The best beaches on the Costa Brava
The Costa Brava hides some of the most beautiful beaches and coves in the Mediterranean. From small unspoilt coves among pine trees to long sandy beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear waters, this Catalan coastline offers options for every type of traveller.
Discovering the best beaches on the Costa Brava is one of the must-have experiences on the Catalan coast. In this guide you will find real recommendations on when to go, where to park and the best hotels near each cove to enjoy the Costa Brava in total comfort.
Top 10 best beaches on the Costa Brava
- Aiguablava – Begur
- Cala Jugadora – Cadaqués
- Sa Tuna – Begur
- Cala Montgó – L’Escala
- Port-Bo in Calella de Palafrugell
- Cala Canyelles Petites, Roses
- Llafranc – Palafrugell
- Platja del Castell – Palamós
- Illa Roja Beach – Begur
- Cala Sa Boadella – Lloret de Mar
1. Aiguablava Beach, Begur
Aiguablava beach, located in Begur, in the heart of the Baix Empordà (Girona), is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava and appears year after year in rankings of the best coves in Spain and the Mediterranean.
Its name says it all: “Aigua Blava” means blue water, and seeing it just once is enough to understand why. Its turquoise and transparent waters recall the Caribbean, but with the wild Mediterranean charm characteristic of the Costa Brava.
Aiguablava is a cove with golden sand and calm, shallow waters, an ideal beach for families and for relaxing in the heart of the Costa Brava. It also connects with the Camí de Ronda, from where you can discover hidden coves such as Cala d’en Malaret or Platja Fonda, among pine trees and Mediterranean cliffs.
Features of Aiguablava beach
- Turquoise and crystal-clear water
- Fine sand and shallow waters
- Ideal for snorkelling, paddle surfing and water activities
- Restaurants and beach bars facing the sea
- Camí de Ronda with spectacular views
- Showers and public toilets
- Sunbed and parasol rental
- Lifeguard service and assisted bathing by the Red Cross
- Adapted access for people with reduced mobility
Recommendations for visiting Aiguablava
If you want to enjoy Aiguablava in summer, it is best to arrive early or stay in the area, for example at Hotel Aigua Blava. Car parks usually fill up between 8:00 and 9:00 in the morning; the paved one is more expensive and the dirt car park usually has queues. Another good option is to visit the cove in the afternoon, when there are fewer people.
Where to stay in Begur, Aiguablava beach
To enjoy Aiguablava comfortably and avoid parking problems in summer, the best option is Hotel Aigua Blava, located right in the bay of Aiguablava.
From the hotel you can reach the cove on foot along the Camí de Ronda in just 10 minutes or use its private boat service. It also stands out for its sea-view restaurant, heated swimming pool, parking, facilities and one of the most privileged locations on the Costa Brava.
The Hotel Aigua Blava is an exclusive accommodation in Begur, offering stunning sea views and direct access to Aiguablava Beach. Surrounded by crystal-clear coves and close to charming villages like Pals and Tamariu, it is the perfect destination to experience the essence of the Costa Brava with comfort and elegance.
2. Cala Jugadora, Cadaqués
Cala Jugadora, located in the Cap de Creus Natural Park, in Cadaqués (Girona), is one of the most spectacular hidden coves on the Costa Brava. Surrounded by rocks, unspoilt nature and wild landscapes, this small cove stands out for its crystal-clear waters and tranquillity.
Its relaxed atmosphere is largely due to its access: to get there you need to walk along a coastal path for around 15 minutes between rocks and cliffs, which means that even in summer it remains a relatively uncrowded beach. The cove combines gravel and coarse sand, and its transparent waters are perfect for snorkelling.
Visiting Cala Jugadora is also the perfect excuse to discover Cadaqués, one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia, famous for its white houses, the legacy of Salvador Dalí and the unique landscape of Cap de Creus.
Features of Cala Jugadora
- Transparent and very clean water
- Unspoilt cove in a protected natural setting
- Ideal for snorkelling and kayaking
- Peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere
- Coarse sand and gravel
- No beach bars or services
- Access on foot, by car or shuttle bus
Recommendations for visiting Cala Jugadora
To visit Cala Jugadora, we recommend parking at the Cap de Creus Lighthouse and walking there along the Camí de Ronda; comfortable footwear is advisable. In summer, access to Cap de Creus by car is restricted during the day and Cadaqués usually has heavy traffic and limited parking, so staying in the centre in a hotel with parking, such as Hotel Playa Sol, is a great option.
