Iberian settlement that offer stunning views of the shoreline, here. If that doesn’t make it one of the best beaches in Costa Brava, we don’t know what does.

Because this beach is pretty secluded, you won’t find many amenities—just showers and restrooms. Don’t forget to bring your towels, umbrellas, and snorkeling goggles when you head out there!

Arriving at Es Castell Beach though is easy, and reachable by car, though the streets are narrow. You’ll have to pay for parking but you can walk away feeling good about the price, as all proceeds go to maintaining the pristine natural space.

8. Find the Secluded Es Codolar Beach, Tossa de Mar

If you’re working your way down Costa Brava, then you should definitely check out Es Codolar Beach in Tossa de Mar. It’s a beautiful, secluded spot with clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. The peaceful vibe makes it a great escape from the crowds, and the scenic walking trails offer amazing views. Plus, the sunsets here are absolutely stunning!

While you’re visiting, be sure to check out this beginner’s scuba diving lesson in Tossa de Mar. Costa Brava waters are often rich in biodiversity so you’re bound to spot some marine life in its natural habitat!

9. Unwind at Cala Boadella, Lloret de Mar

The final stretch of our list is dedicated to Lloret de Mar. First, we bring you the cove of Sa Boadella. Located between cliffs, this beach is perfect if you want to relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can access it through a narrow path that offers an unforgettable first impression as you approach.

10. End Your Trip at Santa Cristina Beach, Lloret de Mar

Last but not least is Santa Cristina Beach. With pristine fine sand, it’s located at the foot of the Ermita de Santa Cristina. The beach is itself a lush surrounding of rocks and pine trees that make it the dreamiest of postcard images.

Another highlight of this Lloret de Mar beach is its large capacity, making it a perfect place to relax without the overcrowding of other beaches in the area. It’s an absolute must!

Pro tip: Just a short distance away lies the town of Blanes, offering an exciting activity to cap off your day along the stunning Costa Brava–kayaking in a glass-bottomed kayak! Dive into the crystal-clear waters and get an up-close look at the vibrant marine life thriving beneath the surface. It’s the perfect way to end your coastal adventure with a unique and unforgettable experience.

Don’t forget too, Costa Brava is known for its beaches, but for many other things as well! Boasting a rich cultural, gastronomic, and historical tradition, check out the many exciting things to do in the Costa Brava region.