The Costa Brava is one of the most attractive Mediterranean destinations to enjoy the summer. Its crystal-clear beaches, charming villages, natural spaces, and wide range of accommodation allow you to design a vacation based on your preferences, whether for families, couples, or travelers looking to disconnect and enjoy the sea.
However, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Not all areas offer the same experience: while some stand out for their family-friendly beaches, others are perfect for romantic getaways or active holidays.
In this guide, you’ll discover what to do on the Costa Brava in summer and which are the best areas to stay to make the most of your stay.
The most important things for organizing your trip to the Costa Brava
Experiences you can’t miss
If it’s your first time on the Costa Brava, there are some plans that are practically a must. Spending a morning walking the Camino de Ronda, discovering the Ruins of Empúries, or sailing past the Medes Islands are experiences that help you understand why this area remains one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean.
It’s also worth setting aside time to visit villages like Begur or Pals, where the atmosphere changes completely compared to the coast and where it’s easy to find terraces, viewpoints, and historic streets that invite you to stroll at your own pace.
Five plans to complete your vacation
- Spend a day among the coves of Begur.
- Explore the historic center of Pals.
- Sail past the Medes Islands.
- Visit the Ruins of Empúries.
- Enjoy a sunset from the Camino de Ronda.
Where to stay if it’s your first time on the Costa Brava?
If you’ve never visited the Costa Brava and are looking for a safe bet, Pals is usually one of the most balanced options.
Its location provides easy access to some of the most famous beaches in the area, historic villages, and excursions through the Baix Empordà without having to travel long distances. Additionally, the extensive Pals beach offers plenty of space even during the busiest tourist months.
Added to this is the charm of its old town, considered one of the best-preserved medieval sites in Catalonia, allowing you to combine beach days with cultural and gastronomic plans.
Begur: for those seeking charm, coves, and a more special experience
To talk about Begur is to talk about some of the most iconic landscapes of the Costa Brava.
Its coastal paths, Mediterranean views, and many of the most famous crystal-clear coves in the area make this town a favorite destination for those looking for more than just sun and sand.
But Begur doesn’t just stand out for its coastline. Its castle, viewpoints, and much of the town’s historical heritage allow for a much more complete vacation experience.
For this reason, it’s one of the most sought-after areas for couples and travelers looking for a setting where the accommodation is part of the experience.
The combination of charming restaurants, Mediterranean landscapes, and accommodations carefully integrated into the environment also explains why it’s one of the best options to enjoy a few days as a couple by the sea.
Traveling as a family?
If you’re traveling with children, there are two towns that usually stand out above the rest:
L’Escala
L’Escala combines urban beaches, a family atmosphere, and a wide range of restaurants. Additionally, its proximity to the Ruins of Empúries allows you to include cultural activities without needing to travel far.
L’Estartit
L’Estartit is particularly attractive for families who want to enjoy the sea from a different perspective.
Here it’s possible to combine beach days with boat trips, water activities, or outings to the Medes Islands, one of the most important natural spaces in the Mediterranean.
What families value most
- Accessible beaches.
- Activities for all ages.
- Nearby restaurants and services.
- Possibility of going on excursions without traveling long distances.
Where to stay if you’re looking for peace and quiet
Although many visitors concentrate on the coastal towns, there are very interesting alternatives for those looking for a more relaxed vacation.
Villages like Ullastret, Gualta, Parlavà, or Garrigoles offer a much quieter atmosphere and a different way to discover the Empordà.
From these towns, it’s easy to access the main beaches during the day and then return to a slower-paced environment, away from the typical hustle and bustle of the most popular tourist destinations.
For many travelers, this balance between the coast and tranquility is precisely one of the area’s greatest draws.
Frequently asked questions about the Costa Brava in summer
What is the best area to stay in the Costa Brava?
It depends on the type of trip. Pals is usually one of the most balanced options for a first visit, while Begur stands out for couples, and L’Escala or L’Estartit are especially recommended for families.
What to do in the Costa Brava with kids?
Family beaches, boat trips, water activities, walks through historic villages, and cultural visits are some of the most popular plans.
When is the best time to visit the Costa Brava?
Between June and September, you’ll find the best conditions to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities.
How many days do you need to see the Costa Brava?
Ideally, you should have between five and seven days to combine beach, nature, historic villages, and gastronomy.
The Costa Brava offers very different experiences depending on where you decide to stay. While Pals stands out for its balance between beach and historical heritage, Begur wins you over with its coves and Mediterranean atmosphere. L’Escala and L’Estartit are excellent options for families and travelers who want to enjoy the sea, while inland towns like Ullastret or Gualta allow you to discover a quieter and more authentic version of the Empordà.
Choosing the right location will help you make the most of your trip and enjoy everything the Costa Brava has to offer during the summer.
| Type of trip | Recommended area | Best of the area | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families | Pals / L'Escala | Wide beaches, activities, and quiet atmosphere | Traveling with kids and summer vacations |
| Couples | Begur | Coves, gastronomy, and charming spots | Romantic getaways and relaxation |
| Active tourism | L'Estartit / Torroella de Montgrí | Medes Islands, hiking, and water sports | Adventure and nature |
| Disconnecting | Ullastret / Gualta / Parlavà | Rural setting and fewer crowds | Rest and tranquility |
| First visit | Pals / L'Escala | Good location for exploring the Costa Brava | Discovering beaches, villages, and activities |