Where to stay in Cadaqués
Hotel Playa Sol is an excellent option for staying in Cadaqués. Located facing the sea and close to the centre, it has a swimming pool with outdoor jacuzzi, sports facilities, rooms with Mediterranean views and private parking, something essential in summer.
It is also less than a 30-minute walk from the shuttle bus stop to Cap de Creus and Cala Jugadora, ideal for exploring the area without using the car.
The Hotel Playasol, located in Cadaqués, one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava, is a seafront hotel on the Costa Brava, set in the quiet bay of the town and just a few minutes’ walk from the center. Surrounded by the unique landscape of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, it stands out as the only hotel in the area combining a small beach right in front with a large garden of olive trees and pines, creating a truly special place to unwind.
This beach hotel offers modern, bright rooms in a Mediterranean style, with double, triple and family options. Most feature a balcony or terrace with sea views and views over Cadaqués, while others face the garden, pool or private patios. Its thoughtful design and peaceful atmosphere make it ideal for both romantic getaways and family stays.
Among its facilities are a heated outdoor pool, an outdoor jacuzzi under the olive trees and a wellness area with steam sauna and sensory shower. The hotel also features a restaurant, a breakfast room with sea views, a bar with terrace facing the beach —one of the most iconic views in Cadaqués— and spacious gardens to relax.
In addition, its location allows guests to discover some of the most beautiful hidden coves of Cap de Creus, enjoy activities such as kayaking or cycling, and practice sports like tennis, table tennis or pétanque. It also has a private garage, a highly valued feature in Cadaqués. It is a very complete option for those looking for a hotel in Cadaqués with sea views, direct beach access and an authentic Costa Brava experience.
3. Cala Montgó, L’Escala
Cala Montgó, located between L’Escala and Torroella de Montgrí (Girona), is one of the most popular family beaches on the Costa Brava. This wide cove of fine sand stands out for its crystal-clear waters, its natural setting protected by the Montgrí massif and for being sheltered from the Tramuntana wind, something highly valued in this area of the Empordà.
Thanks to its shallow waters, easy access and wide range of services, Cala Montgó is an ideal beach for visiting with children, spending the day with the family or enjoying water activities such as paddle surfing, kayaking or snorkelling. It also has Blue Flag status and a pleasant natural setting surrounded by pine forests and paths by the sea.
Very close by are other must-see places in the area, such as Sant Martí d’Empúries and its beaches and the Ruins of Empúries.
Features of Cala Montgó
- Family-friendly beach with fine sand
- Transparent and shallow waters
- Sheltered from the Tramuntana wind
- Blue Flag distinction
- Showers and adapted toilets
- Lifeguard service
- Sunbed and parasol rental
- Beach bars and restaurants by the sea
- Water equipment rental companies
- Buoy service for boats
- Nearby paid parking
Recommendations for visiting Cala Montgó
In summer, the Cala Montgó car park usually fills up quickly, so we recommend arriving early or staying in the area, such as at Hotel Can Miquel. If you visit the beach by boat, you should know that anchoring over posidonia is not allowed and that the available buoy service usually has one of the highest prices on the Costa Brava.
Where to stay in L’Escala
Right in front of Cala Montgó is Hotel Can Miquel, one of the best hotels for staying in L’Escala and enjoying the beach without needing to move the car.
This family hotel stands out for its sea-view restaurant, swimming pools, wellness area and an atmosphere that is ideal both for children and for those travelling with pets. It also has a tennis court, private garage for cars and bicycles and direct access to Montgó Beach, one of the most beautiful coves in Catalonia.
The Hotel Can Miquel, located in the spectacular Cala Montgó, one of the most beautiful coves on the Costa Brava, is an excellent beach hotel for those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean in a privileged natural setting. Just 4 km from L’Escala, one of the most charming fishing villages on the coast, the hotel is surrounded by the impressive landscape of the Montgrí Massif.
This Costa Brava hotel features 37 double rooms, 4 of them adapted and 2 with private gardens. They stand out for being spacious and bright, with a full bathroom and terrace overlooking the pool, gardens, the Montgrí Massif or the sea. All rooms can be converted into triple rooms, and the superior rooms, more spacious, are ideal for families.
