Our Favorite Beaches on the Costa Brava

This blog post was originally posted on August 1, 2016, and was updated on September 11, 2017.

The Costa Brava, the coastline that spans between the north of Barcelona and France, boasts some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches.

Check out this great list of some of the best beaches on the Costa Brava to spend a perfect sunny day outside of the bustling city centre!

Headed to the Costa Brava? The area north of Barcelona is famous for its natural beauty. Check out the best beaches on the Costa Brava with our guide!

Costa Brava, which literally means wild or rugged coast, has its name for a reason. Think rocky, rugged landscapes, pine forests that peek out over the Mediterranean, and dozens of hidden, secluded coves, or calas as they’re also known. Discover the best of the beautiful area by visiting the best beaches on the Costa Brava!

Cala Senyor Ramón

A perfect example of the rugged Costa Brava, Cala Senyor Ramón is the perfect little cove nestled into the side of a rugged hill. Over 800 meters of sandy beach mean that it’s not too small. Not suprisingly though the water is as clear as the Carribean.

Aiguablava

Aiguablava is known far and wide as one of the best beaches in the Costa Brava. The jaw-dropping beauty that surrounds the beach alone is enough reason to go! Surrounded by pine trees, with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, Aiguablava is a must-visit in the Costa Brava.

Explore the best beaches of the Costa Brava with our guide!
Aiguablava means blue water in Catalan, which is not surprising! Photo Credit: Enric Rubio Ros.

Cala Illa Roja

Cala Illa Roja, or the Red Island Cove, says everything. The stunning red rock jutting out of the sea beyond the shore is suprisingly one of the most photographed spots in the area. However, you won’t find too many crowds on the large stretch of golden sand, which is ideal to relax an afternoon away!

Es Codolar

Want a beach with a great view? Es Codolar, lying to the south of the beach town Tossa del Mar is the place to go! It boasts gorgeous views of the medieval wall amongst others that surround it. This beach is just within walking distance from many great bars and restaurants in town. And better yet, it still retains its natural beauty and also its incredible charm.

Aigua Xelida

The beach of Aigua Xelida may not be easy to access, but it will be worth it when you do. You can reach this tiny little cove by foot from the nearby Tamariu. This leads to ultimate seclusion in a beautiful natural setting.

Port-Bo

The most charming of little fishing ports, Port-Bo is undoubtedly on our list of top beaches on the Costa Brava! Rustic fishermen’s houses and typical old-style boats add a splash to this lovely little beach that comes alive in the summertime.

Cala Montjoi

Set in the stunning Cap de Creus natural park, Cala Montjoi is one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava and also possibly in all of Spain. The beach is located in an area which has been untouched by tourism and development. Although it’s a hike up there, this gorgeous beach just a stone’s throw from France is worth the trip.

Beautiful beaches abound to the north of Barcelona! Find the top beaches in Costa Brava here!
Cala Montjoi in all its glory! Photo Credit: Enric Rubio Ros.

There you have it—the best beaches on the Costa Brava, in our opinion! However, there’s so much more to discover, so hop in the car and go! Happy exploring!

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