With more than sixty beaches to choose from, it is no wonder Costa Dorada is a popular destination for sun-seekers. All along the golden coast, visitors will be spoilt for choice with beautiful beaches, many with Blue Flag awards for cleanliness. From long ribbons of glistening sand, to more intimate rocky coves and pristine waters, beaches are without doubt one of the most celebrated features of this part of Spain.
The beaches of Salou and its surrounding towns are extremely popular thanks to their family-friendly shallow waters and palm-lined promenades offering an assortment of cafes, ice-cream parlours, restaurants and souvenir shops. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports in these busier resorts. Further south, the beaches are less commercialised, offering quiet, unspoilt coves and wonderful fishing harbours.
Those looking for sightseeing, sports or family days out in Costa Dorada will not be disappointed, with water parks, beaches, and historic attractions in abundance. For thrill seekers, there are ample opportunities for water sports along the coastline, whilst exhilarating rides at PortAventura theme park are within easy reach and the natural mountainous landscape of the region is ideal for keen walkers and cyclists.
Golf enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the fantastic course nearby with wonderful sea views, or for a burst of culture, Barcelona is easily accessible by car or via a direct train link from various towns across Costa Dorada - ideal for a day trip! Throughout the summer, colourful fiestas take place throughout the region, offering a fantastic array of Spanish traditions - well worth seeking out!
Fascinating history and architecture is prominent throughout Costa Dorada. Tarragona has been named a World Heritage city and offers a wealth of ancient ruins to explore, including the wonderful Roman Amphitheatre. Throughout the summer season, there are spectacular tributes to the heritage of this unique region of Spain, including ‘Santa Tecla’ - a flamboyant festival of traditional Spanish dance, live music and the legendary human pyramid.
Further afield, the winding streets of Sitges offer beautiful churches, intriguing old buildings and picture-perfect views, whilst a day trip to Barcelona is a must for culture lovers. Both of these places feature some very unique Gaudi architecture.
From low-key to lively, nightlife in Costa Dorada is diverse, but wherever you stay, you can be sure to find good restaurants within easy reach. For a relaxed evening, unwind with a glass of sangria in one of the charming fishing villages. Restaurant tables spill out onto the streets around the harbours, offering the fresh catch of the day, traditional Catalan fish stew, delicious tapas or fragrant paella.
Beachside promenades in many of the seaside towns provide idyllic settings for leisurely walks as the sun goes down, and you’ll often stumble across street entertainment and fiestas passing through.
If it’s a lively night out you’re looking for, the hustle and bustle of Salou is the perfect choice, with bright lights, live music, bars, clubs and pretty much every type of cuisine you could wish you!