Among its facilities, the hotel offers an outdoor pool, heated pool, tennis courts, large garden areas and a private garage for guests. It also features a wellness area with massage services, perfect for relaxing after a day at the Costa Brava beaches. All in a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.
One of its main highlights is the Can Miquel Restaurant, located right in Cala Montgó, by the sea. From its terrace or large windows, guests can enjoy refined Mediterranean and market cuisine while overlooking the beach, along with an excellent wine selection. It is a perfect choice for those looking for a hotel in L’Escala, well located and with direct access to one of the most special coves on the Costa Brava.
4. Sa Tuna Beach, Begur
Sa Tuna is one of the most charming coves in Begur and on the entire Costa Brava. This former fishing village preserves its Mediterranean essence with small white houses, fishing boats resting on the sand and terraces facing the sea.
The cove, with its calm and transparent waters, is sheltered between mountains and connected by the Camí de Ronda to other beautiful small coves such as Aiguafreda or S’Eixugador cove. Its peaceful and authentic atmosphere makes it one of the most special beaches in the Empordà region.
Features of Sa Tuna
- Quiet and family-friendly cove
- Transparent and sheltered waters
- Former fishing village
- Restaurants and terraces by the sea
- Ice cream parlour and small shops
- Lifeguard service
- Showers and foot wash facilities
- Sunbed and parasol rental
- Adapted access for people with reduced mobility
- Outdoor and underground parking
- Camí de Ronda leading to other coves
- Coarse sand and pebbles
Recommendations for visiting Sa Tuna
As this is a small cove, the car park tends to fill up quickly in summer, so we recommend arriving between 8:00 and 9:00 in the morning or staying in Begur, for example at Hostal Sa Tuna. If the beach is crowded, a great option is to walk along the Camí de Ronda and discover small coves and swimming spots.
Where to stay in Sa Tuna, Begur
To enjoy Sa Tuna in total comfort, one of the best options is to stay at Hostal Sa Tuna, located right on the cove.
The hotel offers rooms with direct sea views and an excellent gastronomic restaurant under the signature of chef Nandu Jubany. It also has parking spaces for guests, something extremely valuable in summer in this area of the Costa Brava.
This is the only Hotel in Sa Tuna cove, a place caressed by nature in the heart of the Costa Brava. We have 5 double rooms each with a terrace from where you can have breakfast while admiring the amazing views. It will be pure pleasure for your senses. Contemplating the sunrise from your room will make your day become a series of relaxing sensations.
In the restaurant you will find mediterranean cuisine, a wide variety of tapas and the best paella with ingredients of our sea and our land, great variety of fish and sea food which comes on a daily from the nearest market.
Don’t miss our rice dishes!
Allow yourself the pleasure of tasting our food next to the Sa Tuna cove
5. Port-Bo Beach, Calella de Palafrugell
Port-Bo Beach, also known as Les Barques beach, is one of the most iconic beaches in Calella de Palafrugell, one of the most beautiful and famous villages on the Catalan coast. Located right in the centre, it stands out for its crystal-clear waters, traditional fishing boats and the iconic Les Voltes seaside promenade, with its arches facing the sea.
Besides its charm, Port-Bo is famous for hosting the traditional Habanera Singing Festival of Calella de Palafrugell, one of the most popular summer events on the Costa Brava. Thanks to its shallow waters, relaxed atmosphere and proximity to restaurants and services, it is also an ideal beach for families with children.
Features of Port-Bo Beach
- Quiet and family-friendly urban beach
- Transparent and shallow waters
- Showers and foot wash facilities
- Lifeguard service
- Restaurants and terraces by the sea
- Water sports equipment rental companies
- Adapted access for people with reduced mobility
- Nearby paid parking
Recommendations for visiting Port-Bo
As Port-Bo Beach is located in the centre of Calella de Palafrugell, parking in summer can be difficult throughout the day, especially due to the number of visitors to restaurants and terraces in the area. That is why staying in a hotel with parking in Calella de Palafrugell or Llafranc, connected by the Camí de Ronda in just 15 minutes, is one of the most convenient ways to enjoy the area without worrying about the car.
Where to stay in Calella de Palafrugell
If you dream of waking up to sea views, one of the best options is Hotel Sant Roc, located just an 8-minute walk from Port-Bo Beach and offering spectacular views.
