There’s so much to choose from in the Costa Dorada, from lazy days on the sand and partying through the night with your friends, to entertaining the whole family with an array of activities. No matter which boxes you need ticking, somewhere on this stretch of Spanish coastline will have it all.
Salou
For every type of traveller
Whether you’re looking for fun for the whole family, or somewhere to dance through the night, Salou is a budget-friendly, bustling town to add to your must-visit list.
Entertaining little ones on holiday is Salou’s speciality, as the town boasts fantastic hotels with kids’ clubs and evening entertainment. PortAventura World is a gem for those looking to keep everyone happy on their hols, with a vast selection of thrilling rides and a full waterpark to explore – boredom isn’t on the cards here!
Ponent Beach is also a real people-pleaser, as there are lots of fun-filled water sports on offer. And as the days come to an end, take a stroll along the promenade at Llevant Beach to find the perfect restaurant to feed those hungry tums.
Once night falls on this coastal town, its nightlife comes alive! If you’re looking for somewhere with a great buzz and even better nightclubs, discos, roof terraces, bars and live shows, then Salou’s for you. With fluorescent lights spilling onto the streets and music playing through to the early hours, you’ll find endless places to boogie. You can even dance your night away on the sandy shores at one of the many beach bars lining the fabulous promenade.
Cambrils
For foodies
Dubbed the culinary capital of the Costa Dorada, Cambrils is a real treat for the taste buds. The gastronomy here doesn’t disappoint, and there’s something for all the foodies out there! Fresh from the harbour that morning, you’ll have mouth-watering mussels and mackerel, spectacular squid and tender turbot on offer. Or, for a more adventurous choice, the boats bring in fresh mantis shrimp and octopus to please your palate.
Cambrils is also blessed with spectacular stretches of crop fields, making for beautiful scenery and the freshest produce for restaurants. You’d never think vegetables could taste so good.
There are more than 150 restaurants to take your pick from while you’re here, and a staggering 17 of these are recommended in the Michelin Guide, with Rincón de Diego and Can Bosch both boasting one Michelin star. So, if you want to experience the Mediterranean flavours at their most luxurious, you’re not short of options!
Cap Salou
For stunning scenery
Set just south of the busier centre, Cap Salou sits right on the coastline between Salou and La Pineda and offers unrivalled views of the Mediterranean. Stroll along the sandy shores and find one of the perfect small coves to take a quiet dip in.
Follow the Camí de Ronda footpath leading to Cap Salou’s lighthouse for breathtaking views of the rocky coastline. As the waves crash below, your views stretch out to the horizon, and you can take in all the beauty this little coastal town has to offer.
La Pineda
For peace-seekers
La Pineda is the ideal destination for some R&R. With picturesque landscapes to take in while lounging on the golden sands, this sleepy town is perfect for those wanting some peace on their next getaway. With 4km of sandy shores to stroll along, picking the perfect spot for catching rays is easy!
With lovely restaurants dotted across this small town, you’ll be able to find the perfect meal to end your days. Beachfront dining’s available along the promenade too, so you can watch the sun set as you tuck into some Spanish delicacies.
Tarragona
For culture vultures
Tarragona’s a historical beauty in northeast Spain, and is the place to go if you want to delve into the country’s past. From a seaside amphitheatre dating back to the second century, to a first-century Roman circus, Tarragona is home to some of the oldest Roman ruins in Spain.
Take in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean while standing where gladiators used to fight, then wander through the centre to visit the towering cathedral of Tarragona. The architectural remains here are the main reason it’s recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you won’t run out of ruins to roam or history to learn on your sightseeing-stuffed days.
On your breaks from exploring the city, make sure to dig into Tarragona’s fabulous food scene! From the perfect paellas and the freshest seafood to traditional delicacies like arròs negre, you’ll have endless options to feed those appetites you’ve worked up throughout the day.
Posted: 7th Feb 2024.