The best coves of the Costa Brava 2023
The Costa Brava, bathed by the Mediterranean waters, is a coastal paradise that hosts some of the best beaches in Girona and the Empordà regions, both in Alt Empordà and Baix Empordà. With its natural charm and spectacular landscapes, this region of the Catalan coast is a dream destination for lovers of sun, sand, and sea.
The beaches of the Costa Brava are known for their diversity and beauty, from small coves hidden among cliffs to extensive stretches of golden sand. Every corner of this coast offers a unique experience for visitors, from the tranquility of the Baix Empordà beaches to the majesty of the Alt Empordà coasts.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the best beaches of the Costa Brava, exploring the rich natural and cultural heritage of the region and discovering why this corner of Catalonia is an unbeatable destination to enjoy the sun, the sea, and Mediterranean life at its best.
Cala Ferriol
Cala Ferriol is a small, pristine cove with pebbles and crystal-clear waters that is part of the Montgrí Natural Park. It does not have any services, and to get there, you will have to walk for an hour from Cala Montgó or l'Estartit, or access it by boat. However, if you choose the first option, don't worry, as the difficulty is moderate, and the park's landscapes are impressive. And now you might think: "But there are many coves like this on the Costa Brava." Well, not really, because a small stream flows into this cove from the mountains, and it also has small islands (the Cala Ferriol islands) that will look fantastic on Instagram. And if you haven't completely succumbed to the power of this social network yet, you can sunbathe, contemplate the landscape, or go snorkeling. Of course, even though it is far from the urban center, it is quite common to see some boats there in the summer.
Cala Rostella
Like many other coves that are part of Cap de Creus, Cala Rostella is astonishing. A small, pristine cove with crystal-clear waters surrounded by pine trees, which, even in the middle of August, is usually relatively empty. The reason? The nearest urban area, Roses, is almost seven kilometers away. The beach surface is covered with pebbles, and thanks to the pine trees, the water takes on an incredible turquoise blue color. The bad news (or good news, depending on who you are) is that to access it, you will have to leave your car and walk down a stony path with a 90-meter drop. The walk only takes about fifteen or twenty minutes, but make sure to wear appropriate footwear. However, we promise you that the result (reaching Cala Rostella) is worth it. Very much so. We won't tell you to take advantage of the descent to take some photos, although it would be a hit on Instagram, but do try to look down. The beauty is indescribable.
Cala Tamariua
Cala Tamariua is located just 2 kilometers from the urban center of El Port de la Selva, forming a corner of serenity among the majestic rock formations of Cap de Creus. This picturesque cove, composed of stones and gravel, is distinguished by its easy access, as it is within walking distance of the urban core. Travelers who choose to arrive by vehicle will find convenient parking right at the top of the cove.
A special aspect of Cala Tamariua is that it allows nudism and, as a result, tends to attract a diverse group of bathers who enjoy its relaxed atmosphere. With a length of about 100 meters, this secluded beach is often chosen by nature lovers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
The coarse-textured sand is surrounded by characteristic Mediterranean vegetation, including tamarind trees that give it its name, curiously similar to Tamariu Beach in Calella de Palafrugell. In addition, various species, such as acacias, can be observed in its surroundings. Cala Tamariua is a haven of peace that invites you to enjoy coastal serenity in the heart of the Costa Brava.
Cala del Pi
Platja d'Aro also hides small treasures. One of them is Cala del Pi, just over ten minutes from Playa Gran but a world of difference: Forget extreme overcrowding, loud music, and characteristic buildings. Cala del Pi is protected by pine trees and rocks, its waters are crystal clear and, despite being so close to the urban center, the occupancy level in mid-summer is not excessively high. The bad news is that there are some houses right behind, but thanks to the vegetation, they don't spoil the landscape much. In short, it looks like it's straight out of a postcard.
Cala Tavallera
The easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula, although Alicante appropriated the slogan 'Sunrise of Spain,' is also the wildest part of the Costa Brava, a true Finisterre as spectacular as it is treacherous, dotted with thousand-year-old ruins and still very jealous of its best-kept secrets. One of them, which we will generously share with you, is Cala Tavallera, located about two kilometers from El Port de la Selva but only accessible on foot via the GR11, the trail that connects the Mediterranean with the Atlantic. Some blogs and guides claim it can be accessed by 4x4, but the safest way to get there without problems has always been through a two-hour hike that culminates in a well-deserved prize: a practically deserted cove in summer and winter, with a shelter for overnight stays and sunrises that taste like the birth of a new world. The seabed is spectacular and has a dense Posidonia meadow. In mid-summer, many small boats gather, but at the beginning or end of the season, you will surely find no one. To ensure the shelter is in good condition and available, it is best to call the town hall.
Cala Rovira
After the hell that Platja d'Aro's main beach can become in the middle of summer—okay, we exaggerate a little: on a two-kilometer beach more than 50 meters wide, you'll find a habitable spot even in mid-August. But the discovery of Cala Rovira, following the Camí de Ronda after passing the Cavall Bernat rock, feels like a sudden burst of beauty. You'll rarely find it empty, but it's so beautiful, so incredibly white, green, and blue, that not even some annoying apartments peeking through the pine trees and the numerous families who come by can ruin the first impression. If, despite the idyllic landscape, you can't stand paddleball players, Rovira is also the gateway to a series of rocky, liberated coves like Sa Cova, El Pi, Els Canyers, and Belladona, where you can quietly enjoy reading while sitting on a warm rock.
Cala Sa Sabolla
It's where Jesus Christ lost his flip-flop, but there are many reasons to visit Sa Sabolla. Firstly, the Camí de Ronda from which it is accessed is a true delight for the senses. A somewhat long experience, but one that you must see and live. And yes, you read that right: it can only be accessed on foot or by boat. The cove, with almost crystal-clear waters and a pebble surface, is completely surrounded by slate rocks and is, by far, one of the most secluded beaches on the Costa Brava. In short, it is very difficult to find more than twenty people here.
L'Illa Roja
Yes, Begur has many impressive beaches, so why choose this one that has no services? Besides the fact that it's not as saturated with beautiful people as Sa Tuna or Aiguafreda, we like it because it's the only nude beach in the center of the Costa Brava. The intense red colors of the rock emerging in the bay make it something rare and vibrant, and its semicircular shape makes it very welcoming. In addition, it is usually relatively unfrequented by groups or children, as it is necessary to walk quite a distance to get there from the Camí de Ronda. The only disadvantage is that the high cliff walls surrounding it cast shade from the afternoon onwards, so make the most of the morning.
Cala Bramant
More commonly known as Cala dels Enamorats (Lover's Cove), this small cove is a kind of sea keyhole that twists around the sea and forms a small natural pool. Not only is it an idyllic and quite peaceful spot, but it also offers spectacular views of Llançà, El Port de la Selva, and even Cap de Creus. A small and unknown gem! To get there, it's best to go by boat or kayak through an opening that connects it to the sea, but if you dare, you can also access it on foot. Just make sure to wear good footwear.
Cala dels Frares
There are beaches that you simply must see. Beaches where you can barely sunbathe but which you must set foot on. One of them is Cala dels Frares. A collection of amazingly shaped rocks that year after year attract many photography lovers. It has no services and is completely natural, but it is totally addictive: once you swim in this idyllic setting, it is difficult to settle for swimming on other beaches. Okay, maybe we are exaggerating, but Cala dels Frares is an experience you must live. How to get there? You can get there from the Camí de Ronda that starts at Lloret beach and passes through Sa Caleta.
Aigua Xelida
Aigua Xelida has become a symbol of the Palafrugell ideal's longing for a free life and the first stop in Josep Pla's "Un viaje frustrado" (A Frustrated Journey). It can only be accessed on foot from the urbanization of the same name, by walking down until you find some stairs on the right, or by boat. Despite being the winning beach of the "El paisatge favorit de Catalunya" (Catalonia's Favorite Landscape) program in 2009, its occupancy (fortunately!) remains relatively low. In fact, until 1950, Aigua Xelida was only connected to Tamariu by a dirt path. In any case, let's get to the point: the beach, made of stones and surrounded by rocks and pine trees, is about 40 meters long and about twelve meters wide. Why do we recommend it? Because it is a wonderful and spectacular corner of the Costa Brava. A beach you must visit at least once in your life. Or twice. Or three times. Or... you get the idea, right?
Cala Giverola
Cala Giverola is a small cove surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, located about 5 km from the urban center of Tossa de Mar. To get there, therefore, you will need a car and park near the Pola-Giverola tourist complex. A holiday complex promoted in 1987 by the professional cooperative of Swiss postmen. Despite being a bit remote, it is one of the busiest beaches on the Costa Brava, as it has many services thanks to the complex. However, this is only during July and August. In September, the situation changes, families return to their routine, and this magnificent sandy beach returns to its usual oblivion. If Vallpresona is too far and Senyor Ramon is too crowded, Giverola is your beach!
Cala d'es Cranc, cala del Peix, cala dels Mussols
D'es Cranc, El Peix, and Dels Mussols are three narrow, long, and secluded coves that can only be accessed from the Camí de Ronda from Sant Feliu de Guixols to S'Agaró. The small bathing area is, in fact, the stretch of rocky and flat coastline that extends between Cala Ametller and Cala d'es Cranc itself. However, they are ideal for snorkeling and, incidentally, for triumphing on Instagram. The landscape is amazing! A curiosity: the name Cala del Peix (Fish Cove) comes from the fact that in 1912, a fin whale was stranded there.
Cala Estreta
The inhabitants of Alt Empordà have Cap de Creus, and those of Baix Empordà have Cala Estreta. It is infinitely more modest, but it is perfect for the Empordanet, where Josep Pla would have considered any kind of excess and opulence to be in very bad taste. The good news, which is also bad news: during the summer, vehicular traffic is prohibited, and to get there, you'll have to walk about 45 minutes from Castell beach along the Camí de Ronda, or, pay attention! only 20 minutes if you follow the service road that passes under the power lines from the Castell parking lot. The effort, however, is directly proportional to the spectacular nature of these nude coves, bright, open to the east, and very suitable for sunny winter mornings, which even in mid-summer are usually relatively quiet due to the necessary walk to reach them. If you find a white-haired man in the fishermen's hut, which dates back to the 15th century, say hello to him: his name is Quico, and he has lived there for years. He has no TV or radio because he says he has an infinite-inch screen facing the horizon, but he will tell you which rock to climb to find mobile coverage depending on your operator. We can only say one more thing: you must go at least once in your life.
In summary, the Costa Brava, with its stunning beaches in the Alt Empordà and Baix Empordà regions of Girona, offers a spectacular range of options for sea and nature lovers. From hidden and tranquil coves to bustling beaches, this Mediterranean-bathed region captivates with its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Every corner of the Costa Brava is an invitation to enjoy the sun, sand, and Mediterranean lifestyle. Whether exploring secluded coves or immersing oneself in the life of coastal towns, this jewel of Catalonia never ceases to amaze its visitors.