For families or those looking for more facilities, Hotel Alga stands out for its swimming pool, sports areas and family-friendly atmosphere, while also being pet-friendly. Another highly recommended option is Hotel Garbí, slightly quieter and further from the centre, with a swimming pool and an ideal atmosphere for both couples and families with young children.
Hotel Sant Roc in Calella de Palafrugell, in the heart of the Costa Brava, offers stunning sea views from its privileged location. With comfortable rooms, a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant, and panoramic terraces, it is the perfect destination for a romantic or family getaway, combining relaxation, nature, and gastronomy.
The Hotel Alga, in Calella de Palafrugell, is an elegant hotel on the Costa Brava located just 200 meters from Port Bo Beach and the seafront promenade. Set in a მშვიდ area and surrounded by more than 7,000 m² of gardens, it combines proximity to the sea with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for unwinding in one of the most beautiful villages on the coast.
This beach hotel with pool on the Costa Brava offers 59 modern and comfortable rooms, some with sea views. Its well-kept and versatile atmosphere makes it an excellent option for couples, families or getaways with friends. It is also pet-friendly, allowing guests to travel with their pets comfortably.
Among its facilities are two outdoor pools, paddle and tennis courts, a gym, a games room and spacious gardens for relaxing. It also offers massage services, ideal for completing a restful stay after a day at the beach or exploring the nearby Camí de Ronda between Calella and Llafranc, one of the most beautiful on the Costa Brava.
On the gastronomic side, the El Càntir Restaurant, led by chef Pere Malagelada, offers Mediterranean cuisine based on local and seasonal products. There is also a snack bar by the pool, perfect for enjoying light meals, cocktails or an outdoor aperitif in a pleasant setting.
The Hotel Garbí is a welcoming hotel in Calella de Palafrugell, one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava, set in a privileged natural environment just a short walk from the beach. Its location makes it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the sea and unwind in one of the most authentic corners of the Mediterranean.
The Hotel Garbí is a family-friendly hotel on the Costa Brava, but it is also an excellent option for couples. Families will find a wide range of services designed for children, including an outdoor train, play area, playground and creative spaces with drawing materials. Meanwhile, couples can enjoy comfortable rooms with stunning sea views, some of them featuring a private jacuzzi on the terrace.
After a day exploring Calella de Palafrugell or discovering the Costa Brava and its coastal paths, guests can relax in the outdoor pool with jacuzzi, stroll through the spacious gardens or enjoy the open-air restaurant, where local cuisine is served in a pleasant setting. Everything invites you to slow down and enjoy a seaside holiday.
6. Cala Canyelles Petites, Roses
Cala Canyelles Petites, located in Roses, in the Alt Empordà, is one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava for families. Thanks to its shallow waters, peaceful atmosphere and easy access, it is an ideal cove to enjoy the sea with children.
Located just 5 kilometres from the centre of Roses, this beach of golden sand and crystal-clear waters is surrounded by a much quieter residential and natural setting than other busier areas of the Costa Brava. It is also part of the Vies Braves network, making it very popular among open-water swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
Features of Cala Canyelles Petites
- Quiet and family-friendly beach
- Fine sand and shallow waters
- Crystal-clear water and relaxed atmosphere
- Easy access by car, bus or on foot
- Beach bars, cafés and nearby restaurants
- Public showers and toilets
- Ideal for water sports and swimming
- Adapted access for people with reduced mobility
Recommendations for visiting Cala Canyelles
In summer, although parking is usually easier to find than at other famous coves on the Costa Brava, we recommend arriving before 10:00 to park close to the beach. It is also worth walking the Camí de Ronda from Roses.
Where to stay near Roses
If you are looking for a quieter area, Boutique Hotel Comtal d’Empúries is an excellent option. This former Catalan farmhouse located in Castelló d’Empúries, near Roses, combines traditional charm with rooms with jacuzzi, an outdoor pool, wellness area, gardens and an excellent restaurant — ideal for combining beach, relaxation and nature on the Costa Brava.
The Boutique Hotel Comtal d’Empúries, located in Castelló d’Empúries, is an elegant hotel on the Costa Brava set in the heart of the natural surroundings of the Alt Empordà. Housed in a restored traditional farmhouse, this hotel combines the charm of traditional architecture with a modern and welcoming design, surrounded by natural spaces such as the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà and the Cap de Creus, making it an ideal destination to unwind.
This boutique hotel features 29 rooms and suites in a contemporary style, decorated with noble materials such as marble and wood, and equipped with king-size beds. Some rooms include a private jacuzzi in the room, adding an extra touch of exclusivity, making it a perfect choice for romantic getaways on the Costa Brava.
The hotel offers a complete wellness area with spa, including a heated pool, sauna, hammam and revitalizing showers, as well as a carefully selected range of treatments and massages in a unique space located in the former wine cellar, with stone arches and soft lighting that invites relaxation. It also features an outdoor pool with solarium area, ideal for enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
One of its main highlights is its gastronomic restaurant, offering innovative Catalan cuisine based on local products, accompanied by a carefully curated wine list with designation of origin. It is also very close to destinations such as Roses and Empuriabrava, as well as some of the most beautiful beaches and coves on the Costa Brava, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
7. Llafranc, Palafrugell
Llafranc, together with Calella de Palafrugell, is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations on the Costa Brava. Llafranc Beach, located in the heart of the village, stands out for its golden sand, crystal-clear and shallow waters, and one of the most elegant seaside promenades on the Catalan coast, lined with restaurants, terraces and Mediterranean charm.
Thanks to its marina, Llafranc is also one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava for boat trips and water activities. In addition, it is connected to Calella de Palafrugell by one of the most beautiful and easiest stretches of the Camí de Ronda, an almost flat coastal walk of around 15 minutes by the sea.
On the hillside above stands the Sant Sebastià Lighthouse, considered one of the best viewpoints in the Mediterranean, where the iconic Hotel El Far is also located, offering spectacular views over the Costa Brava.
Features of Llafranc Beach
- Elegant and family-friendly beach
- Coarse sand and crystal-clear waters
- Seafront promenade with restaurants and terraces
- Marina and boat rental
- Ideal for water activities
- Close to Calella de Palafrugell
- Lifeguard service and Red Cross station
- Showers, foot wash facilities and public toilets
- Adapted access for people with reduced mobility
Recommendations for visiting Llafranc
Don’t miss the Camí de Ronda to Calella de Palafrugell or the seaside terraces along the promenade. In summer, we recommend arriving before 10:00 or staying in the centre, as there are few car parks near the beach, the blue parking zone is active, and the Xarembeco car park can be expensive for a full day.
Where to stay in Llafranc
To enjoy Llafranc Beach in total comfort, we recommend Hotel Terramar, located directly on the seafront promenade facing the sand, or Hotel Llafranc, also on the beachfront and closer to the marina area. Both are excellent options for staying in one of the most beautiful areas of the Costa Brava.
Located right in front of Llafranc Beach, the Hotel Terramar is one of those places where everything revolves around the sea: the sand just a few steps away, the seafront promenade right in front and the peaceful atmosphere of one of the most pleasant spots in the Baix Empordà. Its location allows you to enjoy the beach at any time of day and go out for dinner or a walk without needing a car.
This Mediterranean-style hotel offers comfortable and bright rooms, many with sea views and balcony, ideal for waking up to the sound of the waves. Its friendly, family-oriented atmosphere makes it a great option for both couples and relaxing seaside stays.
Within the hotel, the restaurant offers cuisine based on the Mediterranean diet, with fresh, local and seasonal products, highlighting the chef’s “Land & Sea” concept, accompanied by wines with Empordà designation of origin. It also features a mini gym and bike area, perfect for those exploring the Costa Brava by bicycle.
Its location also provides easy access to one of the most beautiful sections of the Camí de Ronda, between Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell, as well as crystal-clear coves and other charming nearby villages. Thanks to its seafront setting and welcoming atmosphere, it is one of the most practical hotels on the Costa Brava for enjoying beach, gastronomy and relaxation.
Located on the seafront promenade of Llafranc, one of the most beautiful fishing villages on the Costa Brava, the Hotel Llafranch is a charming hotel with history and character, founded in 1958, and now one of the area’s landmarks. Its location, just steps from the beach and in the heart of the village, allows guests to enjoy one of the most pleasant bays on the coast, with the sea always close by.
This hotel on the Costa Brava has 28 rooms, all different, some with sea views and views over Llafranc’s harbor, and others facing the village center. Its style combines tradition and comfort, creating a warm and शांत atmosphere, ideal for both romantic getaways and relaxed family stays.
