If you are planning a family holiday in Tarragona and the Costa Dorada, you are surely looking for the best beaches and coves to enjoy the sun, the sea and the tranquillity. This Mediterranean coast offers a perfect combination of golden sands, crystal clear waters and hidden coves, ideal for both families and those looking for paradisiacal corners to disconnect.
Tarragona beaches: the best options in the capital
If you come to Camping Sangulí and want to enjoy excellent beaches without going too far, the capital offers a wide variety of options. From wide urban beaches equipped with all services to hidden coves surrounded by nature, this coastal area has proposals for every type of traveller. A few minutes away by car or public transport, you can access some of the most emblematic beaches in Tarragona. From environments with all the comforts and calm waters perfect for families, to the wildest corners for those who prefer to disconnect. Find out below the best options and how to get to them.
Platja del Miracle: Tarragona's urban beach
Platja del Miracle is Tarragona's main urban beach, located next to the marina and very close to the historic centre. This beach offers a perfect combination of comfort and proximity to the main tourist attractions of the city.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Fine golden sand, urban environment.
- Dimensions: Approximately 500 meters long and 35 meters wide.
Available services:
- Beach bars and restaurants with drinks and food service.
- Public showers and toilets.
- Umbrella and hammock rental.
- Amphibious chairs and plastic crutches for people with reduced mobility.
- Public telephone.
- Litter bins and daily sand cleaning service.
Ideal for:
People looking to enjoy a beach with all the services without leaving the urban center. Perfect for combining days of sun and sea with cultural and gastronomic visits in the city.
How to get there:
- By car: Direct access from the N-340, with parking available nearby.
- By bus: City bus lines with stops near the beach.
- On foot: A short walk from the centre of Tarragona, especially nice from the Rambla Nova and the Balcón del Mediterráneo.
In addition, Platja del Miracle is connected to other beaches through the coastal path, a coastal route that allows you to explore the Tarragona coastline on foot.
Arrabassada beach: fine sand and a good atmosphere
Arrabassada beach is one of the most outstanding beaches in Tarragona, renowned for its family atmosphere and calm waters. Located just a few minutes from the city centre, it offers a perfect combination of services and natural beauty.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Fine golden sand, semi-urban environment.
- Dimensions: 550 meters long and 65 meters wide.
Available services:
- Beach bars and restaurants with catering service.
- Showers and toilets.
- Rental of sunbeds and umbrellas.
- Nautical and sports activities on the sand.
- Amphibious chairs for people with reduced mobility.
- Nearby parking and access by public transport.
Ideal for:
Families with children and visitors looking for a beach equipped with all the comforts in an accessible environment and close to the city centre.
How to get there:
- By car: Direct access from the N-340, with parking available nearby.
- By bus: City bus lines with stops near the beach.
- On foot: A pleasant walk from the centre of Tarragona.
Arrabassada Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag, certifying the quality of its waters and services. Its proximity to the coastal path allows visitors to explore other nearby beaches, such as Platja de la Savinosa, offering scenic routes along the Tarragona coast.
Cala Fonda (Waikiki): the best secret cove in Tarragona
Cala Fonda, popularly called Cala Waikiki, is one of the hidden gems of the Tarragona coast. This unspoilt beach offers an unbeatable natural environment, away from the urban hustle and bustle, ideal for those looking for tranquility and direct contact with nature.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Fine golden sand, natural and secluded environment.
- Dimensions: Approximately 200 meters long and 25 meters wide.
- Services available: It does not have services or facilities, it is a completely virgin beach.
- Atmosphere: Naturist and wild, frequented by nature and nudist lovers.
Ideal for: People looking for a beach experience in its purest form, away from the crowds and in full harmony with the natural environment.
How to get there:
- Access on foot: The main access is through the Bosque de la Marquesa. You can start the walk from the urbanization of La Móra, leaving the vehicle in the vicinity and following a path that crosses the forest. The tour is approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Recommendations: Due to the absence of services, it is advisable to bring water, food and everything you need for the stay. In addition, it is recommended to collect and take waste away to preserve the cleanliness and natural state of the cove.
Note: Access may present certain difficulties due to uneven trails. It is important to wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution, especially if you are visiting with children.
Beaches in and around Salou: golden sand and tourist atmosphere
Salou is the most popular tourist destination on the Costa Dorada, renowned for its calm waters, golden sand, and vibrant atmosphere. This town offers ideal options for those looking to enjoy the sea with all the comforts.
From well-equipped family beaches, perfect for relaxing and water sports, to small coves with crystal clear waters, Salou caters to all tastes. Most of these beaches have promenades full of restaurants and leisure areas, making them a perfect plan to combine sun, sea and entertainment.
Below, get to know the best beaches in Salou and its surroundings, and find out how to get to them easily.
Llevant Beach: the largest and most famous beach in Salou
Llevant Beach is the main and longest beach in Salou, renowned for its lively atmosphere and wide range of services. Located in the heart of the city, it stretches over 1,200 meters of golden sand and calm waters, making it an ideal destination for families and tourists looking for comfort and entertainment.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Fine golden sand, urban environment.
