Best beaches in the Costa Brava

Discover the Costa Brava's best beaches.

Booked yourself a break to the Costa Brava? This pretty spot has theme parks, sandy beaches, and neon-lit nightlife on tap. Whether you plan to explore or just chill out by the sea, there’s tonnes to do. The beaches are one of the area’s highlights – the coastline here offers up Blue Flag stretches of sand, charming seaside towns, and traditional fishing villages. So, whether you’re heading off on a family getaway or a romantic retreat, our list of the best beaches on the Costa Brava will help you choose where to roll out your towel. Browse our deals to get there sooner...

THE BIG NAME BEACH – PLATJA DE LLORET

Located in the Costa Brava’s biggest resort, Platja de Lloret is Lloret de Mar’s longest beach. Formerly a port town, the area’s become a haven for sun-seeking holidaymakers, and attracts crowds throughout the summer. So, there’s plenty to keep you busy, including water-skiing, parasailing, and a beach-based kids’ club for little ones. Plus, there’s a bronze sculpture – the Monument to Fisherman’s Wife – to admire. According to local legend, all of your wishes will come true if you touch its foot and look out to the horizon. Platja de Lloret also offers facilities for those with reduced mobility, and it’s surrounded by bars and restaurants for when you fancy a break from the sand.

THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACH – AIGUABLAVA

This family-friendly beach, nestled in the Bay of Fornells, is perfect for paddling little ones. The cliffs surrounding the cove mean the crystal-clear waters are shallow, and the soft-white sand is perfect for building sandcastles. Plus, the nearby pine trees offer shade from the sun. It’s Blue-Flag certified, with activities like diving and snorkelling to keep the kids busy. Around the beach, you’ll find bars and restaurants to refuel at, plus a walking path to Fornells, a traditional fishing village. Keep an eye out for the pretty cottages along the way, and the harbour filled with locally-owned boats.

THE UNDER-THE-RADAR BEACH – CALA SA FORCANERA

For a Costa Brava beach that’s off the beaten track, head to Blanes, around 40 kilometres from Girona. The only way to reach Cala Sa Forcanera is to hop on a boat, as it’s tucked into a small white-sand cove. But it’s worth it, as this quiet spot offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. It’s the ideal location to head to for a romantic afternoon with your other half. There’s not much to do here other than to paddle and enjoy a picnic, so pack your towel and find a spot on the sand for a day in the sun.

THE FIDGET-FRIENDLY BEACH – PLATJA DE PALS

About an hour from Tossa de Mar, Platja de Pals is one of the longest beaches in Costa Brava and is split into two sections. Platja del Grau is ideal for sports fans as it offers up activities like kayaking and bike riding, plus surfing and sailing lessons. It’s also close to the Platja de Pals golf course, Golf de Pals. The green, which was home to the 1972 Spanish Open, lets you work on your handicap in a forest of pine trees. Meanwhile, head to the neighbouring Platja Gran to top up your tan on a naturist beach, and pop into the tapas bar for lunch.