The experience is completed by its gastronomic offering, where traditional Catalan cuisine takes center stage, made with fresh, local products. The hotel features different dining spaces, including the main restaurant, seaside terraces and nearby options such as La Plaça, La Caleta and Trattoria Otto, offering varied atmospheres. It also has an exclusive terrace and solarium for guests, perfect for relaxing with views of the surroundings.
Its location is also an excellent starting point to explore the Baix Empordà, with easy access to hidden coves, sections of the Camí de Ronda and charming villages. Thanks to its authenticity, location and atmosphere, it is one of the most recommended hotels on the Costa Brava for those seeking a seaside stay with Mediterranean character.
An old XVIII Century Inn located alongside a hermitage and a watchtower on one of the highest headlands in the Mediterranean. It has a central courtyard which separates the hotel from the hermitage, with spectacular terraces and a restaurant. The only one of its kind to enjoy both spectacular views over both the sea and the beaches of Tamariu, Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell. It is an incomparable balcony overlooking the Costa Brava and the Empordà.
8. Castell Beach, Palamós
Castell Beach, located in Palamós (Girona), is one of the few unspoilt beaches still preserved on the Costa Brava. Surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean nature, and free from large buildings, it has retained its wild and authentic character. Its long stretch of fine sand and crystal-clear waters makes it an ideal beach for families and for those seeking a quieter, more natural setting.
Besides the beach itself, one of its greatest attractions is the Camí de Ronda, where visitors can discover some of the most beautiful hidden coves on the Costa Brava.
Features of Castell Beach
- Unspoilt beach in a protected natural setting
- Fine sand and crystal-clear waters
- Ideal for families
- Beach bar
- Sailing school and water activities
- Camí de Ronda with spectacular views
- Close to hidden coves
- Large paid car park
- Lifeguard service
- Public toilets
Recommendations for visiting Castell Beach
Although Castell Beach has a large car park, visitors need to walk about 10 minutes to reach the beach, so we recommend not carrying too much. It is also possible to walk from La Fosca along the Camí de Ronda in around 30 minutes, taking the opportunity to discover spectacular coves such as Cala S’Alguer or Cala dels Canyers.
Where to stay in Palamós
Hotel Ancora, located just a 4-minute walk from La Fosca, is an excellent option for visiting Castell Beach without worrying about parking and for enjoying the Camí de Ronda by the sea. In addition to its privileged location, the hotel offers a swimming pool, comfortable rooms, a children’s area and an ideal atmosphere for both families and travellers with pets.
Just 250 meters from La Fosca Beach, in Palamós, the Hotel Àncora is a very practical option for staying near the sea in one of the most pleasant areas of the Costa Brava. La Fosca is one of the most well-known beaches in Palamós, with easy access, sandy shores and a well-preserved natural environment, perfect both for relaxing and for families with children.
With a strong family-friendly character, it is one of the highest-rated hotels on the Costa Brava among travelers with pets, thanks to its peaceful atmosphere, spacious gardens and pet-friendly policy. It offers fully equipped rooms and apartments, some with balconies, terraces or solariums, a feature especially appreciated in summer.
Beyond its proximity to the sea, the hotel features an outdoor pool surrounded by gardens, a play area and spaces designed for relaxation without leaving the property, making it particularly convenient for family stays.
From here, it is easy to access the Camí de Ronda (coastal path) and other well-known coves along the coast, allowing guests to discover some of the most beautiful spots on the Costa Brava. It also has a restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine based on local products, perfect for enjoying a hassle-free stay.
9. Illa Roja Beach, between Pals and Begur
Illa Roja Beach, located between Pals and Begur, is one of the most famous and unique beaches on the Costa Brava. It owes its name to the large reddish rock rising just off the shore, which has become one of the most iconic landscapes on this stretch of the Catalan coast.
In addition to its natural surroundings and crystal-clear waters, Illa Roja is known as one of the most popular nudist beaches in Spain and is even considered by many to be one of the best naturist beaches in the world. Surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, it retains a peaceful and rather wild atmosphere.
Features of Illa Roja Beach
- Unspoilt beach and natural surroundings
- Fine sand and crystal-clear waters
- Nudist beach
- Access via stairs from the Camí de Ronda
- Close to the facilities at Platja del Racó in Pals
- Peaceful and lightly urbanised setting
- Sun throughout the morning
Recommendations for visiting Illa Roja
Access to Illa Roja is on foot via the Camí de Ronda and parking is limited, so we recommend staying nearby or arriving early. As it is a nudist beach, it is important to respect bathers’ privacy. It is also best visited in the morning, as much of the cove falls into shade in the afternoon.
