Tarragona and the Costa Dorada in general, are well-known spots for lovers of beautiful beaches and majestic coves. Indeed, the region has nearly 60 km of seaside and coves extending along the coast with a wide choice of sites to swim and walk, the question is how to choose the best of all? Are you interested in knowing which is the quietest beach for sunbathing or the most romantic one to experience the beautiful sunset? Don’t worry, we have prepared for you a list with the best coves in Tarragona!
The best coves of Tarragona
Cala Jovera Tamarit, Tarragona
Cala Jovera Tamarit is famous for being one of the most beautiful coves along the Costa Dorada and even in Spain, it is surely one of the most specials! Indeed, on Cala Jovera Tamarit, lies a Romanesque castle, built in the 12th century. So, you can swim while enjoying the views of this elegant building. Guided tours of the building are also available at certain times.
Cala Fonda “Waikiki”, Tarragona
It’s located 6 km north of Tarragona, and after a short walk of 15 minutes through beautiful pine forests, you will discover a little piece of paradise, the Cala Fonda, also called “Waikiki”, in reference to the famous beach of Hawaii. Moreover, its known for its crystal water and its fine sand, reminiscent of the Pacific Islands. A grove of pines surrounds the beach and gives a special charm to the cove. Half of the beach is nudist, but at Cala Fonda it is common the visit of either nudists or other people, so you can come and swim in a swimsuit or not, without any concern, exactly as any other beaches of Costa Brava.
Cala Canyadell, Tarragona
Canyadell Creek is the perfect destination to observe Tarragona’s coastline all year round. This beach is well-preserved and many visitors come to enjoy its fine sand and pretty colors offered by its vegetation. The waves are a little stronger than usual on the Mediterranean Sea and can attract swimmers in search of more thrills. The tourist flow during the summer is sometimes a bit high, however towards the end of August or September, the place is ideal to swim in peace.
Cala Forn, Ametlla De Mar
Unlike any other unspoilt and wild beaches, Cala Forn, has ideal facilities to have fun with your family or friends on a sunny afternoon. Indeed, the 200-meter-wide beach has facilities such as; sun loungers, kayaks, paddle boats, toilets and showers among others. A first aid station is available to ensure the safety of the bathers. Don’t hesitate to bring a snorkel and diving goggles, Cala Forn is perfect to observe the beautiful marine flora and fauna through the crystal waters. Additionally, Cala Forn is also famous for its ‘’chiringuito’’, this typical family run beach restaurant will delight you with its popular grilled fish such as; sea bream or sea bass as well as its delicious prawns, for meat lovers we recommend the exquisite beef ribs.
Cala Calafató, Ametlla De Mar
This enchanting little creek is located before the entrance of the village of Calafat, 7 km from Ametlla De Mar. Cala Calafató is famous for its beautiful vegetation and the perfect blue color shade of the sea. Indeed, as in Cala Forn, you can dive under the crystal water to enjoy the view of marine vegetation and different fish species. There is a first-aid station during the summer and showers are available for the bathers. Although, there is no beach bar, we advise you to take your snacks with you and make your own picnic while enjoying the paradisiacal setting of Cala Calafató.
Cala L’Illot, Ametlla De Mar
Located 5 Km from Ametlla De Mar, Cala l’Illot is considered the most beautiful beach in Catalonia. Indeed, it’s true that this cove is particularly well preserved despite the rise of mass tourism and urbanization. To get to Cala l’Illot, you will have to park your vehicle nearby and walk just 5 minutes through splendid pine forests and small cliffs. You will then arrive to a charming 30 meters wide beach composed of pebbles but also of fine sand near the shore. The white sand contrasts with the orange of the cliffs and the green of the pine groves, offering a very beautiful landscape to the visitors. Cala l’Illot is surely one of the quietest and most beautiful coves in the region, ideal for relaxing in a setting that will make you feel as you are in a exotic island.
Cala Penya Tallada, Salou
This small beach, completely virgin and untouched by the human nature, is situated 4 km away from the famous tourist destination of Salou. It is the ideal cove to escape from the other beaches of Salou full of tourists in the summer. With its vegetation, fine sand and clear water, entirely surrounded by beautiful rocky cliffs, there’s no doubt that Cala Penya Tallada will seduce holidaymakers in search of tranquility and emblematic scenery near the city of Salou.
This is our selection of the best coves of Tarragona and its surroundings, but such a ranking is difficult to define, as the number of beautiful places is endless in that area. The best advice that we can give you, is always to make your decisions yourselves by checking out the most of the beaches of the Costa Dorada! If you want to discover something else other than the sea and the beaches, don’t hesitate to venture into the most beautiful natural pools that Catalonia has to offer !