- Dimensions: Approximately 1,200 meters long and 80 meters wide.
Available services:
- Public showers and sinks.
- Rental of sunbeds and umbrellas.
- Beach bars and restaurants along the promenade.
- Sports areas for football and volleyball.
- Children's play areas.
- Accesses adapted for people with reduced mobility.
- Possibility of water sports such as windsurfing, parasailing, water skiing and kayaking.
Ideal for:
Families looking for a beach equipped with all the amenities, recreational activities and gastronomic options without leaving the urban center.
How to get there:
- On foot: Platja de Llevant is located approximately 1.5 km from the centre of Salou, which represents a walk of about 20 minutes following the promenade in a northeasterly direction.
- By car: A short 5-minute drive on the C-31B road will take you directly to the beach. Parking is available nearby.
- By public transport: Several local bus lines connect the centre with different points in Salou, with stops near Llevant Beach.
Cala Crancs: the most beautiful cove in Salou
Located in the area of Cap Salou, to the east of the city, Cala Crancs is one of the most picturesque and quiet coves in the region. Surrounded by vegetation and rock formations, it offers a serene atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy crystal clear waters in a natural environment.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Semi-urban cove with fine golden sand.
- Dimensions: Approximately 80 meters in length and 40 meters in width.
Available services:
- Showers and toilets.
- Beach bar for soft drinks and light meals.
- Rental of sunbeds and umbrellas.
- Litter bins and cleaning service.
- Children's play area.
Best for:
Snorkelers and those looking for a relaxed, less crowded atmosphere. The clarity of its waters and the richness of its seabed make it perfect for underwater exploration.
How to get there:
- By car: A journey of approximately 15 minutes from the centre of Salou. Head towards the C-31B in the direction of Tarragona and follow the signs for Cap Salou. There are parking areas near the cove.
- By public transport: From the centre of Salou, you can take a local bus that drops you off near Cap Salou. From the stop, the cove is a few minutes' walk away.
- On foot: If you enjoy hiking, the tour is approximately 5 km from the center of Salou, which could take around an hour. The path offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Councils:
- Although the cove has basic services, it is advisable to bring water and snacks, especially in low season when the beach bar could be closed.
- Due to its small size, it is advisable to arrive early during the summer months to ensure a good spot on the beach.
Platja de la Pineda: perfect for families
Located in the coastal town of La Pineda, belonging to the municipality of Vila-seca, this beach stretches over more than 3 kilometres of fine golden sand. Its calm and gently sloping waters make it an ideal destination for families with young children.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Urban, with fine golden sand.
- Dimensions: Approximately 3.3 km long and 80 meters wide.
Available services:
- Beach bars and restaurants along the promenade.
- Public showers and toilets.
- Rental of sun loungers and parasols.
- Children's play areas.
- Accesses adapted for people with reduced mobility.
Activities:
- Water sports: The beach offers options such as kayaking, windsurfing and paddle surfing.
- Promenades: An extensive promenade borders the beach, ideal for walking, running or cycling.
Atmosphere:
More relaxed than the centre of Salou, allowing you to enjoy a quiet environment without excessive crowds.
How to get there:
- By car: A journey of approximately 15 minutes from Salou. Take the C-31B road towards Tarragona and follow the signs for La Pineda. There are parking areas near the beach.
- By public transport: From the centre of Salou, you can take a local bus to La Pineda. The stop is usually a few minutes' walk from the beach.
Councils:
- Although the beach has multiple services, it is advisable to arrive early during the summer months to ensure a good spot, especially in the shaded areas.
- Don't forget to bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, as sun exposure can be intense during the day.
Hidden coves on the Costa Dorada: the hidden gems
The jewels that we reveal now are beaches and coves that not everyone knows about and that you will probably only find in this 2025 guide. They are more intimate and wild environments, far from the busiest beaches, which the Costa Dorada hides as perfect natural treasures to enjoy tranquility and direct contact with the sea.
These secret coves, surrounded by vegetation and crystal clear waters, offer a different experience, ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature. Many are located in protected areas, so they maintain their unspoiled beauty and a more exclusive atmosphere. Although access to some may require hiking or descents on nature trails, the reward is an incomparable environment with spectacular scenery and waters perfect for snorkeling or total relaxation.
Below, we show you some of the best hidden coves on the Costa Dorada, their location and how to get there so you can discover these little paradises.
Cala Jovera: under the castle of Tamarit
Cala Jovera is a picturesque cove located at the foot of the imposing Castle of Tamarit, offering a natural and quiet environment for visitors.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Secluded cove of fine golden sand.
- Dimensions: Approximately 90 meters long and 20 meters wide.
- Available services: It does not have services such as beach bars or showers, it is a virgin beach.
Ideal for:
Photography, relaxation and enjoying a natural environment that is not overcrowded.
How to get there:
- Location: About 10 minutes by car from Altafulla, in the province of Tarragona.
- Access: It is accessed on foot from Tamarit Beach, following a path that runs along the coast. It is not possible to park nearby. It is recommended to leave the vehicle in the nearby car parks and walk to the cove.
Councils:
- Due to its small size, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during the high season.
