Costa Brava, Spain

That depends on what you’re looking for, but the following are generally regarded as some of the most beautiful and popular parts of Costa Brava:

Begur and its Surrounding Beaches

Often called the jewel of Costa Brava, Begur is a hilltop town with cobbled streets, boutique stays, and amazing views. It’s close to stunning coves like Sa Tuna, Aiguablava, and Cala Fornells – perfect for a peaceful, picturesque getaway.

Calella de Palafrugell

A postcard-perfect fishing village with whitewashed houses, little boats bobbing in the water, and a relaxed feel. The walk along the Cami de Ronda coastal path here is absolutely gorgeous.

Cadaqués

Famous for its connection to Salvador Dalí, Cadaqués is an artsy, bohemian village with dramatic coastal scenery and a unique vibe. It’s a bit harder to get to (the drive is windy) but absolutely worth it.

Tossa de Mar

Great for families, Tossa has a beautiful beach, a walkable old town, and even a medieval castle overlooking the sea. It’s lively without being overwhelming and has a nice mix of history and beachy charm.

Tamariu

A small and quieter beach town, great for swimming and relaxing. It’s often less crowded than other spots and has crystal-clear water. It’s perfect for a laid-back trip or a family with young children.

May, June, September and early October are ideal if you want warm weather, fewer crowds and a slower pace – perfect for families with little ones who aren’t tied to school holidays. But don’t worry if you’re travelling in July or August. We’ve visited during the school holidays and still had the best time. Yes, it’s busier and a bit hotter, but the atmosphere is amazing. Beaches are full of life, everything is open late, and there’s loads going on for kids.

Yes, the sea in Costa Brava does get lovely and warm, especially in the summer months. We visited in August and the water was perfect for swimming, paddling and spending hours at the beach with the kids. If you are going in July or August, you can expect the sea to feel really pleasant and not too cold at all. Even in September it is still warm from the summer sun, which is great if you want a quieter trip but still hope for proper beach weather. Earlier in the season, like May or early June, the water can feel a bit cooler, but on a sunny day it is still totally fine for a dip, especially for little ones who never seem to feel the cold anyway.

The main city in Costa Brava is Girona, and it’s such a lovely place to spend a day or two. We were surprised by how much there was to see and do. The old town is full of charm with narrow streets, colourful houses along the river and parts of the city wall you can actually walk along. It feels really relaxed and is easy to explore with kids. There are plenty of cafes, ice cream shops and open squares where little ones can run around while you take a break. It is also a great base if you want to explore more of the Costa Brava without staying right by the beach.

The most convenient airport for Costa Brava is Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO). It’s closest to the main coastal towns and only about 30 to 40 minutes from places like Tossa de Mar, Calella de Palafrugell and L’Estartit. It’s a small, easy airport to navigate, which is ideal if you’re travelling with kids.

Another option is Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN). It’s a bit further away (around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus), but it does have more flight options.