Where to stay near Illa Roja, Begur
One of the best hotels for visiting Illa Roja is the Hotel La Costa Golf & Beach Resort, located opposite Pals Beach.
This resort is ideal for both couples and families, thanks to its large swimming pools, sports facilities and seafront location. From the hotel, guests can walk to Illa Roja along the beach and the Camí de Ronda in around 45 minutes, or cycle there in just 10 minutes using bikes that can also be rented at the hotel itself.
Right by Grau de Pals Beach, in Pals, the Hotel La Costa Golf & Beach Resort combines sea, nature and sport in one place. From here, you can step directly from the hotel onto one of the longest and most natural beaches on the Costa Brava or access the Golf de Pals, located right next door, in a peaceful setting surrounded by dunes and pine forests.
More than just a hotel, it functions as a true resort designed for multi-day stays without the need to travel. It offers 120 rooms overlooking the pool or the golf course, and a wide range of facilities: a tropical pool with beach-style area, tennis and paddle courts, football fields, table tennis, pétanque and children’s play areas. Additional services include bike rental, nearby water sports and babysitting on request, making it one of the most complete hotels on the Costa Brava for families.
The experience is enhanced by its gastronomic offer, spread across several spaces, including the La Habana Beach Club, located by the sea, where guests can enjoy rice dishes from Pals and Mediterranean cuisine almost with their feet in the sand. A very convenient concept to combine beach days with great food without leaving the hotel.
From here, it is also easy to explore the area: nearby are coves such as Illa Roja and Sa Riera, as well as sections of the Camí de Ronda with spectacular views. It is a very practical option if you are looking for a beach hotel with plenty of activities, direct sea access and a well-preserved natural setting on the Costa Brava.
10. Cala Sa Boadella, Lloret de Mar
Far from the more touristy image of Lloret de Mar, Cala Sa Boadella proves that this area also hides authentic natural paradises. Surrounded by pine trees, cliffs and granite rocks, this almost untouched cove is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the southern Costa Brava.
Its crystal-clear waters, protected natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal beach to disconnect and relax. In addition, Sa Boadella has a long nudist tradition, although today it combines nudist areas with more family-friendly sections.
Located between Lloret de Mar and the Santa Cristina Hermitage, access to the cove is via a short walking path of around 200 metres through pine trees, which helps preserve its natural character and distance from mass tourism.
Features of Cala Sa Boadella
- Cove surrounded by nature
- Clean and crystal-clear water
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Partial nudist area
- Access via a path through pine trees
- Showers with foot-washing facilities
- Beach bar
- Lifeguard service
Recommendations for visiting Cala Sa Boadella
We recommend parking near the road leading to the Santa Cristina Hermitage and walking around 220 metres to the cove, an easy 3–5 minute walk through pine trees. However, in the height of summer, we advise not carrying too much, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
Where to stay in Lloret de Mar
If you want to combine beaches, leisure and comfort, one of the best options for staying in Lloret de Mar is Hotel L'Azure.
This modern hotel is ideal for both couples and families and stands out for its chill-out swimming pools, children’s pool with water slides, spa, sports facilities, games rooms, kids’ mini club and dining spaces. In addition, it features a bike room and an excellent location for discovering the best beaches on the Costa Brava.
Located in the heart of Lloret de Mar, the hotel boasts a prime location just steps away from a vast golden sandy beach, making it the perfect base for those seeking an active seaside holiday. The area offers a lively entertainment scene, with bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops within close walking distance, allowing guests to combine seaside relaxation with vibrant urban nightlife.
Opened in 2021, the hotel features 411 non-smoking rooms in a climate-controlled building with elevators and full accessibility for guests with reduced mobility. Facilities include a 24-hour multilingual reception, free Wi-Fi, a TV lounge, and a game room, alongside room service and medical assistance.
For business travelers, the hotel offers 7 meeting rooms equipped with audiovisual technology and specialized support for events and conferences. Parking and garage facilities are available for an additional charge, including bicycle spaces.
You now know the 10 best beaches and coves on the Costa Brava, a selection of unique spots where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters, coastal walking paths, fishing villages and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Mediterranean.
And if you’re still eager to keep discovering the Costa Brava, don’t miss our selection of the best hotels on the Costa Brava.