- Bring water and provisions, as there are no toilets available in the cove.
The setting is ideal for photo shoots, especially at sunset, with the castle as a backdrop.
Cala Vidre: crystal clear waters in L'Ametlla de Mar
Cala Vidre is one of the most crystalline coves on the Costa Dorada, located in L'Ametlla de Mar. Its name, which means "Crystal Cove", honours the transparency of its waters, ideal for snorkelling and relaxation.
Key features:
- Type of beach: Golden sand cove with small stones.
- Dimensions: Approximately 60 meters in length and 20 meters in width.
- Services available: Showers, litter bins and daily cleaning service.
Ideal for
Snorkeling, relaxation and enjoying a natural environment with calm waters.
How to get there:
- Location: It is located in the Sant Jordi d'Alfama Urbanization, near the Castle of Sant Jordi d'Alfama.
- Access: Easy access by car from the N-340 road, taking the exit towards the aforementioned urbanization. It is also possible to get there by train to L'Ametlla de Mar station and, from there, by public transport or taxi.
Councils:
- Although it has some amenities, it is advisable to bring water and food, as there are not always catering services available in the cove.
- Due to its popularity, especially in high season, it is advised to arrive early to secure a good spot.
- The environment is perfect for snorkeling, thanks to the clarity of its waters and the richness of its marine life.
What is the best beach in Tarragona? Our recommendation according to what you are looking for
After showing you the variety of beaches we have in the province of Tarragona and how you can get to each of them, we leave you with our personal ranking of what we consider the best beaches to visit with the family and what will best suit your days off. Choosing the best beach will depend on your needs; We help you decide and develop what it will be like to spend a day in each one:
The best beach for families: Family plan for a day at Arrabassada Beach
Arrabassada Beach is an excellent option for families looking to enjoy a day at the beach in Tarragona. We propose, for example, this itinerary to make the most of the day:
Departure:
Recommended time: 8:30 a.m.
Transportation: By car, it takes approximately 20 minutes to get to the beach. Parking is available nearby.
Morning at the beach
:Activities:
- Swimming and water games: The calm, shallow waters are ideal for children to swim and play safely.
- Building sandcastles: Fine sand is perfect for creative family activities.
- Coastal walk: Explore the coastal path that connects to other nearby beaches, such as Platja de la Savinosa.
Lunch:
Nearby options:
- Can Bonachi: Restaurant renowned for its fresh fish and family atmosphere.
- Pepe's & Lugano: Beach bar with varied cuisine and sea views.
Fun afternoon
- Activities:
- Sand sports: Participate in volleyball or beach soccer matches.
- Snorkeling: Discover marine life in the nearby rocky areas.
- Relax in the sun: Rent sunbeds and umbrellas to rest comfortably.
Snack:
- Beach bars: Enjoy ice cream, soft drinks or light tapas in the establishments on the beach.
Return:
- Recommended time: 6:00 p.m.
- Transportation: Return by car to relax after a day full of activities.
This plan will allow you to enjoy a complete experience on Arrabassada Beach, combining fun, good food and moments of relaxation with the family. You will arrive in time for showers, dinner and rest from a super full day.
The best hidden cove: Plan for a day in Cala Fonda
If you are looking for an authentic experience in the middle of nature, away from the crowds, Cala Fonda, also known as Cala Waikiki, is the perfect destination. We propose an itinerary to make the most of this virgin cove:
Departure:
- Recommended time: 8:00 a.m.
- Transport: By car, head towards the urbanization of La Móra, located about 10 km north of Tarragona. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Once there, park the vehicle near Torre de la Móra. From this point, access on foot to Cala Fonda involves a walk of approximately 15-20 minutes through the Marquesa Forest, following trails that offer panoramic views of the coastline.
Morning in Cala Fonda:
Activities:
- Swimming and relaxation: Enjoy the crystal clear waters and tranquility offered by this secluded cove.
- Snorkeling: Explore the rich marine life in the rocky areas near the shore.
- Reading or meditation: The natural environment and the absence of urban noise make this place an ideal space to disconnect and recharge.
Lunch:
- Preparation: Since Cala Fonda lacks services such as restaurants or beach bars, it is essential to bring your own food and drink. We suggest you prepare a picnic with fresh and light food. Remember to bring enough water to keep the whole family hydrated throughout the day.
Afternoon exploration:
- Coastal walk: After resting, you can explore the trails that connect Cala Fonda with other nearby beaches, such as Platja de la Roca Plana. These paths offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to discover other hidden corners of the coast.
- Photography: Capture the natural beauty of the landscape, from the cliffs to the native flora of the forest.
Return:
- Recommended time: 5:00 p.m.
- Transportation: Make your way back along the same trail until you reach the parking lot. From there, the return car ride will allow you to reflect on a day full of nature and tranquility.
Additional tips:
- Equipment: Bring comfortable shoes for the hike, sunscreen, hat and an umbrella, now.
The Costa Dorada offers beaches for all tastes, from hidden coves to wide family sandy beaches. Camping Sangulí is the ideal place to explore these Mediterranean treasures during your summer holidays.
