Costa Brava is surprisingly one of the most beautiful and dramatic sections of the Mediterranean coastline. Rocky cliffs alternate with small coves, old fishing villages, and elegant resorts that are popular with tourists from all over the world. You’ll also be captivated by the crystal-clear sea and pine forests.
Costa Brava
> TOP 10 ACCOMMODATION ON COSTA BRAVA
The coast in the province of Girona offers hundreds of beaches, and it’s up to you whether you’ll be tempted, like us, by wild coves or the long sandy beaches usually found near towns. I’ve written down nine places for you that are among the most beautiful Costa Brava has to offer for (not just) a summer holiday by the sea in Spain.
Accommodation on Costa Brava
Search for accommodation on Costa Brava by map:
The most beautiful places on Costa Brava
1. Cadaqués
This little town, located at the northern end of Costa Brava, made us feel as if we were on an island. Only one road leads here through the hills of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, and it’s definitely worth at least a day trip. You’ll be charmed by the white houses, narrow streets, and the rocky coastline, which creates one of the most photogenic scenes on the Costa Brava.
Cadaqués still retains the authentic atmosphere of an old fishing village. In the surrounding area, you’ll find small rocky coves with turquoise water that are also ideal for snorkeling. Nearby is Salvador Dalí’s house in Port Lligat, which is one of the most interesting museums in Catalonia.
2. Tossa de Mar – Costa Brava
One of the few places on the Spanish coast where medieval walls rise directly above the beach. The historic center, Vila Vella, is the only surviving fortified coastal town on Costa Brava.
Below the walls lies the main beach, Platja Gran, with fine sand and views of the stone towers. However, just a few minutes’ walk away, you’ll discover smaller coves like Cala Pola or Cala Giverola.
I’ve written more tips on what to see in Tossa de Mar and where to stay in a separate article:
3. Calella de Palafrugell
A small fishing town that has transformed over the years into one of the most charming resorts in the region. White houses stand right by the sea, with small sandy coves opening up between them. The most famous is Port Bo beach with its old shipyard arches. From here, the Camí de Ronda coastal path begins, which is one of the most beautiful hiking trails on Costa Brava.
4. Lloret de Mar – Costa Brava
Lloret de Mar is one of the largest and most famous towns on the entire coast. Honestly, it would be hard to find someone who hasn’t at least heard of this resort. It’s located in the southern part of Costa Brava and is rightly considered the largest tourist center in the area. At the same time, it’s also the hub of nightlife and large hotel resorts.
In the town, you’ll find the long Platja de Lloret city beach, which is particularly busy during the peak summer season. However, there are several nice smaller coves nearby where you won’t have to squeeze in.
Unlike places like Cadaqués or Calella de Palafrugell, Lloret de Mar isn’t known for its romantic atmosphere, but rather for its bustling holiday vibe.
5. Llafranc
An elegant resort found just a few minutes from Calella, offering a wider beach and a calmer atmosphere. The semi-circular bay with fine sand is one of the most pleasant swimming spots in the area.
I recommend visiting the Sant Sebastià Lighthouse above the town, which offers one of the best views of the coast. In the evening, the promenade comes alive with restaurants serving fresh fish and Catalan cuisine.
I recommend accommodation with its own relaxation pool:
- Book a Junior Suite with sea view
- Great breakfast and right by the city beach
6. Tamariu – Costa Brava
Tamariu is a typical Mediterranean bay surrounded by pine groves. The beach has fine sand and very clear water, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Despite the heavy tourism in the surrounding area, the town has remained small and quiet. Evening life centers around a few restaurants right on the beach. From here, you can also head out on foot to the dramatic stretches of coastline towards Begur.
You might also be interested in:
- Malaga for the weekend: 13 tips on what to see in Malaga
- 7 tips for luxury hotels with a rooftop terrace in Barcelona
- 16 tips for trips in Fuerteventura + where to stay
- Seychelles without a travel agency: advice, tips, and inspiration for your vacation
7. Begur
This historic town on a hill above the coast is one of the most stylish places on Costa Brava, and I definitely recommend at least a visit. The dominant feature is the ruins of Begur Castle, which offers a panoramic view of the coast. But the real draw is the surrounding beaches. For me, these include Aiguablava or Sa Riera. The turquoise water and rocky cliffs here are more reminiscent of Greek islands than the Spanish coast.
8. Roses
The town lies on the northern edge of a huge bay and offers some of the longest sandy beaches in the region. Roses is livelier than most Costa Brava villages, with a large harbor, a long promenade, and good restaurants. It’s also an ideal base for trips to the Cap de Creus Natural Park or Cadaqués. If you don’t like being bored but don’t want to stay in busy Lloret de Mar, then Roses is a good compromise.
9. L’Estartit – Costa Brava
A resort known mainly for the Medes Islands archipelago, which is one of the best diving locations in the Mediterranean. The main beach is several kilometers long and has fine sand, an ideal combination for families with children and water sports enthusiasts. The view of the Medes Islands at sunset is one of the most impressive scenes in northern Costa Brava and is also my secret and final tip for a trip to Costa Brava.
Tip for a boutique residence with apartments:
Marconia Boutique Residence in L’Estartit
- Beautiful newer apartments and an outdoor pool
- A short walk from the harbor, where you can head out for a trip to the Medes Islands
Did you like the article with tips for holidays and trips to Costa Brava? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it easily:
